Abstract: A method of increasing strength, flexibility, and coordination that may establish a person's baseline strength, flexibility, and coordination, while identifying any deficiencies to establish an exercise regimen to address those deficiencies. The method may also include a systematic and consistent warm-up step that will ensure the proper building of strength, flexibility, and coordination while minimizing any potential injury. Lastly, the method may be capable of accurately measuring the progress of the person's training regimen.

Abstract: A neck rehabilitation device for exercising the muscles of a person's neck and upper back is provided. The device has a rear neck-engaging assembly that can be positioned at least partially about the person's neck for engaging a rear side of the person's neck. The rear neck-engaging assembly includes an elastic strap for extending and being stretched about the rear side of the person's neck to exert a forward-directed force on the person's neck. The assembly also includes a resilient compressible member providing resistance to compression for use in exercising the muscles of the person's neck and upper back while the elastic strap is stretched about the person's neck. A method of cervical curve restoration of a person's neck is also provided. The method includes stretching a reversed cervical curve forward and simultaneously exercising the muscles of the person's neck and upper back.

Abstract: The present invention is for the rehabilitation of stroke, brain or nerve damaged patients whose feet are paralyzed or unresponsive and must relearn lower leg and foot muscle control. A foot box can support a patient's foot with the foot box mounted above a flat base plate for movement by the patient. The foot box can be pivotally mounted by a swivel bearing to a shaft on the base plate with a forward end of the foot box supported by a wheel. A hemisphere support on the lower surface of the foot box permits movable support of the foot box when the swivel bearing is disengaged from the shaft and the wheel is raised. Attachments for the ends of handled pull cords are provided on the front corners and sides of the foot box. Pulleys on the base plate guide the pull cords.

Abstract: A unique apparatus designed to facilitate various types of stretches and exercise routines found in yoga, Pilates, fitness, and rehabilitation. The stride and leg stretching system has a one-size-fits-most design, allowing comfort in operation. The stride and leg stretching system is designed to increase range of motion of the ankle joint in all three clinical planes of motion, while affecting the muscular walking system of the hips, legs, and lower back. The design allows for adjustment based on the preference of the user via a hook and loop fastener strap. The unit has a firm, non-flexible base that prevents the foot from bending, while allowing complete freedom for the ankle joint. The top portion of the foot casing is a soft, flexible material that can accommodate varying foot size comfortably. The pivoting handles allow for a comfortable grip, keeping the muscles relaxed in the upper body, and prevent unwanted torsional forces in the wrist.

Abstract: A technique for exercise and strength training is disclosed. The technique involves a device that can be affixed to a support point which can allow the user to exercise using body weight. In one embodiment, the stability of the device can be adjusted by varying the position of a stability member.

Abstract: A device for stretching or flexing the calf muscles and tendons of the lower leg, the device in one embodiment having a base member formed with a 90 degree angle for positioning at the intersection of two walls and a floor, the base member having elevated non-skid planar surfaces emanating from the 90 degree angle to the edge of the base plate allowing a user to stand on the elevated non-skid surfaces with both feet and use one's body weight to stretch the calf muscles by lowering or raising ones heels below or above the plane of the elevated non-skid surface. In another embodiment, the device consists of a base member having a straight wall engaging edge with an upstanding wall, terminating in a flat planar surface and an angled ramp surface communicating between the flat upper surface and the base member, the calf stretcher allowing the user to stand on the base member and place selective right or left foot onto the ramp section for the respective stretching of the calf.

Abstract: Methods and devices for kayak training and/or exercising. One embodiment can use two PVC type pipes (one shorter than the other) in a parallel configuration. A flexible bungee type stretchable cord can be passed through the small pipe and have ends that are each attached to opposite ends of the larger pipe. Ends of another stretchable cord are each fixable attached to ends of the small pipe with a mid portion of the second bungee cord attached to a fixably nonmoveable member such as a door knob and the like. A user sitting down can grip the larger pipe with both hands spread apart and create a rowing action with the device so that the stretched cords simulate rowing actions such as those used with a kayak. The device can also be used as an exercise device and method to tone muscles such as arm and stomach and side muscles of the user.

Abstract: The invention comprises a versatile compact kit of cooperatively fitting components to be assembled into several geometries of devices capable of being used for the holistic flexion exercise of several muscle groups of the lower torso such as the Achilles tendon, Calf muscles, Hamstrings, Adductor and Lower Back muscles for individual users of different requirements and physical stature.

Abstract: A rectangular workout bench with removable legs for use directly on the floor or raised on legs has an inflatable flexible air filled plastic material cushion work out area allowing a person to lay on for physical therapy, strength training and balance. The rectangular shape allows spine and neck support while the instability of the air filled cushion allows muscles to activate. Beginners use the workout cushion directly on the floor and advanced workouts are on the elevate elevated bench with accessible footrests.

Abstract: An exercise alignment mat system for performing various exercises includes a mat of a generally flat structure having a top surface, bottom surface and a thickness, a major longitudinal axis and a minor longitudinal axis orthogonal to the major longitudinal axis, and a plurality of spaced grooves formed in the top surface along both the major and minor axes so as to define a plurality of equal sized panels on the mat. Each panel includes a set of concentric squares indicia thereon, in which an upper half of each square in the concentric squares has a dotted line configuration for fingertip placement, and a lower half of each square has a solid line configuration for palm placement.

Abstract: An apparatus for stretching at least the hamstring muscle of a user's leg is provided having a first support member for supporting the back of the leg of the user at or near the knee at least at the commencement of stretching and a second support member for engaging the back of the lower leg portion of the user during stretching. This first support member is disposed in front of the user during stretching of the hamstring muscle of the user's leg and the second support member is displaceable generally in a direction to stretch the hamstring muscle of the user's leg. An actuator operable by the user during use of the apparatus can be used for displacing at least the second support member generally in a direction to cause stretching of at least the hamstring muscle of the user's leg.

Abstract: A method of increasing a range of motion of a joint includes urging the joint toward an extended position using a predetermined amount of force transmitted through an apparatus. The method further includes maintaining the joint toward the extended position with the predetermined amount of force for a predetermined amount of time. The method further includes urging the joint away from the extended position and urging the joint toward the extended position using the predetermined amount of force. The method further includes maintaining the joint toward the extended position with the predetermined amount of force for the predetermined amount of time.

Abstract: An exercise device having many advantageous features is described, including the ability to provide a combination of grips to the user, and the ability to easily mount the device to a wall. One exercise device described is an inelastic resistance device having a combination grip that includes hand grips and a loop. The hand grip and loop may be used as a foot grip, or alternatively, just the hand grip can be used by the hand. The selection of a specific accessory grip allows the user to exercise by specific body parts and provides for a greater number of possible exercises.

Abstract: An exercise device includes an inflatable bladder and is partially stabilized with a small amount of filler. The bladder includes a first aperture to allow the filler to be easily placed in the bladder. The bladder also includes a valve main body that allows air to be easily injected into the bladder to inflate the bladder. In an exemplary method the filler is forced into the inflatable bladder using a mixture of air and filler. The air is under pressure and assists in forcing the filler into the bladder. After a proper amount of filler is in the bladder, the bladder can be deflated for packaging and/or shipping.

Abstract: The invention concerns an exercise apparatus, especially for exercising the back musculature of a user (10) with a support surface (110) to accommodate the user (10) along the longitudinal axis (30). The reclining area (112) of the support surface (110) is largely formed by a number of transverse elements (120, 120a) arranged in succession on the longitudinal axis (30), which accommodates the user (10) preferably in the prone position, the transverse elements (120, 120a) being mounted to pivot around the longitudinal axis (30) to execute a see-saw movement.

Abstract: Posture improvement by conducting a set of stretch protocols with an inelastic strap which lengthen front torso muscles in order to reduce forward head position, and to decrease rounded shoulders. Posture improvement is monitored by periodically taking hip to rib, sternum to shoulder, and shoulder to shoulder measurements. The protocols may be performed at home, or in groups such as company sponsored activity. The strap may include markings to permit a participant to readily determine desired hand positions on the strap for a stretch protocol.

Abstract: A collapsible resistance exercise device for compact storage and quick deployment includes a horizontally disposed base support frame and an upright frame pivotally attached to the base frame. The upright frame includes a resistance bar pivotally mounted thereon. In practice, the device is placed on a level surface with the base support frame resting on the surface. The free end of the upright frame is rotated upwardly to a vertical position where it is releasably locked into position to be free standing. One end of a pair of springs are attached to spring attachment loops disposed on the upright frame. The opposing ends of the springs are attached to spring attachment loops disposed on a resistance bar, strap or similar device. The exercisor exercises a muscle group by contacting a limb with the resistance bar and repetitively moving the resistance bar against the restoring force of the springs.

Abstract: An adductor exerciser has a stanchion, a stand, a crossbar and two legs. The stanchion has an upper end and a lower end. The stand is attached to the lower end. The crossbar is attached to the upper end of the stanchion. Each leg is pivotally connected to the crossbar and has a distal end and a pedal assembly. The pedal assembly is mounted rotatably to the distal end of the leg.

Abstract: The invention relates to assembly of an accessory and a shoe for providing support to a foot-drop affected foot relative to a lower leg belonging to the foot such that the foot is prevented from dropping downwards relative to the lower leg when the foot is raised by the lower from a supporting surface, the accessory being provided with a first attachment member for attachment of the accessory to the lower leg, a second attachment member for attachment of the accessory to an upper side of the shoe and a connecting body joining together the first attachment member and the second attachment member, wherein the second attachment member is provided with an attachment plate which, in use, is positioned under an upper part of the shoe. The invention also relates to the accessory of the assembly.

Abstract: A portable leg exercise device is provided for permitting a user to perform both adductor thigh muscle movements and abductor thigh muscle movements.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus comprises at least one upright joined to a cross bar provided with a limb support means. The limb support comprises an upright connecting cross bar of such a length that the cross bar is spaced from the floor sufficiently such that, in use, the legs of the user can rest on the cross bar when the user is positioned beneath the cross bar. The cross bar also being sufficiently spaced from the floor such that, in use, the limb support comprises a handgrip to enable a user to push down on the exercise apparatus so that the exercise apparatus supports at least some of the user's weight. The limb support comprises two outer concave regions that are relatively spaced along the longitudinal axis of the cross bar. The cross bar is provided with a third inner concave region in between the two outer concave regions.

Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a multipurpose therapeutic device for managing musculoskeletal pain and administering traction. In one embodiment of the present invention, a multipurpose therapeutic device includes a front side, a rear side, a first end, and a second end. An outer gripping surface is positioned in proximity to each of the two ends and a number of invaginating contact surfaces extend from the perimeter of the front side and/or the rear side. In one embodiment of the present invention, a user may place his or her neck against one of the contact surfaces. The user may then grip the outer gripping surfaces with his or her hands and move the multipurpose therapeutic device superiorly and inferiorly along his or her neck while applying pressure against his or her neck to massage sore neck muscles or to stretch his or her spine.

Abstract: The invention is a stretching apparatus comprised of first and second elongate handles having first and second ends for being held by an individual during use and a strap carried by both the first and second handles such that at least a portion of the strap is exposed for engaging the foot of an individual during use. A timer carried by the second end of at least one of the first and second handles determines the time elapsed during use. A timer actuator disposed between the strap and the timer actuates the timer upon a movement of the strap. An audible indicator, carried by at least one of the first and second handles in communication with the timer, audibly indicates the elapsing of a predetermined period of time. The apparatus further consists of a visual indicator for visually indicating the elapsing of a predetermined amount of time.

Abstract: A method for using an adjustable exercise device is described that allows for performing a wide variety of different exercises. In one embodiment the exercise device includes an elongated member with ends for supporting a user by their hands, fingers, feet and/or legs, where the device is movably supportable by a structure. The method includes adjusting the distance between the ends, positioning the device relative to the structure, and exercising. The user may support a portion of their weight on the ground and a portion from the ends of the device, and exercise by moving their body with their body thus supported. In alternative embodiments, the device may be supported by a door, a pole, a tree or some other suitable structure.

Abstract: An apparatus for stretching and strengthening extremities includes a foot placement foundation having an inversion plane, a neutral plane, and an eversion plane. A selectively actuatable adjustment mechanism is connected to the foot placement foundation to permit a user of the apparatus to adjust the incline of the foot placement foundation as desired.

Abstract: The present invention provides upright, standing, and weight bearing support system for the sternum, arms, and pelvis. The present invention maintains the subject in an ideal posture position, while the guiding the subject through therapeutic exercises that have a specific and practical application towards standing up straight. The system provides video and audio stimulation, educational instruction, and evokes potential central nervous system stimulation.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the field of straps and tension devices and specifically relates to a device and method useful for stretching and exercise. In particular, the invention relates to an exercise device. According to one embodiment, the exercise device includes an elongated body having a plurality of columnar ladder apertures and a pad protrusion extending into at least one of the ladder apertures.

Abstract: A hand-held exercise device includes left and right handles that rotate through respective paths about an axis that is centrally located between the handles. In one mode of operation, the device is rotated while walking to enhance aerobic exercise. In another mode of operation, a strap is secured between the device and at least one of a person's lower limbs to link rotation of the device to movement of the person's hands and at least one of the person's lower limbs toward one another, thereby assisting the person in the performance of abdominal exercises and/or muscle stretching.

Abstract: An abdominal exercise device comprises a center bar, a handle assembly attached to a first end portion of the center bar and that is adapted to be grasped by a user, an abdominal press assembly mounted to the center bar between first and second end portions thereof and having an abdominal contact surface that is spaced from the center bar and is adapted to rest against an abdominal region of a user; and a stabilizer mounted to the second end portion of the center bar and that is adapted to stabilize the center bar when the abdominal contact surface rests against a user. The user can perform a leg lift exercise, a crunch exercise, or both exercises in unison.

Abstract: A device for holding and organizing items includes an anchor for fastening the device to an object; a strap adapted to secure the items to the device; and a connector, having an upper piece and a lower piece that pivot relative to one another, the upper piece being connected to the anchor and the lower piece being connected to the strap.

Abstract: An user-actuated anterior shoulder stretching device (10) includes a pair of swing arms (32) which are pivoted rearwardly in response to a leg press motion being applied to a sliding footrest assembly (18).

Abstract: A muscle stretching machine designed to provide the user with easy system of functional stretching and also provide the user with flexibility feedback information as to the performance of the stretch, such as but not limited to the angles of the stretch, the force of the stretch, the position of the stretch, and the duration of the stretch. A user of the muscle stretching machine can turn on the central processor, adjust the height of the machine to suit their height or to suit the type of stretch to be performed, step onto a round turntable subassembly, place the leg to be stretched on a foam pad designed to raise and lower the leg, pull down on a handle to raise the leg being stretched and read the information displayed on the central processor. When the handles are pulled down the leg is raised. When the handles are allowed to go up the leg is lowered.

Abstract: The Fitness Device comprises a back contacting member and a leg contacting member, with a pivotally mounted contacting member that is attached to said back contacting member. When driven by a motor or hand-operated power source, said pivotally mounted contacting member causes the position of said back contacting member relative to said leg contacting member to change, applying more or less pressure to the user's back (depending on the movement of said back contacting member) and thereby allowing the user's back to stretch relative to said leg contacting member.

Abstract: The abdominal exerciser of the present invention is an exercise device designed to work the abdominal and oblique muscle groups. The abdominal exerciser includes a carriage that can slide or roll along a track and an upper body support. The abdominal exerciser device is designed to simulate an abdominal exercise “crunch” motion when the knees are brought within proximity of the upper body support.

Abstract: Composite yoga mats and straps comprising a fabric sheet and loop holes and/or filament loops functioning as hand grips or appendage supports useful in the practice of yoga positions. The yoga straps or mats can to provide support, a stable surface, and moisture absorption for the practice of yoga.

Abstract: A waist and buttocks exerciser has a base, a seat being mounted pivotally on the base, multiple connectors being mounted on the base, a resilient rope being wrapped around the connectors and two leg supporters being attached rotatably onto the base. Each leg supporter has a pin being mounted through the leg supporter and being mounted between and abutting the resilient rope. When a user sits on the seat and places his feet on the leg supporters, the leg supporters can be driven toward different directions. With pins abutting and keeping pushing the resilient rope, user's waist, buttocks and thighs can be exercised.

Abstract: A tool for fitting a bicycle to a cyclist includes first and second stirrup elements, a handle, and attachment elements attaching the first and second stirrup elements to each other and to the handle. The cyclist may be positioned with the cyclist's back against a substantially flat surface and one leg extended away from the substantially flat surface and the foot of that leg engaging the first stirrup element and with the other leg bent and the foot of that leg engaging the second stirrup element. The cyclist may grasp the handle and pull the first stirrup element towards the cyclist's head to a position in which the cyclist's lumbo/sacral spine area moves away from the substantially flat surface.

Abstract: An exercise machine includes: a bench for a user to lie upon; an actuator arm comprising a first end connected to the bench and a second end comprising a foot attachment for attaching to a human foot; the actuator arm comprising an actuator for moving the actuator arm such that a user's leg is moved into a stretching position; and a user control for causing the actuator to actuate.

Abstract: An apparatus for lower back exercise comprises a support structure and a body support platform supported by the support structure. A pendulum having three segments is connected to the support structure. The pendulum has a first segment; pivotably connected to the support structure; a second segment that proceeds from the first segment at a first angle; and a third segment that proceeds from the second segment at a second angle, so that the center of mass of the pendulum is offset from the vertical. Weights may be connected to the third segment of the pendulum. There is a means, such as straps, connected to the pendulum, for engaging the legs of a user. The user exerts force with his legs to move the pendulum through a range of motion greater than 90 degrees.

Abstract: An improved stretching apparatus includes a movable back rest and a movable foot manipulator which, when employed together, can provide therapeutic stretching to the leg muscles of a subject. For instance, the improved device can stretch the calves, hamstrings, and other leg muscles. An improved method of employing a stretching apparatus to perform a therapeutic stretching operation on the leg muscles of a subject includes engaging a subject's outstretched legs with a foot manipulator of the stretching apparatus, engaging the subject's back with a back rest of the stretching apparatus, and pivoting the foot manipulator in a stretching direction to move the feet in a dorsal direction to provide stretching of at least some of the leg muscles.

Abstract: An exercise device for use in connection with various types of exercise and activities, including, for example, Pilates, yoga, core conditioning, stability, stretching, and physical therapy. The exercise device includes an indicator for quantifying resistance force applied by the resistance tube during stretching of the tube. Repeated use of the exercise device can be used to identify strength gains.

Abstract: The present invention may be used for human exercise. A track assembly may have two bottom cross members attached approximately perpendicular thereto and extending approximately horizontally from each side of the track assembly. Two vertical frame members may be attached to a first end of each of the bottom cross members. A handle may be attached at an upper end of each of the vertical frame members. A seat may be disposed in an upper portion of the two vertical frame members for seating to face a second end of the bottom cross member.

Abstract: The invention is a stretching apparatus comprised of first and second elongate handles having first and second ends for being held by an individual during use and a strap carried by both the first and second handles such that at least a portion of the strap is exposed for engaging the foot of an individual during use. A timer carried by the second end of at least one of the first and second handles determines the time elapsed during use. A timer actuator disposed between the strap and the timer actuates the timer upon a movement of the strap. An audible indicator, carried by at least one of the first and second handles in communication with the timer, audibly indicates the elapsing of a predetermined period of time. The apparatus further consists of a visual indicator for visually indicating the elapsing of a predetermined amount of time.

Abstract: An inner and outer thigh exercise apparatus has a framework, and a seat and backrest mounted on the framework. Right and left leg supports are pivotally mounted on the framework about spaced apart pivot shafts relative to the seat and are interconnected with one another so as to pivot simultaneously in opposite angular directions between start and finish positions. A resistance arrangement is operatively connected to the leg supports for imposing a resistive force on the leg supports during pivoting movement thereof between start and finish positions. A motion transfer assembly is controllably mounted for selective rotation about a single pivot axis on one of the leg supports for enabling changing of the start positions of the leg supports, and allowing the imposition of resistive force on the leg supports during pivoting movement of the leg supports between start and finish positions.

Abstract: An user-actuated anterior shoulder stretching device (10) includes a pair of swing arms (32) which are pivoted rearwardly in response to a leg press motion being applied to a sliding footrest assembly (18).

Abstract: A self-assisted shoulder passive range of motion (SA-PROM) apparatus. The apparatus includes a forearm support adapted to receive the forearm of the affected arm, a double pulley assembly, a single pulley connectable to an elevated support such as an upper door edge, and a main support rope, one end of which is attached to the double pulley, the other end having an enlarged handle. A central portion of the main support rope is engagable over the single pulley. A secondary rope arrangement which is preferably formed of a single length of rope, is attached to each of a plurality of holes formed through said forearm support in proximity to each end and each side margin of the forearm support and arranged over the secondary pulleys to self-regulate pitch and roll movement of the forearm support. The affected arm may be passively raised and lowered through a range of motion by pulling on the handle with the unaffected arm.

Abstract: A universal exercise device comprising a U-shape rigid frame with legs upper portions lying generally in a plane, a bight portion joining the legs at lower portions thereof and handles at an upper portion of the legs. At least one resilient resistance member spans the legs and to yieldably resist elongation when pressed while otherwise holding the frame against the elongation of the resilient resistance member. The lower portions of the legs can be bent outwardly to form generally L-shaped legs with the bight portion lying outside the plane of the upper leg portions or can lie within the plane of the upper leg portions. The legs can be joined together at an upper portion with a crosspiece or free at the upper portions thereof. The crosspiece can be U-shaped and project out of the plane of the legs either forwardly or rearwardly with respect to the bight portion.

Abstract: A leg stretching apparatus includes an elevation mechanism resting; an elevation structure mounted to the elevation mechanism for lifting and lowering the elevation structure; a first leg support member pivotally connected to the elevation structure and extending from the elevation structure to a support structure in a first direction; and a second leg support member pivotally connected to the elevation structure and extending from the elevation structure to a support means in a second direction; so that operation of the elevation mechanism in one direction lifts the elevation structure so that the first leg support member and the second leg support member pivot progressively downwardly from the elevation structure, and operation of the elevation mechanism in another direction lowers the elevation structure so that the first leg support member and the second leg support member pivot progressively upwardly from the elevation structure.

Abstract: It is the object of the current invention to provide a removable exercise pole with a base connected with a housing pole that is extended by means of a telescoping upper extension pole. The pole is held in place by a compressive tensioning mechanism that also allows for manual adjustment. The pole is held in constant tension so that horizontal forces may be resisted. A capture plug that may be selectively mounted on an overhead horizontal surface serves to locate the pole on the overhead surface.

Abstract: A device and method for stretching, toning and strengthening the chest, shoulder, neck and upper back muscles of a patient thereby relieving pain and improving posture. Typically the patient is suffering from tension related muscle problems. The device and method are used to facilitate therapeutic treatment of the muscle problems by progressively stretching the muscles and thereby relieving the muscle problems.