User Manipulated Force Resisting Apparatus, Component Thereof, Or Accessory Therefor Patents (Class 482/92)
  • Patent number: 7699756
    Abstract: An apparatus for removably mounting an exercise apparatus to a supporting structure such as a ladder-like structure. Various types of mounting apparatus with specially designed brackets having multiple interchangeable parts, attachments and accessories, are used to facilitate easy and quick mounting of several types of exercise apparatus to the supporting structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: BVP Holding, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert A. Piane, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7695415
    Abstract: This trunk rotation device uses dynamic movement of one's body such as, shoulder, hip, knee, back, thigh, and abdominal musculature. The device provides a method for exercising the spinal column and the muscles of the torso, including those in the abdominal lumbar and thoracic regions involving rotational torque. In a preferred embodiment, the device is a golf exercise and flexibility apparatus. The golf exercise apparatus provides resistance to a golfer during a golf swing to strengthen and condition the muscles of the axial skeleton of the golfer in a functional posture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignees: University of Toledo, The Turning Point LLC
    Inventors: Vijay K. Goel, Danny M. Pincivero, David Dick, John Jaegly, F. Alan Schultheis, Kathleen Herndon
  • Patent number: 7691039
    Abstract: A Pilates step barrel/chair exercise apparatus has side walls and a unique elastic resistance member anchor structure fastened to each of the side walls. Each anchor structure has an anchor socket assembly fastened to one of the side walls and a removable elastic member anchor bar assembly mounted in the anchor socket assembly. The anchor socket assembly has a central tubular portion passing through the one of the side walls and a flange portion fastening the tubular portion to the side wall. The anchor bar assembly has an L shaped anchor bar, a cylindrical yoke receiving and holding a long leg of the anchor bar, and a spring bar tube rotatably fastened to a short leg of the anchor bar. The cylindrical yoke has a portion adapted to fit within a central bore of the tubular portion of the anchor socket assembly, and has a plurality of spaced radial holes therearound for engaging with and retain the anchor bar assembly in the anchor socket assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Balanced Body, Inc.
    Inventors: Rael Isacowitz, Ken Endelman, Brian Janowski
  • Patent number: 7686749
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a compact resistance unit that houses a pneumatic cylinder. The cylinder is connected to a pulley wheel that moves at least toward the cylinder. A main cable extends about a portion of the pulley wheel. One end of the main cable is fixed to the unit housing and the other end is attached to a pulley block of a block-and-tackle mechanism. A user cable extends through the block-and-tackle mechanism and is connected to a handle. The pneumatic cylinder resists movement of the handle away from the unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Keiser Corporation
    Inventor: Dennis L. Keiser
  • Patent number: 7686746
    Abstract: A training apparatus 1 includes a seat part 2, a load application part 3 having an adjustable load, right and left guide poles 4 extending vertically with a predetermined interval so that the seat part 2 centered between the guide poles, two lifting parts 5 movable up and down and respectively guided by the right and left guide poles 4, rotating parts 7 connected to shafts 6 fixed to the lifting parts 5, respectively, and are rotatable with respect to the lifting parts 5, pulling members 8 having one-side ends connected to the load application part 3 and having other ends connected to the lifting parts 5, and load transmission parts 9 connected to the other ends of the pulling members 8 in the lifting parts 5, respectively, and apply load to rotation of the rotating parts 5 about the shafts 6 by the load application part 3.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: World Wing Enterprise Corporation
    Inventor: Yasushi Koyama
  • Patent number: 7682294
    Abstract: A system is disclosed for monitoring, recording and analysis of exercise in an exercise machine of the type which uses a cable, having a proximal end and a distal end, and a device, such as a handle, that enables a user to push or pull the proximal end of the cable against a resistance that is coupled to the distal end of the cable. A sensor or “load cell” mounted on the frame structure of the machine, for producing an electronic signal representing the instantaneous tensile force in the cable, and an electronic computer or the like, coupled to receive the electronic signal, for storing values representing the tensile force in the cable as a function of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: BVP Holding, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert A. Piane, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20100069202
    Abstract: A method for controlling a movable resistance element belonging to a training device. The resistance element is influenced by a user with a muscular force. A device is adapted to generate a reference signal for controlling a power conversion device coupled to and controlling a movable resistance element belonging to a training device, and which is influenced by a user with a muscular force. A computer program for carrying out the method and a use of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2006
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Applicant: SENSYACT AB
    Inventor: Ole Olsen
  • Publication number: 20100062906
    Abstract: An exercise device is provided, having a frame, an arm link pivotally coupled to the frame, a leg link pivotally coupled to the frame and a countermovement mechanism coupling the arm link and the leg link to enable substantially opposite direction of movement of the arm link relative to the leg link. A first and second set of the arm and leg links may be provided and positioned each adjacent a seat adapted to support a user. The range of motion of the arm links and therefore the leg links are controlled by the user as well as the direction of movement of the first set relative to the second set. This enables the user to perform a simulated walking gait exercise by moving the first and second arm links in generally opposing directions or an abdominal exercise by moving the first and second arms links in substantially the same direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Kevin G. Abelbeck
  • Publication number: 20100062911
    Abstract: A weightlifting belt with hook for a person exercising to be able to hang a weight from a belt around their waist. This invention enables the quick and easy removal (or addition) of the weight by the person exercising or by a third party (‘spotter’) while the person exercising remains in the exercising position on the exercise equipment. The weight hanging from the belt increases their total weight and therefore the difficulty of the exercise and in turn the exercise's effectiveness. The ‘pull-up’, ‘chin-up’ and ‘dip’ exercises are particularly targeted with this invention. The inventive device includes a belt that goes around a person's waist with a hook attached to hang a dumbbell-style weight from. A metal plate formed to create a hook from which to hang a dumbbell-style weight. A belt is passed through a slot-shaped hole in the metal plate so that a person can wear the device around their waist.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventors: Kenneth Alan Stone, Iain Alasdair Fraser
  • Patent number: 7670269
    Abstract: A chest press exercise machine has a self-aligning pivoting user support on a main frame and an exercise arm which is linked to the pivoting user support to translate movement of the exercise arm into movement of the user support. A user support pivot pivotally connects the user support to the main frame. A connecting link is movably associated with the user engagement device or exercise arm and at least one of the main frame, user support, or user support pivot. A user-activated positioning device controls positioning of the exercise arm in an exercise ready position at the start of an exercise. The user support pivot is positioned so that part of the combined weight of the user and user support is positioned on both sides of the gravitational centerline throughout the exercise movement and a portion of the combined weight passes through the centerline to redistribute the weight as the exercise arm is moved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Hoist Fitness Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Randall T. Webber, Bruce Hockridge, Jeffrey O. Meredith
  • Patent number: 7670270
    Abstract: Exercising machine (1) provided with a frame (10) (110) (210) and with at least one operating apparatus (30) (130) (230) which can be used to perform a physical exercise and comprising a load group (15) (115) (215) supported by the frame (10) (110) (210) and connected to the operating apparatus (30) (130) (230) by means of at least one cable (26) (126) (226) wound around a plurality of transmission members (25) (140) (240) supported by the frame (10) (110) (210) and arranged so as to define a path (P) for the cable (26) (126) (226); the load group (15) (115) (215) comprising at least two load units (16, 17) separate from each other and connected together by means of the said cable (26) (126) (226) and arranged at ends of the path (P) on opposite sides of the operating apparatus (30) (130) (230) so that the latter can be tensioned on respective opposite sides by means of different loads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Technogym S.p.A.
    Inventors: Nerio Alessandri, Antonio Cascini, Federico Martini, Simone Casagrande
  • Patent number: 7662073
    Abstract: A dynamically adjustable weight lifting aid that eliminates hand grip strength as the limiting factor in weight lifting, including a strap and a slidable sleeve encircling the strap. The strap has a wrist loop at one end and an attachment loop at the other end. The attachment loop is suitable for removably attaching the strap to a weight bar or other handle on a weight lifting system or machine. The wrist loop is suitable for receiving a person's wrist. Specifically, the person's hand is inserted through the wrist loop, and the person's palm contacts the slidable sleeve. The wrist loop cradles the person's wrist, and the effective diameter of the wrist loop is dynamically adjustable by the person's hand by sliding the slidable sleeve in either direction along the length of the strap. The person may then lift a weight of the weight lifting system by pulling on the strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Flexsolate, LLC
    Inventor: Terry Baldwin
  • Publication number: 20100016131
    Abstract: A versatile exercise device comprising a level frame; a frame keyhole sequence; a track parallel to two sides of the frame; at least one resistance medium, and a platform comprising at least two wheels, placed and rolling within said track, a platform frame comprising a platform keyhole sequences, and a top panel. The resistance mediums connect the platform to the frame. Preferably, each of two resistance mediums connects one side of the platform with one side of the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Applicant: BALANCED BODY, INC.
    Inventor: Jonathan Hoffman
  • Publication number: 20100009817
    Abstract: An ultra light but resistive ball device for exercise is provided comprising: a flexible sheet with least one preliminary broken section of collapse for allowing contraction of the sheet under bias about at least one flex point in response to an exertion of hand grip. The sheet has two free ends extending substantially half the circumference of the ball and partially folded back on the sheet. Two lateral apertures are located at opposite ends of the free ends to permit an uninterrupted collapse of the sheet. A sheath envelopes the sheet to provide a slip resistant exterior surface for grasping the ball.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2008
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Inventor: Man-Young Jung
  • Patent number: 7645216
    Abstract: A device for resistance exercise of muscle groups that cross two or more joints such as biceps group, triceps group, quadriceps group, and hamstring group. The device comprises a primary cam or gear fixed non-rotatably to the frame of an appropriate exercise machine for working the desired body part, and a secondary cam or gear connected only to the primary cam in such a way which, when rotated, tracks around the primary cam or gear. Resistance is provided with a cable, belt, chain, or other means to the axis of the secondary cam only. When properly positioned user applies force to the contact point connected to the secondary cam and secondary axis, the device moves both desired joints simultaneously through a range of motion while under a predictable resistance. The device provides an improved range of movement while under resistance, thereby supplying a greater extension and contraction of the desired muscle or muscle group than prior art devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Inventor: Kurt William Edeker
  • Patent number: 7641595
    Abstract: An exercise device is provided that comprises a support arm having an upper support arm member defining an upper support arm axis and a lower support arm member defining a lower support arm axis. The exercise device further comprises a support structure to which the support arm is pivotably attached by a longitudinal pivot mechanism and a lateral pivot mechanism. The longitudinal pivot mechanism is adapted so that the support arm may be selectively rotated about a longitudinal pivot in a pitch plane that includes the upper support arm axis. The longitudinal pivot mechanism is also adapted so that the support arm may be selectively locked at a selected pitch rotational position. The lateral pivot mechanism is adapted so that the support arm may be selectively rotated about a lateral pivot point in a vertical plane that is orthogonal to the pitch plane. The lateral pivot mechanism is also adapted so that the support arm may be selectively locked at a selected lateral rotational position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Inventor: Chester H. Sharps
  • Patent number: 7641596
    Abstract: In an illustrative embodiment of the invention, an exercise device comprises a support structure comprising a support member and a support arm having an upper support arm portion and a lower support arm portion. The support arm is mounted to the support member by a pivot assembly comprising a longitudinal pivot control mechanism and a lateral pivot control mechanism. The longitudinal pivot control mechanism is configured to allow the support arm to be selectively positioned at a first angular orientation in a longitudinal plane and the lateral pivot control mechanism is configured to allow the support arm to be selectively positioned at a second angular orientation in a lateral plane orthogonal to the longitudinal plane. The exercise device further comprises a yoke pivotably attached to the upper support arm by a yoke attachment member for rotation about a yoke rotation axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Inventor: Chester H. Sharps
  • Patent number: 7625320
    Abstract: A resistance swing training apparatus and method for providing resistance opposing the rotation of the hips of athletes performing sports-specific movements such as the golf or baseball swing. The apparatus provides the resistance by attaching tethers such elastic cords to a harness worn around the waist of the athlete in a configuration that allows the athlete to perform the sports-specific movement at optimum speed. In one embodiment the apparatus includes a base forming the training area and a pair of training modules for providing the elastic cords for attachment to the hips of the athlete. The lateral spacing and elevation of the elastic cords may be adjusted to fit the athlete. The resistance may also be adjusted in a wide range of resistances to fit the athlete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Inventor: Michael Al Wehrell
  • Patent number: 7621860
    Abstract: The present invention provides a cost-effective, mobile, adjustable, versatile, reliable and easy-to-use exercise sitting apparatus that permits a user to develop, strengthen, stretch, increase the flexibility of and/or rehabilitate, and to eliminate or reduce pain (if present) associated with, a wide variety of muscles and/or body parts, such as the abdominal, lower back, external oblique and/or hip flexor muscles. The user of the exercise sitting apparatus may be of normal health, disabled, suffering from a disease or recovering from an illness, injury, accident or surgery. The exercise sitting apparatus comprises a platform, a turntable assembly, a slide plate assembly, a supporting structure and a base. It can be used virtually anywhere, for example, in a home, an office, a gym, a hospital, a rehabilitative facility, a back pain center, a nursing home or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Inventor: Michael Travis Burrell
  • Publication number: 20090286657
    Abstract: An exercise method providing an optimized anaerobic regime and combines the benefits from maximum intensity achieved in training to failure and short-term potentiated state of working muscles. The inventive method can be implemented in concentric, eccentric, partial repetitions, explosive, and isometric modes of muscle contraction. The inventive method predominantly targets type II muscle fibers, which represent the largest component of human musculature and lean body mass that can be altered via physical exercises. The name of the method is derived from Greek words “mnêmôn”—memory and “tonos”—tension related to muscle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventor: Nikolay Sveshnikov
  • Patent number: 7618358
    Abstract: An inflatable training device having a flexible concave shaped dome for stepping on by a user and a base. A portion of the dome wraps around a portion of the base to form a bumper ring that is seated on the floor. The inner area of the dome is filled with air through either a high volume valve located in the base or a low-volume valve in the dome that permits the firmness of the device to be easily adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignees: Sportime, LLC, Trial, S.R.L.
    Inventors: Barry H Traub, Bruno Montanari
  • Patent number: 7614639
    Abstract: A modular standing frame is described herein. The modular standing frame has a chair module adapted to raise and lower a user between sitting and standing postures without inducing shear between the user and the seat and seat back of the chair module. The chair module may be selectively coupled to one of a glider module adapted to provide walking-type exercise to a standing user, a workstation module that provides a work surface for a sitting or standing user, and a mobility module that allows the standing frame to be moved about by a user much like a wheel chair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: Invacare Corporation
    Inventors: Alan L. Tholkes, Wesley Ovre, Gabriel Routh, Jeffrey Schmidt, Michael Lokken, Duffy Trotter, Tamera Trotter, legal representative
  • Publication number: 20090275868
    Abstract: In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a system is delineated for rehabilitating a knee of a patient when the patient sits on a seating surface. The system includes a base having a surface for supporting a portion of the patient in proximity to or including the knee of the patient where the surface does not move during operation of the system. In addition, the system includes a member rotatably coupled to the base for selectively moving a lower extremity of the patient, a driver for moving the member, and a controller for controlling the driver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2008
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventors: Michael A. Steingart, David K. Reynolds
  • Patent number: 7608017
    Abstract: In a balance exercise machine, a swing mechanism swings a seat with composition of a swing motion in an anteroposterior direction and a swing motion in a widthwise direction. The swing motion of the seat in the anteroposterior direction is driven faster than, preferably twice as fast, as that in the widthwise direction. The origin of the swing motion of the seat in the widthwise direction is discrepant from origin of the swing motion of the seat in the anteroposterior direction within a half-cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Assignee: Panasonic Electric Works Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ryusuke Nakanishi
  • Patent number: 7604579
    Abstract: A Pilates step barrel/chair exercise apparatus has side walls and a unique elastic resistance member anchor structure fastened to each of the side walls. Each anchor structure has an anchor socket assembly fastened to one of the side walls and a removable elastic member anchor bar assembly mounted in the anchor socket assembly. The anchor socket assembly has a central tubular portion passing through the one of the side walls and a flange portion fastening the tubular portion to the side wall. The anchor bar assembly has an L shaped anchor bar, a cylindrical yoke receiving and holding a long leg of the anchor bar, and a spring bar tube rotatably fastened to a short leg of the anchor bar. The cylindrical yoke has a portion adapted to fit within a central bore of the tubular portion of the anchor socket assembly, and has a plurality of spaced radial holes therearound for engaging with and retain the anchor bar assembly in the anchor socket assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: Balanced Body, Inc.
    Inventors: Rael Isacowitz, Ken Endelman, Brian Janowski
  • Publication number: 20090247367
    Abstract: Workout equipment that detects and adjusts the effective weight automatically, within individual repetitions and between sets. The equipment is able to vary the exercise resistance during the stroke to allow the user to push through a weak spot and gain the maximum benefit of exercising to their full range of motion. The equipment detects weakness preceding muscle failure by the speed at which the user is manipulating the device. Users are instructed to complete each repetition slowly, smoothly and to their fullest extension or flexion and to return to the starting position slowly and under control at all times. The equipment can detect when a user is slowing down and straining at a given level of resistance, or at a particular point in the stroke path, and it will automatically lessen the effective weight to allow the user to push through and complete the stroke.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2008
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventor: Dana Kirsch Ray
  • Publication number: 20090239720
    Abstract: An apparatus for exercising the abdominal muscles of a user includes an elongate track having first and second ends and a middle portion wherein the elongate track is positionable transverse to a user. The apparatus further includes a carriage movable along the track, wherein that carriage is biased toward the middle portion of the track, and an arm extending substantially perpendicular from the carriage. The arm has a free distal end such that application by user of an alternating torque to the free distal end of the arm urges the carriage in a corresponding reciprocating motion on the track.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2009
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Inventor: Gordon Albin Osbak
  • Publication number: 20090221407
    Abstract: A method for implementing biomechanical stimulation training includes application of a preselected dynamic force concurrent with a local proprioceptive stimulus at an engagement member and performing at least one dynamic training activity. The method also includes applying a preselected isometric training force concurrent with another local proprioceptive stimulus at the engagement member, and performing an isometric training activity. An apparatus to facilitate performance of dynamic and isometric training activities includes an engagement member structured to facilitate operative engagement with a portion of a person's body, a force generation assembly structured to generate dynamic and isometric training forces at the engagement member, and a vibration generation assembly structured to generate local proprioceptive stimuli at the engagement member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2007
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Inventors: Frauke Hauk, Joachim Schmidt, Frank Schiebl
  • Patent number: 7578797
    Abstract: A seating system for providing spinal motion and support. The system comprising a substantially static structure adjacent to the back of a user, a moving apparatus supplying a motive force, wherein the moving apparatus is adjacent to the buttocks and thighs of the user and is powered by the lower extremities of the user, a force applying structure disposed between the static structure and the back of the user, the force applying apparatus including a back engaging surface for increasing and decreasing a force applied to the back of the user in response to the supplied motive force, and a structure for locking the moving apparatus in place. Various embodiments of moving apparatus, force applying structure, and locking and/or motion limiting structure are presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Inventor: Rowland G. Hazard
  • Patent number: 7578774
    Abstract: This patent discloses a machine to assist a person in strength training. The strength training machine may have a bar supported between two uprights. A motor and mechanisms may cause the bar to move up and down at a constant rate. A person may position themselves above, below, or to a side of the bar. As the bar moves, a person may push or pull against the resistance provided by the moving bar. The motor and mechanisms may prevent the bar from moving in response to the person pressing or pulling against the bar, no matter how hard the person presses or pulls on the bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Inventor: Robert T. Zetterberg
  • Publication number: 20090197742
    Abstract: An exercise grip device includes a jaw member which is of a sufficient width to permit grasping thereabout with one's hand, wherein the jaw member includes a spring aspect which is preformed to an open position to permit receiving a weightlifting bar and is compressible to a closed position enabling engagement of the jaw member with the weightlifting bar in a manner to prevent sliding movement therebetween and while compressed exerts a force on one's hand and forearm muscles. A method includes weightlifting using the exercise grip device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2008
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventor: James Hartman
  • Patent number: 7569004
    Abstract: Weight lifting simulator apparatus includes a primary pneumatic cylinder providing the principal resistance for simulating weight lifting exercise with at least one secondary cylinder in free fluid interconnection with the primary cylinder whereby constant and balanced loading is achieved, with provisions for dynamic simulation of weight inertia effect, and control thereof, as in lifting a real weight. The primary and the secondary cylinders are associated with a guideway, the primary cylinder being fixed to the guideway and the secondary cylinder being slidable relative to the guideway and pivotable relative to the piston rod of the primary cylinder. Variation of the securement position of the primary cylinder on the guideway is available and valving is provided in the fluid interconnection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Inventor: Joseph Kolomeir
  • Patent number: 7569002
    Abstract: A wheelchair is provided with an exercise mechanism which allows the user to perform exercises as desired. The user is able to exercise by extending his or her torso either independently of his legs or combined with exercising his legs. Resistance mechanisms are included to permit users to control the level of difficulty.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Inventor: Avinoam Nativ
  • Patent number: 7566292
    Abstract: A handle assembly adapted to grasp a bar for exercise includes a J-shaped hook for placement on the bar, a rotation assembly, and a handle attached to the rotation assembly. The handle has an inverted U-shaped bracket with a cross piece defining a grip that is connected between ends of the U-bracket. The rotation assembly is connected between a lower end of the hook and the U-shaped bracket and includes a bearing, the handle being rotatable via the bearing by a user during exercise with the J-hook on the bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Assignee: Perfect Pushup, LLC
    Inventors: Stephen G. Hauser, Mark B. Friedman, Alden M Mills
  • Publication number: 20090181833
    Abstract: A freestanding exercise apparatus comprises a frame, a right door, a left door, and an exercise resistance source. The frame defines a sagittal plane dividing the frame into a left half and a right half with anterior and posterior ends. The right door is pivotally attached to the right half of the frame proximate the anterior end of the frame for pivoting about a right pivot axis. The left door is pivotally attached to the left half of the frame proximate the anterior end of the frame for pivoting about a left pivot axis. The exercise resistance source is connected to the frame. The frame, right pivot axis, and left pivot axis are configured and arranged such that the angle formed at the intersection of a first plane defined by the right pivot axis and the posterior end of the right half of the frame and a second plane defined by the left pivot axis and the posterior end of the left half of the frame is less than 90°.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2007
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventors: John M. Cassidy, Michael G. Novak, Nathan R. Luger
  • Patent number: 7549948
    Abstract: A postural support and exercise jacket according to the invention includes a pair of shoulder straps coupled to a waist strap which extends around the back of the user and terminates at the sides of the user. A pair of adjustable handles are coupled to opposite ends of the waist strap. The user dons the jacket by slipping arms through the respective shoulder straps and adjusts the handles according to arm length. With the jacket in place, several different exercises can be performed. Optional presser balls are provided and are adjustably coupled to the shoulder straps to overlie a muscle “knot”.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Inventor: Howard W. Makofsky
  • Publication number: 20090143201
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame, first and second free pulleys, first and second handle portions, first and second frame pulleys attached to the frame, a central pulley, a pull cord, and a resistance member. The first free pulley includes a first pulley wheel and a first hub with the first pulley wheel configured to rotate in relation to the first hub. The second free pulley includes a second pulley wheel and a second hub with the second pulley wheel configured to rotate in relation to the second hub. The first and second handle portions are in mechanical communication with the first and second hubs with the pulley wheels configured to rotate relative to the handle portions. The pull cord is looped about the pulleys with the resistance member configured to resist movement of the pull cord.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Inventor: Viktor Uygan
  • Publication number: 20090124468
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Inventor: Brett Hunter
  • Patent number: 7517306
    Abstract: Provided herein is an innovative human powered pumping device comprising a piston and cylinder pumping mechanism that is hinged off a base. In use, the piston is driven in and out of the cylinder by a handle which is pushed and pulled by the operator. The base is resting on the ground and the cylinder is hinged off the base such that the pumping mechanism can rotate with respect to the base during the pumping motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: KickStart International, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin J. Fisher, Muhamed Swaleh, Alan Charles Spybey, Frederick Obudho
  • Publication number: 20090093352
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device of the type for building up the upper and lower limbs in particular, which has at least two resistance forces, and preferably three forces. These forces are obtained without adding a supplementary part, and without any particular adjustment. The device has a substantially oval shape (1) and has two lateral extensions (4, 5) of the “ear” type, which, inter alia, allow it to be grasped by a user. This device also comprises two strips (6, 7) which are thinner than those of the other, main strip which forms the assembly of the device (2, 3, 4, 5).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2007
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Inventor: Robert Krupa
  • Publication number: 20090088303
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus is disclosed having a base, an longitudinally extending bottom member rail directed generally transverse to the base, and an upright support. The exercise apparatus also has a lever arm, including an exercise bar, that is connected to the upright support and pivotable thereabout. The lever arm of the exercise apparatus is movable to a folded stage adjacent the upright support, and the bottom rail is movable toward the upright support to a folded stage, adjacent the folded lever arm in the folded stage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2008
    Publication date: April 2, 2009
    Inventor: Roman Footnick
  • Publication number: 20090075790
    Abstract: An apparatus for connecting an exercise device to a structure is described. The apparatus includes two different attachment devices, such as a door anchor and a ring. The door anchor is supportable by a closed door. The ring loops back on the apparatus to form a loop that may be wrapped about a support structure. Alternatively, the ring may be supported directly by the structure, as through an eye bolt attached to a wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Inventor: Randal Hetrick
  • Patent number: 7503881
    Abstract: An exercise machine with a bench press and a pair of weight stacks, which are operationally connected to a lifting bar of a barbell. Pushing motion on the lifting bar transmits the force to a series of wheels connected by flexible bands and to a pair of weight stacks positioned behind the bench press. The weight members of the weight stack are connected by pins, such that upward movement of the uppermost weight members causes pulling force to be applied to successive lower weight members one at a time, thereby allowing incremental increase in the resistance force to the lifting motion of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Inventors: Leonard Charles Quick, Brandt Michael Quick
  • Patent number: 7497815
    Abstract: An exercise assembly designed to exercise the upper body including the arms, shoulders, upper back and muscles associated therewith. The exercise assembly is thereby particularly, but not exclusively, adapted for use by an injured person or invalid having limited use of the legs and/or lower torso. A track assembly includes two track segments disposed in a convergent configuration and at least partially defining an open end dimensioned to receive a user, when in a seated, substantially upright position, at least partially therebetween. The user accesses two hand grips each linearly and reciprocally along the separate track segments. A resistance assembly includes a line interconnecting the hand grips and an adjustable resistance mechanism engaging the line so as to apply a movement restricting force thereto. An adjustable resistance is thereby applied to the linear, push/pull movement of the hand grips, as applied by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Inventors: John Caden, John Hawk, Patrick Jacobs, Martin Thompson
  • Publication number: 20090048078
    Abstract: An exercising apparatus designed to fit around a seat includes a frame that is adapted to be secured to a support. The frame is a U-shaped configuration with a lateral open area to receive the seat into the frame. One or more arms are coupled to the frame about one or more pivots. Further, the pivots allow a pivotal motion of each of the arms when a force is exerted thereto by a user. One or more resistance devices coupled to the frame and the arms, which provide resistance to the pivotal motion of each of the arms. The resistance devices, which may be a hydraulic or pneumatic piston and cylinder, may include a spring to bias the arms toward their initial, upright position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Richard Marcantonio
  • Patent number: 7488278
    Abstract: A kind of exercise furniture includes a rocking frame and a recliner frame. The rocking frame has a rocking base. The recliner frame, which is supported by the rocking frame, includes a back support and a seat support mounted to the back support to define a recliner angle therebetween, wherein the recliner frame is adapted for primarily exercising a user's abdomen when the back support and the seat support are pivotally and repeatedly folded with the leg support to alter its inclined angle, so as to concurrently generate a rocking motion at the rocking base of the rocking frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Inventor: Qi Zhang
  • Publication number: 20090023561
    Abstract: A resistance system for fitness equipment includes a frame, a resistance source such as an elastic cord, coil or any other type of spring, weight, pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders. The resistance source is mounted to a resistance block with a load support. A support disk is provided that is movably mounted to the frame and adapted to enable selective engagement with the load support. A transmission member, including a pliable member such as a cable, belt or other member, is coupled to the resistance source. Movement of the support disk enables selective engagement of the resistance source. In this way one or more individual resistance sources can be selectively engaged or disengaged to vary the resistance to the user by actuation of a dial or other actuator as directed by the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Applicant: EXERSMART, LLC
    Inventors: GLENN D. ROSS, BRAD R. OLSCHANSKY, SCOTT M. OLSCHANSKY, KEVIN G. ABELBECK
  • Publication number: 20090017996
    Abstract: An exercise device is provided having a handle assembly movably jointed to a hook assembly having a pivoted foot. In use, two of the devices are caused to engage a door frame by way of said hook assembly in horizontally separated juxtaposition. The exercising person grips both handle assemblies and then leans forwardly or rearwardly to cause his or her body weight to provide a resistive force for repetitive exercise movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2007
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventor: Terry Hopson Chic
  • Patent number: 7476182
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Inventor: Christopher R. DeNisco
  • Publication number: 20080318741
    Abstract: A machine is for exercising the muscles of the lower back. The machine includes a base frame and a resistance arm including a resistance pad engaged by the user, the resistance arm coupled to the base frame at a first rotation point and having a center of rotation about the first rotation point. The machine further includes a seat frame member carrying a seat, the seat frame member coupled to the base frame at one or more seat rotation points and having a center of rotation about each of the seat rotation points. The resistance arm and seat frame member are rotated in opposite directions during a repetition cycle about the respective first rotation point and at least one seat rotation point.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2005
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventors: Philip Sencil, Larry Berry