Abstract: An improved exercise ball is defined by a resilient, flexible sidewall having a through opening extending from an interior to an exterior of the sidewall. A loose, solid media such as sand is deposited into the through opening. Thereafter, an air valve is arranged within the through opening and the interior is pressurized to fully inflate the exercise ball. A variety of exercises may thereafter be performed with the improved exercise ball.

Abstract: In accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure, a method of increasing grip strength, includes gripping with one hand a weighted block having first and second side gripping surfaces such that the fingers and the thumb of the hand are disposed on the first and second side gripping surfaces, respectively, the fingers and the thumb extending substantially straight along the first and second side surfaces, respectively, and holding the weighted block such that an arm connected to the hand is extended substantially straight along a side of a user and the fingers and thumb are disposed substantially parallel to the side of the user. The weighted block has a width of about 1.75 inches to 3 inches.

Abstract: According to the invention there is provided a method of a weightlifting aid including: a chest contacting arrangement for attaching the aid to the chest area of a user; a base region in connection with the chest contacting arrangement; and a plurality of barbell supporting board elements each of which extends over a substantial portion of the width of the user's chest; in which at least a first barbell supporting board element is releasably connectable to the base region, and the plurality of barbell supporting board elements are releasably interconnectable so as to form a stack of board elements on top of the base region, the stack being of adjustable height depending on the number of barbell supporting board elements used to form the stack.

Abstract: A new weighted exercise ball is disclosed in the present invention. The ball has handles on each side of the ball which rotate 360 degrees clockwise or counter clockwise. The handles alleviate stress on the wrists and provide a firm grip. The ball has inner compartments that slide outward and allows for the entry of weights of various sizes.

Abstract: A weighted exercise device includes an inner bag for filler content containment; and an outer bag, wherein the inner and outer bags have a reinforced double closure to eliminate leaking, bursting, migration or seepage of filler content.

Abstract: An exercise device is provided, having a frame with a first end opposite to a second end and a top portion opposite to a bottom portion, thereby defining four opposing corners. One or more pins may be coupled to the frame between the first end and the second end, the pins adapted to receive weight plates. A bumper may be coupled to each of the four opposing corners. The bumper may be a substantially longitudinal hollow member which may include a plurality of treads on a side opposite to that coupled to the frame. The device may then be supported by two of the bumpers and flipped over to be supported by the other two bumpers. The lifting and flipping of the device provides an exercise which employs many of the major muscles groups of the body. Weight plates may be added or removed to accommodate different users.

Abstract: A strength and conditioning device and method of conditioning. A conditioning device for a sport using a hand held implement having a grip portion comprises a handle shaped like the grip portion, the handle having a first end and a second end. A weight is positioned on the second end such that a center of mass for the conditioning device is less than about 13 inches from the first end of the handle. A bias assembly is removably attached to the weight such that the bias assembly resists movement of the weight during at least some motion of the handle.

Abstract: A training machine is provided comprising a base (6) arranged for placement on the floor (4), a movable member (32) provided on the base (6) to be moved by the training action, and a load exerting means (8) for exerting a load to control the movement of the movable member (32). The load exerting means (8) has a weight assembly (22) thereof arranged to be lifted vertically by the movement of the movable member (32) as resisting the gravity and particular is accompanied with a counter-force exerting means (70) arranged at the weight assembly (22) and/or the movable member (32) for exerting a returning force on the movable member (32) at the timing of shift from the upward movement to the downward movement of the weight assembly (22). The counter-force exerting means (70) comprises, for example, coil springs (72, 74) and movement stoppers (76, 78) for restricting the movement of the coil springs (72, 74).

Abstract: A pike pole exercise apparatus is provided for firemen to train and condition themselves for using a pike pole hook. A base has an elongated post attached thereto which extends generally vertically therefrom. An elongated hollow slide member is slidably mounted on the elongated post for sliding thereon and has a weight attached thereto so that a fireman can grip the slide member and slide it up and down on the elongated pole to exercise and train for using a pike pole hook.

Abstract: Some embodiments provide an abdominal training machine that uses an adapted reverse crunching motion to minimize stress to the knees, back, shoulders, and neck when training the abdominal muscles. The machine combines weight resistance training with a replicated natural motion of each leg to produce the adapted reverse crunching motion. The adapted reverse crunching motion is performed using a section of the lower part of the body closest to the abdominal muscles while the upper body or torso remains stationary. In some embodiments, the abdominal training machine includes a frame, a body support member, and two individually rotating resistance members. Each resistance member includes a weight assembly for providing a user adjustable amount of resistance.

Abstract: A calf exercise machine has a floor engaging main frame, a user support pivot, a user support assembly pivotally mounted on the main frame via the user support pivot, and a pivotally mounted user engagement device. A user engaging foot plate assembly is pivotally mounted to track movement of the user's feet during a calf exercise, and may comprise either the user support in a standing calf machine or the user engagement device in a seated calf machine. A connecting link translates movement of the user engagement device to movement of the user support so that pivotal movement in the user engagement device results in a self-aligning, pivoting movement of the user support.

Abstract: The invention discloses a fitness equipment which comprises a ring-shaped gravity body and a handle connected with the gravity body, wherein, the handle is positioned in the radial position of the interior of the ring-shaped gravity body, the end parts of the handle are detachably and fixedly connected with the gravity body, protective covers are embedded into the inner surface of the ring-shaped gravity body, and through the coverage of the protective covers, the connecting parts between the ring-shaped gravity body and the handle are rendered smooth. Through the application of the protective covers and the appropriate structural design of the two end parts of the handle, the surfaces of the fitness equipment provided by the invention can be rendered smooth, thereby effectively avoiding injuries to users.

Abstract: A linearly adjustable multi resistance ratio exercise apparatus provides at least two linearly adjustable flexible connector ends which can be pressed or pulled for functional and strength training exercises. The flexible connector ends may be interconnected with resistance wherein the pressing or pulling of one flexible connector end will provide the user a different ratio of resistance than the pressing or pulling of an alternate flexible connector end. The user can select a flexible connector end which will provide less resistance and will provide more flexible connector travel for functional training exercises. The user can select a flexible connector end which will provide more resistance and will provide less flexible connector travel for strength training exercises. Some flexible connector ends may share the same swivel pulley assembly. One handle assembly may be attached to multiple flexible connector ends to obtain additional ratios of resistance.

Abstract: A floor of a gym's weight room is configured to encompass the installation of weight stations with weight towers controlled remotely from a control panel, with said weight station assembled atop a weight room floor. The floor of the gym, for each station-tower combination, includes two reinforced boxes embedded in the floor, each having an opening at floor level, wherein one box is located below the base of the weight station and one box is located in front of the respective weight tower, preferably positioned far from the station, the two boxes being connected by at least two parallel tubes located beneath the level of the gym's floor, and wherein the interior of each box is affixed with a cable pulley and bearing, each cable pulley being at a level so that the horizontal section of a steel cable runs toward a center of one of the tubes.

Abstract: This invention relates to a selectorized dumbbell having a handle that can be dropped down between nested left and right stacks of weight plates. The weight plates can comprise individual weights or a pair of weight plates, one from each stack, can be connected together to form a single weight. A selector is provided to allow the user to select a desired number of weight plates from each stack and couple such weight plates to the handle to provide an adjustable weight dumbbell. Each weight includes a weight frame having at least one carrier to which a commodity weight can be fastened. The dumbbell can be shipped by the manufacturer with empty weight frames to reduce shipping costs. When the dumbbell with empty weight frames reaches a destination, the dumbbell can be completed by securing commodity weights to the carriers on the respective weight frames.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed toward apparatus for performing physical training exercises, comprising: a member comprising a length of tubing and including an exterior surface having a central longitudinal axis and defining at least two pairs of receivers, axially-spaced from one another; wherein each receiver is defined by a longitudinal axis and an aperture formed through the exterior surface of the member.

Abstract: The Positional Offset Weight System is an extendible tube assembly with an attached weight that provides the user with a rapid adjustment mechanism to set resistance. The device can be used for a wide variety of exercises by reducing mechanical advantage. This allows the user to use a single light weight to achieve results that normally requires a variety of heavier weights or equipment. The device or system uses a twist or friction lock to adjust the length of the tube based on desired resistance, stability and range of motion.

Abstract: The soft weight strength trainer includes a selectively fillable pouch with a strap positioned so that a person can fit a hand or foot in-between the strap and the fillable pouch. The soft weight strength trainer can be utilized in a variety of exercises that strengthen various muscle groups. None of the exercises that are performed with the soft weight strength trainer require a close fisted grip, which makes the soft weight strength trainer ideal for use by a person with reduced hand strength due to age or injury. Additionally, the soft weight strength trainer will not cause damage or injury if inadvertently dropped due to its non-rigid construction.

Abstract: An apparatus for weightlifting. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a plurality of technique plates. Each technique plate of the plurality of technique plates is an Olympic weightlifting technique plate. Each technique plate is formed as one piece of solid plastic-based composite, wherein a given technique plate is a different color from other technique plates of a different weight. Each technique plate has a color that is provided by the solid plastic-based composite. Each technique plate comprises a hole that is configured to receive a bar, wherein the hole of a given technique plate is rugged due in part to the given technique plate being one piece and made of solid plastic-based composite, wherein the hole of each technique plate has a hole tolerance and hole width that maintains sliding with ease and minimum teetering of the technique plate on the bar. Each technique plate is secure on the bar preventing damage to the technique plates when dropped on the floor.

Abstract: An exercising set for exercising the pelvic floor muscles of a patient comprises: at least one insert fitted for a human body cavity mechanically interconnected to a force generating means by means of a connector. The human body cavity is selected from: woman's vaginal cavity or any user's inner rectal cavity. The force generating means is adapted to generate a pulling force which is lower than the contraction force of said patient's pelvic floor muscles when applied on the at least one insert to prevent the insert leaving the human body cavity.

Abstract: An application for a dual use weight lifting apparatus includes a first independent weighted portion and a second independent weighted portion. Each of the independent weighted portions has handles suitable for grasping by a user and each of the independent weighted portions has a mating surface opposing the handles. The apparatus includes a way to removably hold the independent weighted portions together at the mating surfaces, thereby forming a joined weight lifting apparatus. The independent weighted portions are used as kettle weights when disconnected and as medicine balls when connected.

Abstract: The adjustable cable machine contains a frame member raised on a base member having two ground bars. A seat member is configured in the front and a weight member capable of sliding vertically on the frame member. Two extension members are configured oppositely to the lateral sides of the frame member. Each extension member contains an adjustment element fixed to the frame member and an extension rod pivotally joined to the adjustment element. Each extension rod could be turned to adjust its angle relative to the frame member. A traction member composed of pulleys and cables is configured between the weight member and the extension members. A handle could be configured to an upper actuating ends at a top end of each extension rod or a lower actuating end in a front section of a ground bar.

Abstract: A training device for an ambulatory user is disclosed. The training device includes a harness to attach to the ambulatory user, a pair of wheels extending from opposite sides of a crossbar, and a weight holder connected between the crossbar and the harness. The weight holder is adapted to hold one or more removable weights. The training device can further include an elongated shock absorber connected to the harness to absorb compressive and expansive forces exerted on the harness at least in part by the ambulatory user.

Abstract: A multi-station exercise apparatus includes a station for performing abdominal exercises. The abdominal exercise station is combined with another exercise station, such as a press exercise station, a high pulley station or a leg extension/leg curl station. The apparatus for performing an abdominal exercise includes a pad for the head and/or neck of the exerciser that is pivotally connected to the frame of the exercise machine. A pair of hand grips are connected to the head/neck pad and disposed so that the exerciser may grasp the hand grips in order to pull forward in a “crunch” exercise. Exercise resistance is provided by means such as a weight stack that is shared by the various stations of the exercise machine. The head/neck pad may be “docked” when not performing an abdominal exercise to prevent looseness and serve as a fixed headrest for other exercises.

Abstract: Devices, apparatuses, systems and/or methods related to weight plates. Specifically, the disclosed devices, apparatuses, systems and/or methods relate to nested weight plates including a first weight plate increment and a second weight plate increment configured to receive the first weight plate increment. The nested weight plates may include a turning mechanism including a turning circle and/or a screw. The screw may be received by the first weight plate increment such that rotation of the turning circle engages and/or disengages the second weight plate increment. In this manner, a user may select to total weight desired.

Abstract: An offset weight bar is provided which operates with the lifter's neuro-fascial connections to increase muscle activation and recruitment of muscle groups. The offset weight bar includes a grip portion that is shaped in accordance with the neuro-fascial connections in the lifter's hands and arms. The offset weight bar also offsets the weight of the bar from the lifter's palm to a point out along the lifter's unfolded fingers. The shape of the offset weight bar operates with the offset of the weight from the palm to increase the lifter's muscle activation and muscle group recruitment in accordance with the lifter's neuro-fascial physiology.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus for permitting a user to build muscle strength in an ergonomic fashion comprising a weighted body with a first and second opposing faces with a handle attached to the body in a manner that permits the user to grip the apparatus during use without having to grip the body directly, and the first face comprises an ergonomic generally concave surface configured to more closely conform to the user's forearm profile when the apparatus is gripped by the user in a manner such that the body comes in contact with the user's forearm. Alternate embodiment incorporates a second face comprising an ergonomic generally concave surface.

Abstract: One example embodiment includes an exercise bag for allowing a user to exercise. The exercise bag includes a body, where the body is configured to contain a fill material. The exercise bag also includes a fill mechanism. The fill mechanism is configured to allow a user to insert the fill material into the body or remove the fill material from the body.

Abstract: Provided is a golf swing training apparatus suited to strengthen target muscles in various body regions necessary for golf swings, and train a proper swing form. The apparatus is designed to, when a user performs a golf swing motion while grasping a grip 24 of a golf swing mechanism 7 whose height position is adjustable depending on a body height of a user, allow the grip to be moved along an arc, and transmit the arc movement of the grip from a swing-arm holder 8 to a weight-arm holder 17 to which a weight arm 18 is fixed, through a swing-power transmission shaft 12, so as to swingingly move the weight arm 18 about an axis of the weight-arm holder 17 to allow a weight member 19 on the weight arm 18 to act as a load countering golf swing power. The apparatus has a mechanism capable of allowing the load based on the weight member fastened to the weight arm to be arbitrarily adjusted depending on individual differences in muscle strength.

Abstract: An exercise weight includes a weight member, a handle member spaced apart from and substantially surrounding the weight member, and at least one attachment member joining the weight member to the handle member so that the weight member is located inside the handle member. The exercise weight has a relatively narrow profile, or width, to avoid contact with the body during exercise.

Abstract: The present invention provides, in at least one embodiment, a collapsible kettlebell system featuring a collapsible bladder like structure that can be filled by a liquid such as water, metal shavings or shot, sand and other appropriate substances. A handle is provided as a point of grip by the user. The handle includes an internal support structure that keeps the collapsible bladder in place. The internal support may also include a cavity for an optional/additional weight.

Abstract: A weightlifting apparatus is operative to continuously provide and adjust a force resistant to a torque produced by an exerciser that performs supination of biceps simultaneously with other exercise motions or pronation of triceps simultaneously with other exercise motions.

Abstract: Some embodiments include a strike training machine that provides bidirectional resistance. The machine replicates the full and natural trajectory of the striking motion and provides resistance throughout extension and contraction of the striking motion. In this manner, the machine trains all muscles involved in a particular strike. The trajectory of the machine is user adjustable to accommodate different striking motions which include punches, kicks, elbow strikes, knee strikes, and throwing motions. In some embodiments, the machine applies a user specifiable amount of resistance. By adjusting the amount of resistance, the actor is able to overload train the muscle groups associated with the striking motions by gradually increasing resistance during training.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to an adjustable multi-purpose exercise training tool. The weight of the training tool is adjustable by the use of a plurality of removable weight members each of which are of a different weight. The removable weight member inserted into the tool determines the weight of the tool. In one embodiment, the multi-purpose exercise training tool includes a planar bottom face and a contoured top face and is approximately elliptical-shaped or circular-shaped. The adjustable multi-purpose exercise training tool may include one or more sets of grip portions allowing a user to grip the multi-purpose exercise training tool at different arm width distances allowing the user to target different muscle groups during use. The training tool is made of a hard, durable material and can be manufactured in a variety of weights.

Abstract: Adjustable-weight exercise devices are disclosed. An example adjustable-weight exercise device may include an exercise device body; a generally cylindrical cavity extending into the exercise device body and comprising at least one engagement feature; and a generally cylindrical weight insert configured to be slidably received the cavity and comprising a corresponding engagement feature. The engagement feature and the corresponding engagement feature may be configured to releasably engage each other to selectively retain the generally cylindrical weight insert within the generally cylindrical cavity.

Abstract: An adjustable and changeable weight training device includes a top body, an upper body, a collar, at least one weight disk, a lower body, a bottom board and a connection member which is inserted through the parts. The number of the weight disks is adjustable to get a desired weight. The top body can be replaced with other configurations for different purposes, such as a dumbbell, a kettle-shaped dumbbell or a barbell.

Abstract: An apparatus for improving posture comprises a bar element and a pad element centered along the length of the bar element. The bar element is constructed from a weighty material so as to provide a significant and constant downwardly directed weight. The pad element is constructed from a relatively lightweight material as compared to the bar material, but has a very specific cervical curve-accommodating, outer pad diameter or outer pad radius of curvature. The outer pad diameter or outer pad radius of curvature substantially matches that of a normal cervical curve. Together, the radius of curvature of the pad element and the weight of the bar element provide the user with a weighted template against which the user may align the cervical portion of his or her spine and commence resistance muscle training against the downwardly directed weight for improving core muscle groups for improving and/or maintaining one's posture.

Abstract: An intra-repetition exercise system which allows comparison of actual performance of intra-repetition exercise characteristics (2) to pre-established target performance of intra-repetition exercise characteristics (3) by an exerciser (1).

Abstract: An exercise device. The device comprises a pole, the pole being between 36 and 72 inches in length. The pole has a first end intended for gripping by a user, and a second end intended for contact with a standing surface. A weight retaining clip can be joined to the pole between the first end and the second end. A handle for gripping can be on the first end, and a substantially ball-shaped base joined can be joined to a second end. Methods for using the exercise device are also disclosed.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus comprising an elongate support member, an exercise attachment, a frame member, and lateral arm supports is provided. The elongate support member is removably attached to a support frame of the exercise apparatus. The exercise attachment, for example, a rod member, a strapping element, etc., is connected to a lower end of the elongate support member via a pulley system for supporting the user's arms and/or legs. The pulley system comprises a first pulley connected to the lower end of the elongate support member, and a cable rollably attached to the first pulley. The frame member is rigidly attached to the elongate support member. The lateral arm supports are rigidly attached on opposing sides of the frame member. The lateral arm supports extend outwardly from the frame member for supporting the user's arms. The user utilizes the exercise attachment and/or the lateral arm supports for performing an exercise.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus comprising a clamping assembly, one or more adjustment plates, one or more pivot plates, and a weight bearing assembly is provided. The clamping assembly comprises claw members, each comprising a vertical web and horizontal flanges extending from the vertical web. The horizontal flanges detachably clamp to a support structure. The adjustment plates are rigidly attached to the vertical web of one of the claw members and comprise apertures for enabling positional adjustment of the weight bearing assembly. The pivot plates are rigidly attached to the vertical web of another one of the claw members. The weight bearing assembly comprises a leg member rigidly attached to a support frame, and gripping handles. The leg member is pivotally connected to the pivot plates and detachably connected to the adjustment plates. The gripping handles that are rigidly supported by the support frame are held by a user for performing exercises.

Abstract: An improved exercise device in the nature of a kettlebell. The device has a frame covered by a shroud that is configured to lessen the impact of the device on the user. There are a plurality of weights that can be easily attached and detached from the frame to increase or lessen the load to the user. The weights are designed so that they can be added or taken away without altering the center of gravity of the device or the external physical shape of the device. There is also a base that holds the device while the weights are being changed and which also interacts with the device to assist in that exchange. The attaching and detaching system includes a pin that is used to affix the weights to the frame. A dual locking system assures that the pin does not inadvertently come loose during use of the device.

Abstract: An indoor-outdoor manually-propelled variable-resistance exercise sled for one or multiple users. The exercise sled features a rigid and durable weight-bearing platform. To protect indoor flooring surfaces, a removable, flexible, non-grip protective pad may be attached to the bottom of the exercise sled. When the protective pad is removed, the exercise sled can also be used on outdoor ground surfaces. The exercise sled includes dual attachment plates at opposite ends to provide multiple force application points to permit a variety of optional implements to be connected to the exercise sled. A removable handle assembly provides an additional force application surface. In combination, the various attachment points afford a multitude of pulling and pushing, lower-extremity and upper-extremity, functional exercises for one or simultaneously by multiple users.

Abstract: An indoor-outdoor manually-propelled variable-resistance exercise sled for one or multiple users. The exercise sled features a rigid and durable weight-bearing platform. To protect indoor flooring surfaces, a removable, flexible, non-grip protective pad may be attached to the bottom of the exercise sled. When the protective pad is removed, the exercise sled can also be used on most outdoor ground surfaces. The exercise sled includes dual attachment plates at opposite ends to provide multiple force application points to permit a variety of optional implements to be connected to the exercise sled. A removable handle assembly provides an additional force application surface. In combination, the various attachment points afford a multitude of pulling and pushing, lower-extremity and upper-extremity, functional exercises for one or simultaneously by multiple users.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing variable resistance in connection with exercise equipment uses multiple weight plates that are selected by selector assemblies. A series of actuators that are not directly connected to the selector assemblies actuate the selector assemblies to engage and disengage the weight plates. The actuators are in communication with a controller, which is connected to a user interface console. The user interface console accepts input from a user and instructs the controller to adjust the amount of weight engaged by the selector assemblies based on input from the user and various sensors.

Abstract: A rigid adjustable hand weight system for use in physical fitness exercise consisting of a rigid flat handle portion with rigid flat weight members disposed on either end whose size and shape are such that two or more units may be bundled together and held within the user's hand secured together by the user's grip. Each unit may be held singularly or in a group with one or more other units in various combinations to create a hand weight bundle of the desired poundage. For instance, units weighing 2, 3 and 4 pounds may be lifted singularly or combined as necessary to create 5, 6, 7 and 9 pound weight combinations as the user desires. Eliminated is the need for fasteners such as screws, pins or other means since the user's grip provides the force that keeps the units bundled together.

Abstract: Exercise dumbbells are made with weights at opposite ends of a handle member. Exercise kettlebells are made with weights beneath a handle member. The weights may be selectively connected to the handle members using knobs and springs, for example, to alternatively hold the selector members in weight engaging positions and weight releasing positions. The dumbbells and the kettlebells may be made using some of the same components.

Abstract: Exercise apparatus and methods having adjustable frame members are disclosed. In one embodiment, an exercise assembly includes a load, a support assembly, and a force transferring assembly. The support assembly includes a pair of outwardly extending frame members coupled to an upwardly projecting portion by a coupling assembly. The coupling assembly enables controllable adjustment of a height of the frame members. The force-transferring assembly includes first and second portions coupled to and extending at least partially along each of the outwardly extending frame members. During an exercise, a training force applied to the first and second portions induces an associated force on the load. The coupling assembly may permit an angle between the outwardly extending frame members to vary freely during an exercise, or may allow a user to controllably adjust and fix the angle during the exercise.

Abstract: An overall fitness trainer and can be a wall mounted unit that can utilize clip resistance bands as well as other techniques. These bands generally clip on the unit and onto different handles, bars and attachments to perform exercises. The unit can have a removable/adjustable pull up bar, dip bar and seat. It also includes a spring loaded, pull pin carriage that moves freely up and down a vertical spine. This allows for easy adjustment of the carriage and allows the user to attach the bands at multiple angles, widths and levels. This in turn increases the number of exercises the user can perform on the unit. The unit can be attached to the wall with lag bolts into two or more studs. Various embodiments of the invention can have an oscillating and telescopic bench, a dip bar, a seat, a knee stabilizer and a foot rest. All of these accessories can be attached and removed to the central spine adding to the versatility and scope of exercises that can be performed.

Abstract: An exercise ball with handles facilitates an abdominal, chest and arm workout. The exercise ball is a pliable material inflated and having a pair of handles oppositely positioned on a support rod extending through the exercise ball. The exercise ball rotates relative to the handles. An incline or ramp is used with the exercise ball to create added resistance thereby increasing the effectiveness of the muscle workout. Resistance bands attach to the handles of the exercise ball on one end and a user's feet on the other end to provide added resistance.