Abstract: A protective garment, such as a body armor vest, equipped with a quick-release system comprising a front portion, a rear portion, and a plurality of connectors for releasably attaching the front portion to the rear portion. Each connector includes a ring and a releasable hook, wherein the ring can be releasably clasped by the releasable hook. The protective garment further includes a pull cord, which can be attached to and capable of disengaging, at least two of the plurality of connectors to allow detachment of the front portion from the rear portion.

Abstract: Exercise system comprised of plurality of modular components enabling numerous types of exercises. Resistive force provided by durable elastomeric tubing that is quickly connectable to and disconnectable from more rigid components. A configuration of the exercise system uses a back pad and a padded plate from which extends a guide rod and spring to present an abdominal exercise option to the user.

Abstract: A ballistic resistant panel for use in protective garments. The ballistic resistant panel comprises at least two layers of multiple plies of a woven fibrous material wherein the plies of each layer are loosely stitched together within the respective layer and the layers are fastened together at the periphery of the panel. The loose construction yields a panel that is light-weight and more economic to manufacture.