Abstract: A scientifically controlled exercise based on a measurement of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC). A mechanical apparatus includes a sensor, an actuator, and a processor. The apparatus receives a mechanical exertion from a user while the processor receives signals from the sensor and sends signals to the actuator to control the mechanical apparatus. The processor measures a MVC exerted by a user and determines a protocol for the exercise based on the measured MVC. The protocol includes a specified exertion to be performed by a user, the specified force and velocity profile governing the exertion, and a specified sequence of repetitions of the exertion, spaced by rest periods. The protocol includes real-time feedback to the user related to compliance with the protocol. The methodology and equipment described herein provides users a safe and effective means of improving muscular strength or endurance and ameliorating various neurological or physiological conditions.

Abstract: Adapter devices that adapt hand exercise devices to permit the use thereof by persons of widely variable hand size, and permit the use thereof in exercises or tests other than the isometric exercises and tests for which they are known. The adapters provide replacement grips and couple force applied to those replacement grips to the handgrip surfaces of the hand exercise device. One version of the adapter includes a piston and cylinder connected to the replacement grips that move in a range of motion during a hand exercise or test, to allow for isotonic, isokinetic or isodynamic hand exercises. Other versions of the adapter use removable cams, screw cams, rotary cams, and sliding cams to adjust the distance between the grips for the size of the user's hand. A further adapter provides replacement grip surfaces sized for a user's finger and thumb for performing a pinch exercise or test.

Abstract: System, method and apparatus for carrying out isometric exercises for therapeutic purposes. As employed in a therapeutic mode the apparatus may only be programmed within mandated therapeutic parameter limitations. During therapeutic trials, the user is visually and aurally cued throughout the test sequence and the therapeutic data evolved during the regimen is recorded and recoverable from archival memory. Particular target force modes can be selected to allow stimulation of nitric oxide release, and modulation of serum lipid composition.

Abstract: System, method and apparatus for carrying out isometric exercises for either diagnostic purposes or therapeutic purposes. When employed in a diagnostic mode, the instrument is programmed to carry out standardized diagnostic regimens and during such regimens provides both visual and aural cues, carries out mathematical computations of force values and provides recordation of diagnostic data in archival memory. When employed in a therapeutic mode the apparatus may only be programmed within mandated therapeutic parameter limitations. During therapeutic trials, the user is visually and aurally cued throughout the test sequence and the therapeutic data evolved during the regimen is recorded and recoverable from archival memory.