Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for simulating or practicing skating or gliding motion. The disclosed apparatus includes a platform and a low friction layer covering the upper surface of the platform. Also included are end boards continuous with the low friction surface for providing a surface against which the skater may encounter increased resistance to movement. The end boards generally comprises two end boards mounted to the platform and inclined at an angle of between about 45.degree. and about 15.degree. with respect to the platform surface.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for simulating or practicing skating or gliding motion. The disclosed apparatus includes a platform and a low friction layer covering the upper surface of the platform. Also included are boards continuous with the low friction surface for providing a surface against which the skater may encounter increased resistance to movement. The end boards generally comprises two end boards mounted to the platform and inclined at an angle of between about 45.degree. and about 15.degree. with respect to the platform surface. A means is provided for dissipating the build up of static electricity from the low friction layer.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods and apparatus for determining the furnctional capabilities of bodies. More particularly, methods and apparatus for reliably producing a numerical index of the state of health of a patient's back are disclosed. The method generally comprises positioning the patient in a first position, usually on a rigid flat surface. With the patient so positioned, the physician then measures the ability of the patient to perform certain movements with the first portion of the body while the patient attempts to maintain the remainder of the body in a substantially stationary position. Such movements will contain some indicia of the relative health of the patient's back, and the measurements thereof quantify such indicia. Measuring the movements will generally include measuring the angle and/or distance covered or subtended by the first portion of the body, the remaining portion of the body, or both as the patient proceeds through the designated movement.