Abstract: An abdominal mat has a raised section which may be positioned to support the lumbar region of the user's back. At least one sensor is associated with the raised section for producing a signal in response to force applied to the raised section by the user. A feedback device is coupled to the sensor for providing feedback to the user based on the force applied to the raised section. A user may use the device to test the strength of his or her abdominal muscles, and/or to monitor the force applied to the raised section of the mat when the user is exercising his or her abdominal muscles. The raised section may comprise an inflatable bladder connected to be automatically inflated and deflated by an electronic pump to accommodate different body types, therefore establishing a consistent starting point.

Abstract: An abdominal mat has a raised section which may be positioned to support the lumbar region of the user's back. At least one sensor is associated with the raised section for producing a signal in response to force applied to the raised section by the user. A feedback device is coupled to the sensor for providing feedback to the user based on the force applied to the raised section. A user may use the device to test the strength of his or her abdominal muscles, and/or to monitor the force applied to the raised section of the mat when the user is exercising his or her abdominal muscles. The raised section may comprise an inflatable bladder connected to be automatically inflated and deflated by an electronic pump to accommodate different body types, therefore establishing a consistent starting point.

Abstract: A postural awareness apparatus includes a pad, a signal generating element and an element for detecting a weight applied to the pad and activating the signal generating element when the weight so detected exceeds a predetermined weight.