MULTI-FUNCTION ISOTONIC EXERCISE BALL

Abstract

A portable isotonic compression-expansion exercise device is disclosed which can also function as a recreational object, therapy tool, and strength measurement apparatus. One embodiment comprises of an elastomeric, resilient ball with a detachable removable and interchangeable exterior resistance band with two opposing handles. Some embodiments include a pneumatic airflow control valve, which valve reaches into the hollow core of an internal foam center. Resistance from the device during these exercises comes from static pneumatic resistance from within the sealed elastic object, changing pneumatic resistance as air flows in and out of the foam-filled device through the airflow control valve. Internal springs, internal foam resistance, external band(s) on the device's surface, and/or internal apparatus can create multiple forms of resistance. The disclosed device, in some embodiments, further comprises a strength measurement gauge in the form of an air pressure gauge.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/461,064 entitled “Portable, Resistance-based Exercise Device,” filed Jan. 13, 2011 for Daniel Wilson, which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to exercise equipment, and more particularly relates to a spherical, polymer ball for strengthening muscles with compressive and tensile forces.

2. Description of the Related Art

The need for people to engage in regular exercise and recreation is well established. Many and varied types of resilient hand held exercise devices are available to help them in their efforts to improve and measure their strength, their conditioning, and to mitigate specific health issues that need physical therapy. One such device is the common resilient exercise ball, and other tension based equipment that compliments them.

Exercise balls, whether they are inflatable or solid medicine balls are used for a large variety of conditioning activities including cardiovascular and spinal therapy, as well as increasing core strength, and strengthening in the upper and lower body muscles.

Prior art teaches exercise balls which are lacking in their functionality. They are designed for limited use, and more often than not end up being no more than a simple support device for other exercises.

The same is true of other exercise devices that employ elastic resistance as a means of developing or measuring strength. Often they are designed with a very limited exercises or muscle groups in mind, and are constrained by their own components and design to those limited areas. Certain muscles groups, such as the pectoral muscles, have very few simple portable devices designed for their exercise or strength measurement, due to the difficulties in designing a simple apparatus that can correctly resist the muscle motions leading to such development and measurement. Many patented portable devices that target difficult areas of the body to exercise such as these are complicated and difficult to find on the market.

Thus it would be highly beneficial to provide a simple portable exercise ball or similar device that significantly widens the range of exercises it can facilitate, as well as the muscle groups it can target for development, conditioning, force measurement, and giving physical therapy.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

From the foregoing discussion, it should be apparent that a need exists for a multi-functional isotonic exercise ball. Beneficially, such an exercise ball would overcome many of the difficulties with prior art by providing a more functional apparatus to consumers.

The present invention has been developed in response to the present state of the art, and in particular, in response to the problems and needs in the art that have not yet been fully solved by currently available apparatii and methods. Accordingly, the present invention has been developed to provide a multi-function isotonic exercise ball comprising: a flexible impermeable airtight elastic sphere for enduring compressive and tensile forces, the sphere comprising elastomeric polymer, the sphere defining an inner recess comprising inlet ambient air, the inner recess between 0.2 liters and 60 liters in volume, the sphere configured to reinflate itself after deformation from compression; and a valve disposed between the inner recess and surrounding ambient air, disposed within the sphere, the valve connecting the inner recess to ambient air surrounding the exercise ball, wherein the valve is configured to allow valve leakage of pressurized air within the inner recess when air pressure within the inner recess exceeds air pressure of ambient air;

In some embodiments, the multi-function exercise ball further comprises a plurality of handles affixed to the sphere for engaging extremities of a human operator and for withstanding tensile and compressive forces, the handles comprising graspable protruding extensions between 0.05 meters and 2 meters in length. In other embodiments, the sphere comprises one or more sockets, each socket for receiving one of: a pressure gauge for measuring pneumatic pressure during exercise; a sealable valve for filling the inner recess with water; and a one-way check valve for regulating air flow into the inner recess.

In various embodiments, the valve may be used for bleeding pressurized entrapped air from the inner recess, wherein the valve has a valve body that is detachably mounted in a socket on the spherical bladder, the valve body including a longitudinal passage provided with a recessed valve seat.

In still further embodiments, the valve may further comprise one or more adjustable apertures for increasing the rate of air release from the inner recess when air in the inner recess is pressurized. The inner recess may be filled with permeable foam.

The multi-function exercise ball may further comprise an inflatable bladder encapsulating the sphere, the inflatable bladder and the sphere defining a second recess between sphere and bladder which second recess is isolated atmospherically from both the inner recess and the ambient air. This multi-function exercise ball further may comprise a second valve for inflating the second recess independently of the inner recess, the inflatable bladder further comprising a second valve for inflating the second recess.

The valve may comprise one of a check valve, a presta valve, Schrader valve, leaf valve, one or more perforation in the bladder, and a relief valve. The bladder may further comprise one or more perforations which act as air pressure release valves when pressure is applied to the bladder.

The exercise ball may also further comprise an outer spherical pad encapsulating the sphere, wherein the outer spherical pad is substantially fabricated from one of elastomeric foam and silicone gel, wherein the outer spherical pad is between 1 millimeter and 50 centimeters thick.

In some embodiments, the multi-function exercise ball further comprises one or more internal stretchable elastomeric band(s) and internal springs, attached at opposing ends to opposing internal sides of the spherical bladder.

In still further embodiments, the multi-function exercise ball further comprises one or more internal stretchable elastomeric band(s), the elastomeric band(s) traversing a conduit within the spherical bladder, the elastomeric band(s) for resisting tensile forces applied to the spherical bladder, the elastomeric band(s) attached to handles at opposing ends of the spherical bladder.

The multi-function exercise ball may also comprise one or more external stretchable elastomeric band(s), detachably affixed exteriorly to the spherical bladder.

The multi-function exercise ball may also comprise a plurality of sockets on the exterior of the spherical bladder for receiving detachable handles, each detachable handle lockable within a socket.

In still further embodiments, the spherical bladder comprises a sealable aperture, the aperture unsealable for filling the inner recess with water. In some embodiment variations, the multi-function exercise ball further comprises one or more internal springs connected at diametrically opposed points within the exercise object for resisting compressive and tensile forces.

In a second independent embodiment, a multi-function isotonic exercise object is disclosed comprising: an impermeable bladder for enduring compressive and tensile forces, the spherical bladder partially comprising one of elastomeric polymer and leather, the bladder defining an inner recess filled with ambient air, the inner recess between 0.2 liters and 60 liters in volume; and one or more of: a valve disposed between the inner recess and surrounding ambient air, affixed within the spherical bladder, the valve connecting the inner recess to ambient air surrounding the exercise object, wherein the valve is designed to allow valve leakage of pressurized air when the air pressure within the exercise object in the inner recess exceeds the pressure of surrounding ambient air; one or more perforation(s) in the bladder acting as valve(s) to facilitate the flow of pressurized air out of the inner recess; and one or more internal spring(s) connected at diametrically opposed points within the exercise object for resisting compressive and tensile forces. The bladder may be one of spherical, cylindrical, cubic, conical, and polyhedral in shape.

A method of strengthening muscle isotonically using an airtight elastic spheroid is disclosed, the steps of the method comprising: holding the spheroid at torso level, the spheroid touching the torso; gripping one of: handles in diametrically opposed positions on the spheroid, the handles parallel to the ground; the spheroid with one of fingertips and palms of two hands, the hands pushing against the spheroid inwardly at diametrically opposed points; and crushing the spheroid such that diametrically opposed internal points within the spheroid contact one another.

Still further embodiments of the comprise pulling the two handles affixed to the spheroid apart so as to apply tensile force(s) to the spheroid.

These features and advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order that the advantages of the invention will be readily understood, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments that are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1A is a sectioned side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 1B is a sectioned side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a side elevational perspective view of a disassembled multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a side elevational perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a sectioned side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 5A is a side perspective view of a handle of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 5B is a side perspective view of a handle of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 5C is a side perspective view of a handle of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 5D is a sectioned side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a sectioned side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 7A is a sectioned side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 7B is a sectioned side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a sectioned side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 9A is a side perspective view of a handle of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 9B is an exploded side perspective view of a handle of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 10A is a side elevational perspective view of a pressure gauge in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 10B is a side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 11A is a side elevational perspective view of a check-valve of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 11B is a side elevational perspective view of a check-valve of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 12A is a side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 12B is a side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 12C is a side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 15A is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 15B is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 15C is a lower perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 15D is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 15E is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 15F is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 15G is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 15H is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 15I is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 15J is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 15K is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 15L is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 15M is a side perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 15N is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a lower perspective view of a handle of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a lower view of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a side view of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 19A is a side view of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 19B is a side view of a sectioned multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention; and

FIG. 19C is a side view of sub-components of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the invention may be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, and so forth. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention.

FIG. 1A is a sectioned side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball 100 in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball 100 comprises a bladder 102, an inner recess 104, an aperture, a one-way check-valve 106, an outer spherical pad 108, an outer skin 110, an elastomeric band 112, a handle 114a, a handle 114b, and a fixture point 116.

The bladder 102 may comprise any impermeable bladder fabricated from polymer, leather, or any other material commonly known to those of skill in the art. The bladder in the shown embodiment and in the preferred embodiment is spherical in shape. In other embodiments, the bladder 120 is cubic, cylindrical, or polygonal in shape. In many embodiments, the bladder 102 is inflatable.

In some embodiments, the bladder 102 comprises simply an airtight elastic skin, which may consist of a flexible coating.

The bladder 102 defines an inner recess 104 filled with ambient air. In various embodiments, the inner recess 104 is between 0.1 liters and 80 liters in volume.

The exercise ball 100 comprises an inefficient one-way check valve 106 disposed between the inner recess 104 and surrounding ambient air. The valve 106 is affixed within an aperture 106 penetrating the bladder 102, such that the valve 106 interconnects the ambient air and inner recess 104. In some embodiments, the check valve 106 is designed to allow valve leakage of pressurized air within the inner recess 105. In other embodiments, the valve 106 is designed to allow valve leakage when the air pressure within the inner recess 104 exceeds a predetermined threshold.

The aperture 105 may comprise or be circumscribed with a metal, plastic and/or polymer rim.

In various embodiments, the predetermined threshold is two (2) atmospheres. In other embodiments, the predetermined threshold is eight (8) atmospheres. In still further embodiments, the predetermined threshold is set by a human user of the exercise ball 100. In some embodiments, the valve 106 is designed with an adjustable and/or screwable cap which alters the pressure threshold at which significant air leakage occurs by altering the degree at which a necked opening in the valve 106 is recessed, or degree at which all or a portion of the necking in a valve 106 is angled.

While in the shown embodiment, the bladder 102 houses a valve 106 interconnecting the inner recess 104 to ambient air surrounding the exercise ball 100, in some embodiments, the bladder 102 does not house the valve 106, nor does the exercise ball 100 comprise a valve 106. In those embodiments not comprising a valve 106, the inner recess 104 may be permanently isolated atmospherically from surrounding ambient air, or ambient air may interflow with the inner recess 104 only through perforations in the bladder 102 and/or the spherical pad 108 and/or the outer skin 110. The spherical pad 108 helps reshape the exercise ball 150 after compression and resists compressive forces applied to the exercise ball 150.

The valve 106 comprises a check-valve in the shown embodiment, but in other embodiments, the valve 106 may comprise a presta valve, Schrader valve, leaf valve, or a relief valve.

The outer skin 110 comprises a uniform thin layer of textured or non-textured skin overlaying the spherical pad 108. The outer skin 110 is elastic and airtight. In some embodiments, the outer skin 110 comprises leather, rubber, vinyl, or other materials known to those of skill in the art. In some embodiments, the outer skin 110 is scored. In some embodiments, the outer skin 110 is merely an elastic coating that is sprayed on or applied through a dipping process. Likewise, the bladder 102 may comprise or consist of an elastic coating that is sprayed on or applied through a dipping process.

In various embodiments, the exercise ball 100 may comprise one or more external elastomeric band(s) 112. In the shown embodiment, an elastomeric strap, or elastomeric band 112, circumscribes the exercise ball 100. The elastomeric band 112 stretches to apply tensile forces to the hands of a human operator attempting to pull apart the handles 114a-b.

The elastomeric band 112 is affixed at one or more fixture points 116 to the exercise ball 100. The fixture point 116 comprises the point, or area, on the exercise ball 100 at which the elastomeric band 112 is affixed to the exercise ball 100. The elastomeric band 112 may be permanently or detachably affixed using means known to those of skill in the art.

In various embodiments, the elastomeric band 112 is affixed to two or more handles 114a-b as shown. Handles are well-known to those of skill in the art. The handles 114a-b may be used to stretch the exercise ball 100, or to compress the exercise ball 100 in accordance with a variety of exercise steps defined further below.

FIG. 1B is a sectioned side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball 150 in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball 100 comprises a bladder 102, an inner recess 104, an aperture, a one-way check-valve 106, an inner spherical pad 152, an elastic airtight outer skin 110, an elastomeric band 112, a handle 114a, a handle 114b, and a fixture point 116.

In the shown embodiment, the bladder 102 comprises the exterior of the exercise ball 150. Unlike the exercise ball 100, the exercise ball 150 contains an inner spherical pad 152, which helps reshape the exercise ball 150 after compression and resists compressive forces applied to the exercise ball 150.

The inner spherical pad 152 may comprise foam, gel, organic materials, and the like.

FIG. 2 is a side elevational perspective view of a disassembled multifunction exercise ball 200 in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball 200 comprises an elastomeric hollow foam hemisphere 202a, an elastomeric hollow foam hemisphere 202b, an outer bladder 204a, an outer bladder 204b, an aperture 105, and a valve 106.

The aperture 105 and valve 106 are substantially described above in relation to FIG. 1.

The bladder 102, in the shown embodiment, is formed from two principal components, the outer bladder 204a and the outer bladder 204b. Each of the outer bladders 204a-b comprise hemispherical-shaped concave cups fabricated separated and permanently affixed together to form the bladder 102.

Likewise, the inner spherical pad 152 is formed from the foam hemisphere 202a, and the foam hemisphere 202b. Each of the foam hemispheres 202a-b comprise hemispherical-shaped concave cups fabricated separated or together and permanently affixed together to be housed by the bladder 102 and form the inner spherical pad 152.

FIG. 3 is a side elevational perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball 300 in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball 300 comprises a bladder 102, a valve 106, a handle 104a, a handle 104b, a handle 104c, a handle 104d, and a counter 302.

The handles 104a-d may be interchangeably attached to the exercise ball 300. A variety of handles 104a-d, of different shapes and sizes, may be attached to sockets on the exterior of the exercise ball 300. The sockets may be located in any location on the external of the exercise ball 300.

The counter 302 is mounted within the bladder 102 and measures the number of times the exercise ball 300 is compressed. In some embodiments, the counter 302 measures rises and falls in the pressure of the inner recess 104 using means well-known to those of skill in the art.

FIG. 4 is a sectioned side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball 400 in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball 400 comprises a bladder 102, a valve 106, a handle 114a, a handle 114b, a conduit 402, and an elastomeric band 404.

In the shown embodiment, the exercise ball 400 comprises a conduit 402, or channel, which traverses the entirety of the exercise ball 400, from one side of the bladder 102 to the other side of the bladder 102. The inner recess 104 is isolated atmospherically from the ambient air by the bladder 102 and the conduit 402.

The elastomeric band 404 traverses the exercise ball 400 through the conduit 402 and is affixed, detachably or permanently, to two or more handles 114.

The bladder 102, valve 106, handle 114a, and handle 114b are all described above in relation to FIGS. 1-3.

FIG. 5A is a side perspective view of a handle 500 of a multifunction exercise ball 500 in accordance with the present invention.

The handle 114 in the shown embodiment, comprises a dowel mounted to a bracket. The bracket is attached to the elastomeric band 404.

The dowel may be fabricated from wood, polymers, metals, or metal alloy(s).

FIG. 5B is a side perspective view of a handle of a multifunction exercise ball 520 in accordance with the present invention.

The handle 114 in the shown embodiment, comprises a dowel mounted to a bracket. The bracket is connected to an end point on the elastomeric band 404 such that the handle 114 is rotatably connected to the end point of the elastomeric band 404.

FIG. 5C is a side perspective view of a handle of a multifunction exercise ball 540 in accordance with the present invention.

The handle in the shown embodiment may twist the elastomeric band 404 around the bracket when the handle is rotated to increase tension on the elastomeric band 402 and consequently the exercise ball 400.

FIG. 5D is a sectioned side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball 560 in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball 560 comprises a bladder 102, a handle 114a, a handle 114b, a conduit 402, and an elastomeric band 404. Each are substantially described above in relation to FIGS. 1-5C.

In some embodiments, the handles 114 are detachably connected to the elastomeric band 404.

FIG. 6 is a sectioned side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball 600 in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball 600 comprises a bladder 102, a handle 114a, a handle 114b, a spring 602, and an inner sleeve 604.

The bladder 102, handle 114a, and handle 114b are all described above in relation to FIGS. 1-5.

The inner sleeve 604, in the shown embodiment, comprises a wood, metal or polymer sleeve which diametrically traverses the bladder 102. In the shown embodiment, a spring 602 spans the length of the inner sleeve 604. The spring 602 is affixed to the handles 114a-b to resist both compressive and tensile forces applied to handles 114a-b.

FIG. 7A is a sectioned side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball 700 in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball 700 comprises a bladder 102, a handle 114a, a handle 114b, external bands 702, and a spring 704.

The bladder 102, handle 114a and handle 114b are all described above in relation to FIGS. 1-6.

In the shown embodiment, the external bands 702 comprises elastomeric bands, tubes, cords or the like which circumscribes or is wrapped around a portion of the exterior of the bladder 102. In the shown the embodiment, the exercise ball 700 comprises three bands 702 which are conjoined at fixture points, which fixture points are affixed to the exterior of the bladder 102. External bands 702 also serving as potential supportive tension ribs to help the ball 700 re-inflate after compression.

In various embodiments of the present invention, the exercise ball 700 becomes deformed after repeated use. The external bands 702 help force the exercise ball 700 back into its spherical or otherwise intended shape.

FIG. 7B is a sectioned side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball 720 in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball 720 comprises a bladder 102, a handle 114a, a handle 114b, an external band 702, and a spring 704.

The bladder 102, spring 704, external band 702, handle 114a and handle 114b are all described above in relation to FIGS. 1-6.

In the shown embodiment, three external bands 702 circumscribe the exterior of the bladder 102 across its lateral axis.

FIG. 8 is a sectioned side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball 800 in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball 800 comprises a bladder 102, a valve 106, and a spring 804.

The bladder 102 and valve 106 are described above in relation to FIGS. 1-7B.

In this hand-sized exercise ball 800, a sprint 804 is strung diametrically across the interior of the exercise ball 700.

FIG. 9A is a side perspective view of a handle of a multifunction exercise ball 900 in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball 900 comprises a bladder 102 and a pressure gauge 902.

The bladder is substantially described above in relation to FIGS. 1-8.

The exercise ball 900 comprises a pressure gauge 902 which measures the pressure being exerted by a human operator against the exercise ball 900.

FIG. 9B is an exploded side perspective view of a handle of a multifunction exercise ball 920 in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball 900 comprises a bladder 102 and a pressure gauge 902 to measure strength during compression exercise.

The pressure gauge 902 measures the pressure that a use of the exercise ball 920 is exerting on the exercise ball. The pressure gauge 902 is inserted into the bladder 102 through a socket. In alternate embodiments, a counter is inserted through the socket in place of the pressure gauge 902, which counter tallies the number of compressions against the exercise ball 920.

The bladder 102 is substantially described above in relation to FIGS. 1-9A.

FIG. 10A is a side elevational perspective view of a pressure gauge 1000 in accordance with the present invention.

As shown, the pressure gauge 1000 in inserted into the exercise ball through a socket.

FIG. 10B is a side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball 1020 in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball 1020 comprises a bladder 102 and a gauge 1002.

The pressure and/or tallied number compressions may displayed to a human operator using an LCD display, or through other means known to those of skill in the art.

FIG. 11A is a side elevational perspective view of a check-valve 1100 of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention. The check-valve 1100 comprises a stem 1102, threading 1104, a valve body 1106, a valve element 1108, a necked recess 1110, and a sealing cap 1112.

The one-way check valve is shown for use in bleeding entrapped air from the inner recess. This check valve has a one-piece valve body 1106 that is mounted permanently or detachably to the spherical bladder. This valve body 1106 includes a longitudinal passage having its inner end provided with a recessed valve seat.

By design, the one way check valve of the present invention is designed to be inefficient. The one-way check valve releases air from the inner recess, in some embodiments, when the air pressure within the inner recess exceeds either the ambient air pressure or a predetermined threshold, and allows air to flow into the inner recess when the pressure of the inner recess is less than the pressure of the ambient air surrounding the spherical bladder. In the shown embodiments, the predetermined threshold is two (2) atmospheres. In other embodiments, the predetermined threshold is three (3) to ten (10) atmospheres.

A section 1110 of the passage is of smaller diameter for receiving an adjustable valve sealing cap 1112 by means of a threaded connection 1104. Positioned within this section is a valve element 1108 for blocking escaping air from the inner recess.

FIG. 11B is a side elevational perspective view of a check-valve 1120 of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention. The check-valve 1120 comprises a valve element 1108, apertures 1122, a lower member 1124, and a cap 1126.

In some embodiments, the valve 1120 comprises a cap 1126 which can be screwed down to adjust the rate of airflow out of the inner recess 104.

In some embodiments, the valve element 1108 comprises a ball, sphere, ball bearing, marble, piston, and the like. The valve element 1108 may be fabricated of glass, metals, wood, polymers, and the like.

In some embodiments, the valve 1120 comprises apertures 1122 which increase the rate of air flow out of the inner recess 104. The apertures 1122 may be located anywhere on the body of the valve 106.

FIG. 12A is a side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball 1200 in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball 1200 comprises a bladder 102, a handle 114a, a handle 114b, and perforations 1202.

The bladder 102, handle 114a and handle 114b are all described above in relation to FIGS. 1-11B.

In the shown embodiment, the handles 114a-b are permanently affixed to the exercise ball 1220. The exercise ball 1220 comprises perforations 1202 which, in some embodiments, are closed when the exercise ball 1220 is at rest. When the exercise ball 1220 is distorted by pressure applied to the bladder 102, the perforations release air until the pressure is released, acting a miniature valves.

FIG. 12B is a side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball 1220 in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball 1220 comprises a bladder 102, a handle 114a, a handle 114b, and perforations 1202.

The bladder 102, handle 114a and handle 114b are all described above in relation to FIGS. 1-12A.

In the shown embodiment, the handles 114a-b are pulled apart, opening the perforations 1202. In some embodiments, air flows freely in and out of the perforations 1202 whenever the shape of the bladder 102 is distorted.

FIG. 12C is a side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball 1230 in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball 1240 comprises a bladder 102, a handle 114a, and a handle 114b.

The bladder 102, handle 114a and handle 114b are all described above in relation to FIGS. 1-12B.

Once the handles 114a-b have been pulled apart, in the shown embodiment, the handles 114a-b may be quickly forced back together, forcing air out of the valve 106. In some of these embodiments, the bladder 102 may comprise a plurality of valves 106, some of which are oriented or configured to stop or slow air entering the inner recess 104, some of which are oriented or configured to stop or slow air exiting the inner recess 104.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball 1300 in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball 1300 comprises a bladder 102, a valve 106, an outer bladder 1302, a rib 1304a, a rib 1304b, and an outer valve 1306.

In the shown embodiment, the exercise ball 1300 comprises an outer bladder 1302 and an inner bladder 102. The outer bladder 1302 comprises a number of ribs 1304a-c which interconnect the outer bladder 1302 to the inner bladder 102.

The ribs 1304a-c may comprise flexible cables or cords fabricated from polymer materials. In some embodiments, these ribs 1304a-c constitute sidewalls which define compartments inside the recess defined by the outer bladder 1302 and the inner bladder 102.

The outer bladder 1302 may be inflated separately from the inner bladder 102 using the valve 1306. The outer bladder 1302 encapsulates the inner bladder 102.

In the shown embodiments, the valve 106 traverses the outer bladder 1302 to the inner recess 104.

FIG. 14 is a side perspective view of a multifunction exercise ball in 1400 accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball 1400 comprises a bladder 102, a handle 114a, and a handle 114b.

In the shown embodiment, the handles 114a-b are affixed to the inflatable bladder 102 in close proximity making certain exercises, such as butterflies, easier.

In some of these embodiments, the handles 114a-b are affixed into separate sockets. In other embodiments, the handles 114a-b are affixed together and secured to the bladder 102 vis-à-vis a single socket.

FIG. 15A is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention.

The shown embodiment depicts a female user forcing the walls of an exercise ball inward to exercise inter alia pectorals and biceps.

FIG. 15B is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention. This is the same exercise depicted in FIG. 15A.

FIG. 15C is a lower perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention. In the shown embodiment, the exercise ball is held at chin level between the heels of the hands, with fingers interlaced on the top of the ball, the hands compressing the ball in a collapsing A-frame shape of hands and arms, in front of the chest, pushing elbows inwardly as far as possible, to work the pectoral, arm and shoulder muscles.

FIG. 15D is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball is held at torso level, touching the body, with each hand gripping the ball on a handle on diametrically opposed positions on the ball; handles parallel to the ground.

FIG. 15E is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball is held between the thighs and knees with the inward pressure of the inside of the legs keeping the exercise ball in place while sitting. The knees are forced together, then returned to the starting position. The exercise is repeated to exercise the inner thigh muscles.

FIG. 15F is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball is held at chin level, touching the body, with each hand gripping near the 11 and 1 o'clock positions as viewed from a forward vantage point, with wrists and forearms centered on sides of the exercise ball, perpendicular to the ground. The forearms are pushed straight inward as far as possible, keeping them perpendicular to the ground, to work the pectoral, arm and shoulder muscles in a butterfly exercise. The exercise ball is returned to initial position and the exercise repeated.

FIG. 15G is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball is held in front of the chest with one hand below, one on top, the fingertips and palms of the hands pushing on the surface of the exercise ball in a compression motion against the force of the opposite hand to work the shoulder/arm muscles.

FIG. 15H is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball is held between the shoulder and one hand, wedged into the inner angle of the arm at elbow connection, held in place with the fingers and palms of the hand of the arm being exercised. The other hand can be used to compress the exercise ball towards the body as far as possible to exercise the bicep muscles and wrist.

FIG. 15I is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention. In this exercise, the exercise is not compressed, but rather curled upwards to strengthen biceps.

FIG. 15J is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball is then pulled outwardly as far as possible. The ball contracts in reverse motion to initial position, working the arms, wrist, back, and shoulder muscles; and return to initial position and repeat. This one can be done together as one set of compression and expansion motions;

FIG. 15K is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention.

In the shown embodiment, the exercise ball is squeezed laterally to develop biceps and pectorals, but the exercise ball does not comprise handles 114.

FIG. 15L is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball (i.e. spheroid) is held between the chest and both hands; the hands gripping the face of the spheroid furthest away from the chest, gripping by the fingertips and palm of the hand pushing on the surface of the spheroid inwardly against the force of the stationary chest; compress the spheroid towards the chest, chest giving equal compressing force, to exercise both the abdominal, pectoral, and bicep muscles simultaneously; repeat as desired.

FIG. 15M is a side perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention. The spheroid is held between the forehead and both hands, with the hands gripping the spheroid by the fingertips and the palms of the hands pushing on the surface of the spheroid inwardly against the forehead to exercise both the neck and bicep muscles.

FIG. 15N is a forward perspective view of an exercise performed with a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention. The spheroid is held at chin level, touching the body, with the hands gripping the spheroid by the handles at the approximate 11 and 1 o'clock positions as viewed from the forward position, with the forearms centered on sides of the spheroid. The elbows are rotated inwardly as far as possible to work the pectoral and shoulder muscles.

FIG. 16 is a lower perspective view of a handle 1600 of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention. The handle 1600 comprises a handle 1602a, a handle 1602b, and bracket 1604.

In some embodiments, a plurality of handles 114 are joined together and affixed to the exercise ball in a single socket for use as described in FIGS. 15A and 15C.

FIG. 17 is a lower view of a multifunction exercise ball 1700 in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball 1700 comprises a bladder 102, a handle 114a, and a handle 114b.

The handles 114a-b are shown in a configuration in which they are closer than diametrically located to one another.

The bladder 102, handle 114a, and handle 114b are substantially described above in relation to FIGS. 1-17.

FIG. 18 is a side view of a multifunction exercise ball 1800 in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball 1800 comprises a bladder 102 and a recessed handle 1802.

The bladder 102 is substantially described above in relation to FIGS. 1-17.

In some embodiments, the handles 114 merely comprise a recess within the bladder 102 sufficient for users to grip it as shown in FIG. 13C.

FIG. 19A is a side view of a multifunction exercise ball 1900 in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball 1900 comprises a bladder 102, a top plate 1902, and a baseplate 1904.

The bladder 102 is substantially described above in relation to FIGS. 1-18.

The top plate 1902 comprises a metal, wood or polymer plate which rests on the exterior of the bladder 102, a portion of which extends through the bladder 102 into the inner recess 104. The top plate 1902 comprises a concave lower surface which contours the exterior of the bladder 102.

The baseplate 1904 comprises a metal, wood or polymer plate which rests on the lower exterior of the bladder 102, a portion of which extends through the bladder 102 into the inner recess 104. The baseplate 1902 comprises a concave upper surface which contours the exterior of the bladder 102.

The top plate 1902 and the baseplate 1904 are interconnected with a elastomeric band or spring stretched between the top plate 1902 and the baseplate 1904 such that compressive force is applied to the bladder 102 across the breadth of the axis formed by the elastomeric band.

In some embodiments, the top plate 1902 and the baseplate 1904 are permanently or detachably affixed to one or more valves 106, which serve as anchors for the top plate 1902 and the baseplate 1904.

FIG. 19B is a side view of a sectioned multifunction exercise ball 1920 in accordance with the present invention. The exercise ball 1920 comprises a bladder 102, a top plate 1902, a baseplate 1904, an elastomeric band 1922, a cylindrical bar 1924a, a cylindrical bar 1924b.

The bladder 102, top plate 1902, and baseplate 1904 are substantially described above in relation to FIGS. 1-19A.

The elastomeric band 1922 is detachably connected to the top plate 1902 and the baseplate 1904. The elastomeric band is flexible and stretchable. The elastomeric band, in its relaxed state, is shorter in length than the diameter of the bladder 102.

In some embodiments, the elastomeric band 1922 comprises a hollow tube, such as a surgical tube.

The top plate 1902 and the baseplate 1904 each comprise a cylindrical bar 1924a-b which is inserted into the hollow elastomeric band 1922 and secured with a pipe clamp or using other means known to those of skill in the art.

In some embodiments, the cylindrical bars 1924a-b comprise valves 106, which serve the dual purpose of securing the top plate 1902 and the bottom plate 1904 to the bladder 102. In those embodiments, the elastomeric band 1902 comprises holes or apertures to facilitate the free flow of air from the inner recess 104 to the valves 106.

FIG. 19C is a side view of sub-components 1940 of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention. The sub-components 1940 comprise a top plate 1902, a baseplate 1904, an elastomeric band 1922, a valve 106a, and a valve 106b.

The elastomeric band 1922, in the shown embodiment, is detached from the top plate 1902 and from the baseplate 1904. The elastomeric band 1922 is replaceable when worn or fatigued.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

1. A multi-function isotonic exercise ball comprising:

a flexible impermeable airtight elastic sphere for enduring compressive and tensile forces, the sphere comprising elastomeric polymer, the sphere defining an inner recess comprising inlet ambient air, the inner recess between 0.2 liters and 60 liters in volume, the sphere configured to reinflate itself after deformation from compression; and

one or more of: a valve disposed between the inner recess and surrounding ambient air, disposed within the sphere, the valve connecting the inner recess to ambient air surrounding the exercise ball, wherein the valve is configured to allow controlled bleeding of pressurized air within the inner recess when air pressure within the inner recess exceeds air pressure of ambient air, wherein the valve is further configured to allow ambient to flow back into the sphere after the sphere is compressed; and an air pressure gauge mounted on the surface of the sphere for measuring air pressure within the sphere as compressive forces as applied to the sphere.

2. The multi-function exercise ball of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of handles affixed to the sphere for engaging extremities of a human operator and for withstanding tensile and compressive forces, the handles comprising graspable protruding extensions between 0.05 meters and 2 meters in length.

3. The multi-function exercise ball of claim 1, wherein the sphere comprises one or more sockets, each socket for receiving one of:

a pressure gauge for measuring pneumatic pressure during exercise;

a sealable valve for filling the inner recess with water; and

a check valve for regulating air flow into the inner recess.

4. (canceled)

5. The multi-function exercise ball of claim 1, wherein the valve further comprises one or more adjustable apertures for increasing the rate of air release from the inner recess when air in the inner recess is pressurized.

6. The multi-function exercise ball of claim 1, wherein the sphere's original shape reforms after compression by tension created by one or more of:

elastic foam filling the inner recess;

elastic foam defining the inner recess; and

a pad encapsulating the sphere, wherein the outer spherical pad is substantially fabricated from one of elastomeric foam and silicone gel, wherein the outer spherical pad is between 1 millimeter and 50 centimeters thick.

7. The multi-function exercise ball of claim 1, further comprising an inflatable bladder encapsulating the sphere, the inflatable bladder and the sphere defining a second airtight recess between sphere and bladder which second recess is isolated atmospherically from both the inner recess and the ambient air, the inflatable bladder further comprising a second valve for inflating the second recess.

8. The multi-function exercise ball of claim 1, wherein the valve comprises one of a one-way check valve, a presta valve, Schrader valve, leaf valve, one or more perforation in the sphere, and a relief valve.

9. The multi-function exercise ball of claim 1, wherein the sphere comprises one or more perforations which act as air pressure release valves when pressure is applied to the sphere.

10. (canceled)

11. The multi-function exercise ball of claim 1, further comprising one or more of internal stretchable elastomeric band(s) and internal springs, attached at opposing ends to opposing internal sides of the sphere.

12. The multi-function exercise ball of claim 1, further comprising one or more internal stretchable elastomeric band(s), the elastomeric band(s) traversing a conduit within the sphere, the elastomeric band(s) for resisting tensile forces applied to the sphere, the elastomeric band(s) attached to handles on opposing ends of the sphere.

13. The multi-function exercise ball of claim 1, further comprising one or more external stretchable elastomeric band(s), detachably affixed exteriorly to the sphere.

14. The multi-function exercise ball of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of sockets on the exterior of the sphere for receiving detachable handles, each detachable handle lockable within a socket.

15. The multi-function exercise ball of claim 1, wherein the sphere further comprises a sealable aperture, the aperture unsealable for filling the inner recess with water.

16. The multi-function exercise ball of claim 1, further comprising one or more internal springs connected at diametrically opposed points within the exercise object for resisting compressive and tensile forces.

17. A multi-function isotonic exercise object comprising:

an elastomeric object for enduring compressive and tensile forces, the object comprising: an outer surface comprising one of elastomeric polymer and leather; and an inner core comprising elastic foam;

and

one or more of: a valve disposed between the inner core and surrounding ambient air, affixed within the spherical bladder, the check valve connecting the inner core to ambient air surrounding the exercise object, wherein the valve is designed to allow valve leakage of pressurized air when the air pressure within the exercise object in the inner recess exceeds the pressure of surrounding ambient air; one or more perforation(s) in the surface of the object acting as valve(s) to facilitate the flow of pressurized air out of the inner core; and one or more internal spring(s) connected at diametrically opposed points within the exercise object for resisting compressive and tensile forces.

18. The multi-function exercise object of claim 17 wherein the object is one of spherical, cylindrical, cubic, conical, and polyhedral in shape.

19. A method of strengthening muscle isotonically using an airtight elastic spheroid, the steps of the method comprising:

holding the spheroid at torso level, the spheroid touching the torso; gripping one of:

handles in diametrically opposed positions on the spheroid, the handles parallel to the ground;

the spheroid with one of fingertips and palms of two hands, the hands pushing against the spheroid inwardly at diametrically opposed points; and

crushing the spheroid such that diametrically opposed internal points within the spheroid contact one another;

20. The multi-function exercise object of claim 19, further comprising pulling the two handles affixed to the spheroid apart so as to apply tensile force(s) to the spheroid.

21. The multi-function exercise object of claim 17, further comprising a sealable aperture for receiving scented oil in a vial, the scented oil housed in the inner core, the scented oil released with air housed in the inner core which is ejected when the object is compressed.