FINGER TRAINING METHOD AND DEVICE THEREOF

Abstract

Devices, systems, and methods for finger and/or grip training including hold features for engaging a user's finger to work against a load.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/418,450, filed Nov. 7, 2016, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, and including at least those portions related to finger training.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to devices, systems, and methods for fitness training, and more particularly to devices, systems, and methods for finger and grip training.

Finger strength and/or stamina can be important to many types of activities, for example, sporting activities. Developing finger strength and/or stamina with particular consideration for conditions of the sporting activity of choice can enhance the effectiveness of finger and/or stamina in the modes particular to the activity. Sporting activities, such as climbing, benefit from particularly developed fingers to enhance the ability of the climber to interact with the climbing surface, for example, rock formations. General grip training can fail to address challenges particular to specific activities, for example, climbing.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure may comprise one or more of the following features and combinations thereof:

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a finger training system for applying resistance to at least one finger of a user for physical activity may include a resistance load having a resistance cable and a securing member connected with the resistance cable. The securing member may be configured to secure the resistance cable to apply load to at least one of the user's fingers. The finger training system may include a mounting platform having a mounting body with a load feature for connection with the securing member. The mounting body may be formed as a plate having a length and may include first and second faces disposed opposite each other. The mounting platform may include a mounting section and a load section arranged on opposing ends of the mounting body. The load feature may include a penetration through the body at the load section configured to receive the securing member therein for transferring force of the resistance load to the body. The finger training system may include a collection of hold features each selectively attachable to the mounting section of the body of the mounting platform for engagement with at least one of the user's fingers to work against the resistance load. The collection may include at least one basic hold feature and at least one advanced hold feature each forming an engagement platform oriented towards the load section of the body for engagement with at least one of the user's fingers to work against the resistance load. The engagement platform of the basic hold feature may have uniform contour along the length direction of the body to provide the user a beginner grip on the basic hold feature.

In some embodiments, the at least one advanced hold feature may include a custom hold feature. The engagement platform of the custom hold feature may have non-uniform contour along the length direction of the body to provide the user an expert grip on the custom hold feature. In some embodiments, the at least one advanced hold feature may include a journeyman hold feature. The engagement platform of the journeyman hold feature may have uniform contour along the length direction of the body and may slope away from the load section to provide the user a journeyman grip on the custom hold feature.

In some embodiments, the engagement platform of the basic hold feature may slope towards the load section to provide the user the beginner grip on the basic hold feature. The engagement platform of the basic hold feature may have a slope towards the load section in the range of about 1 to about 10 degrees from horizontal.

In some embodiments, the mounting body may be tapered along the length direction in the load section. In some embodiments, one of the collection of hold features may be secured to the first side of the mounting body. In some embodiments, another one of the collection of hold features may be secured to the second side of the mounting body.

In some embodiments, the resistance cable may be a resilient cable and the force of the resistance load may include elastic resilience of the resistance cable. In some embodiments, the mounting platform is a first mounting platform and the system may further comprise a second mounting platform secured to the resistance cable opposite from the first mounting platform. In some embodiments, the engagement platform of each of the collection of hold features may be configured to engage with at least one of the user's fingers for a distance no greater than a length from the tip of the user's finger to the user's distal knuckle to improve the user's fingertip grip.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a physical training system for applying resistance to at least one finger of a user for physical activity may include a resistance load including a resistance cable and a securing member connected with the resistance cable. The securing member may be configured to secure the resistance cable to apply load to at least one of the user's fingers. The physical training system may include a mounting platform having a mounting body with a load feature for connection with the securing member. The mounting body may be formed as a plate having a length and including first and second faces disposed opposite each other. The mounting platform may include a mounting section and a load section arranged on opposing ends of the mounting body. The load feature may include a penetration through the body at the load section and may be configured to receive the securing member therein for transferring force of the resistance load to the body. The physical training system may include a collection of hold features each selectively attachable to the mounting section of the body of the mounting platform for engagement with at least one of the user's fingers to work against the resistance load. The collection may include at least one basic hold feature and at least one advanced hold feature each forming an engagement platform oriented towards the load section of the body and configured for engagement with at least one of the user's fingers to work against the resistance load. The engagement platform of the basic hold feature may have uniform contour along the length direction of the body to provide the user a beginner grip on the basic hold feature.

In some embodiments, the engagement platform of the basic hold feature may slope towards the load section to provide the user the beginner grip on the basic hold feature. The engagement platform of the basic hold feature may have a slope towards the load section in the range of about 1 to about 10 degrees from horizontal.

In some embodiments, the mounting body may be tapered along the length direction in the load section. In some embodiments, one of the collection of hold features may be secured to the first side of the mounting body. In some embodiments, another one of the collection of hold features is secured to the second side of the mounting body.

In some embodiments, the resistance cable may be a resilient cable and the force of the resistance load includes elastic resilience of the resistance cable. In some embodiments, the mounting platform may be a first mounting platform and the system may further comprise a second mounting platform secured to the resistance cable opposite from the first mounting platform. In some embodiments, the engagement platform of each of the collection of hold features may be configured to engage with at least one of the user's fingers for a distance no greater than a length from the tip of the user's finger to the user's distal knuckle to improve the user's fingertip grip.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a finger training system may include a mounting platform having a load feature for applying a load and a number of hold features each configured for selectable attachment with the mounting platform to form an engagement platform for engagement with at least one finger of a user. In some embodiments, each of the number of hold features may be configured for selective attachment by means for releasably attaching. In some embodiments, the number of hold features may include a first number of hold features and a second number of hold features.

In some embodiments, the first number of hold features may attach with the mounting platform using a first attachment system and the second number of hold features may attach with the mounting platform using a second attachment system. In some embodiments, one of the number of hold features may be attached to a one side of the mounting platform and a second one of the number of hold features may attach to the another side of the mounting platform. In some embodiments, the another side of the mounting platform may be opposite the one side of the mounting platform.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a finger training device may include a mount body and a hold feature secured to the mount body and extending therefrom to define a platform configured for engagement with a user's finger. The mount body may include a load feature for applying a force of load to the device.

In some embodiments, the hold feature may extend from the mount body such that the platform is arranged at an angle relative to a plane of extension of the mount body. In some embodiments, the angle of the platform may be greater than zero. In some embodiments, the angle of the platform may be within the range of about 1 to about 10 degrees or within the range of about −10 to about −1 degrees.

In some embodiments, the attachment feature may be formed offset from the platform in a direction orthogonal to a plane of extension of the mount body. In some embodiments, a width of the platform between an end point there and a mounting surface of the mounting platform may be no greater than a length between the tip of a user's finger and the first knuckle of the same finger. In some embodiments, the attachment feature may be formed as a hole penetrating through the mount body.

These and other features of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following description of the illustrative embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Some embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated as an example and are not limited by the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which like references may indicate similar elements and in which:

FIG. 1 depicts an exploded perspective view of one example of a finger training device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of one example of a finger training device according to various embodiments described herein;

FIG. 3 shows a side view of one example of a finger training device according to various embodiments described herein;

FIG. 4 shows a front view of one example of a finger training device according to various embodiments described herein;

FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of one example of a finger training device accompanied with interfacing apparatus according to various embodiments described herein;

FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of a prototype of one example of a finger training device according to various embodiments described herein;

FIG. 7 shows a side view of a prototype of one example of a finger training device according to various embodiments described herein;

FIG. 8 shows a front view of a prototype of one example of a finger training device according to various embodiments described herein;

FIG. 9 shows one possible use of a prototype of one example of a finger training device according to various embodiments described herein, wherein the user employs a bungee cord as the resistance platform, and pulls down from above;

FIG. 10 shows one possible use of a prototype of one example of a finger training device according to various embodiments described herein, wherein the user employs a bungee cord as the resistance platform, and pulls down from above;

FIG. 11 shows one possible use of a prototype of one example of a finger training device according to various embodiments described herein, wherein the user employs a bungee cord as the resistance platform, and pulls up from below;

FIG. 12 shows one possible use of a prototype of one example of a finger training device according to various embodiments described herein, wherein the user employs a bungee cord as the resistance platform, and pulls up from below;

FIG. 13 shows one possible use of a prototype of one example of a finger training device according to various embodiments described herein, wherein the user employs a bungee cord as the resistance platform, and pulls up from below;

FIG. 14 shows one possible use of a prototype of one example of a finger training device according to various embodiments described herein, wherein the user employs a bungee cord as the resistance platform, and pulls from the side;

FIG. 15 shows one possible use of a prototype of one example of a finger training device according to various embodiments described herein, wherein the user employs a bungee cord as the resistance platform, and pulls from the side;

FIG. 16 shows one possible use of a prototype of one example of a finger training device according to various embodiments described herein, wherein the prototype is attached as an auxiliary to a cable weight machine;

FIG. 17 shows one possible use of a prototype of one example of a finger training device according to various embodiments described herein, wherein the prototype is attached as an auxiliary to a cable weight machine;

FIGS. 18 and 19 show possible operations of a prototype of one example of a finger training device according to various embodiments described herein;

FIG. 20 is a perspective exploded view of a finger training system including a mounting platform and a suite of hold features that are each selectively attachable to the mounting platform by an attachment system;

FIG. 21 is a perspective exploded view of the finger training system of FIG. 18 showing that the finger training system includes another suite of hold features that are each selectively attachable to the mounting platform by another attachment system;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the finger training system of FIGS. 18 and 19 arranged to show that the mounting feature includes two hold features attached thereto;

FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view of the finger training system of FIG. 20; and

FIG. 24 is a side view of the finger training system of FIGS. 20-22 showing an attachment system therein;

FIG. 25 is an exploded perspective view of the finger training system of FIGS. 20 and 22 arranged to show that the mounting feature includes two selected hold features of the suite of hold features attached to opposite sides;

FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view of the finger training system of FIGS. 21-23 arranged to show that the mounting feature includes two different selected hold features of the suite of hold features attached to opposite sides;

FIG. 27 is an exploded perspective view of the finger training system of FIGS. 25 and 26 arranged to show that the mounting feature includes two selected hold features (one from each of those shown in FIGS. 25 and 26) of the suite of hold features attached to opposite sides;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the finger training system of FIGS. 25 and 26 having two other hold features of the suite;

FIG. 29 is a side elevation view of the finger training system of FIG. 28 showing the curvature of the two other hold features.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

As shown in the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 5, a finger training device 10 includes a hold feature 2 that forms a platform 22 for engagement with one or more fingers of a user to act against a load and a load feature 24 embodied as a connection point for transfer of the load to the finger training device 10. The load is illustratively provided by a cable system 5 which can be coupled to a resistance against which the user can train her fingers to improve strength, endurance, etc. In some embodiments, the load may be embodied to include any suitable manner and/or arrangement of apply load to the load feature 24, for example but without limitation, gravity weights, band resistance, inertia resistance, and/or the like. In the illustrative embodiment as shown in FIG. 5, the finger training device 10 includes a mounting platform 1 connected with the hold feature 2 and extending therefrom to form the load feature 24 for connection with the cable system 5.

In the illustrative embodiment as shown in FIG. 5, the mounting platform 1 is embodied as a plate defining an extension plane 15 within which the plate generally lies. In some embodiments, the mounting platform 1 may include curvature but generally lies within the plane 15. The hold feature 2 illustratively connects with the mounting platform 1 and projects therefrom in a direction orthogonal to the plane 15 to form the platform 22.

As shown in FIG. 3, the platform 22 illustratively faces generally upward having an angle θ with respect to the horizontal line 17 (the horizontal direction being orthogonal to the plane 15 and represented by dashed line 17). As shown in FIG. 3, the angle θ is illustratively embodied as the angle between the horizontal line 17 and the orientation of platform 22 as indicated by dashed line 19. The angle θ of the platform 22 illustratively provides an engagement surface oriented with correspondence to the transfer of load through the finger training device 10. In the illustrative embodiment, the platform 22 has an angle θ of greater than zero. In some embodiments, the platform 22 may have an angle θ within the range of about 1 to about 10 degrees from the horizontal line 17. In some embodiments, the platform 22 may have an angle θ within the range of about −10 to about −1 degrees from the horizontal line 17. In some embodiments, the platform 22 may have an angle θ of about zero degrees from the horizontal line 17. In the illustrative embodiment, the platform 22 is generally uniformly flat having the same angle θ throughout its length (into the page in FIG. 3), but in some embodiments, may have variation in the angle θ along its dimensions in planar directions and/or directions orthogonal to the plane 15.

In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 5, the load feature 24 is formed to include a hole 6 through the mounting platform 1. The hole 6 is illustratively formed orthogonally through the plane 15 such that the upward force of the load applied by the cable system 5 (in the orientation of FIG. 5) is transferred to the finger training device 10 with orientation along the plane 15 and offset from the platform 22 by a distanced(as best shown in FIG. 3). The distance d is illustratively presented for reference purposes to indicate the relative orientations of the load feature 24 and the platform 22, and particularly, the load feature 24 at a midpoint 23 along the surface defining the hole 6 and the platform 22 at an endpoint 25. In some embodiments, the offset d and the angle θ collectively transfer the load applied by the cable system 5 with particular orientation of the platform 22 relative to the load applied (the direction of load applied by the cable system 5 illustratively shown in FIG. 3 as load 50, for example, such that the force on the platform is generally aligned with the load feature 24 and/or the angle of load applied to the load feature 24). Although the direction of applied load 50 is illustratively shown parallel with the plane 15, in some instances the load 50 may be applied with an angle relative to the plane 15 and/or may be applied to any portion of the mounting platform 1 near the hole 6.

In the illustrative embodiment shown in FIG. 3, a width w defined between the endpoint 25 of the platform 22 and a surface 27 of the mounting platform 1. The width w is illustratively embodied to be less than or equal to the length of a user's finger from the tip of the user's finger to the first knuckle (distal knuckle). The width w is illustratively selected to fit the distal knuckle length for the average person, selected according to anthropomorphic data averages. For example, the width w may be selected to engage less than or equal to the length of a user's finger from the tip of the user's finger to the first knuckle (distal knuckle) for finger tips within the 85^th percentile of a population, but in some embodiments, may be defined by population percentiles of any value within a range of about 50% to about 99% of a population, for example, the US population). In some embodiments, the width w may be any suitable length and/or size for application specific finger training. A non-limiting example width w includes about ⅔ inch. The particular width w provides a training interface for the user's finger which simulates a shallow engagement surface that may be experienced during climbing.

Referring to FIG. 1, the hold feature 2 is illustratively attached to mounting platform 1 with bolts 3. Cavities 9 (counterbores) in the hold feature 2 are illustratively shaped such that bolts 3 can pass through and secure the hold feature 2 onto the mounting platform 1 by screwing bolts 3 into threaded holes 7 of the mounting platform 1. Hole 8 in the mounting platform 1 illustratively provides means for attaching a separate unspecified hold feature with a centrally located mounting bolt (discussed in additional detail herein). The hole 6 illustratively provides for means of interfacing the device 10 with an external connecting apparatus, such as a carabiner or hook.

Referring to FIG. 2, an assembled illustrative embodiment of the device is depicted with hold feature 2 attached to mounting platform 1 with an attachment system embodied as bolts 3. Hole 6 illustratively provides for the means of interfacing the device embodiment with an external apparatus. In some embodiments, the attachment system 3 may comprise means for attaching and may be embodied as joining by any suitable manner, for example but without limitation, fastening by fasteners of any suitable type and/or arrangement; bonding by chemical adhesion; integral formation; press-fitting (interference fitting); and/or combinations thereof.

Referring to FIG. 3, an assembled illustrative embodiment of the device 10 is depicted from a side view, with hold feature 2 illustratively attached to mounting platform 1 with bolts 3 that cannot be seen from this perspective.

Referring to FIG. 4, an assembled illustrative embodiment of the device 10 is depicted from a front view, with hold feature 2 illustratively attached to mounting platform 1 with bolts 3. Hole 6 illustratively provides means for interfacing the device 10 with an external apparatus.

Referring to FIG. 5, as assembled illustrative embodiment of the device is depicted accompanied by one example of an interfacing apparatus. Carabiner 4 is illustratively latched into hole 6 to secure said carabiner 4 onto the embodiment of the device. A cable system 5 is illustratively latched onto the carabiner 4. In such a manner, the cable system 5 is illustratively interfaced to the mounting platform 1 via carabiner 4.

Referring to FIGS. 6 through 19, pictures are presented illustratively depicting non-exhaustive examples of how a prototype of one embodiment of the disclosed designs might be used. The FIGS. 6 through 19 are in not intended to imply that the applications and usage of the disclosed designs are limited to the scope of those depicted. Indeed, there are many ways and manners in which the disclosed designs can be utilized with a plurality of resistance platforms; far too many in fact to be treated or contemplated individually and exhaustively, by this or any disclosure.

In the illustrative embodiment as shown in FIGS. 20-21, a finger training system 26 is shown. As shown in FIG. 20, the finger training system 26 illustratively includes the mounting platform 1 and a suite of hold features 102, 202, 302 adapted for selective attachment with the mounting platform 1. Each hold feature 102, 202, 302 illustratively provides an outer surface 28 including at least an upper surface 30 as an engagement platform for engagement with one or more fingers of a user's hand. The mounting platform 1 includes the load feature 24 embodied as a connection point for transfer of loads thereto.

In the illustrative embodiment, each hold feature 102, 202, 302 has custom outer contouring. The custom outer contouring of each hold feature 102, 202, 302 providing an engagement platform that illustratively replicates various natural features, for example but without limitation, rock formations, ice, and/or other climbing features. Removable attachment of the hold features 102, 202, 302 provides a selectively configurable interface for the user's finger(s) to train and/or develop different aspects of strength and stamina.

As shown in FIG. 20, the hold features 102, 202, 302 are removably attached to the mounting platform 1 by an attachment system 32. The attachment system 32 is illustratively embodied as a fastener, namely a bolt 34, and nut 36. The bolt 34 illustratively extends through a hole 40 of the selected one of the hold features 102, 202, 302 as discussed below. The bolt 34 illustratively extends through hole 38 of the mounting platform 1 to connect its outer threads with the inner threads of the nut 36 to secure the selected one of the hold features 102, 202, 302 with the mounting platform 1.

As shown in FIG. 20, the bolt 34 illustratively includes a head 42 and a stem 44 extending from the head 42 and comprising the external threads. The head 42 illustratively engages with a receiving step 46 located within the hole 40 of the selected one of the hold features 102, 202, 302. The stem 44 penetrates through the selected one of the hold features 102, 202, 302 and through the mounting platform 1 for connection with the nut 36 to secure the selected one of the hold features 102, 202, 302 with the mounting platform 1. In the illustrative embodiment, the hold features 102, 202, 302 and the attachment system 32 conform with commercially available products and thus include standard sizes such that many different hold features having various contouring can be selectively attached with the mounting platform 1.

As shown in FIG. 21, the finger training system 26 illustratively includes alternative configurations. The finger training system 26 includes another suite of hold features 402, 502, 602 selectively attachable with the mounting platform 1 by an alternative attachment system 48. Each hold feature 402, 502, 602 illustratively provides an outer surface 28 including at least an upper surface 30 for engagement with one or more fingers of a user's hand. In the illustrative embodiment, the hold feature 502 is shaped similarly to the hold feature 2.

As shown in FIG. 21, the hold features 402, 502, 602 are removably attached with the mounting platform 1 by the attachment system 48. The attachment system 48 illustratively includes two fasteners, embodied as bolts 52. The bolts 52 are embodied as similar to fastener 34 except are illustratively smaller in diameter along their stem 44 and head 42. The bolts 52 illustratively penetrate through holes 54 in the selected one of the hold features 402, 502, 602 for connection with the mounting platform 1.

In the illustrative embodiment as shown in FIG. 21, the bolts 52 include outer threads for threaded engagement with inner threads of holes 56 of the mounting platform 1. The bolts 52 illustratively engage steps 46 within the holes 54 of the selected one of the hold feature 402, 502, 602 and threadedly engage with the mounting platform 1 to secure the selected one of the hold features 402, 502, 602 with the mounting platform 1.

As shown in FIG. 21, the mounting platform 1 illustratively includes both hole 38 and holes 56 to permit selective attachment of either suite of hold features 102, 202, 302, 402, 502, 602. The removable and selectable range of hold features 102, 202, 302, 402, 502, 602 provides adaptability in training to provide a wide range of training stages.

An assembled arrangement of the finger training system 26 is illustratively shown in FIG. 22. The finger training system 26 illustratively includes the mounting platform 1 and a plurality of hold features 58, 60 secured thereto. Each hold feature 58, 60 is illustratively attached to an opposite side 63, 65 of the mounting plate 1 simultaneously. The two hold features 58, 60 provide flexibility in training by allowing the user to select which side 63, 65 (and the corresponding hold feature) to use without requiring reconfiguration of the currently selected hold feature (i.e., disassembly and assembly). In the illustrative embodiment, the hold features 58, 60 are similar to the hold features 502, 602, respectively, but any of hold features 402, 502, 602 can be selectively applied.

As shown in FIG. 23, the hold features 58, 60 are secured to the mounting platform 1 with attachment system 1048. The attachment system 1048 illustratively includes threaded fasteners, embodied as bolts 62, and corresponding nuts 64. The bolts 62 illustratively extend through holes 54 of the hold feature 58, through holes 56 of the mounting platform 1, through holes 54 of the hold feature 6o for threaded engagement with the nuts 64.

As shown in FIG. 24, the bolts 62 illustratively extend with length sufficient for threaded engagement with the corresponding nuts 64. The head 42 of each bolt 62 illustratively engages the step 46 with in the corresponding hole 54 of the hold feature 58 and the nuts 64 each engage the step 46 within the corresponding hole 54 of the hold feature 60. In the illustrative embodiment, the stem 44 of each bolt 62 is sized appropriately such that its outer threads do not engage the inner threads of the holes 56 of the mounting platform 1. In some embodiments, the inner threads may be omitted in favor of the dual hold feature arrangement.

As shown in FIG. 25, one selected hold feature 402, 502, 602 can be selectively attached to the mounting platform 1 on a first side 63 and another one selected hold feature 402, 502, 602 can be selectively attached to the opposite side 65. The plural hold feature arrangement of FIGS. 22-24 can also be illustratively applied using the hold features 102, 202, 302 on opposite sides 63, 65 and secured by an attachment system 1032 including a fastener 1034 similar to bolt 34 but elongated to reach threaded engagement with the nut 36 engaged with the step 46 of the selected hold feature on the opposing side 63, 65 as shown in FIG. 26. In some embodiments, the bolt 1034 may be used in either attachment systems 32, 1032 to reduce parts count.

As shown in FIG. 27, the system 26 can be configured with a selected hold feature 102, 202, 302 on one side 63, 65 and a selected hold feature 402, 502, 602 on the other side 63, 65 secured respectively by fasteners 2034, 52. In the illustrative embodiment, the fastener 2034 of attachment system 2032 is similar to fasteners 34, 1034 but is shortened in length to engage the inner threads of the hole 380 of the mounting platform 1 without projecting out to the other side 63, 65 to prevent interference with the selected hold feature on that other side 63, 65.

Referring to FIG. 28, the finger training system 26 is illustratively shown including other selected hold features 702 secured with the mounting platform 1. Although a pair of selected hold features 702 is shown, a single hold feature 702 can also be applied to the mounting platform 1. The hold feature 702 illustratively includes surfaces 30, 31 arranged opposite each other to provide selectable engagement platforms for engagement with at least one finger of a user's hand. The surface 30 of the hold feature 702 secured to the mounting platform 1 on the side 63 is oriented towards the load feature 24, while its surface 31 is oriented away from the load feature 24. The surface 31 of the hold feature 702 secured to the mounting platform 1 on the side 65 is oriented towards the load feature 24, while its surface 30 is oriented away from the load feature 24. The attachment system 48 being symmetrically arranged with the holes 54 of the hold features 702 about the orientation in FIG. 28, the hold features 702 can be secured to the mounting platform 1 with either surface 30,31 oriented towards the load feature 24 for desired training style.

Referring to FIG. 29, the surface 30 includes peaked curvature. Surface 30 illustratively including a section 306 which slopes toward the mounting platform 1, a section 308 which slopes away from the mounting platform 1, and a transition 310 defined between the sections 308,310. In comparison to surface 3o, surface 31 illustratively includes a section 316 which generally does not slope (or has minimal slope) towards or away from mounting platform 1, a section 318 which slopes away from mounting platform 1, and a transition 320 defined between the sections 318. Surface 31 provides a flatter grip surface than surface 30, but allows less curling of the finger about the transition 320 than about transition 310 which creates modified training implementations. Accordingly, a user can select the type of training desired by orienting the selected surface 30,31 towards the load feature 24.

A optional hole 4040 is illustratively formed in hold feature 702 as shown in FIGS. 28 and 29. The hole 4040 is adapted to receive a fastener therein for securing certain hold features to the opposite side of the mounting platform 1 from the hold feature 702, for example, those hold features which utilize the attachment system 32. Illustratively, the hole 4040 is adapted to receive the nut 36 therein for connection with the bolt 34 through the mounting platform 1. Accordingly, hold features using different attachment systems may be secured to opposite sides 63,65 of the mounting platform 1 simultaneously. The optional hole 4040 may be included in any of the hold features discussed herein.

The present disclosure includes hold features which include engagement platforms for engagement with a user's finger to encourage grip strength, stamina, and/or the like. Such hold features, such as hold feature 2 including the engagement platform 22 oriented towards the load feature 6 as shown in FIG. 3, and may also include another engagement platform 3022 disposed opposite the engagement platform 22. The hold features of the present disclosure may be secured with their respective mounting platforms in a manner such that the hold feature can be selectively rotated to position either engagement platform 22, 3022 towards the respective load feature, for example, using a mounting system which is symmetric in securing the hold feature with the mounting platform such that either the engagement platform or the other engagement platform (some of which have been called out with numbering) can be oriented towards the respective load feature according to the user's desire. In some embodiments, the engagement platforms of the present disclosure may be particularly sized lengthwise to accommodate simultaneous engagement at least four fingers of a user's hand closely held together without spacing therebetween without additional length of the engagement platform to permit exercise of up to four fingers at the same time without excess length. In some embodiments, the engagement platforms of the present disclosure may be particularly sized lengthwise to accommodate simultaneous engagement at least four fingers of a user's hand with at least two adjacent fingers spaced apart from each other to permit exercise of up to four fingers at the same time without excess length to permit slightly spaced grip training. In some embodiments, the engagement platforms of the present disclosure may include particular sizing for slight spacing between three or four adjacent fingers without excess additional length to permit other modes of slightly spaced grip training.

In some embodiments, the attachment systems 3, 32, 48, 1032, 1048, 2032 may each comprise means for attaching and may be embodied as joining by any suitable manner, for example but without limitation, fastening by fasteners of any suitable type and/or arrangement; bonding by chemical adhesion; integral formation; press-fitting (interference fitting); and/or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the attachment systems 3, 32, 48, 1048 may comprise means for releasably attaching and may be embodied as releasably joining by any suitable manner, for example but without limitation, fastening by fasteners of any suitable type and/or arrangement; press-fitting (interference fitting); any other suitable releasable attachment permitting reconfiguration of the system 26, and/or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, one of the hold features 58, 60 may be attached with the mounting platform 1 by means for releasably attaching and the other hold features 58, 60 may be attached with the mounting platform 1 by means for attaching.

In some embodiments, the hold features 102, 202, 302 may be attached to the mounting platform 1 on one side thereof 63, 65 by a bolt similar to bolt 34 but engaging with internal threads of hole 38 instead of the nut 36 and having shorter length not projecting out from the hole 38 onto the other side 63, 65 thereof. In such embodiments, one of the hold features 402, 502, 602 may be attached with the mounting platform 1 on one side 63, 65 thereof, and one of the hold features 102, 202, 302 may be attached with the mounting platform 1 on the other side 63, 65 thereof. In such embodiments, reverse threading of one or the other of the inner and outer threads may be utilized to permit threading from either side 63, 65.

In some embodiments, the finger training devices and systems disclosed herein may be formed from a multitude of manufacturing and assembling methodologies. For instance, the devices and systems disclosed may be milled, casted, or molded in its entirety as a single unit, or it may be assembled from a collection of milled, casted, or molded parts that make up the various components of the devices and systems disclosed. The devices and systems disclosed can be accomplished using screws, welding techniques, adhesives, integral formation, and/or any other appropriate assembly methodology. Moreover, the devices and systems disclosed and their components can be manufactured from a variety of materials, including various metals and plastics, for example but without limitation, polyurethane, polyester, resin, and/or natural materials such as wood.

The terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” and the like may be used herein to modify elements performing similar and/or analogous functions. These modifiers are intended as identifiers and are not intended to impose and/or imply any particular order, for example, spatial, sequential, or hierarchical order, to the modified elements unless specifically stated.

The present disclosure includes finger training devices, systems, and methods that can offer a portable platform with which to train one's finger using a crimp, crimp-like, and/or other hold geometry. The devices, systems, and methods can be interfaced with a variety of resistance platforms that offer variable or static resistance, and can be used in a variety of orientations, configurations, and directions. The present disclosure includes devices, systems, and methods for finger training that can provide platforms oriented with respect to the users fingers to improve finger strength and/or stamina. In some embodiments, the orientation of the load as transferred to the device can be coordinated with the platform that engages a user's fingers to provide efficient strength and stamina training.

The present disclosure includes embodiments of the finger training devices, systems, and methods comprising a mounting platform and a hold feature. In the illustrative embodiment, a crimp-like hold feature and/or, a hold feature geometry of the user's preference, is attached to a rigid mounting platform of a size and shape adequate to accommodate the mounting of the hold feature, but small enough to preserve portability. The hold feature is illustratively attached to the mounting platform using an appropriate fixturing means, usually bolts, and is positioned on the mounting platform at a location conducive to its unfettered and appropriate usage. The mounting platform, which may be constructed of metal or some other material providing suitable mechanical properties, may illustratively have features that allow it to interface with an external resistance apparatus. A non-limiting example of such feature that is usually adequate for this purpose, is a hole of sufficient size to accommodate an attachment apparatus, such as a carabiner or hook. However, it would just as well serve the function of the present disclosure if the feature accommodated a proprietary interface specific to the resistance platform in use. Furthermore, holes in the mounting platform, either threaded or not, may be appropriately placed so as to allow for the attachment of the hold feature with the appropriate fixturing hardware, such as screws or bolts and, if necessary, accompanying nuts. The overall design of the mounting platform with the attached hold feature can allow the user to exert a force upon the hold feature using only the fingers, in such a manner that the force exerted is opposed by the mechanics of whatever resistance platform is interfaced to the device, through the structural rigidity of the mounting platform.

Appropriate resistance systems can include resistance systems that can be interfaced with the devices, systems, and methods of the present disclosure, which supplies the force generally opposing that exerted by the fingers in use. Such resistance systems might include, but are not limited to, cable weight machines, cable crossover machines, elastic cordage or straps such as shock cords or bungee cords, resistance or exercise bands, springs, rubber bands, ropes, cable, cords, webbing, cordelettes, chains, or any linkage to any static or force generating mechanism; or any combination thereof. Further, the direction of force, e.g. the force vector, may accordingly originate from any viable direction and position. Examples include, but are not limited to: opposing force from above the user's head pulling upwards; below the waist pulling downwards; midlevel pulling upwards, downwards, or horizontally away; or from any position pulling sideways. Thus the range of orientations and usage of the devices, systems, and methods of the present disclosure is limited only by the usage envelope of the resistance platform being employed.

The present disclosure is not limited to so-called “crimp” hold feature geometries, and is in fact intended to encompass any hold feature geometry of any type; that is to say, a feature of any geometrical shape that can be grasped by the user in the utilization of the device. In the practice of climbing, there are known a plethora of different types of holds categorized by their general shape. These include, but are not limited to, jugs, mini-jugs, pockets, slopers, pinches, incuts, chips, edges, side pulls, underclings, gastons, and others known in the art of climbing. The incorporation of these and other hold types are within the scope of the present disclosure.

Any functional distinction described and/or shown between the mounting platform and the hold feature does not necessarily imply a material or physical distinction. That is to say, it is conceivable that the mounting platform and the hold feature could be co-constructed of the same material, and/or part of the same rigid body. For instance, a manufacturing process, be it machining, casting, molding or otherwise, can be conceived from which a unitary body entailing the functional aspects of both the mounting platform and hold feature is derived. Similarly, a manufacturing process, be it machining, casting, molding or otherwise, can be conceived in which the component functional aspects of the present disclosure do not correspond to the component mechanical aspects of the designs. There are indeed a multitude of mechanical arrangements that can result in the functional equivalent of the disclosed designs, and are accordingly within the scope of the present disclosure.

Conventional devices may assist in the development and training of the fingers of the hand. Of particular interest is the finger strength and/or stamina that is desirable to cling to and remain suspended from very small features of the structure, which provide only a very small surface area onto which the fingers of the climber can make supportive physical contact. It is generally the case of such features that the depth (width) is less than the length of the distal phalanges of the an average human beings' finger, and the length of such features such that all, few, or only one finger may be accommodated. In the practice of rock climbing, for instance, such features are known colloquially as “crimp” holds, which generally describes any hold that cannot accommodate a grasp beyond the first knuckle of the climber's fingers. More generally, a “hold” is anything that can be grasped by a climber as a means of support.

In the practice of climbing, and rock climbing in particular, it can be of great interest to strengthen the muscles attached to the fingers so that the fingers have sufficient strength to allow the climber to cling and remain suspended from a climbing structure using these small “crimp” like holds. Accomplishing this kind of finger training in conventional fitness settings, such as a common gym, presents challenges because the equipment, facilities, practices, and techniques of conventional strength training that involve the hands often employ large and/or full hand grips, wherein much of the full length of the fingers is used to grasp the relevant auxiliary of the equipment in use. Moreover, specific orientation of the engagement between the fingers and the grip can be overlooked. As such, generally speaking, conventional gym equipment can fail to provide adequate utility towards strengthening the fingers, for example, where it is desirable to train using less than a full grip and/or to use less than one knuckle length of merely one or a few fingers.

Some specialized equipment exists, for example, “hang boards” and “campus boards”, which are platforms from which climbers hang and do pull-up like exercises with only crimp-like holds available to grasp. Such equipment are effective but can have shortcomings for example, size, weight, requirement to affix to a larger/robust support structures, may not be easily portable, may generally require the full weight of the user's body be borne by the fingers, which may be more force than what is desired and, in fact, so excessive that injury may result, may not allow for additional weight beyond the weight of the user. They may not be conducive to interfacing with external resistance platforms that can provide less than full body weight resistance, which is generally desirable when the fingers are not yet strong enough to support the full weight of one's body, and/or one desires to do interval training to fatigue. They may not provide for any manner of changing the geometry or nature of the hold being used into another size, type, or shape. Lastly, they may not easily permit usage from different directions, configurations, or orientations, such as when one desires to train for underclings (grasping from below a feature), from the front, or from the side. However, the foregoing description of potential limitations of known devices/techniques does not require any or all shortcomings must be overcome by the devices, systems, and methods of the present disclosure.

Other equipment may exist that directly exercise the fingers, but not in a manner having mechanics consistent with a particular sport, for example, climbing. So-called grip trainers, for instance, may exercise the fingers by exerting a compressive resistance between the fingers and the palm of the user's hand, whereby the user can squeeze components of the device with the fingers to affect its operation. But this type of training may not incorporate the greater aspect of climbing body mechanics, wherein the climber must use his or her finger strength to support his or her entire or partial body weight through the arms and shoulders, while suspended from climbing structure. Other techniques, such as manually compressing an elastic ball, have similar limitations. However, the foregoing description of potential limitations of known devices/techniques does not require any or all shortcomings must be overcome by the devices, systems, and methods of the present disclosure.

Therefore, what is needed is a portable platform that can be used to perform finger training exercises that incorporate crimp-like or other desired hold geometries, which can be interfaced with an external resistance platform offering variable or static resistance, and which permits utilization in a variety of orientations, configurations, and directions. Moreover, selectively configurable arrangements within the present disclosure provide a flexible training platform to customize training.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a finger strength training apparatus may include a mounting platform and hold feature. The mounting platform may include any of an upper surface, a lower surface, a distal end, a proximal end, a first side, a second side, a first female threaded hole passing through the mounting plate and disposed substantially near the proximal end and off center towards the first side of the mounting platform. The mounting platform may include a second female threaded hole passing through the mounting platform and disposed substantially near the proximal end and off center towards the second side of the mounting platform. The mounting platform may include a third hole passing through the mounting platform and disposed substantially near and central to the distal end of the mounting platform. The hold feature may include any of an upper surface, a lower surface, a top surface, a bottom surface, a first side, and second side, a first counterbored hole passing through the hold feature from the upper surface and disposed off center towards the first side, and a second counterbored hole passing through the hold feature from the upper surface and disposed off center towards the second side. In some embodiments, a first and second bolt may be used to attach the hold feature to the mounting platform, wherein the first bolt may pass through the first counterbored hole of the hold feature and may screw onto the first female threaded hole of the mounting platform, and the second bolt may pass through the second counterbored hole of the hold feature and may screw onto the second female threaded hole of the mounting platform.

In some embodiments, the third hole of the mounting platform may be used to interface with an external resistance apparatus. In some embodiments, a fourth hole passing through the mounting platform and disposed substantially near and central to the proximal end of the mounting platform may be used to attach a custom hold feature. In some embodiments, the side corners of the distal end of the mounting platform may be chamfered. In some embodiments, the mounting plate may be fabricated from metal.

In some embodiments, the top surface of the hold feature may be beveled inwardly towards the center of the lower surface of the hold feature. In some embodiments, the bottom surface of the hold feature may be beveled inwardly towards the center of the lower surface of the hold feature. In some embodiments, the upper surface of the hold feature may be beveled downwardly towards the lower surface on the bottom side of the hold feature. In some embodiments, the hold may have an undefined geometry. In some embodiments, the hold feature may be a commercially available third-party hold. In some embodiments, the hold feature may be made of resin. In some embodiments, the hold feature may be made of wood, metal, or plastic, or some combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the mounting platform and the hold feature may be a single unitary physical body. In some embodiments, the first female threaded hole of the mounting plate may not be threaded, and the second female threaded hole of the mounting plate may not be threaded, and the first bolt may pass through the first hole of the mounting platform and may be secured with a nut adjacent to the lower surface of the mounting platform, and the second bolt may pass through the second hole of the mounting platform and may be secured with a nut adjacent to the lower surface of the mounting platform. In some embodiments, hold features may be attached simultaneously to both the upper surface and lower surface of the mounting platform. In some embodiments, the hold feature may be removably attached to the mounting platform so that it may permit the attachment of a selectable range of hold feature geometries.

While the disclosure has been described with reference to several embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the disclosure without departing from the scope and/or spirit thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this disclosure, but that the disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope and/or spirit thereof.

Claims

1. A finger training system for applying resistance to at least one finger of a user for physical activity, the system comprising:

a resistance load including a resistance cable and a securing member connected with the resistance cable, the securing member configured to secure the resistance cable to apply load to at least one of the user's fingers,

a mounting platform including a mounting body having a load feature for connection with the securing member, the mounting body formed as a plate having a length and including first and second faces disposed opposite each other, the mounting platform including a mounting section and a load section arranged on opposing ends of the mounting body, the load feature including a penetration through the body at the load section configured to receive the securing member therein for transferring force of the resistance load to the body, and

a collection of hold features each selectively attachable to the mounting section of the body of the mounting platform for engagement with at least one of the user's fingers to work against the resistance load, wherein the collection includes at least one basic hold feature and at least one advanced hold feature each forming an engagement platform oriented towards the load section of the body for engagement with at least one of the user's fingers to work against the resistance load, the engagement platform of the basic hold feature having uniform contour along the length direction of the body to provide the user a beginner grip on the basic hold feature.

2. The finger training system of claim 1, wherein the at least one advanced hold feature includes a custom hold feature, the engagement platform of the custom hold feature having non-uniform contour along the length direction of the body to provide the user an expert grip on the custom hold feature.

3. The finger training system of claim 1, wherein the at least one advanced hold feature includes a journeyman hold feature, the engagement platform of the journeyman hold feature having uniform contour along the length direction of the body and sloping away from the load section to provide the user a journeyman grip on the custom hold feature.

4. The finger training system of claim 1, wherein the engagement platform of the basic hold feature slopes towards the load section to provide the user the beginner grip on the basic hold feature.

5. The finger training system of claim 4, wherein the engagement platform of the basic hold feature has a slope towards the load section in the range of about 1 to about 10 degrees from horizontal.

6. The finger training system of claim 1, wherein the mounting body is tapered along the length direction in the load section.

7. The finger training system of claim 1, wherein one of the collection of hold features is secured to the first side of the mounting body.

8. The finger training system of claim 7, wherein another one of the collection of hold features is secured to the second side of the mounting body.

9. The finger training system of claim 1, wherein the resistance cable is a resilient cable and the force of the resistance load includes elastic resilience of the resistance cable.

10. The finger training system of claim 1, wherein the mounting platform is a first mounting platform and the system further comprises a second mounting platform secured to the resistance cable opposite from the first mounting platform.

11. The finger training system of claim 1, wherein the engagement platform of each of the collection of hold features is configured to engage with at least one of the user's fingers for a distance no greater than a length from the tip of the user's finger to the user's distal knuckle to improve the user's fingertip grip.

12. A physical training system for applying resistance to at least one finger of a user for physical activity, the system comprising:

a resistance load including a resistance cable and a securing member connected with the resistance cable, the securing member configured to secure the resistance cable to apply load to at least one of the user's fingers,

a mounting platform including a mounting body having a load feature for connection with the securing member, the mounting body formed as a plate having a length and including first and second faces disposed opposite each other, the mounting platform including a mounting section and a load section arranged on opposing ends of the mounting body, the load feature including a penetration through the body at the load section configured to receive the securing member therein for transferring force of the resistance load to the body, and

a collection of hold features each selectively attachable to the mounting section of the body of the mounting platform for engagement with at least one of the user's fingers to work against the resistance load, wherein the collection includes at least one basic hold feature and at least one advanced hold feature each forming an engagement platform oriented towards the load section of the body and configured for engagement with at least one of the user's fingers to work against the resistance load, the engagement platform of the basic hold feature having uniform contour along the length direction of the body to provide the user a beginner grip on the basic hold feature.

13. The finger training system of claim 12, wherein the engagement platform of the basic hold feature slopes towards the load section to provide the user the beginner grip on the basic hold feature.

14. The finger training system of claim 13, wherein the engagement platform of the basic hold feature has a slope towards the load section in the range of about 1 to about 10 degrees from horizontal.

15. The finger training system of claim 12, wherein the mounting body is tapered along the length direction in the load section.

16. The finger training system of claim 12, wherein one of the collection of hold features is secured to the first side of the mounting body.

17. The finger training system of claim 16, wherein another one of the collection of hold features is secured to the second side of the mounting body.

18. The finger training system of claim 12, wherein the resistance cable is a resilient cable and the force of the resistance load includes elastic resilience of the resistance cable.

19. The finger training system of claim 12, wherein the mounting platform is a first mounting platform and the system further comprises a second mounting platform secured to the resistance cable opposite from the first mounting platform.

20. The finger training system of claim 12, wherein the engagement platform of each of the collection of hold features is configured to engage with at least one of the user's fingers for a distance no greater than a length from the tip of the user's finger to the user's distal knuckle to improve the user's fingertip grip.