Abstract: This invention relates to health and fitness and more particularly to exercise methods and devices. This invention is directly related to strengthening the muscles between the shoulder blades associated with poor posture, without the use of the hands. The exercise apparatus comprises two adjustable fabric loops connected to a rubber loop. The user slips one arm into each fabric loop pulling the device up to rest on the back of the upper arms with the rubber loop resting across the front of the body just above chest height. User then contracts the shoulder blades together and down which creates resistance on the rubber loop strengthening the muscles between the shoulder blades.

Abstract: A joining member is positioned between the seat and the body in a stationary bike with a seat aligned with the front of the bike body. An extending member projects upwardly from the joining member at an angle that is less than about 30 degrees in relation to the joining member and rearwardly with at least a portion of the extending member being positioned behind the seat rear portion; and a crossbar projects from the extending member essentially perpendicularly to joining member to form a handlebar for providing support for the arms of a rider when the arms are positioned behind the body of the rider. The seat is connected to the body upper surface with an essentially vertical supporting member. The joining member includes a bore for receiving the supporting member.

Abstract: The present invention is a dynamic wall squat machine which assists the user to perform the exercise safely and more effectively by the ability to scale the exercise with empirical resistance. The dynamic wall squat machine assists the user to load and use wall squat exercise dynamically with three types of scaled resistance and in a safe way. The limited length of the back pad allows the user to get a natural healthy and safe extension of the lower back during the wall squat exercise. The upper back portion is supported by the back pad, while the lower portion can move naturally. The dynamic wall squat machine of the present invention provides a more comfortable, effective, and safe movement for the dynamic or static wall squat exercise, especially when the user adds resistance to the exercise which can be loaded and used safely.

Abstract: A stationary exercise device having variable footpaths is disclosed. The exercise device includes a frame, a pair of supporting members that have a first end to rotate about an axis and a second end to move along a reciprocating path, a pair of pedals joined to the supporting members, and a guider assembly for adjusting an incline angle of the reciprocating path.

Abstract: A multi-axis adjustable exercise machine which is pivotable about both a pitch axis and a roll axis with respect to a base for allowing an exerciser to perform a wide range of exercises on a pitched or rolled exercise machine. The multi-axis adjustable exercise machine generally includes an exercise machine which is adjustable with respect to a base. The exercise machine may be pivoted about a roll axis to adjust the roll angle of the exercise machine or may be pivoted about a pitch axis to adjust the pitch angle of the exercise machine. One or more actuators may be connected between the base and the exercise machine to effectuate the pivoting of the exercise machine about either or both axes with respect to the base.

Abstract: A lifting and folding mechanism for treadmill includes a base, a platform, a lifting mechanism, and a linkage mechanism. An armrest rack and a control panel are assembled at the base. A front end of the platform is pivotally assembled with the armrest rack. The lifting mechanism includes a supporting rack and a driving device. One end of the supporting rack is pivotally assembled with the platform, and the driving device is connected between the supporting rack and the platform for driving the supporting rack abutting against the ground, so that the platform is lifted and the slope of the platform is changed. The linkage mechanism is connected to the base and the platform. The linkage mechanism is in a connection state or a disconnection state. In the connection state, the base is connected with the platform, and the base is lifted upward with the lifting of the platform.

Abstract: A back exercise machine includes: a resistance element; a user support; a first movement element, the first movement element having: a column; and a first connecting element having a pivot point such that the user support is able to pivot about a first axis associated with the first connecting element, wherein the first connecting element is movably coupled to the column such that the first connecting element is able to move along a path defined by the column; and a second movement element, the second movement element having: a rail; and a second connecting element having a pivot point such that the user support is able to pivot about a second axis associated with the second connecting element, wherein the second connecting element is movably coupled to the rail such that the second connecting element is able to move along a path defined by the rail.

Abstract: An exercise machine includes: a resistance element; a user support; a first movement element coupled to the user support, the first movement element comprising: a first column; and a first connecting element comprising a first pivot point such that the user support is able to pivot about a first axis associated with the first connecting element, wherein the first connecting element is movably coupled to the first column such that it is able to move along a first path; and a second movement element coupled to the user support, the second movement element comprising: a second column; and a second connecting element comprising a second pivot point such that the user support is able to pivot about a second axis associated with the second connecting element, wherein the second connecting element is movably coupled to the second column such that it is able to move along a second path.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame with at least 3 vertical legs and transverse cross braces connecting the legs. The frame also has a horizontal cross-section of at least 3 sides. Horizontal platforms are coupled to a first side of the frame and transverse to a first pair of the vertical legs. The horizontal platforms have a stepped configuration such that an upper platform is recessed compared to a lower platform. Horizontal bars are coupled to a second side of the frame and transverse to a second pair of the vertical legs. The horizontal bars have a stepped configuration such that an upper bar is recessed compared to a lower bar. The surface area of each of the horizontal platforms is at least 3 times greater than the surface area of each of the horizontal bars.

Abstract: In a first aspect, a method for monitoring a golf swing is provided that includes coupling a mobile telephone to a golf club and employing the mobile telephone coupled to the golf club to monitor acceleration of the mobile telephone as the mobile telephone swings while a user swings the golf club, collect acceleration information based on the monitored acceleration of the mobile telephone as the mobile telephone swings, analyze the collected acceleration information to determine one or more characteristics of the golf swing based on the collected acceleration information, and output information regarding the one or more characteristics of the golf swing on the display of the mobile telephone. Numerous other aspects are provided.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure help to synchronize multiple video segments of an actor or actors performing athletic maneuvers. Among other things, various embodiments help provide a side-by-side visual comparison of athletic maneuvers.

Abstract: A method and system for tracking physical metrics in an electronic networking system is disclosed. According to one embodiment, the physical metric tracking system comprises a data registering unit that receives activity data by a user, a data processing unit that validates the activity data using a plurality of data validating algorithms and converts the validated data into a convertible value, and a storage that stores the activity data and the convertible value. The convertible value is traded with goods and services, or any other benefits in the social commerce system.

Abstract: The present disclosure discloses a position changeable sensor which includes a main body and an attaching member. The position changeable sensor is disposed on an exercise equipment, and the main body is disposed in a selectable position on the exercise equipment. The main body includes at least one gravity sensor. The attaching member is disposed on the main body, and the attaching member is removably attached to the exercise equipment and the main body.

Abstract: Provided is a method and apparatus for evaluating an exercise capability, the method including monitoring a heart rate of a user, setting a detection area to measure an exercise capability of the user based on the monitoring and body information of the user, and detecting a feature point for evaluating the exercise capability from the detection area.

Abstract: In a first aspect, a method is provided that includes the steps of (1) providing a monitor for determining a level of exercise performance performed by an exerciser and for outputting a signal representative of the performance level; (2) using the monitor to measure a level of exercise performance performed by an exerciser; (3) outputting from the monitor a signal representative of the performance level; (4) providing a video game having a character, the video game inputting and being responsive to the performance level signal output by the monitor, the video game using the performance level signal to control a performance level of the video game character; and (5) while the exerciser is not exercising, controlling a performance level of the video game character based on a performance level signal output by the monitor.

Abstract: An all-in-one smart console, which is a self-contained unit, includes a control module for controlling an operation of the exercise machine, a command system operatively linked to the control module for receiving exercise related information from the exercise machine and data from the portable wireless communication device, and a fitness analysis module operatively linked to the control module for collecting exercise related information of the exercise machine and generating an exercise result based on the exercise related information.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides an aquatic exercise and flotation apparatus comprising a handlebar for maneuvering the apparatus, a flotation cylinder positioned on the handlebar and encompassing the handlebar by way of a hollow center, a first fin positioned at the first longitudinal end of the handlebar, and a second fin positioned at the second longitudinal end of the handlebar.

Abstract: In a multi-piece solid golf ball having a core, a cover and an intermediate layer therebetween, letting Hc be the JIS-C hardness at the core center, H12 be the JIS-C hardness at a position 12 mm from the core center and Ho be the JIS-C hardness at the core surface, the core has a hardness profile which satisfies the conditions 0?H12?Hc?15, 15?Ho?H12?30, (Ho?H12)?(H12?Hc)?10 and 20?Ho?Hc?40. Also, letting A be the value represented by (Ho?H12)?(H12?Hc), the spin index of the ball, defined as the dynamic coefficient of friction for the ball multiplied by A, is at least 3.0. This golf ball can satisfy at a high level the flight and control performance relied on by professional golfers and skilled amateurs.

Abstract: A golf ball including a dual core comprising an inner core having a first outer surface, a geometric center, and a soft transition region adjacent to the outer surface, and an outer core layer having a second outer surface disposed about the inner core. An inner cover layer and an outer cover layer are formed over the core. The second outer surface is greater than the first outer surface to define a dual core overall positive hardness gradient of about 25 Shore C to 35 Shore C and has a secondary gradient quotient, GQ?, defined by the equation: 6 ? G ? + T 10 × COR ? 7 where G? is the overall positive hardness gradient in Shore C, T is the percent of trans-polybutadiene isomer at the core outer surface, and COR is the coefficient of restitution measured at an incoming velocity of 125 ft/s.

Abstract: A substantially spherical hollow body, having a diameter of from 37 mm to 45 mm, in particular a diameter of 39.7 mm to 40.75 mm, and a weight of from 2.5 g to 3.5 g, in particular a weight of 2.6 g to 2.85 g, comprising a shell and an inner hollow space, wherein the shell has a wall thickness of 0.2 mm to 1.3 mm, in particular 0.3 mm to 0.8 mm, characterized in that the shell is free of celluloid and comprises at least one styrene-containing copolymer.

Abstract: A “reduced-gravity” training ball that allows the user to more easily react to the ball's movement and accelerating skills than a regulation ball. A training system may be provided to coach the user through a series of drills and fitness exercises with the ball. The training ball may come in several weights that train the user by gradually using heavier balls that have more “gravity.” In one embodiment, a training ball has a lightweight inner bladder with an inflation port, and an exterior layer that covers the inner bladder. The exterior surface may be provided with lines, indentations, graphics and/or other features that improve the performance of the ball and/or that replicate some or all of the characteristics of the exterior surface of the regulation ball it simulates.

Abstract: A fitness ball has first and second hemispheres, which are connectable to form a complete sphere. The first hemisphere supports a motor having a pair of rotatable eccentric masses at opposite ends of a common drive shaft. The second hemisphere supports a rechargeable battery pack, electronic circuitry and indicators LEDs. The electronic circuit controls the charging of the battery pack and also selectively provides electrical power from the battery pack to the motor to control the rotational speed of the motor to rotate the eccentric masses. The rotating eccentric masses cause vibrations that are communicated from the motor to the two hemispheres. The vibration frequency is controlled by the rotational speed of the motor. The hemispheres have outer covers having a configuration that is easy to grip such that the vibrations are communicated to a users hands. The ball is substantially balanced about an equatorial plane.

Abstract: An electronics enclosure assembly includes: a housing having a convex side and a concave side opposite the convex side; at least one electronic device arranged within the housing; and a mounting stem having at least a shank portion extending from the concave side of the housing for connecting the housing to a valve of a needle-inflated ball. A support spans an interior of the housing for transferring an impact force around the at least one electronic device. Upon connecting the housing to a valve of a needle-inflated ball by insertion of the shank portion of the mounting stem into the valve, the housing resides outside of the ball.

Abstract: A leather-based cover material for an inflatable sports ball that consists of a composite of a thin external layer, a filler, and an internal liner. The thin external layer is dimpled by using positive/negative embossing plates to create pebble projections on an exterior side and voids on the other or interior side. The interior side is coated with a filler material that fills the voids. The cover material is completed by attaching a liner layer to the cured filler material.

Abstract: A golf ball holder device has a concave body made of a yieldably bendable material. The concave body is arcuate in shape both length-wise and width-wise so as to define an interior surface forming an interior cavity and an opening to the interior cavity through which a golf ball can be inserted into or removed from a snug gripping hold by the interior surface on the golf ball within the interior cavity of the concave body.

Abstract: Embodiments of golf clubs with adjustable lie and loft and methods of manufacturing golf clubs with adjustable lie and loft are generally described herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.

Abstract: A golf club incorporating a club head having a stress reducing feature located at least partially on the sole.

Abstract: Golf club heads with patterned face plates described herein. Other examples, embodiments and related methods are also disclosed herein.

Abstract: A pocket for a golf bag includes a main body defining a storage compartment. The pocket includes a first attachment mechanism movable between an attached state attaching the main body to a first attachment location of the golf bag and a detached state allowing the main body to be separated from the first attachment location. The pocket also includes a second attachment mechanism movable between an attached state attaching the main body to a second attachment location of the golf bag and a detached state allowing the main body to be separated from the second attachment location. The pocket includes a carry mechanism operable to allow the main body to be carried separately from the golf bag when the first attachment mechanism is in the detached state and the second attachment mechanisms is in the detached state.

Abstract: An accessory bag for a main bag is provided and may include a main body extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end. The main body may be movable between a collapsed state having the first end disposed proximate to the second end and an expanded state having the first end separated from the second end. The accessory bag may further include an attachment device associated with one of the first end and the second end that selectively attaches the main body to the main bag.

Abstract: An adjustable training golf tee is provided. The adjustable training golf tee may include a top body, a stem and a base. The top body may have a first side and a second side, wherein the second side forms a concentric threaded recess, wherein the first side forms a concentric stem aperture communicating the first side to the threaded recess. The stem may have a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is dimensioned and adapted to rest a golf ball thereon. The base may include a threaded flange and a spike perpendicularly joined thereto, wherein the threaded recess is dimensioned and adapted to rotatably mate with the threaded flange, and wherein the stem aperture is dimensioned and adapted to be slidably receive the stem secured to the base.

Abstract: The subject invention discloses a base-less, low-resistance driving range golf mat tee for supporting a golf ball when used in combination with a typical driving range golf mat. The base-less, low-resistance driving range golf mat tee is comprised of a tubular shaft member with a distal end extending upwardly and terminating at its proximal end at its proximal end top surface. The proximal end top surface of the tubular shaft member comprises a plurality of holes oriented around its circumference, from which a multiplicity of bristles or other low-resistance support means are affixed and extend upwardly to provide circular support for a golf ball. The tubular shaft member is received into the top side hole opening of a typical driving range golf mat and has a circumference that is fractionally smaller than that of the opening to assist in the retention of the shaft member in the opening.

Abstract: A training device for use with sporting equipment, such as bats and clubs, is provided. The device can include a main body defined by a perimeter sidewall and can include two openings defined through the body. The perimeter sidewall can have rounded end regions and flattened top and bottom regions and can be sized to accommodate two openings large enough to receive a user's fingers. The device can be used by inserting the index finger on one hand through the bottom opening and the little finger of the opposing hand through the upper opening. The user can then align the user's knuckles to the desired grip and grip the bat or club handle. The device can then assist the user in maintaining the proper grip of the bat or club handle while holding and swinging the bat or club.

Abstract: A baseball bat handle grip has an inside surface and an outside surface configured into a tubular body. A top portion houses a plurality of finger channels and finger ridges. A back end of the grip is concave and covers convex interior surfaces of a baseball bat knob when the grip is mounted onto the bat. Two longitudinal edges are parallel to each other and are positioned on a bottom portion of the grip to expose a portion of the baseball bat handle when mounted on the bat. The longitudinal edges are tapered to conform to the curved aspects of the bat handle. To remove the grip, a user's thumbs are inserted into two opposing cut-out grooves on a front end of the grip and pushes the grip up and off the bat handle.

Abstract: A grip or cover for a sporting-good implement, such as a ball bat, includes a knob portion generally positioned around a knob of the bat, and a handle portion generally positioned around a handle region of the bat. The handle portion may be formed from a material that is harder than the knob portion. The knob or part of the handle region may include a grooved surface to engage with the grip to help retain the grip to the bat. In some embodiments, a method of manufacturing a bat or other sporting-good implement includes positioning a portion of a handle or knob in a mold and providing an elastomer in the mold to cover the portion of the handle and knob. In some embodiments, different portions of the elastomer may be cured at different temperatures to provide different material properties, such as different degrees of hardness, to those portions.

Abstract: A sports training device for pitching and throwing has a ball core and a cover material. The core member defines a passageway extending through the ball core and also defines an anchor recess into a surface of the ball core. The anchor recess is aligned with and communicates with the passageway. A cloth member has a geometric shape with at least one corner and defining an attachment portion and a body portion extending away from the attachment portion. The attachment portion extends through the passageway and is attached to an anchor member sized to be received in the anchor recess. A cover material is installed over the ball core with the body portion of the cloth member extending through a cover opening and out from the ball core.

Abstract: The invention is an exercise apparatus providing an advanced level of surfboard paddling simulation and muscle development. The design includes a specialized platform, unique hand harnesses, and cable systems with mechanical advantage and mass moment of inertia mechanisms, piston pumps, cable spools, and elastic elements. They allow the user to simulate paddling in an alternating or simultaneous sequence at any speed while strong elastic tension resists the user's thrust strokes, but during paddling return strokes the user feels no elastic tension or resistance. The design also prompts the user to engage and strengthen all dorsal muscles to maintain an appropriately arched body position while paddling.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a golf putting device is described which comprises a cuboid tube body filled with cement and either capped at both ends or painted at both ends. The golf putting practice device enables the golfer to practice stance alignment, stroke mechanics, directional guidance and reading surface contours. The golf putting practice device is portable, easily moveable and position able for use with every stroke. Proper use of the device allows the golfer to learn how to assess the results of a stroke and, through trial and error, teaches the golfer how to select the best stroke path.

Abstract: A ball net structure arranged to be portable, collapsible, and provide the required structural support to receive or capture a projectile, such as but not limited to a soccer ball or baseball. The ball net structure comprises a support portion, first and second extensions, a first bracket pivotally coupling the first extension to the support portion, a second bracket pivotally coupling the second extension to the support portion, first and second flexible rods removably coupled to the support portion, and a net received by at least the first and second extensions and received by at least the first and second flexible rods. The net is configured to bend the first and second flexible rods from a linear state to an arcuate state, such that a net tension holds the net upright.

Abstract: A dental appliance apparatus is disclosed herein. In various aspects, the dental appliance may include a body removably attachable to one or more teeth selected from premolars and molars, and a flange extending forth from lingual portions of the body to contact a tongue at one or more locations proximate the premolars and the molars in order to cause a contraction of the genioglossus that positions the tongue anteriorly and downward toward the mandible by stimulation of the hypoglossal nerve. The dental appliance may include a connector connected to the body, and the connector may pass about buccal-labial sides of the anterior teeth. A bumper may be included on a labial side of the connector, and the bumper may contact the lips to promote pursed lips breathing. An anterior flange may extend lingually from the connector to stimulate the hypoglossal nerve proximate a tip of the tongue in order to cause contraction of the genioglossus to position the tongue anteriorly and downward toward the mandible.

Abstract: Provided is a locking mechanism for a ski-binding, the locking mechanism comprising only one lever adapted to be pivoted between an engaged and a disengaged position. The lever further comprises at least one lug, the at least one lug adapted to engage with a notch formed in a mounting plate in an engaged position, and wherein the lug is adapted to hold the lever in a non-sliding manner when engaged with the notch. Explicitly, the locking mechanism does not comprise a second lever. Also provided is a ski-binding comprising only one locking mechanism, or adapted to receiving only one locking mechanism, and a mounting plate for use with the locking mechanism, and ski-binding.

Abstract: A snowboard binding includes a baseplate configured to secure to an upper surface of a snowboard a high back and straps secure to the baseplate. A drive plate is secured to the upper surface of the baseplate and has a stiffness effective to change ride properties of the snowboard. The drive plate may include a laminate structure including one or more composite layers such as fiberglass, carbon fiber, aluminum, or titanium. A carriage may mount the drive plate to the snowboard and may define a recess for receiving the drive plate. Tabs may extend from the lower surface of the carriage and engage corresponding apertures in the baseplate. The tabs may have hooked end portions to secure the carriage to the baseplate.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system having: packages (2) of shuffled playing cards (1s) in which playing cards included are shuffled in random order and are individually packed in one package (2), and in which a unique ID code (4) is attached to each unique package (2); a game table (11); a storage box (401) that is installed beside the game table (11), stores the plurality of packages (2), includes a reader (451) that reads the ID codes (4) of all the packages (2), and includes an openable lid (452a, 452b) so that the packages can be taken out one by one; and a control device (112) for monitoring whether or not the packages (2) are present in the storage box (401) by monitoring the ID codes (4) of the packages (2) read by the readers (451), and for outputting monitoring results.

Abstract: A redundantly printed security-enhanced document, printing method and system are provided for ensuring the meaning of the information imparted by variable indicia printed on documents with removable scratch-off coatings by the redundant printing. By printing the variable indicia with multiple colors, redundancy and integrity of the intended indicia is achieved. Additionally, inverted color indicia countermeasures to pinprick attacks are also disclosed. The redundantly printed document, methods and systems enhance the overall appearance of the redundantly printed document, and reduce the consequences possibly resulting from misprinted variable indicia.

Abstract: A structure building game includes a stanchion and a number of curved pieces. Each of the pieces has a curved body in the shape of a half circle, and has a slot. During the game, a first one of the pieces is placed on the stanchion by engagement of the slot, then additional curved pieces are added, one at a time, at any location on any previously added one of the curved pieces. The object is to take turns amongst players coupling the pieces together, wherever and however each player desires. If an added piece causes the structure to fail, whereby one or more pieces comes in contact with the base or with the playing surface, then the game is over. To improve gripping, the pieces can include a coating such as rubber, and/or can have surfaces that are roughened, grooved, and/or ribbed.

Abstract: A videogame includes a peripheral device that senses the presence and identity of a physical object near or on the peripheral. The physical object includes multiple identification components, for example, RFID tags. The identification components correspond to one or more videogame states and can be used to conduct gameplay.

Abstract: A joystick cover configured to attach to a joystick of a video game controller is disclosed. The joystick cover has an elastomeric body for attaching to an analog joystick of a video game control, as well as a cover that is attached to the elastomeric body. The joystick covers may have a top surface made of the materials used in fabricating sporting equipment such as that to make footballs, soccer balls, and baseballs for example. The joystick covers are made of a plurality of components which are readily interchangeable and may be adapted to match the specific video game being played. The joystick covers may be customized to include a logo or display multiple colors to match a color scheme associated with a professional sports organization.

Abstract: A both-handed game controller having grips is provided. A stick is provided at each of an upper left position and an upper right position viewed from a front surface of the controller, so that a player is allowed to operate the sticks with his/her thumbs when the player holds the grips. A direction key and a plurality of first type operation buttons are provided at positions inside the sticks, so that the player is allowed to operate them with the thumbs. Further, a second type operation button is provided between the two sticks, and a third type operation button is provided between the direction key and the plurality of first type operation buttons. Further, fourth type operation buttons are provided at both ends of an upper surface of the controller, respectively.

Abstract: A social gaming system includes a user device and main screen which communicate with a server via a network. Users download apps to play games on their user device when the user device is located in an establishment having a main screen. Various games can be played by a user using only the user device. Information concerning game play within the establishment, such as leader boards and game events, is displayed on the main screen. Users are awarded points for playing and/or winning games. The points can be redeemed for various awards such as free or reduced price food and beverages.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an interactive movement detection system applicable to articles of clothing that allows a user to interact with virtualized controllable environments such as the graphical programming environments of personal computers and/or those generated by video game consoles. Similarly, the system of example implementations of the present disclosure allows feedback of actions to the system in the form of impulses that generate pressure and/or vibration sensations that simulate interaction with elements of the controllable interface.