Abstract: A device that propels a swimmer to move above or below the water surface allowing it to ascend, dive or turn on its axis is disclosed. It allows great capability of movement in water, due to its control fins. This allows it to be used as a sport, recreational, water use item, such as diving or to equip lifeguards or water rescue teams that need to move at higher speeds.

Abstract: A swim paddle can include a low profile housing body including a hand surface and a water surface. The low profile housing body can further include a longitudinal axis that is parallel to the length of a hand of a swimmer and a transverse axis that is parallel to a width of the hand, wherein the longitudinal axis is longer than the transverse axis, and wherein the hand surface is adjacent to a palm of the hand. The paddle can further include a strap that can secure the low profile housing body with the hand of the swimmer. The swim paddle can further include an electronics package that can be affixed to the low profile housing body.

Abstract: A swim training apparatus for use as a monofin for bilateral undulation power development. The apparatus includes a flexible, elongated member having a series of securing members, such as through-holes extending from the top surface of the elongated member through to its bottom surface, and fasteners configured and disposed to attach to the securing member, such as straps that can extend through the through-holes, to fasten the apparatus to a user's legs. A weight can be attached using similar attachments and fasteners to the apparatus to increase undulation during use.

Abstract: A swim paddle can include a low profile housing body including a hand surface and a water surface. The low profile housing body can further include a longitudinal axis that is parallel to the length of a hand of a swimmer and a transverse axis that is parallel to a width of the hand, wherein the longitudinal axis is longer than the transverse axis, and wherein the hand surface is adjacent to a palm of the hand. The paddle can further include a strap that can secure the low profile housing body with the hand of the swimmer. The swim paddle can further include an electronics package that can be affixed to the low profile housing body.

Abstract: A body board for use by a rider in water includes a buoyant board body defined as having a top rider surface opposite a bottom submerged surface, a front half opposite a rear half, a left half opposite a right half and a board centerline. The board centerline extends from the front section half to the rear section half separating the left half from the right half. A left side riser is disposed on the top rider surface located in the left half and rear half, the left side riser extending above the top rider surface and configured to abut a rider's left rib cage and/or left hip. A right side riser is disposed on the top rider surface located in the right half and rear half, the right side riser extending above the top rider surface and configured to abut a rider's right rib cage and/or right hip.

Abstract: A swim paddle can include a low profile housing body including a hand surface and a water surface. The low profile housing body can further include a longitudinal axis that is parallel to the length of a hand of a swimmer and a transverse axis that is parallel to a width of the hand, wherein the longitudinal axis is longer than the transverse axis, and wherein the hand surface is adjacent to a palm of the hand. The paddle can further include a strap that can secure the low profile housing body with the hand of the swimmer. The swim paddle can further include an electronics package that can be affixed to the low profile housing body.

Abstract: A swimming enhancement device has a frame and a push bar pivotably coupled to the rear portion of the frame. A left end is rotatably coupled to the left portion of the push bar and a left foot pad is pivotably coupled to the left end. A right end is rotatably coupled to the right portion of the push bar and a right foot pad is pivotably coupled to the right end. A propulsion fin is attached to the push bar or to a tail bar distal end of the push bar. A receiver is movably coupled to the front portion of the frame. A body coupling device is attached to or formed as part of the receiver. The body coupling device is configured to removably attach to a portion of a user's body or be held by the user.

Abstract: A kickboard containing a low density member and a high density member, the kickboard having a weight configured that the kickboard does not float on a body of water and does not sink to the bottom of a body of water thereby providing swimmers with greater resistance during swimming as the weighed kickboard requires more force from the user to maintain proper position.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention include a swim fin, including a swivel motion thruster, a tailfin coupled with the swivel motion thruster, a spine rod hingeably coupled via a first hinged coupling with the swivel motion thruster at a first end of the spine rod, a first foot pocket coupled with the swivel motion thruster on one side of the first hinged coupling and a second foot pocket coupled with the swivel motion thruster on an opposite side of the first hinged coupling such that movement of the first foot pocket toward the tailfin results in an arcuate motion of the tailfin about the first hinged coupling away from the first foot pocket, and a belt coupled with a second end of the spine rod opposite the first end, wherein the belt is configured to frictionally fit to a human body.

Abstract: The presently disclosed subject matter relates to a flotation device suited to teach beginner swimming techniques or provide enjoyment in an aquatic environment while providing flotation to at least a portion of the swimmer's body. The flotation device for aiding a swimmer in a body of water may comprise a body formed from an extruded foam and comprising a top surface, a bottom surface, a first side rail, a second side rail, a leading lateral surface, and a trailing lateral surface, and wherein the extruded foam is a flexible cellular foam. The presently disclosed subject matter also relates to methods of making the flotation device.

Abstract: An aquatic exercise device comprising a base arranged to be held in particular with a foot or with a hand, and webbing, in particular corolla-shaped webbing, that is secured to the base and that is suitable for deforming under pressure from the water that is exerted while the device is moving.

Abstract: An adjusting strap is provided. The adjusting strap has a strap body and at least one fastening portion. An end zone of the strap body has at least one fastening hole, which is disposed along the strap body in a lengthwise direction. The fastening portion is disposed on the strap body and located at an inside area adjacent to the fastening hole, the at least one fastening portion is integrally formed with the strap body and extends away from a top surface of the strap body. When the end zone of the strap is bent in reverse, the fastening portion is capable of threading through the fastening hole to be in position.

Abstract: Aquatic exercise system and method for use in a body of water is presented. In particular, the system comprises a sleeve correspondingly disposable in covering relation to at least a portion of a user's appendage, such as an arm or leg, a securing assembly to secure the sleeve to a user, and at least one fin outwardly extending from the sleeve and structured to increase resistance to the user regardless of the particular directional or rotational movement. In some embodiments, the sleeve is further structured to cover an extremity of a user, such as a hand or foot. Further embodiments include a seat assembly connectable to an access pole of a pool or hot tub. The method includes applying an aquatic exercise system to an appendage of a user, submerging the appendage and system, and moving the appendage and system through water in at least one direction to create resistance.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for body surfing which provide the body surfer a means to stabilize his ride and control his direction/position on a wave are described herein. According to one aspect, a body surfing apparatus includes a body suit having a torso and legs; a plurality of fins located on the torso; and one or more fins located laterally on the legs. The fins are preferably attached to the body suit via an adhesive or mechanical means and the fins and suit are preferably covered with a buoyant layer, the buoyant layer having a minimum thickness of 1 mm.

Abstract: A swimming device for a swimmer or diver is described, which has a monofin, a power transfer element for moving the monofin using muscle power, and a fastening device for fastening the power transfer element to the lower legs of the swimmer. The power transfer element has a lower leg section, a foot section, and a fin section. In order to achieve the highest possible propulsion in the water with the lowest possible use of force, the power transfer element flows dynamically, in cross section in the X-Z level with a longer Z axis and short X-axis.

Abstract: A swimming aid is provided that includes an expandable element and a securing element for securing the swimming aid to a user. The expandable element moves between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. The swimming aid is constructed and arranged such that movement through water in a first direction causes the expandable element to move to the expanded configuration and movement in a second direction, substantially opposite to the first direction, causes the expandable element to move to the collapsed configuration.

Abstract: Apparatus, devices and methods of using and operating multiple high aspect ratio hydrodynamic horizontal ladder oriented vanes with pliable hinges and rotation limiting flexible webs that are attached between flexible support beams on swim fins. The fins can have a foot pocket for attaching to a swimmer or diver's foot. A pair of roughly parallel support beams can be secured to the foot and toe portion of the foot pocket and support a plurality of hydrofoil vanes therebetween in a resisted pivotal arrangement. Pivotal rotation of the hydrofoil vanes can be restricted by flexible membranes, between the hydrofoil vanes and the support beams, to provide an optimum angle of attack for the hydrofoil vanes during a swimming stroke. Methods for increasing lift and decreasing turbulence and drag on hydrofoils and swim fins part of the fins.

Abstract: A strap-on swimming fin apparatus configured for removable engagement with a person's limb, the apparatus having an elongate strap with a pair of mutually engagable surface fasteners, the strap configured for secure removable engagement around the limb. An extremity cover, such as a glove or bootie, is joined flexibly to a side edge of the first strap and is configured for engaging an associated extremity, such as a hand or foot. A pair of fins are secured to a top surface of the strap in opposing positions, thereby improving the person's thrust through the water as well as their ability to maneuver, while simultaneously allowing for full unobstructed use and articulation of both the limb and extremity.

Abstract: A swim shoe comprising a foot-covering portion and a pair of lateral fins located on opposing sides of the foot-covering portion, where said lateral fins do not extend beyond the front of the foot-covering portion. The lateral fins may further extend upward from the foot-covering portion and include a bend a particular distance from the foot-covering portion such that the lateral fins extend outward from the foot-covering portion. The swim shoe may additionally comprise a secondary pair of lateral fins located below the first pair. The secondary lateral fins may further extend upward from the foot-covering portion and include a bend a particular distance from the foot-covering portion such that the secondary lateral fins extend outward from the foot-covering portion.

Abstract: An aquatic propulsion device for holding a hand or foot in a desired position, the device comprising a curvilinear support surface and a linking element arranged across the hand or foot joint at a desired angle to secure the joint in the desired position.

Abstract: A water craft or canoe paddle device is provided for one-arm use. The paddle device enables a user to produce power strokes similar to strokes that are achieved with a traditional canoe paddle used by an individual using two unimpaired arms and two unimpaired hands. In one embodiment, one end of the paddle device for one-arm use is fastened to the upper torso, or shoulder area of the user. In a second embodiment, one end of the paddle device for one-arm use is fastened to the biceps area of the user. The design of the paddle shaft enables a user with one unimpaired arm to grasp the shaft of the paddle with their one unimpaired hand in substantially a perpendicular configuration to the shaft of the paddle. The power is achieved because the canoe paddle device for one-arm use design enables the large muscle groups of the shoulder, torso, back, and abdominal muscles to be utilized during each stroke of the paddle.

Abstract: A forward and rearward support assembly each have a vertical fixed post with upper and intermediate apertures and a pair of vertical reciprocable posts with upper and lower and intermediate apertures. Each support assembly has an upper and a lower oscillating plate. Each plate has an upper aperture. An upper pivot pin extends there through and through the apertures of the fixed posts. Each plate has a pair of laterally aligned lower apertures. Each plate has lower pivot pins. The lower pivot pins extend there through and through intermediate and lower apertures of the reciprocable posts. A forward and a rearward cradle and pivot pins couple the cradles and upper apertures of the reciprocable posts.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus and method for training swimmers. The device is a guide (10) of substantially rigid shape. It is used to teach and condition the swimmer's upper body. As a swimmer traces the perimeter of the guide with his arm in a manner as if he were swimming, the swimming techniques of high elbow catch and high elbow stroke path are executed. The device will enable a swimmer to train form in a template like manner. It can also be combined with resistive means to train strength at the same time as training form.

Abstract: A personal floatation apparatus comprising a central body portion, adapted to float in a body of water, with a propulsion structure pivotally coupled to the body having an elongated rod member with upper and lower portions and a fin member pivotally coupled intermediate the respective portions. The upper and lower portions are inversely pivotal relative to each other, wherein when the upper portion is disposed forwardly and the lower portion is disposed rearwardly, relative to the body, and vice-versa. The fin member is adapted to extend substantially perpendicular from the body when the lower portion is moved from the forward to rearward positions, thereby encouraging forward movement of the floatation apparatus caused by water resistance acting upon the fin member. The fin member is adapted to lay substantially parallel to the body when the lower portion is moved from the rearward to the forward position, thereby encouraging continued forward movement in a gliding manner.

Abstract: A swim training apparatus has been designed to help swimmers of any age or any type of experience by teaching the right swimming techniques, correcting their swimming bad habits, and enhancing their swimming capabilities. The apparatus is destined to be used under water in a swimming pool or in a natural basin of water and it consists of a plurality of under water steps which are equipped with reference markers.

Abstract: A personal floatation apparatus comprising a central body portion, adapted to float in a body of water, with a propulsion structure pivotally coupled to the body having an elongated rod member with upper and lower portions and a fin member pivotally coupled intermediate the respective portions. The upper and lower portions are inversely pivotal relative to each other, wherein when the upper portion is disposed forwardly and the lower portion is disposed rearwardly, relative to the body, and vice-versa. The fin member is adapted to extend substantially perpendicular from the body when the lower portion is moved from the forward to rearward positions, thereby encouraging forward movement of the floatation apparatus caused by water resistance acting upon the fin member. The fin member is adapted to lay substantially parallel to the body when the lower portion is moved from the rearward to the forward position, thereby encouraging continued forward movement in a gliding manner.

Abstract: A personal floatation apparatus comprising a central body portion, adapted to float in a body of water, with a propulsion structure pivotally coupled to the body having an elongated rod member with upper and lower portions and a fin member pivotally coupled intermediate the respective portions. The upper and lower portions are inversely pivotal relative to each other, wherein when the upper portion is disposed forwardly and the lower portion is disposed rearwardly, relative to the body, and vice-versa. The fin member is adapted to extend substantially perpendicular from the body when the lower portion is moved from the forward to rearward positions, thereby encouraging forward movement of the floatation apparatus caused by water resistance acting upon the fin member. The fin member is adapted to lay substantially parallel to the body when the lower portion is moved from the rearward to the forward position, thereby encouraging continued forward movement in a gliding manner.

Abstract: A flexible elongate support (1) communicating a singular pliable tailfin (2) at an end is made to flap by upward and downward force from a swimmer's legs and midsection, thereby propelling the swimmer and device in a forward direction. The swimmer inserts legs into rearward lever element (3) and forward cradle (6) which adjustably communicate with elongate support (1) at locations substantially aligning with the feet and thigh areas of a swimmer longitudinally juxtaposed to the device and provide pivot locations about which the swimmer's legs use leverage to forcibly cause tailfin (2) to displace sequentially upward and downward. Flexible elongate support 1 provides a recoil restoring force when distorted from equilibrium during a stroke, which increases efficiency and assists the swimmer in causing tailfin (2) to flap in a manner similar to the action of aquatic creatures such as dolphins and whales.

Abstract: Exercise wings which utilize air resistance to intensify aerobic workouts. The wings are worn on the arms of the exerciser and have major surfaces for displacing air and thereby resisting movement of the arms. In the disclosed embodiment, each of the wings is formed in two sections which can be extended for use and folded together for transportation and storage.

Abstract: Swim gear including a headpiece which covers the forward portion of the wearer's head and supports a pair of spaced lenses therein. A tailpiece which extends rearwardly from the forward portion of the wearer's head and terminates atop the wearer's head. An elastic band member is secured to the tailpiece and extends downwardly across the back of the wearer's head for secured relation with a connector member which is slidably carried on a head-encircling band. The head-encircling band extends around the wearer's head and has its ends secured to the headpiece adjacent each lens. The upper portion of the headpiece includes a surface for support of an appendage thereon. As a novelty feature, the appendage may be configured in the shape of the dorsal fin of a shark. Other configurations may be provided on the appendage, if desired.

Abstract: According to one aspect of the invention an aquatic propulsion device is provided comprising a harness to be worn on the body of a person, at least a first elongate member, and at least a first paddle. The first elongate member has first and second opposed ends and a first grip. The first end is pivotally securable to the harness. The first paddle is secured to the second end of the first elongate member. The first grip is positioned so that a person, when wearing the harness, can reach and hold onto the grip with a first hand and move the first grip so that the first elongate member and the first paddle pivot relative to the harness.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a combination type of floating cylinder for swimming and storing articles comprising at least at least a base floating cylinder, and a secondary floating cylinder, both being with a hollow interior, and a plurality of fins. The surrounding surface of the floating cylinder is provided with at least a dovetailing seat. One end of the floating cylinder is provided with a hook, and the other end is provided with a removable cap body which can be opened and shut for the storage of articles or articles within the interior of the base floating cylinder or the secondary floating cylinder. A plurality of dovetailing seats are provided along the surrounding surface of a cylindrical base, one end of the dovetailing seat being an urging cap which can tightly fasten the dovetailing seats, and the other end of the dovetailing seat is provided with a hook.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus comprising a substantially planar panel having a first major surface, a second major surface, first and second grips for receiving the hands of a user and at least one opening extending through the panel from the first major surface to the second major surface, and a shudder carried by the panel and movable between first and second positions for controlling the size of the opening for controlling the resistance to movement of the panel through a viscous fluid.

Abstract: An exercise device with compartment-housed weights sometimes used without all weights in place, adapted for use in a pool environment by a flap which is held in place over the compartments by "VELCRO" hook and loop fasteners so as to contribute to providing a hermetic seal so that there is nominal seepage of water into empty compartments as might inadvertently add to the weight used for exercise routines.

Abstract: A device for training swimmers includes a swimsuit, one or more drag-creating strips, and fastener(s) for detachably fastening the drag-creating strip(s) to the swimsuit. Each drag-creating strip includes non-porous material forming at least one pocket having a closed bottom, closed sides and an open top. During swimming, water entering the pocket will impact against the sides and bottom of the pocket, thereby creating turbulence. Such turbulence produces resistance to the movement of the swimmer through the water. The layout and number of fasteners allows the drag-creating strip(s) to be attached to the swimsuit in any one of various orientations. Thus, the pockets can be oriented at optimal positions relative to the movement of the swimmer through the water. Moreover, the pockets can be oriented in a manner that isolates a particular muscle group for training.

Abstract: A reusable fist cover which includes a unitary elastic body having a length about half the length of a hand (including the extended fingers) and defining a recess for receiving and snugly enclosing a hand with curled fingers is disclosed. The body has a wrist end and an attached wrist band defining a wrist opening for receiving a wrist. The body includes a distal portion which is spaced apart from the wrist end by a distance equal to about half the length of a hand and which is located generally opposite the wrist opening for closely contacting the proximal sections of enclosed curled fingers. A portion of the body of the fist cover defines an opening through which a thumb can project and which allows the thumb to remain outside the enclosing recess of the body.

Abstract: An apparatus for body surfing and method of making the same are disclosed. The apparatus comprises a garment for covering at least a portion of the torso of the user during use and a rigid outer shell securely attached to a torso portion of an outer surface of the garment. The outer shell is located adjacent the torso of the user during use thereof for providing hydro-dynamic lift for the user while traveling with the forward motion of a wave. The apparatus preferably includes an inner unit locatable adjacent an inner surface of the garment. The inner unit is located between the garment and at least a portion of the user's torso during use. The inner unit provides increased protection for the user and added lift during use.

Abstract: A swimming shoe composed of a shoe body, several water-resisting flanges and an attached swimming-assistance device. The shoe body has the shape of a sandal which has a shoe bottom, a shoe surface, two fixing plates and a fastener. In the vamp of the shoe there are two fixing sets which both have a fixing set and a button to attach the water-resistant flange. In the shoe body, the fixing plate can hold the swimming-resisting device. This new device will not interfere with walking on land and also can be used as an aid to help the swimmer to swim faster.

Abstract: A swimming harness for holding a swimming at a selected location in a body of water such as a swimming pool and giving the swimmer freedom of swimming movement. The swimming harness comprises an elongated integral braided cord having an inner end which is secured to a fixed object located directly adjacent the swimming pool and an outer end which is connected, such as by a belt, to the swimmer. The elongated integral braided cord includes an enlarged section within which is mounted a stretchable resilient solid cord. The resilient cord functions to stretch to substantially eliminate any jerking movements produced by the swimmer during the swimming motion. The enlarged section of cord that surrounds the resilient solid cord is capable of being expanded a limited amount thereby functioning as a stretch limiter for the resilient solid cord.

Abstract: A clothing, such as swimwear and cycling wear, for reducing fluid resistance, air resistance and water resistance, by covering at least one portion adjacent to neck opening, side cuts and back cut of the clothing by means of a patch of a smooth-surfaced, airtight and water-proof sheet made of flexible resin sheet.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved torso wrap member for body surfing. In one embodied form, the unique torso wrap member comprises a plural laterally spaced fin members which are oriented to project outwardly from the front of a body surfer's torso. The fin members extend from a flexible support disposed within the torso wrap member to be worn by the body surfer. The inventive torso wrap provides the surfer with improved buoyancy, stability and control of movement on a wave face. Moreover, the inventive torso wrap member provides the body surfer with the ability to gain maximum maneuverability from large and small waves of varied conditions and further provides for lengthened enjoyable rides of waves.

Abstract: A variable resistance device for use in training a swimmer includes an L-shaped scoop member, a belt and a surface area varying mechanism. The L-shaped scoop member is formed out of a relatively non-reflexible sheet of plastic material and has a support portion and resistance portion. The support portion is substantially a truncated triangle with a top edge and a bottom edge. The resistance portion is substantially a rectangle with a flat surface area, a first edge and a second edge which is contiguous with the bottom edge of the support portion. The resistance portion has a rectangular slot of a first cross-section. The belt is detachably coupled to the swimmer's torso and is hingedly coupled to the support portion of the L-shaped scoop member adjacent to the top edge thereof. The L-shaped scoop member is pivotally coupled to the belt in order not to interfere with the swimmer's stroke. The surface area varying mechanism includes a sliding member, two mounts and a securing mechanism.

Abstract: A flipper-type swimming propulsion aid assembly for attachment to the feet of a swimmer to increase the swimmer's effective foot area. The swimming aid for each foot includes a collapsible frame of generally isosceles triangular configuration having side frame members of substantially equal length which are pivotally joined through a heel plate at the heel end of the frame and a foldable cross frame member joining the free or toe ends of the side frame members. The swimming aid also includes a fabric or plastic sheet web component which is placed over the collapsed frame assembly and thereater the side frame members are separated with the cross frame member opened and extended.

Abstract: A pair of laterally spaced generally cylindrical hollow bodies are provided and connected by a thin connecting flange assembly extending there between and lying along a plane containing the longitudinal center axis of said bodies. One pair of corresponding end walls of the bodies include ingress and egress ports formed therein having removable fluid tight closures engaged therewith whereby the interiors of the bodies may be partially or completely filled with liquid to vary the buoyancy of the bodies. Adjacent portions of the bodies, on opposite sides of the connecting flange assembly, defined outwardly opening channels in which the adjacent portions of the thighs of a swimmer may be seated with the swimmer's thighs seated primarily against the bodies rather than being primarily seated against the connecting flange assembly.

Abstract: A web glove for swimmers, surfers and divers with an optional removable brace.

Abstract: A swim fin having a rigid blade that has the center portion of its leading edge pivotally attached to two beams which project forwardly from the foot pocket. The rigid blade pivots freely for part of its angular movement. The swim fin is designed not to snag seaweed.

Abstract: A swimming aid includes a plurality of tubular members, each tubular member adapted to fit on a corresponding finger of a human hand and which is open at both ends thereof, and web-like members extending between adjacent ones of the tubular members.

Abstract: A swimming harness for holding a swimmer at a selected location in a swimming pool, yet giving the swimmer freedom of swimming movement. The swimming harness comprises an elongated member, the inner end of which is attached to a fixed exterior object and the outer end of which is connected to a belt which is to be located about the waist of the swimmer. A resilient section is located between the inner and outer ends of the members to provide a limited amount of stretching movement.

Abstract: A combined swimming aid and lifesaving device in which a buoyant harness for encircling the swimmer's torso comprises a plurality of releasably interconnected portions for selective use of one or more parts of the harness to obtain desired buoyancy, and a plurality of separate inflatable buoyant devices are releasably attached to the harness at spaced locations thereon to impart greater or lesser buoyancy to the device for providing desired buoyant support to the swimmer to maintain the swimmer in horizontal position in the water. Attaching points are on the harness for securing a lifeline thereto, and the inflatable buoyant devices remain slack when inflated so that they are able to undulate during use to reduce drag through the water.