Abstract: The present invention relates to a swimming assistance mechanism and, more specifically, to a swimming assistance mechanism that is attached to the arms and increases a propulsion effect by increasing resistance against water via an action like that of the fins of a fish when paddling with the arms for propulsion, so as to assist in enabling easier swimming. The swimming assistance mechanism of the present invention is characterized by comprising: a main body fixed between the palm and the elbow; and a fin foldably installed on the outer surface of the main body.

Abstract: A holding device for using gym equipment for the purpose of muscle building training. The holding device has a handle part and a bracket, and the hand of a person using the holding device can be inserted between the handle part and the bracket. The hand side of the handle part is convexly curved with the exception of local depressions and/or perforations, and parts for releasably securing a dumbbell plate can be releasably secured to the lower face of the handle part. The hand side of the handle part has four groove-shaped depressions which are dimensioned and spaced from one another such when using the holding device as intended with a hand placed on the hand side, each finger is positioned in a respective depression of the groove-shaped depressions with the exception of the thumb.

Abstract: A training aid to correct arm position during the pulling phase of butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke, or crawl also referred to as freestyle, when swimming. The disclosed tool provides physical pressure to correct a common swimming error. Said tool prevents medial rotation of the glenohumeral joint of the shoulder rotator cuff during the catch and pull portion of swimming.

Abstract: A towable watercraft including a body member having a tow-rope hitch coupled to a front portion thereof and first and second elongated stabilizing members extending beyond an aft portion of the body member is disclosed. The stabilizing members may be coupled to the hitch or an intermediate portion between the stabilizing member may be retained about a circumferential portion of the body member, wherein first and second end portions of the first and second elongated stabilizing members having corresponding stirrups are laterally movable away from, and back toward, each other.

Abstract: A system and method for two swimmer wings designed using biomimicry and inspired by winged creatures/birds of flight as well as the fore flippers of a sea turtle. The swimmer wings are designed for users to traverse long distances instead of relying on personal watercrafts or boats to not only help sustain the environment by reducing the carbon footprint but also provide physical exercise to improve the user's well-being. The swimmer wings include a board, an arm guard which shields the user's forearm, and arm fasteners that secure the user's forearm between the board and the arm guard.

Abstract: A swim paddle training device is provided. The swim paddle may include opposing upper and lower sides or surfaces; front, rear, left, and right edges extending between or bounding the upper and lower sides; and a plurality of surface features arranged to facilitate proper movement of the swim paddle during swim training. The plurality of surface features may create areas of varying buoyancy to affect the orientation of the swim paddle during swim training, such as promoting a forward, downward, and inward pathway or rotation of the swim paddle during use. The plurality of surface features may include a plurality of grooves defined within at least the lower surface of the swim paddle.

Abstract: A safety, rescue, and recovery device that compressively secures to a limb of a user when inflated. The device can be easily adjusted to be negatively buoyant, neutrally buoyant, or positively buoyant before inflation depending on whether the application is safety, rescue, or recovery. The device may also be integrated into an article of clothing for certain applications. An elongated handle is attached to the device to provide a sliding attachment point for a rescue rope that automatically reduces torque applied to the limb of the user. Consequently, a rescue force applied to the rescue rope can act at a variety of angles along an arc relative to the device.

Abstract: The invention relates a body fin for aiding in maneuvering a swimmer through water. The body fin comprises an upper body member adapted to be attached around sections of a human forearm, upper arm, shoulder, back and waist. The body fin also includes a lower body member that can be attached around a human waist, thigh, and ankle. The lower body fin includes a flexible fin having a first area contoured with a front side of the waist, thigh, and ankle and a second area extending away from the first section and the surface of the thighs and ankle. The upper body member also includes a first flexible fin extending from the surface of the forearm and a second flexible fin extending from the surface of the upper arm, shoulder, and waist, the ends of the first flexible fin terminating substantially at the surface of the sections.

Abstract: A robotic mechanical fin, having a motor housing containing a plurality of rib rotation motors, rib spars, and a plurality of ribs, mechanically movable and communicatively coupled to the plurality of rib rotation motors and shafts, where the plurality of ribs are rotationally coupled to and actuated by the plurality of rib rotation motors and shafts. The mechanical fin further includes a flexible fin casing, within which the ribs reside, forming the complete actively controlled curvature robotic propulsion and steering apparatus. The mechanical fin is connected to a plurality of control electronics circuits and a computer processor programmed with actuation code that when executed by the computer processor causes automated actuation of simultaneous propulsion and steering maneuverability of the actively controlled curvature, robotic, mechanical fin.

Abstract: A robotic mechanical fin, having a motor housing containing a plurality of rib rotation motors, rib spars, and a plurality of ribs, mechanically movable and communicatively coupled to the plurality of rib rotation motors and shafts, where the plurality of ribs are rotationally coupled to and actuated by the plurality of rib rotation motors and shafts. The mechanical fin further includes a flexible fin casing, within which the ribs reside, forming the complete actively controlled curvature robotic propulsion and steering apparatus. The mechanical fin, is connected to a plurality of control electronics circuits and a computer processor programmed with actuation code that when executed by the computer processor causes automated actuation of simultaneous propulsion and steering maneuverability of the actively controlled curvature, robotic, mechanical fin.

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: The invention is a forearm device for use with swimming that comprises housing and a plurality of flippers that are capable of rotating to a perpendicular direction when in the water and parallel with the housing when out of the water. The invention is designed to further propel the swimmer. The flippers and housing may be made of a lightweight material that is buoyant.

Abstract: A device for use in swimming comprising an elongate elastic member for positioning on the posterior forearm of a swimmer's arm, a first attachment means for attaching one end to a distal portion of the arm near the hand or wrist of the swimmer, and a second attachment means for attaching the other end to an intermediate portion of the arm near the swimmer's elbow. The device vibrates and creates turbulence on the posterior side of the forearm, enabling the swimmer to modify his or her stroke to maximise the generated turbulence, encouraging correct stroke technique.

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: 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 device can be attached to either the legs or to the arms of a swimmer and produces resistance to swimming whereby the swimmer increases muscle strength and/or technique using the device. There are several forms of the device which offer different amounts of resistance and the device can be worn on either the swimmer's arm or the swimmer's leg.

Abstract: A swim stroke trainer apparatus and method includes providing a forearm paddle adapted to be connected to a swimmer's forearm to promote a downward motion of the hand and forearm and a bicep/tricep float adapted to be connected with a swimmer's upper arm to promote an elevated elbow.

Abstract: An aquatic propulsion device includes an elongate member, a forearm support secured to the elongate member, a grip secured to the elongate member, and a paddle secured to the grip. The grip is positioned such that a person may place their forearm in the forearm support and reach and hold onto the grip. While wearing the aquatic propulsion device, the person may perform power and/or return strokes using their forearm and hand, such that the forearm support, the elongate member, and the paddle move in tandem with the forearm and hand. The aquatic propulsion device is characterized by a center of water displacement that extends beyond the hand, away from the forearm.

Abstract: An aquatic propulsion device includes an elongate member, a forearm support secured to the elongate member, a grip secured to the elongate member, and a paddle secured to the grip. The grip is positioned such that a person may place their forearm in the forearm support and reach and hold onto the grip. While wearing the aquatic propulsion device, the person may perform power and/or return strokes using their forearm and hand, such that the forearm support, the elongate member, and the paddle move in tandem with the forearm and hand. The aquatic propulsion device is characterized by a center of water displacement that extends beyond the hand, away from the forearm.

Abstract: Swimming Aid System with a pair of arm paddles, a pair of ankle paddles, each the paddle removably secured by adjustable nylon straps and associated snap closures, each the paddle capable of rotating about a central axial plane, each the paddle molded of high density polypropalyne plastic or the like, and each the paddle capable of remaining on the users arm or ankle without conscious holding effort on the part of the user. A preferred embodiment includes wherein said leg paddles are affixed to the users ankles, said paddles having a narrower portion where said paddle contacts said ankle and wider, paddle portions to each side of said narrow portion.

Abstract: An aquatic propulsion device includes an elongate member secured to a forearm support and a paddle. The paddle and elongate member include a grip positioned such that a person may place their forearm in the forearm support and reach and hold onto the grip. While wearing the aquatic propulsion device, the person may perform power and/or return strokes using their forearm and hand, such that the forearm support, the elongate member, and the paddle move in tandem with the forearm and hand. The aquatic propulsion device is characterized by a center of water displacement that extends beyond the hand, away from the forearm. Additionally, a leading edge of the paddle is substantially inline with the hand and forearm.

Abstract: A swimming aid that includes a support panel fastened to an arm and/or leg with two movable fins extending along the panel. The fins are configured so that when a swimmer is moving his or her limb in a power stroke, the fins will pivot outwardly to increase the width pushing against the water, increasing swimmer efficiency and speed. During the recovery stroke, the fins pivot back against the limb, reducing the resistance to limb movement. A strap extending through slots in the support panel and the fins serves to hold the assembly to the swimmer's limb while providing the pivot line and the extent to which the fins will pivot during a power stroke. Several different arrangements of support panel, fins and strap path may be used. In one embodiment a further top member of flexible material is secured over the fins opposite the support panel.

Abstract: Exercise devices in the form of gaiters and gloves for use during exercising in water, particularly in “deep water” with the user in generally vertical orientation. The devices are form fitting, resilient so as to preclude inadvertent injury during use, and adaptable for use by young and old, the physically fit, the lame or somewhat infirmed. When not in use, the devices are generally oval in cross-section. During use the devices conform to the user's arms and/or legs and provide a snug fit for precluding or minimizing slipping and misadjustment and provide a buoyant force on the order of two to ten pounds, more or less; a force of approximately three to six pounds is about right for a young adult lady.

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: A weight distribution and support device for use on an unstable support surface includes attachment means for engagement with the lower end of a ski pole and a support base, or umbrella, adapted to be opened and closed. The support sturcture has a plurality of support spines radially extending from the attachment means, and a covering which surrounds and is supported by the spines. When in its opened state, the support base or umbrella engages the surface of the snow, thereby allowing the user to lean upon the upper end of the ski pole, exerting a downward force upon the support base, and gaining stability when standing up in deep snow or other unstable conditions. The support device preferably includes a strap or other means secured to the outer covering to maintain the device in its closed state during transport and storage, or to allow the user to wear the device on his hand, without the need for a ski pole. The device may also be used as a support stand for equipment in sand or snow.

Abstract: A device to aid in paddling through or upon water. The device comprises a flexible cover, at least one flexible flap and an insert located in each flap.

Abstract: A swimming instructional and training aid comprising a combination floatation and positioning member adapted to encircle or attach to a body joint of the extremities, i.e., the knee, ankle/foot, elbow and wrist/hand joints, the member being relatively rigid yet retaining some flexibility and configured to restrictively maintain the body joint in a preferred angular position as determined by proper swimming technique, the member being comprised of a buoyant material whereby the body joint is lifted to the surface of the water when the member is in place.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved swimming aid wherein the aid comprises a fin (2) which is flexible and adapted in use to be fitted to a portion of the anatomy of the user, for example, the shin (4). In use the fin (2) overlays the portion of the anatomy of the user and extends outwardly towards or beyond both sides of that portion which it overlays, such that during the power stroke of the user said fin (2) extends outwardly towards or beyond both sides of the portion of the user to an extended position (18), but during the return stroke the fin member (2) adopts a substantially collapsed position (17) to reduce drag by the flexible fin.

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 fin assembly for assisting a body or body board surfer in steering comprises a fin member of vane-like, generally planar shape and a securing device for securing the fin member to the limb of a surfer so that the fin projects generally downwardly into the water from the undersurface of the surfer's body. Preferably, oppositely directed right and left hand fin members are provided for securing to right and left hand limbs, respectively, of the surfer. The fin member has an enlarged base from which the fin projects, and the securing device is designed to secure the base against the appropriate limb so that the fin projects generally outwardly.

Abstract: A multi-fin aquatic exerciser comprises a main or caudal fin that is strapped to the dorsum of the user's hand or foot. A plurality of secondary fins are attached to the caudal fin and have a spatial configuration that provides significant flow resistance independent of the direction of the user's stroke. The multi-fin exerciser is used in conjunction with specific aquatic exercises providing a complete workout which is especially useful for athletic training, swimming, physical therapy, and shaping, toning, strengthening or enlarging specific muscle groups.

Abstract: A flotation device for use by swimmers and which is to be positioned over a user's upper arm in encircling relation therewith, includes at least one extension that extends in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the flotation device, and which can be grasped by a supervisor in the event of an emergency.

Abstract: A floatation device for use by swimmers and which is to be positioned over a user's upper arm in encircling relation therewith, includes an extension adapted to extend over the shoulder of the swimmer to stabilize the device against slippage longitudinally of the user's upper arm, and another extension that can be grasped by a supervisor of the swimmer in the event of an emergency, the respective extensions being formed contiguously with the floatation device.

Abstract: A swim weight sleeve system for use in aquatic exercises and training applications by swimmers is disclosed. Sleeve (1) includes a rubberized sleeve material (2) containing an adjustable quantity of weights (3) and adapted to snugly fit around the forearms and/or calves of a swimmer. Sleeve (1) is adapted to stretch over the hand or foot of a swimmer and retract to substantially its original size to provide a snug fit conforming to the shape of the forearm or calf of the swimmer. Securing straps (5), provided at each end of sleeve (1), ensure a secure fit of the sleeves. A wrap-around weighted sleeve (6) and a non-weighted sleeve (10) that absorbs water to serve as weight during swimming are also disclosed.

Abstract: A flotation device worn on the ankle and a related method for its use. The device is a sleeve of resilient, cellular material providing only small buoyancy, but because the device is located at a relatively great distance from the body's center of buoyancy, it has the effect of maintaining the swimmer's legs in a near-horizontal floating position, even if the person does not float naturally in this position. Use of the device greatly facilitates the teaching of floating and survival techniques to beginning swimmers, and various swimming strokes to all swimmers.

Abstract: A swimming aid includes a pair of curved molded plastic armbraces together with a pair of removeable straps for securing the curved armbraces to the forearm of a swimmer. A pair of substantially planar fin members are pivotally attached to the armbraces by means of a hinge combination which includes pivot limits to restrict the pivotal motion of the fin members between an outwardly extending position and a rearwardly extending collapsed position. Stop members are provided for altering the collapsed position of the fin members to increase the effort required of the swimmer during the return stroke.

Abstract: A swimming apparatus consisting of a generally cylindrical main body which is hollow and in which the front portion and rear portion are constructed and positioned in a streamlined fashion. The interior of the hollow, generally cylindrical main body is divided into a plurality of water-tight air chambers by a plurality of partition walls integrally fixed to the interior sides of said body. A diamond shaped face plate is affixed to the front underside portion of said body and extends outwardly therefrom. Attached by a hinge to the face plate is a pivotally mounted flange. The back and forth movement of the flange is somewhat restricted by wedge-shaped movement restricting members mounted on the underside of the face plate in front of the pivotally mounted flange and by wedge-shaped space maintaining members affixed to the back side of the pivotally mounted flange itself.A wall extends downwardly from both sides of the generally cylindrical body behind the face plate.

Abstract: A hydrodynamic stroke builder has a specially configured aquatic hand section and forearm section with fins to progressively strengthen a person's arms, shoulders, chest and back. The hydrodynamic stroke builder can be interchangeably used by men, women and children alike and permits a wide range of movement with controlled amounts of fluid resistive forces, torque and torsion underwater. The stroke building consists of a hand engaging section which is either flat or convex and which has holes therein so that the user's fingers can readily grasp the hand engaging section. The forearm section conforms to the shape of the user's forearm and has V or U shaped fins extending therefrom to provide the proper resistance when the device is being used. The stroke builder can also include an upper arm section similar in design to the forearm section. The various sections are connected together by way of hinges.

Abstract: A one-handed paddle having a blade portion, a hand-grip portion and an arm brace portion. The arm brace portion has a resilient member which releasably grips the forearm of a user to maintain the arm brace portion in contact with the forearm of the user during use of the paddle.