Weight Worn On Body Of User Patents (Class 482/105)
  • Patent number: 6371893
    Abstract: A body supported carrying device for increasing the comfort for the weightlifter. The body supported carrying device includes a pair of body supported carrying members each of which includes a base member which is an inverted U-shaped structure and which has an inner side and a pair of spaced extended portions, and which further includes a padded member securely attached to the inner side between the extended portions, and which also includes a weight-lifting bar support member which includes a stub shaft which is pivotally mounted in a top of the base member and which has a longitudinal slot extending through a second end of the stub shaft. The slot is adapted to receive a portion of a weight-lifting bar and the extended portions of the U-shaped structure is adapted to fit about a user's legs and shoulders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Inventor: Dallas L. Redden
  • Patent number: 6314580
    Abstract: Persons who work or engage in activities such as typing, working on a personal computer, sitting at a desk, sitting or standing, conversing on the telephone, working on a machine, or who engage in other activities which require them to remain in fixed nonphysiologic body positions for prolonged periods of time without the benefit of adequate stretching or movement often have poor posture, poor alignment and poor ergonomic body positioning. This poor posture leads to pain, soreness stiffness or other problems in the neck, shoulders, back of the head, back and mid and upper-spine. Persons in need of correct ergonomic body positioning can don a jacket whose novelty is in the angle and placement of the weight-bearing pockets which helps prevent injury, alleviate pain and soreness, stiffness and other problems associated with poor posture, poor alignment and poor ergonomic body positioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Inventors: Barbara L. Greenberg, Jack L. Greenberg, Amie S. Greenberg
  • Publication number: 20010024999
    Abstract: A weighted cuff comprises a casing, a weight insert received in the casing, and a cylindrical spring clip embedded in the casing, the cylindrical spring clip imparting a desired shape to the casing and defining a slot extending along the length of the casing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2001
    Publication date: September 27, 2001
    Inventor: Gunther Pappert
  • Patent number: 6286146
    Abstract: A weighted exercise vest is adapted for wearing on the upper body of a person. The vest has front and rear compartments in which multiple weights may be inserted. The compartments securely hold the weights therein when the wearer is engaged in physical activity. The weight-containing compartments, according to one or more embodiments of the invention, are formed as elongated tubular ribs or pockets and are located across the back, front or sides of the vest. The vest, in a particularly preferred embodiment, also includes a single pocket advantageously located on the upper back portion of the vest, sized to fit other equipment, such as a portable CD or cassette tape player. The outer surface of the weight-containing compartments or pockets is made from elastic material or includes elastic lining or bands to snugly hold the weights or other equipment inserted therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Inventor: Debra Rocker
  • Publication number: 20010019986
    Abstract: Exercise weights and method, regarding belts, handweights, arm weights, ankle weights, and knuckles weights.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2001
    Publication date: September 6, 2001
    Inventor: Arnold J. Cook
  • Patent number: 6279163
    Abstract: A pair of gloves with integral weights on the back of the hand and on the back of the fingers is provided to provide muscle strengthening for specific tasks, such as in practicing a musical instrument. Such use gives the user the perception of lighter hands resulting in quicker hand movement and increased dexterity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Inventors: Christopher L. Hale, Melissa G. Hale
  • Publication number: 20010006926
    Abstract: A pair of exercise discs which will allow the wearer to engage in cardiovascular type exercises. The discs have a smooth, slippery surface on the bottom and a rough, textured surface on the top. In addition, the bottom has a pair of “wings” to prevent sidewise drifting of the discs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2001
    Publication date: July 5, 2001
    Inventor: Claire Schwickrath
  • Patent number: 6244997
    Abstract: Exercise weights and method, regarding belts, handweights, arm weights, ankle weights, and knuckles weights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Inventor: Arnold J. Cook
  • Patent number: 6241641
    Abstract: An exercise device and business method for employing an existing plastic container as the exercise device. The exercise device is an existing plastic container originally used as a container for a conventional consumer product. Upon depletion of the original contents, the container is to be used as an exercise device by filling it with a suitable benign filler to a level of interest in order to establish a desired weight of the container. The container must be one that includes a handle designed for balanced holding thereof. The associated business method involves the application to the container of instructions for the new use of the container as an exercise device and the associated environmental and health benefits related to recycling of the container as the exercise device. Optional demarcation lines may be applied to the container to define specific weight levels as a function of the filler employed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Inventor: Jonathan Sawyer
  • Patent number: 6224517
    Abstract: A weighted flexible exercise device made of a flexible material in an I shape containing a fluid or particulate weight, such device being generally loose and flexible for performing a variety of exercises utilizing its shape as providing both grasping areas and areas which frictionally catch and interact with the user's body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Lisa D. Dereszynski
  • Patent number: 6216926
    Abstract: A combination workout backpack and detachable backpack bag is disclosed in which the workout backpack and one or more standard weighted weight bags are used for training, i.e., building strength and endurance, for hiking. In addition, a detachable backpack bag is releasably attachable to the workout backpack so that the combination thereof, without the standard weighted weight bags, is designed for use as a conventional backpack for carrying various items when hiking. The workout backpack includes two vertically-extending, side-by-side, weight storage compartments which are conformable to one or more weight bags to inhibit horizontal and vertical movement of the standard weighted weight bags when training. A plurality of straps with releasable interlocking buckle clasps releasably attach a vertically-extending central portion, opposite lateral side portions, and a top portion of the workout backpack and to the detachable backpack bag to form an integral unit similar to a conventional backpack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Inventor: Stephen W. Pratt
  • Patent number: 6213920
    Abstract: A weight apparatus adapted to be worn on the shank position of either the arm or the leg and the associated method of attaching such a weight apparatus to the body. The weight apparatus includes at least one weight between one half pound and ten pounds. A biasing device is used to bias the weight against the shank portion of the limb. The biasing device biases the weight in a specific orientation whereby the weight is held against the shank in the region where the predominant bone in the shank is most discernable. By biasing the weight in such a position, there is little muscle or tendons disposed between the weight and the bone. As a result, as the muscles and tendons in the shank are flexed, there is little change in the shape of the surface against which the weight rests. As a result, the weight can be worn comfortably in a manner that does not restrict the natural movements of any muscles or tendons within the limb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Inventors: Dennis Ronca, David Altopiedi
  • Patent number: 6213921
    Abstract: A light weight exercise apparatus includes a support including a first part extending along a portion of the lower arm of the user and a second part extending from the first part and having first and second portions. The first portion is an outwardly curved portion for supporting the wrist and hand of the user and the second portion is a portion extending downward and outward from the first portion to form a retaining portion for further supporting and substantially surrounding the hand of the user. The retaining portion further includes a grip portion attached to and extending across the width of the retaining portion to be gripped by the hand of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Inventor: Mark P. Frey
  • Patent number: 6200244
    Abstract: An apparatus for wearing. The apparatus includes a porous fabric. The apparatus includes padding disposed adjacent the porous fabric. The apparatus includes a rubber coating disposed over the porous fabric and infiltrating through the porous fabric and bonding to the padding. A method for producing a wearing apparatus. The method includes the steps of attaching support wires to a neoprene laminate. Then there is the step of lowering the support wires with the neoprene laminate into a tank of liquid vinyl. Next there is the step of lifting the support wires with the neoprene laminate such that a coating of liquid vinyl remains on the neoprene laminate. Then there is the step of drying the liquid vinyl on the neoprene laminate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Inventor: Arnold J. Cook
  • Patent number: 6200243
    Abstract: User adjustable weight device 10 is worn by a user for applying weight to the user. Weight device 10 comprises a strap portion 12 and weight roll pockets 14. Rolls of weights 16 are inserted into and removed from the weight roll pockets 14 so that a desired amount of weight is controlled, adjusted, and achieved by the user as desired. Weight device 10 further has a fluid containing device 24 with a fluid inlet 26. Fluid containing device 24 receives and holds fluid filled by the user through the fluid inlet 26. Fluid is filled into or removed from the fluid containing device 24 so that a desired amount of weight is controlled, adjusted, and achieved by the user as desired. An audio unit 30 is coupled to the strap portion 12 wherein the audio unit 30 is able to play and/or record information. A storage pocket 40 is coupled to the strap portion 12 wherein the storage pocket 40 stores various items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Inventor: Samuel R. Meranto
  • Patent number: 6196950
    Abstract: An exercise device is disclosed for exercising hamstring muscles, adductor/abductor muscles, quadriceps or gluteus maximus muscles of a user. The device includes a base member having a generally flat upper surface portion adapted to receive and support a bottom of a foot of the user. A back member is attached to the base. A heel yoke is attached to the back and is adapted to receive the heel of a foot of the user. A roller arm mechanism is attached to the back and a roller member is attached to the roller arm. The roller member is adapted to contact a top of the foot of the user to secure the device to the foot. Weight plates may be easily attached to and removed from the device to provide a desired resistance for a particular exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Inventor: Daniel W. Emick
  • Patent number: 6183402
    Abstract: A vaginal weight is provided which includes a tubular portion with a rounded end for enabling smooth insertion into a vagina. Another flat end and/or roughened surface disposed on the tubular portion enables user sensed vaginal resistance during outward movement of the weight in order to cause enhanced facilitation. A method utilizing the weights of the invention provides for exercising and examining the striated musculature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Assignee: Inmedico ApS
    Inventors: Jan Bredgaard Pedersen, Lise Ebdrup, Jens Axelgaard
  • Patent number: 6171220
    Abstract: An apparatus for arranging a free-weight for exercise. A first band of pliable material is constructed into a loop and has a width that permits threading the loop through an opening in the free-weight thereby forming a first loop portion adjacent to the first side of the free-weight and a second loop portion adjacent to the second side of the free-weight. A second band of pliable material has a first end and a second end. The first end is attached to the first band of material and arranged to be attached to the first loop portion of the first band of material. A receiving member is attached to the second loop portion of the first band of material and arranged for attachment to the second end of the second band of material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Inventor: Sean F. Lumpkin
  • Patent number: 6168556
    Abstract: A weight training wrist strap apparatus for use by one with limited or essentially no handgrip strength is provided, the invention comprising a first strap for wrapping around a human wrist which includes a depending strap portion having an attachment clip for connection to weight training equipment. If desired, a second strap is provided for wrapping around the first strap for added stabilization of the first strap when using increased weight resistance. In this manner, all of the weight training force is transferred to the wrist of the user with the result that no gripping of the equipment by the hand of the user is necessary. The second strap may include a thumb loop for anchoring the strap for ease of wrapping the second strap to complete the apparatus-wrapping maneuver. Implementation and use of the apparatus provides for a complete upper body workout wherein increasingly heavier weight resistance without the requirement of gripping strength.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Inventor: Mario Saavedra
  • Patent number: 6165108
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for exercising and improving the muscle tone of the feminine pelvic floor muscles utilizing an elongated vaginal insert having enlarged rounded ends and a substantially reduced cross-sectional middle portion. The ends of the apparatus are of different sizes in order to facilitate different levels of exercise, thus giving the apparatus a disproportional hourglass shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: Dipstop, Inc.
    Inventor: Russell Ralston
  • Patent number: 6152862
    Abstract: A hand-held drink dispenser has a main housing (1) and a parallel second housing (4) that is a handle. Both are attached to a base plate (7) and covered with a funneled cap (13) having a funnel spout (14) that is sized and shaped to fit in a user's mouth to funnel liquid from a plurality of reservoirs (2, 5) in the main housing and in the second housing. A cushiony support (15) between the handle and the main housing helps hold the dispenser in order to relax holding grip for allowing the user to concentrate on physical activities and other concerns. Separate reservoirs prevent sloshing of the liquid and provide measured output from each of a pair of left-hand and right-hand units while also allowing balance of weight of liquid in each hand. Weight-attachment (16) and item-attachment (18, 19, 20) means are optional.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Inventor: John R. Hobbs
  • Patent number: 6152865
    Abstract: A working element, such as a ball (4) is held at a preselected position in front of a user exercising abdominal muscles. The ball is supported (9, 31a, 31b, 44) by a positioning device (6) for positioning lower members of the user. The lower member positioning device includes at least one of a user knee positioning member (11, 15, 74) and a foot or ankle positioning member (10). A frame or other connecting element (21, 22, 40, 42, 61, 71) interconnects the foot and knee positioning elements in a preselected relationship. A flexible or spring mounting (14) or flexible straps (31a, 31b, 44) permit the ball (4) to be resiliently displaced during exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Inventor: Bruno Beauvoir
  • Patent number: 6149555
    Abstract: A variable weight exercise bag to be used by a person for weight lifting and physical fitness. The device includes a flexible main compartment with a resealable opening and convenient handles. The device is designed to hold weight bearing materials which provide the resistance required for physical exercise. The size, shape and materials of construction of the device make it suitable for a wide variety of aerobic and strength training exercises. When the device is empty it is very light and occupies minimal space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Steven R. Kinbeck
    Inventor: Steven Robert Kinback
  • Patent number: 6149557
    Abstract: A soft shoulder weight device comprises an elongated weight bag having a first and second end which rests on the user's chest; the bag is formed from a flexible covering material sewn and shaped to fit across the shoulders and filled with ballast which migrates within the bag to accommodate the physiological make-up of the user. Another embodiment of the invention comprises two elongated weight bags, each of which rides on the shoulders of the user, one end of each bag resting on the chest of the user and the other end resting on the shoulder blades of the user. Each of the bags contains its own ballast, which migrates within the bag according to the physiological make-up of the user. The soft shoulder weight device is inherently self-padding, and additional features of the invention include pockets for the addition of solid weight elements, closures for providing access to the ballast material, and a liner used to provide additional security and complete containment of the ballast material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventors: Lynn E. Williams, Wayne G. Williams
  • Patent number: 6146319
    Abstract: An exercise grip and method for its use in coupling an object such as a handle or a weight to the hand of a user. The exercise grip has a body including a base portion with first and second opposing ends for retaining the handle or weight to the base portion. First and second strap portions are attached to and extend from opposite sides of the body along an axis of the body and are sized and shaped to extend around the back of the user's hand with the first strap portion extending between the thumb and forefinger of the user's hand and the second strap portion passing over the metacarpus region of the user's hand. The first and second strap portions meet and are attached to one another around the user's wrist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Inventor: Tanya Tarail
  • Patent number: 6113521
    Abstract: An exercise belt with compartments for individual exercise bar weights, which is sometimes used with some empty compartments to reduce the exercising effort, the use of elastomeric construction material for each compartment holding by its urgency the bar weights in place, rather than the use of a closure flap over all of the openings of all of the compartments even those that are empty, and being empty are not effective in providing an interengaged loop and hook connection for the closure flap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: Edith Winston
  • Patent number: 6110080
    Abstract: A new therapeutic headpiece for applying a mechanic load to a cervical and upper thoracic spine to promote bone development. The inventive device includes a cap portion dimensioned for receiving a user's head therein. A plurality of sleeves are secured to the cap portion. Each of the sleeves have open opposed ends. The open opposed ends receive weights therethrough for positioning within the sleeves. At least one cover member is provided which is removably attached to the cap portion and has a plurality of tubular sleeves for receiving weights to provide additional weight to the cap portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Inventor: Tsahi Niv
  • Patent number: 6081924
    Abstract: A weighted vest capable of comfortably conforming to the body of the wearer. A top loaded vest is provided which extends over the wearer's thorax but terminates entirely above the wearer's abdomen so that full body movement is permitted and breathing is not restricted. Stretchable shoulder harnesses, or straps, are utilized so that the vest is supported comfortable on the shoulders of the wearer and so that the vest can conform to the body during various full range body movements. A pair of securement straps gird the wearer's chest to ensure that the weights and vest do not bounce or shift during exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Inventor: Patrick M. Ott
  • Patent number: 6068581
    Abstract: A pelvic floor muscle weight training kit includes a casing with a cap and a bottom, a set of weights, and a retaining member mounted on each of the weights. The cap has a first inside thread, and the bottom has a second inside thread. Each of the weights is different in shape and weight and is replaced in the casing individually. The retaining member has a third thread. The first and second threads of the casing are capable of being threaded with the third thread of the retaining member such that each of the weights is retained in a universal casing individually. The pelvic floor muscle weight training kit also provides for a method of testing and/or exercising pelvic floor muscles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Assignee: Timm Medical Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: David William Anderson
  • Patent number: 6052924
    Abstract: A variable weight athletic shoe is described. The athletic shoe may be removably fitted with training weights of varying heaviness or the weights may be left off entirely without damaging the aesthetic appeal or functional aspects of the shoe. Weights of various sizes are quickly and securely coupled to the rear portion of the heel-enclosing section of the shoe with several types of attachment clips and latches. In other variants of the invention, shoe weights are removably attached within cavities in the heel or arch sections of the shoe sole. Weights may also be attached across the instep of the athletic shoe. The shoe weights may be covered in various protective and decorative coverings and may contain lightening holes to achieve the desired weight in a given size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Inventor: Jack M. Sabat
  • Patent number: 6039677
    Abstract: An exercise thigh weight system that includes a sturdy, semi-rigid, and adjustable waist belt, a right leg harness assembly, right leg harness assembly attaching apparatus, a left harness assembly, and left leg harness assembly attaching apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Inventor: David Spletzer
  • Patent number: 6033374
    Abstract: The penile traction device includes a preferably reusable or disposable foam pressure dissipation friction pad having a preferably felt-like backing positioned around the penile shaft for dissipating applied force and frictionally holding the device to the shaft. A weight supporting means has a strap that surrounds and transfers force to the pressure dissipation friction pad. The weight support strap receives force from a selective weight means. A resilient and/or shock absorbing connector can be placed between the weight support means and selective weight means. A two-section weight relief means is also connected to the selective weight means. A handle on the relief means allows the patient or attendant to manually lift all or a part of the weight from the weight support means. The two sections of the relief means are adjustable to vary the overall length of the relief means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Inventor: Stanley J. Miller, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6010438
    Abstract: An adjustable, removable weight assembly for an athletic shoe, each weight assembly comprising: (a) one or two removable, unitary base weight plates, each base weight plate having a pre-determined weight of between about 0.1 and about five pounds, each base weight plate having a top face and a bottom face, a length of between about two and ten inches, and a width of between about one and five inches, each base weight plate comprising at least one attachment for removably attaching each base weight plate to an upper portion of the shoe; (b) up to twenty removable, unitary, stackable intermediate weight plates, each intermediate weight plate having an identical, pre-determined weight of between about 0.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Inventor: Patrick M. Fitzgerald
  • Patent number: 6007461
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Inventor: Edith Winston
  • Patent number: 6000066
    Abstract: The exercise helmet of the present invention includes an outer shell which would preferably be constructed of a sturdy plastic, and an inner shell which would function as an impact absorbing liner. Support plates are provided at the sides of the helmet to support shafts which extend outwardly from the support plates. Weighted plates may be placed on the shafts to provide resistance for exercise when the helmet is worn. A yoke accessory is provided for attachment to a cable of a conventional weight machine, for providing resistance instead of the weighted plates. An adjustable chin strap is provided for securing the helmet more securely to a wearer's head, and for increasing the exercise effect on facial muscles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: Thomas E. Williams
    Inventor: Thomas E. Williams
  • Patent number: 6001049
    Abstract: A light weight exercise apparatus includes a support including a first part extending along a portion of the lower arm of the user and a second part extending from the first part and having first and second portions. The first portion is an outwardly curved portion for supporting the wrist and hand of the user and the second portion is a portion extending downward and outward from the first portion to form a retaining portion for further supporting and substantially surrounding the hand of the user. The retaining portion further includes a grip portion attached to and extending across the width of the retaining portion to be gripped by the hand of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Inventor: Mark P. Frey
  • Patent number: 5997494
    Abstract: An orthopedic appliance that is designed to assist in the reduction of an anterior dislocation, during a course of treatment given to a person who is laying horizontal on a table or similar elevated surface, with the affected arm hanging directly downward. The appliance eliminates the need for a person to grip or in any way consciously hold on to weighted objects, thereby allowing the patient to fully relax during the treatment procedure. The appliance comprises one or more forearm straps which are wrapped around the forearm of the person receiving treatment, where one or more weighted units are attached to the forearm straps, with extending supports so that the weights hang down, so that a direct downward pull on the affected arm is possible. Said weighted units may be attached to the forearm straps using one or more descending loops, in which weights such as dumbbells may be placed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Inventors: Connie S. Watkins, Randall G. Stearns
  • Patent number: 5980397
    Abstract: A weighted device that attaches to a baseball or softball bat for the purpose of increasing the bat's mass during batting practice thereby increasing a persons strength and improving their bat control, ultimately improving their batting average and batting power. The device can be used during the actual practice of hitting a ball. The device can be attached to the bat at various locations along the tapered portion of the bat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Inventors: David Welch Hart, Brian A. Barnabie
  • Patent number: 5967952
    Abstract: A portable aquatic/land weight training system and method comprises a plurality of collapsible weight chamber members. Each of the collapsible weight chamber members includes a pair of flexible end members joined by first and second flexible band members forming a water- and air-tight chamber. The first band member forms an opening through the collapsible weight chamber member. The opening has a diameter D so as to pass a bar therethrough. Each weight chamber has a water valve and water valve closure member for filling the weight member with water and an air valve and air valve closure member for filling the weight chamber member with air. Each weight chamber member has a peripheral edge and the water valve is located near the peripheral edge of the weight chamber member so that the water valve closure member and the peripheral edge can be grasped by a pair of fingers to close the water valve to sealing relation without significant expulsion of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Inventors: Laurie Bronstein, Holly Ann Firuta
  • Patent number: 5960474
    Abstract: Energy conservation or expenditure garments are designed for use by cyclists. The garment includes in one embodiment an air cooling system through use of various air passageways in the energy conservation garment. In another embodiment the energy expenditure garment includes pockets to offer drag or resistance to the user. An indicator may be provided at the back of the hand portion of the garment to indicate some parameter of exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Inventors: Timothy P. Dicker, William T. Wilkinson
  • Patent number: 5957818
    Abstract: A squat rack is provided for supporting a bar of weights on a person's neck and shoulders during a squatting exercise. The squat rack includes a neck member arranged to rest on a base of a person's neck and a back member spaced below the neck member being arranged to rest across the person's back. A pair of shoulder members are connected between the neck and back members near respective ends of each of the members. Each shoulder member extends upwards past the neck member and curves forward following an arc arranged to rest on one of the shoulders to terminate at an end extending downwards. A pair of handles are mounted on the respective ends of the shoulder members. A pair of spacer members extend upwards from respective ends of the neck member for mounting a bar support member thereon. The bar support member extends laterally outwards past the respective ends of the neck member. A pair of clamps are mounted at respective ends of the bar support member for securing the bar of weights thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Inventor: Maurice Betournay
  • Patent number: 5951446
    Abstract: Weighted conditioning garments to help an individual lose weight and/or increase muscle strength and stamina include a plurality of weight members affixed to at least two elongated flexible members formed in the shaped of an article of clothing with a fastening device to securely place the article of clothing upon the individual.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Inventor: Matthew L. Monforte
  • Patent number: 5937441
    Abstract: Weighted suit to be used in athletic training, physical therapy, muscle toning and weight reduction. The suit has a bottom and top that can be adjusted to accommodate the physical characteristics of the wearer, as well as the activity to be performed by the wearer while the suit is worn. The suit also has weighted gloves which may be attached to the sleeve portion of the top of the suit. The suit is constructed from spandex material that accommodates stretch in one direction and resists it in another direction approximately perpendicular to the first. Weight compartments are located about the suit into which weight units may be installed. Variable weight packets may be used to selectively apply different resistance experienced during the user's activity. The weights are located away from the user's joints, and protective components may be integrally included into the suit to cover vulnerable knee and elbow joints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Inventor: Mark T. Raines
  • Patent number: 5938572
    Abstract: A weight resistance exercise training device for placement above the knee, comprising a pair of flexible side compartments containing weight material, a central flexible compartment containing weight material adapted to be engaged across a person's limb and interconnecting the side compartments, whereby the side compartments may depend from the person's limb when the central compartment is engaged across the limb. Each side compartment has an underside with a pocket secured to same and has a flap for releasably securing weights within the pockets. A pair of dowels is embedded within the device at the interconnection between the side compartments and central compartments. A strap is secured to each side compartment underside and provided with fasteners for attachment of the straps together and securement of the device to the person's limb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Inventor: Joanne Spano
  • Patent number: 5935047
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an exercise device which is designed to be worn on the foot of a user. The device is specifically adapted to work in conjunction with a barbell type weight which can be placed upon the device by way of a pair of weight supports. Thus, in its broadest context the present invention includes a footboard which is adapted to be worn on the foot of a user, and a pair of barbell weight supports. The device further includes various straps for securing the footboard to a users' foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Inventor: James D. Cawley
  • Patent number: 5913753
    Abstract: A weight for athletic training is composed of a pliable and tough casing, and a predetermined quantity of metal granules contained in a containing space of the casing. The casing is wrapped by a jacket. A recess in the casing engages a narrow part of the jacket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Inventor: Chin-Fu Ho
  • Patent number: 5893223
    Abstract: A readily removable two piece stretch fabric garment (3) with four pockets (4,5,6,7) for containing weights (4a, 5a, 6a 7a) is attached to the users athletic or conventional shoe (2) for the purpose of exercise, training and/or physical therapy. The weights are contoured to match the shape of that portion of the shoe which they overly and they are secured in their respective pockets by releasable Velcro (R) closures. A durable rubber or vinyl sole (8) connected to the toe portion of the footwear garment grips the toe segment of the shoe and forms a partial under surface for the garment to the shoe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1999
    Inventor: Alvin Glass
  • Patent number: 5888174
    Abstract: A hand held relaxation/exercise device adapted for attachment to a back of a hand via strapping to fingers of the hand and wrist. The device includes a first conical shaped wheel having a first circular base with sloping sides extending upwardly to an apex. A strap connector is attached to a face of the first circular base. The strap connector includes finger strap slots for receiving finger straps therein and a flange for receiving a portion of a wrist strap. The finger straps and wrist strap are used for securing the device to the fingers of the hand and the wrist during an exercise period. The first conical shaped wheel includes a first pivot shaft disposed through the center of the first wheel and rotatably mounted on a first ball bearing mounted inside the first circular base. A second conical shape wheel includes a second pivot shaft disposed through the center of the second wheel and rotatably mounted on a second ball bearing mounted inside a second circular base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1999
    Inventor: Emil Schlee
  • Patent number: 5867826
    Abstract: An energy expenditure/training garment includes a suit having integral resistance panels and a base fabric covering other portions of the suit. The suit includes a body portion, arm portions and leg portions. In one practice of the invention the resistance panels and the base fabric are made of contrasting colors to provide indicating structure of the type of garment. In other practices of the invention various connecting structure is used to connect the resistance panels of the leg directly to footwear such as sneakers, roller blades or boots so that the footwear functions as anchor structure for the panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Inventor: William T. Wilkinson
  • Patent number: 5867827
    Abstract: An energy expenditure garment is in the form of a one piece suit having a neck opening at its top and leg openings at the bottom of its torso section. Size adjusting structure is provided at the neck opening to permit the neck opening to be enlarged from its first wearing size to an enlarged passage size sufficiently large so that the garment may be placed on the user by the user inserting the user's legs, hips and body through the enlarged neck opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Inventor: William T. Wilkinson