Abstract: Provided are systems and methods for an exercise mechanism including: a base for a user to sit or stand on; a track arranged near the base; at least one handle bar comprising a handle and a paddle blade attached to the track so as to allow sliding movement alongside the track; and a resistance mechanism to provide resistance as the user moves the handle bar in a selected motion depending on the user's exercise goals.

Abstract: The invention relates to an exercise device for use by a user on a selected surface material comprising a grasping member having a first end and a second end, a first tool head mounted to the first end of the grasping member and a second tool head mounted to the second end of the grasping member. Each of the first tool head and the second tool head has sufficient structural rigidity to be interacted with the surface material without significant deformation whereby a user can perform exercises upon the selected surface material by physically interacting the first tool head and second tool head with the surface material.

Abstract: The present invention is to provide an exercise equipment with dual fans for changing fluid resistance, which includes a housing, two fans and two driving members. The housing forms a receiving cavity therein for receiving fluid. Each fan includes a shaft pivotally provided at a central position of the housing and driven by a driven wheel and a plurality of vanes each fixedly provided on the periphery of the shaft and received in the receiving cavity. The driven wheels can drive the corresponding vanes to rotate about the corresponding shafts, thereby causing the fluid in the receiving cavity to form vortices. The driving members are movably provided outside the housing and connected with the corresponding driven wheels respectively by a link assembly. When the driving members are pushed or pulled, the link assemblies drive the corresponding driven wheels respectively and thereby drive the shafts to rotate with the driven wheels.

Abstract: A method and a device are disclosed for improving performance in sports where a swinging motion is needed. In some embodiments, a swing resistance device may be attached to or be built into elongated sport apparatus, such as racquets, clubs, bats, sticks, and the like, configured to resist a swinging motion of the sport apparatus by capturing air and utilizing a force of air resistance, similar to a parachute. The swing resistance device is generally attached to the elongated sport apparatus by coupling components that allow the swing resistance device to freely rotate around the effective longitudinal axis of the elongated sport apparatus. During a swing, air resistance creates dynamic forces that over time may improve swing power and path.

Abstract: The present invention includes a treadmill system including a support platform, a liquid tank, and a lift support structure connected to a treadmill assembly by a lifting mechanism. In general, the liquid tank and the lift, support structure including the treadmill assembly move horizontally relative to and independent of one another along the support platform to position the lift support structure away from or about the liquid tank. In addition, the treadmill assembly moves vertically relative to and independent of the lift support structure using the lifting mechanism to lower or raise the treadmill assembly within an interior of the liquid tank or exterior of the liquid tank. More importantly, the combination of the horizontal movement and the vertical movement of the treadmill assembly permits a mammal to step onto the treadmill assembly before the treadmill assembly is raised and then lowered into an interior of the liquid tank.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an ergometer which is particularly suitable for examining a test person or patient in a magnetic resonance apparatus. It comprises at least one drive means which is provided essentially movably and at least one pneumatic piston/cylinder array. The drive means is provided at the piston or the cylinder and pneumatically applied pressure between the piston and the cylinder constitutes a resistance or force to be overcome by the test person or patient by operating the drive means. The resistance or the force necessary to set the drive means in motion, particularly during operation, can be controlled and/or regulated and the piston and the cylinder are sized such that an air cushion is formed between them at least during operation or when they move relative to each other.

Abstract: An air management system that allows safe and convenient forms of interval training exercise to be performed on pneumatically elevating rebound exercise equipment. The system includes at least one air intake valve and bleed valve. By providing repeatable degrees of difficulty for both air intake and air release from the extendable air springs employed for the exercise, competitive athletes and their coaches can design, employ, repeat, and compare individualized medium- or high-intensity interval protocols for optimal cardiovascular training programs.

Abstract: A pneumatic exercise foot pad device includes two primary tubes and a secondary tube disposed between left and right foot pads having air chambers. The primary tubes intercommunicate fluidly the foot pads in proximity to front and rear ends of the foot pads. The secondary tube intercommunicates fluidly central portions of the foot pads. A shell is disposed between the left and right foot pads to cover the primary and secondary tubes. Two adjustment screw rods extend respectively through screw holes formed in the shell to press or unpress the primary tubes so that the primary tubes block or unblock an air flow between the foot pads.

Abstract: An exercise device (10) is provided with a twist cap (14) spaced apart from a base cap (12) with a resistance assembly (52) therebetween. The resistance assembly (52) includes a spring (20), a rotating member (26) that rotates with the twist cap (14), and a translating member (30) threadably engaged to the rotating member (26) and configured to variably deform the spring (20) due to rotation of the twist cap (14) in order to adjust the resistance level. An annularly pleated sidewall (16) and a vent means (18) may be included to provide a further resistance means. The exerciser compresses the twist cap (14) towards the base cap (12) to experience both compressive and bending resistance.

Abstract: A method and a device are disclosed for improving performance in sports where a swinging motion is needed. In some embodiments, a swing resistance device may be attached to or be built into elongated sport apparatus, such as racquets, clubs, bats, sticks, and the like, configured to resist a swinging motion of the sport apparatus by capturing air and utilizing a force of air resistance, similar to a parachute. The swing resistance device is generally attached to the elongated sport apparatus by coupling components, such as bearings, that allow the swing resistance device to freely rotate around the effective longitudinal axis of the elongated sport apparatus. During a swing, air resistance creates dynamic forces that over time may improve swing power and path.

Abstract: The invention provides an exercise apparatus containing a compressible member, which provides physical instability and improves core muscle development in an exercising person. In addition, the invention provides an article of clothing containing a compressible member or material which provides physical instability to a person performing active or passive exercise.

Abstract: An exercise facility may be part of a water ride. The exercise facility may be coupled to a water amusement system. An exercise facility may include a body of water that assists or resists movement of a participant between stations or apparatus in the facility. Exercise stations may be at least partially submerged in the body of water. Exercise apparatus may float on or be coupled to structures in the body of water. A participant may move from station to station, or apparatus to apparatus, by swimming, floating, traveling underwater, walking or jogging in the body of water, or using a conveyor. A system for providing exercise may include a processing unit that processes information relating to exercise by a participant and a display for displaying information to the participant while the participant is at the exercise stations.

Abstract: A method and a device are disclosed for improving performance in sports where a swinging motion is needed. In some embodiments, a swing resistance device may be attached to or be built into elongated sport apparatus, such as racquets, clubs, bats, sticks, and the like, configured to resist a swinging motion of the sport apparatus by capturing air and utilizing a force of air resistance, similar to a parachute. The swing resistance device is generally attached to the elongated sport apparatus by coupling components that allow the swing resistance device to freely rotate around the effective longitudinal axis of the elongated sport apparatus. During a swing, air resistance creates dynamic forces that over time may improve swing power and path.

Abstract: A descent apparatus (1) including a housing (3) with a liquid conduit (4) therethrough and a float (8) constrained within the liquid conduit (4) and capable of slideable movement along a first path between an upper and a lower position. A moveable element (6) is located outside the liquid conduit (4) and is slideably coupled to the housing (3). A mechanical connector (9) physically connects the movable element (6) to the float (8) such that in use, the liquid conduit (4) contains liquid and the position of the float (8) is variable by applying a force to the movable element (6) and wherein the slideable movement of the float (8) along a first path produces a corresponding movement of the moveable element (6) outside the housing (3) along a second path co-axial, or parallel with the first path.

Abstract: The invention provides an exercise apparatus containing a compressible member, which provides physical instability and improves core muscle development in an exercising person. In addition, the invention provides an article of clothing containing a compressible member or material which provides physical instability to a person performing active or passive exercise.

Abstract: An aquatic exercise device is provided that has a body made of foam that extends 360° about an axis and at least partially defines a central aperture that extends through the axis. The body has an inner half with an outer surface oriented generally towards the central aperture. The body has an outer half with an outer surface oriented generally away from the central aperture. The entire outer surface of the outer half is convex in shape, and the outer surface of the inner half is convex in shape along an arc length of at least 270° of the inner half of the body about the axis. A ledge extends from the inner half and at least partially defines the central aperture.

Abstract: A substantially hollow exercise and rehabilitation device is disclosed, and is useable by athletes and others in training and/or rehabilitation sessions to develop stronger and more precise movements. A user typically stands in a pool of water approximately chest-deep and moves the device through the water in an approximation of a proper swing for a sport, or in a motion designed to rehabilitate or strengthen one or more muscles or muscle groups. The device includes holes that tend to minimize turbulence that a solid device would generate, yet provides both resistance and good haptic feedback to the user. The holes are adjustable in size to provide variable resistance. These features develop or redevelop strength and consistency in the user's movement. Analogous training benefits are obtained for many activities, such as batting, golfing, and tennis, and for rehabilitation and strength training using devices in the shape of tools and other instruments.

Abstract: A combination unit for hydrotherapy and exercise having a rubber dampening pad containing pre-drilled holes for the interchanging of exercise devices such as treadmills, bicycles, and elliptical machines. The unit has stairs for rear entrance and a clear splash guard for safe use indoors. The unit has a seat with shoulder and back jets located behind the seat, stability bars and a control panel. The control panel provides temperature control, aquatic jet flow, exercise equipment control and controls for MP3 players and the like. The unit has a water motor for driving certain exercise equipment.

Abstract: An in-water training and rehabilitation device capable of individually training and rehabilitating an objective muscle of forearms at home with ease is provided. The in-water training and rehabilitation device according to the present invention is an in-water training device 10 that is held with a hand and moved in water for the purpose of strengthening a desired muscle of, mainly, forearms, and includes a substantially planar resistance part 14 whose area is variable and a plurality of handles 13 of different kinds. In the present invention, the plurality of handles 13 of different kinds may be constantly fixed to the resistance part 14 as in (d) or may be adapted to be replaceable as appropriate through an attaching and removing mechanism.

Abstract: Floatable chair devices, apparatus, systems and methods of using the chair having buoyant material in the headrest as well as the arm rests to provide for a stable floatation platform that would suspend the user to “lounge” or relax or engage in various exercises. The chair can be adjusted by moveable and extendable outrigger floats and/or a head rest, Parallel sideway extending gripping handles can provide the ability to maintain control of the chair and prevent the user from drifting out of the chair during various rigorous exercises. The seat can incorporate unique features to hold the user in place to facilitate the various exercise and prevent “drift” out of the chair yet not secure the individual to the seat in a way that would prevent rapid separation from the device in case of capsize or a compromised position that could increase the risk of drowning. The chair can be easily maneuvered around a swimming pool by kicking with the legs or propelled forward or backward by arm movements.

Abstract: A pneumatic exercise foot pad device includes two primary tubes and a secondary tube disposed between left and right foot pads having air chambers. The primary tubes intercommunicate fluidly the foot pads in proximity to front and rear ends of the foot pads. The secondary tube intercommunicates fluidly central portions of the foot pads. A shell is disposed between the left and right foot pads to cover the primary and secondary tubes. Two adjustment screw rods extend respectively through screw holes formed in the shell to press or unpress the primary tubes so that the primary tubes block or unblock an air flow between the foot pads.

Abstract: A unique rope-pulling exercise apparatus that includes a support structure, a continuous rope, and a means for applying resistance to the force applied on the rope by the user, as the rope is pulled in either direction.

Abstract: To provide a pressure muscle strength increasing apparatus that allows accurate adjustment of the degree of blood flow restriction when a pressure muscle strength increasing method is carried out. The pressure muscle strength increasing apparatus is comprised of a tight fitting device 100, a pressure setting segment 200, quantification segments 300, and a control segment 400. The tight fitting device 100 is wrapped around a predetermined range on a limb. The tight fitting device 100 has an air-tight gas bag. The compression force applied to the limb can be varied by supplying the air to and removing the air from the gas bag. The pressure setting segment 200 controls the supply and removal of the air into and from the gas bag. The quantification segment 300 is intended to be rest on the limb which the tight fitting device 100 is wrapped around on the distal side thereof to quantify a quantification target that varies depending on the increase and decrease of the compression force.

Abstract: A rolling resistance producing apparatus is tethered to trail behind a person includes a longitudinally aligned fabric panel stretched on a frame which also engages the rear end of an elastomeric band that is stretched through a sheath formed in the panel to engage a harness tied to selected limbs of the person to provide resistance thereto. The trailing end of the frame is supported on a wheel to follow the person as she or he are moving. A measurement system sensing the movement of the wheel then records the rate of the movement to provide an indication of fatigue.

Abstract: A muscle toning kit includes an exercise garment having a first resistance article and a second resistance article. The first resistance article and the second resistance article cooperate to facilitate the exercise of at least one muscle group of a user. The first resistance article is adjustable to provide a range of user selected resistance levels, while second resistance article has another range of user selected resistance levels so that as the user maneuvers the exercise garment, its adjustable pressure opposing structures facilitate the toning and conditioning of the at least one muscle group of the user. The method includes wearing and deforming the exercise garment from its original shape through natural extension and flexing actions of the user to facilitate providing a resistive force to condition the at least one muscle group of the user.

Abstract: An flexible elongated device for use in human exercise routines or as an implement having an elongated pultruded plastic rod or rods fitting loosely within a plastic tube. At least one of the rods is rectangular in cross section and the tube may be covered by a soft foam plastic sleeve. The rod may be produced by the pultrusion process.

Abstract: An automatic weight stack controller for fitness units adapted to a frame provided with weights piled up is disclosed, wherein the weights are provided with central vertical holes having inner circular grooves and a tube fit into said central holes, said tube being provided with radial holes disposed at the level of each weight wherein balls are housed, so that said balls can be pushed towards the grooves by a piston that slides vertically inside the tube, having conical ends and threaded on a vertical threaded bar centrally to the tube, where there is an eyelet for the steel cable designed to raise the weights, the selection of weights being carried out through a panel of instruments, with a digital display, and buttons to increase or decrease the number of weights.

Abstract: Principles of exercise machine construction, an exercise machine, components of an exercise machine, and methods related to exercising on or constructing an exercise machine that allows for the performance of multiple different exercises, where the user utilizes related arcs of an arm with a fixed path of motion for the different exercises. Generally the arcs will be utilized for both pull-type exercises and push-type exercises and/or for diverging and converging exercises.

Abstract: A multipurpose exercise machine comprising a compact movable frame, a large diameter pulley and a plurality of novel low friction vacuum springs for generating a force is disclosed. The vacuum springs are comprised of two rigid end pieces that are movable relative to each other. A flexible membrane couples the two rigid end pieces to each other and encloses a hermetically sealed region in between the movable bodies and the flexible membrane. A user operating the machine exerts a force that pulls the two end pieces are apart which forms a vacuum that opposes the motion.

Abstract: A hydraulic exercise machine system comprises one or more hydraulic cylinders, a mechanism coupled to at least one of the hydraulic cylinders, and a sensor assembly. Displacement of the mechanism by a person exercising on the hydraulic exercise machine displaces pistons of the hydraulic cylinders relative to the cylinders. The sensor assembly is to sense displacement of a piston relative to its cylinder over time.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an underwater exercise and physical therapy device for joint release and spinal adjustment wherein a tube is worn on a user's upper body and weights are worn on the user's feet in a water tank having a predetermined depth wherein his feet are spaced apart from the bottom surface thereof to carry out underwater exercise and physical therapy by using the buoyant force of the tube and the gravity of the weights, thereby enabling his joints to be released, making his muscles reformed, and further adjusting and preventing his spinal diseases.

Abstract: A pump assembly includes a cylinder, a piston, a rod, upper and lower end caps, all sharing a common central axis. The cylinder has internal and external surfaces. The piston has a cylindrical exterior surface with an annular groove. An O-ring within the groove is in sliding contact with the internal surface of the cylinder. The rod has a lower end coupled to the piston and an upper end above the cylinder. The lower end cap is over the bottom of the cylinder and the upper end cap is over the top of the cylinder. An aperture in one of the end caps allows air to escape as the piston moves. A handle has a cross piece with a central section attached to the rod. The handle has grips slidably received over end sections. A rigid base has an upper face having a central section. A pivot pin joins the base to the lower end cap for allowing the cylinder to oscillate during use of the system.

Abstract: A muscle training apparatus arranged for cyclic concentric and eccentric loading phases including load imposition means arranged for a user to exercise against load variation means arranged for varying the load as between concentric and eccentric loading phases, a vibrator operational to apply vibration between the user and the load, a controller operational to control the vibrator and to vary the extent of vibration as between concentric and eccentric phases.

Abstract: A user repeats a right and left swaying motion while holding a movable body in which a resistance force is generated by tension of an elastic member, hydraulic pressure, pneumatic pressure, or the like, between his/her two legs, thereby efficiently strengthening, particularly, abdominal muscles, such as rectus muscles of an abdomen, external abdominal oblique muscles, and transverse abdominal muscles, erector muscles of a spine, or iliopsoas muscles, and strengthening various kinds of abdominal and lumbar muscles with an easy motion without laying burden on a waist, unlike the motion of making a user's upper body stand or lie down, which is conventionally seen. A machine trains various kinds of abdominal and lumbar muscles, by a movable body being held between the user's two legs and is swingably journalled to a base plate.

Abstract: An exercise device has two reciprocating arms, each provided with pneumatic or other fluid resistance. The angular orientation of the two arms is limited to one of 0, 45, 90, and 180 degrees. Adjustments are made by loosening a complementary fastener, moving the arms to the desired angular orientation, and then tightening the complementary fastener. Mating projections and recesses prevent movement of the arms relative to each other once the angular position is set.

Abstract: Resistance training exercise apparatus includes a poppet load system. During movement of a user-engaged exercise member in a first exercise direction, fluid flows past an open poppet in a first flow direction between housing chambers. During movement of the user-engaged exercise member in a second exercise direction, fluid flow between the chambers is blocked by a closed poppet, and instead fluid flows through an auxiliary passage through a one-way valve. Ballistic training is enabled with the addition of a second auxiliary fluid passage, second one-way valve, and a release valve.

Abstract: A liquid weight system for a bench press and for stations of a home gym comprises barbells and having hollow portions and expandable disc-bladders which are weight adjustable by means of a utilization of varying levels of liquid supplied from a liquid tank system. The instant abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

Abstract: An apparatus for use in exercising in water, preferably deep water running, includes a shoe that is configured to be worn by the user. The shoe includes a plurality of drag-generating elements attached to and extending from each side of said shoe for generating drag forces on the shoe during movement in water. The drag-generating elements generate more drag for movement of said shoe in a rearward direction than in a forward direction and are sized and positioned to simulate the forces on the user's foot arising from land-based running.

Abstract: A substantially hollow exercise and rehabilitation device is disclosed, and is useable by athletes and others in training and/or rehabilitation sessions to develop stronger and more precise movements. A user typically stands in a pool of water approximately chest-deep and moves the device through the water in an approximation of a proper swing for a sport, or in a motion designed to rehabilitate or strengthen one or more muscles or muscle groups. The device includes holes that tend to minimize turbulence that a solid device would generate, yet provides both resistance and good haptic feedback to the user. The holes are adjustable in size to provide variable resistance. These features develop or redevelop strength and consistency in the user's movement. Analogous training benefits are obtained for many activities, such as batting, golfing, and tennis, and for rehabilitation and strength training using devices in the shape of tools and other instruments.

Abstract: The disclosed device is directed toward a golf swing exercise device comprising a body having a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The body includes a resistance section between the first and second ends. A first coupling element is coupled to the body proximate the first end. A second coupling element is coupled to the body proximate the second end. The first coupling element and the second coupling element are configured to rotatably couple the body to a golf club shaft.

Abstract: A multipurpose exercise machine comprising a compact movable frame, a large diameter pulley and a plurality of novel low friction vacuum springs for generating a force is disclosed. The vacuum springs are comprised of two rigid end pieces that are movable relative to each other. A flexible membrane couples the two rigid end pieces to each other and encloses a hermetically sealed region in between the movable bodies and the flexible membrane. A user operating the machine exerts a force that pulls the two end pieces are apart which forms a vacuum that opposes the motion.

Abstract: An aquatic exercise device is adapted to be submerged in water, and moved through the water and/or rotated in the water to provide omni-directional and omni-rotational drag resistance. In one implementation, an aquatic exercise device includes a bar adapted to be grasped by one or two hands of a user, and a resistance mechanism attached to opposite ends of the bar. Each resistance mechanism includes a cuff and two or more fins extending outward from the cuff.

Abstract: A training device for training a body part of a user is configured to advantageously limit the resonance movement of the flexible coupling member generated by the vibration of the vibrating device. The training device comprises a vibrating device for generating a vibration and a pretensioning device for generating a pre-tension in a muscle of the body part. The pretensioning device comprises a handling member configured to be held by the user, a reeling means for reeling a flexible coupling member, and a tensioning means for driving the reeling means such that the flexible coupling member is tensioned to allow the vibration generated by the vibrating device to be transferred to the handling member. The tensioning means comprises a fluid resistance means configured to provide a variable resistance against the unreeling of the flexible coupling member but to provide substantially no resistance against the reeling of the flexible coupling member.

Abstract: A substantially hollow practice bat is disclosed, and is useable by baseball players and other athletes in training and/or rehabilitation sessions to develop stronger and more precise swinging habits. A user typically stands in a pool of water approximately chest-deep. He or she swings the device in an approximation of a proper swing for the sport. The device includes holes that tend to minimize turbulence that a standard bat would generate, yet provides both resistance and good haptic feedback to the user. These features develop or redevelop strength and consistency in the user's swing. Analogous training benefits are obtained for many activities, such as batting, golfing, and tennis.

Abstract: An air spring is used as a resistance device in exercise equipment having a lever arm for exercising arms and legs. In one embodiment, the equipment can be adapted to be used as a stair stepper. In another, it can be adapted to be used on a table surface for exercising hands, wrists and forearms. In still another embodiment, it can incorporate a bike pedal assembly to simultaneously aerobically exercise the legs and arms. The equipment includes resistance level regulating components and a visual indicator using a gauge or similar device to monitor resistance levels.

Abstract: An air spring is used as a resistance device in exercise equipment having a lever arm for exercising arms and legs. In one embodiment, the equipment can be adapted to be used as a stair stepper. In another, it can be adapted to be used on a table surface for exercising hands, wrists and forearms. In still another embodiment, it can incorporate a bike pedal assembly to simultaneously aerobically exercise the legs and arms. The equipment includes resistance level regulating components and a visual indicator using a gauge or similar device to monitor resistance levels.

Abstract: To reposition parts of the body, pool therapy fixtures are used in a pool to develop neuromuscular recognition of the normal human musculoskeletal, respiratory and neurological patterns with feed forward activation. Individual muscles are isolated using the buoyancy of the pool, and in some cases applying streams of water within the pool against specific muscles. Selected forces may be applied using water jets in multiple directions in a programmed sequence with at least one pool therapy fixture to provide neuromuscular training.

Abstract: An aquatic weight assembly includes a handle and at least one resistance panel assembly having at least one aquatic resistance panel carried by the handle.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus is disclosed having a base, an longitudinally extending bottom member rail directed generally transverse to the base, and an upright support. The exercise apparatus also has a lever arm, including an exercise bar, that is connected to the upright support and pivotable thereabout. The lever arm of the exercise apparatus is movable to a folded stage adjacent the upright support, and the bottom rail is movable toward the upright support to a folded stage, adjacent the folded lever arm in the folded stage.

Abstract: Provided is an exercise fitness machine that can be varied in weight in a minute unit in accordance with a body condition of a user and easily transformed in accordance with a developing portion of the body, thereby maximizing convenience in use and efficiency of exercise. The exercise/fitness machine includes a base frame, a muscular strength member that is provided on an upper end of the base frame to develop muscular strength of an upper or lower body of a user, and a weight varying unit provided between the base frame and the muscular developing member and including a damper containing magnetorheological fluid to vary a weight sense in accordance with a user's selection.