Abstract: An air resistance force generating device for exercisers includes a tubular casing driven by the user and having a shaft rotatably received therein. A plurality of frames extend radially outward from the casing and each frame is a closed frame so as to enclose a through space. A plurality of blades each have one end thereof reeving through the shaft and the other end of the each blade is slidably received in the frame corresponding thereto. An adjusting member is connected to an end of the casing and the shaft has an end fixed to the adjusting member so that the blades can be wrapped around the shaft by rotating the adjusting member.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a novel therapy cushion for use in conjunction with a conventional blood pressure cuff. The cuff is inserted into the cushion, and the cushion with inserted cuff is placed between the legs (or against one leg). The cuff is inflated and used as calibrated resistance training device for therapeutic/rehabilitation purposes. The device is especially effective following hip or knee replacement surgery. The manometer (on the blood pressure cuff) serves to indicate resistance level. Other variations are possible for other exercises.

Abstract: An exercise device for use in water is made of a buoyant material and can support a user positioned in a body of water. Two opposed end portions are connected by a narrowed central portion that is dimensioned to fit between the upper leg portions of the user. In use, the user places the central portion between the legs, causing the end portions to be buoyed upward and enveloping the user's trunk. Positioned thus, the user is supported in an upright position with the limbs free to move, which is suitable for performing an exercise.

Abstract: An aquatic exercise device providing uniform resistance under water when moved in any direction while concurrently preventing erratic movements which can damage the wrist of the individual using it. The unique design featuring a plurality of orifices in spherical surface minimizes splashing and stirring the water around the user. The device is composed of two or more quadrants having a three sided spherical surface that is ringed by vertical ribs which effectively centralize the forces when moved laterally and work in unison when moved either forward or backward along the central axis. Each quadrant has a plurality of orifices that meter the water passing through the device which can be changed in size to yield an exerciser with more or less resistance. Optional attachable flanges provide for lessening or increasing resistance depending on the diameter of the flange legs and their overhang over the ribs.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus, and method for its use, including at least one water fillable device that serves as a weight, a support assembly, and a rope or wire assembly. The support assembly may be configured to allow mounting to a door or other convenient place. The rope or wire assembly may be connected to the water fillable device at one end, and to one or more handles at the other end, with its center slidingly engaging the support assembly. When a person wishes to exercise, the device may be removed from a water-tight traveling container, the water fillable device filled with water from any convenient source, the support assembly mounted over, for example a door, and exercise commenced. When exercise is concluded, the support is dismounted, water is drained from the water fillable device, and the apparatus may be stored in a carrying bag or container of small volume.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for use with a treadmill for exercising and strengthening the legs and the lower body of the user. The apparatus comprises a base that attaches to the treadmill, an elastomeric member that attaches to the user, and a flexible panel with means for adjusting the resistance exerted on the user.

Abstract: The current invention disclosed a device for directing a concentrated airflow at the user of an air resisted exercise machine. The cowling disclosed in this invention is constructed from either a semi-rigid material or low-porosity fabric and can be removably attached to the cage covering the fan type blades usually associated with such machines. Various means can be used to attach the device to the cage, one means being the use of elastic cords routed through welts. In use, the device of the current invention directs air at the user of the machine. The device is lightweight and portable, and a user can carry the device along for use on machines in a variety of places.

Abstract: An inventive exercise device is disclosed for facilitating the strengthening of abdominal and back muscles, and includes a resistance member coupled between a lap engageable base and an arm positioning member. The arm positioning member helps to maintain the back of the user in a substantially upright position as the arm positioning member applies and releases reciprocatively and alternatingly in a substantially vertical path of travel of the upper body of the user against the force on the resistance member during repetitions of use of the device. The resistance member resists substantially vertical downward movement relative to the base member to enhance the development of muscle strength by enabling the upper body of the user to contract and expand reciprocatively vertically without leaning forwardly in a safe and effective manner.

Abstract: An inflatable exercise belt (20) for placement around the abdomen of a user includes a substantially belt-shaped body (22) having a first end portion (24) and an opposite second end portion (26). A selectively inflatable air chamber (32) is disposed at first end portion (24). Backing (36) is disposed adjacent to the inflatable air chamber (32), so that when the inflatable air chamber (32) is inflated, the inflatable air chamber (32) expands in a direction away from backing (36) thereby exerting pressure on the abdomen of the user.

Abstract: A breathing apparatus having a main body with a generally cylindrical inner cavity. The main body has a main aperture for the user to breath into and at least two sets of outer openings. An inner cylinder is coaxially disposed within the inner cavity of the main body and is adapted to move relative to the main body. The inner cylinder has an open end adjacent the main aperture, and at least two sets of inner openings selectively matable with the openings in the main body upon movement of the inner cylinder with respect to the main body. By selecting the appropriate alignment of openings, either resistive, percussive, or pulsing breathing exercises can be performed.

Abstract: A total body exercise machine in which an individual, seated in a body support sled, in a front or rear facing position, may use leveraged bodily force to elevate the sled against hydraulic and weighted resistance. A line trolley, suspended from a header by an assembly of pulleys and lines, tracks on a pair of rails, to pivotally support the upper end of the sled frame. At its lower end, the sled is pivotally joined to a frame mounted, radial indexing apparatus. That apparatus operatively positions a set of front and rear foot platforms, linked to the sled, to transmit leg force and assist in its elevation. Attached at the end of the lines is a set of hand rings, with which the user may use arm force, to help elevate the sled. Finally, the machine frame assembly is collapsible for shipping.

Abstract: A chest exerciser has a pneumatic resister (1) of linear motion and a selection of handle (8, 9), attachment (29) and/or anchor means (34, 40, 42) that are positional on opposite ends for direction of selectively push exercise and pull exercise to select muscle groups and to specific muscles in the select muscle groups. The pneumatic resister of linear motion can be a cylindrical pump (6, 7), an accordion bellows pump (4), a variously telescopic bellows pump (5), a resilient pump or other pneumatic pump or combinations of pneumatic pumps. The pneumatic resister of linear motion can be selectively resistant to linear motion by means of flow resisters (2, 3) that can be adjustable of resistance or rate of inflow and outflow of air. Separate inflow and outflow resisters (2, 3) can be provided for adjustment of push and pull exercise. Handle means can be different for different sizes of hands and for different positioning of the pneumatic resister in relation to muscles.

Abstract: A water rehabilitation device for rehabilitating injuries and facilitating physical exercise. The water rehabilitation device includes a platform, a foot restraint attached to the platform, a first side wing pivotally attached to the platform, a second side wing pivotally attached to the platform opposite of the first side wing, a first end wing pivotally attached to the platform between the first side wing and the second side wing, and a second end wing opposite of the first end wing. During downward movement within water the wings are extended outwardly thereby creating an increased surface area effectively increasing the resistance to the downward movement. During upward movement within water the wings are folded downwardly providing an aerodynamic structure for providing reduced resistance to the upward movement.

Abstract: An exercise device including a hollow body having openings into which a user may repeatedly push vertical and horizontal legs. The vertical leg has a saddle at its top for engagement with the chest of a user and contains a bellows for resisting the user's efforts to push the vertical leg into the hollow body with his chest. The horizontal legs have cradles at their outer ends for engaging the thighs of a user and contain bellows for resisting the user's efforts push the horizontal legs into the hollow body with his thighs.

Abstract: A base member for an exercise device made up of a single member or flat plate. A single tubular member or an array of tubular members may be supported on a plate and fixed to it. The tubular member has slots in its sides extending from the top to the bottom. A cylindrical receptor having radially extending lugs may be inserted in the tubular member with the lugs slidably received in the slots. When the lugs pass the lower end of the tube, the receptor can be rotated bringing the lugs under the lower end of the tubular member thereby locking the receptor in the tubular member. A pin through the flange member into the channel can provide a permanent lock. The flange member provides space to hold material or a space for a seal. An exercise connector post device can be received in the receptor and fins on the inside periphery of the receptor engage fins holding the post against rotation. The receptor also has a series of vertical and horizontal slots which the post can engage or be fastened to.

Abstract: Apparatus for the practicing of gymnastics in the water without the linear movement of the user, including a frame, pedal mechanism, a system of transmission by means of a cascade of pinions, adjustable blades which allow a more or less great resistance of the water and a means of supporting the user either in a seated vertical position, for the exercising of his lower limbs, seat, handlebars or in a horizontal position, for the exercising of the upper limbs after modifications to the seat and the handlebars.

Abstract: A combined exerciser and physical fitness performance monitoring apparatus and related methods. The apparatus includes at least one fluid working device, such as a pneumatic ram, which serves to provide an adjustable load. The fluid working device is movable using an adjustable mount to vary the compression ratio and loading rate. The fluid working device is connected to a user interface, such as foot pedals or hand holds, using a connection linkage. The apparatus also preferably includes a load modifier which adjustably engages the connection linkage and allows the rate of mechanical loading to be varied. This construction allows a large range of loads and force rates to be achieved.

Abstract: A golf swing training device and a method of its use in an aquatic environment. The device includes a manually grippable handle secured to a shaft that has integrally secured thereto adjacent the handle a hydrodynamically adjustable paddle that may be manually physically altered to provide a variable resistance to a user that grips the handle and wings the golf swing training device through water that compresses the aquatic environment.

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: An aquatic exercise and rehabilitation device includes a cycle assembly mounted in a vessel containing water. The cycle assembly includes a seat and a pivotally mounted handlebar on each side of the seat. A pair of pedals is rotationally mounted with each pedal connected to a respective handlebars by a linkage for transmitting the motion of the handlebars and pedals to each other. The motor drive assembly is connected to the pedals for causing rotation to the pedals.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a sports or exercise device comprising a mounting frame and a parallelogram having left and right longitudinal bars and upper and lower cross bars, wherein the longitudinal bars are movable vertically and parallelly to one another against at least one resistance element or weight. A left hand grip and a left treading surface are assigned to the left longitudinal bar, and a right hand grip and a right treading surface are assigned to the right longitudinal bar, such that the movement of the parallelogram results in a forward movement of the left hand grip and left treading surface, or a backward motion of the right hand grip and the right treading surface.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing back traction in a water therapy environment is disclosed which includes a back support member extending vertically within a body of water such as a swimming pool including two arms extending outwardly therefrom to be placed under the arms of a user while the user's back is in contact with the back support member. A suspension apparatus lifts the back support member and both arms to a limited extent while a user is positioned within the user receiver zone defined between the arms at a slightly elevated position to provide a controllable amount of downwardly directed traction force upon the back of the user. Most of the user's weight is supported by the water and very active control of the amount of traction force can be achieved. The present apparatus is disclosed in a permanent embodiment as well as an embodiment detachably securable with respect to a swimming pool ladder.

Abstract: An exercise machine in which a fan has a rotor that generates drag by causing air to move in response to exercising by a user. A deflection structure deflects air that the rotor has moved and is adjustable to control the amount of drag generated by the rotor.

Abstract: A swimming auxiliary device includes an attaching member an attaching member mounted to the swimmer's calf or forearm, and a connecting device connected to the attaching member so as to pivotally connect a web member to the attaching member. A pulling device is connected between the web member and the attaching member to pull the web member toward the attaching member. When the swimmer pushes the water, the water flows between the web and the attaching member so that the web member is pivoted away from the by the water. The web member is then pulled by the pulling device to return its original position again when the water flows away from the web member.

Abstract: A portable and collapsible aquatic abdominal exercising apparatus for use in a pool is provided. The apparatus includes first and second downwardly extending parallel leg members, first and second arm-rest extensions and first and second pool-deck supports. Each of these elements can be provided with telescopic capabilities. A single support rod extends between the two leg members and additionally supports a back-rest. A pair of four-way coupling units work to attach all of the elements together. The legs can move freely along two axis adding to its portability and collapsibility. The device sits freely in a pool and supports the weight of a user as the user rests their back against the back-rest, positions their forearms on the arm-rest extensions, grasps a pair of hand grips and repetitively moves their body upwardly to strengthen the abdominal muscles.

Abstract: The invention relates to a swimming and/or gymnastics system comprising a flat base element with openings and with added elements which can be connected to said base element by insertion. Said added elements are an added element which creates resistance to water and which is shaped in such a way that it can engage in at least one central opening of the base element and which encompasses the base element tightly around the edges, and a grip element which engages in the longitudinal openings of the base element.

Abstract: An exercise device is composed of a bottom frame, two driving units, and two damping units. The bottom frame has a bearing seat and two frame bodies mounted on the bearing seat and provided with a placing portion. The driving units have a driving portion fastened pivotally with the frame bodies, a grip portion fastened movably with the driving portion, and a guide portion fastened with the driving portion. The damping units have a damping member fastened at one end thereof with the placing portion such that another end of the damping member is extended to the driving portion via the guide portion. The damping units further have an adjusting device fastened with the driving portion and connected with the damping member for adjusting the damping force of the damping member.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus for toning the mid-section and lower portion of the body, especially helpful for handicapped individuals who have marginal or only functional use of their lower extremities on an involuntary basis whereby a physically able person or a physically challenged person manipulates a pendulum bar, freely suspended from a semi-flexible member in a quarter circular oblique movement, while strapped to the apparatus in a seated position, and whereas the flexibility of the flexible member is predetermined by design or controlled hydraulically by the user.

Abstract: A hydrotherapeutic device for the ankle includes a shoe and a plurality of fins for resisting movement of the foot relative to the ankle. The fins are of substantially equal size and shape and arranged to provide substantially equal resistance to opposite flexion of the foot and opposite turning of the foot when submerged. A set of devices may be provided, with the devices being similar in construction but providing different levels of resistance to foot movement.

Abstract: A breathing apparatus having a main body with a generally cylindrical inner cavity. The main body has a main aperture for the user to breath into and at least two sets of outer openings. An inner cylinder is coaxially disposed within the inner cavity of the main body and is adapted to move relative to the main body. The inner cylinder has an open end adjacent the main aperture, and at least two sets of inner openings selectively matable with the openings in the main body upon movement of the inner cylinder with respect to the main body. By selecting the appropriate alignment of openings, either resistive, percussive, or pulsing breathing exercises can be performed.

Abstract: An exercise device comprises a relatively large diameter ball having a pair of handles projecting from opposite sides of the ball. To use the device, one may grasp one or both handles and manipulate the device following specific exercise routines.

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

Abstract: An apparatus for effecting spinal traction on a patient includes a tub containing liquid in which a patient, buoyantly supported by a floatation device, can float in a generally upright position in a state of buoyant equilibrium. The level of the liquid in the tub can be varied, which effects a variation on a traction force acting on the patient as the floatation device seeks new positions of buoyant equilibrium in response to the change in liquid level. The traction force may be generated by one or more weighted devices worn on the body of the patient or by a harness attached to the patient and secured within the tub to resist upward movement of the patient when the liquid level rises in the tub. The liquid level within the tub is varied by a liquid level varying apparatus associated with the tub which operates generally by displacing a volume of liquid within the tub to vary the level of the liquid by an amount corresponding to the volume of displaced liquid.

Abstract: Aquatic abdominal exercise apparatus having a pair of parallel tubular arms connected together by a first connecting member mounted over a pool deck surface juxtaposed to an edge of a pool. The arms extend downwardly along a side edge of the pool and then turn inwardly to space the apparatus from the pool wall. A second connecting member connects the portion of the arms extending downwardly and a back support is mounted on the second connecting member. A pair of arm supports project outwardly from the portion of the arms extending downwardly to provide hand supports for the exerciser.

Abstract: A method of abdominal exercise utilizing an apparatus which includes a flexible element mounted to a seat, the flexible element having a transverse handle manipulated by a user in at least two planes when sitting on the seat straddling the flexible element. The apparatus further includes a back strap and a lap belt. The flexible element in one embodiment being a urethane column having rigidity control by vertical adjustment of the handle relative to the column. The flexible element in a second embodiment is a self-contained fluidized unit providing resistance in at least two planes.

Abstract: A variable resistane exercise device provides a variable resisting force in response to a user applied force. The variable resistance exercise device includes at least one rotating force transmitting means for inputting a user applied force as a rotational force to be resisted, and at least one force transmission member for transmitting the user applied force. The user applied force is resisted by varying the viscosity of a viscosity variable fluid which surround plates rotated by the user applied force. Thus a braking force is applied to actively resist the user applied force. In accordance with the invention, a multi-configurable multi-programmable exercise device is provided which may be used in a variety of exercise modes to provide a resistive force to a user-applied force during a range of motion of a particular exercise. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a variable resistance device resists a user-supplied force in one rotational direction only.

Abstract: A device for vacuuming, which is powered by the leg exercise motion of a user, includes a pair of bellows units which are mounted on the user's feet and a tank which is mounted on the user's back. A hand-held cleaning wand is connected to the tank by a flexible hose. The user alternately compresses and releases the bellows units, overcoming an internally mounted spring, and as the bellows unit returns to its original shape, a partial vacuum is formed therein. The bellows units are connected to the tank by flexible tubes and the partial vacuum draws air into the cleaning wand, thereby vacuuming dirt and debris into the tank.

Abstract: A water exercise device for exercising in a pool or body of water of the like. The water exercise device includes a cylinder, a rod and piston assembly, a foot rest assembly secured to the second end of the cylinder and a handle secured to the first end of the rod and piston assembly. The cylinder includes a water control valve proximate the first and second ends of the cylinder and permits the flow of water in and out of the cylinder when the piston moved between the first and second ends of the cylinder. The water exercise device also includes a means for supporting the foot rest assembly and includes an attachment assembly and a flotation device. The attachment assembly is for mounting to a structure such as the wall of a pool or a ladder and is configured to securely hold the foot rest assembly. The flotation device is secured to the foot rest assembly to float on the surface of the water and maintains the water exercise device below the water.

Abstract: The present invention provides a golf exercise apparatus that includes a resistance such that during an exercise emulating a golf swing, muscles of the axial skeleton and lower extremities of a golfer are strengthened. The golf exercise apparatus includes a support base, an axial shaft coulpled to the support base, and means for resisting the muscles of the golfer during the golf swing when the golfer is coupled with the shaft of the exercise apparatus. The golf exercise apparatus preferably provides progressive resistance to the muscles of the golfer during a downswing of the golfer. The support base preferably comprises at least one end having a reverse bevel such that the support base is securable under a closed door by wedging the end having the reverse bevel under the door. Alternatively, a support frame is coupled to the support base by wedging the end having the reverse bevel with the frame.

Abstract: An aquatic exercise and rehabilitation device includes a cycle assembly mounted in a vessel containing water. The cycle assembly includes a seat and a pivotally mounted handlebar on each side of the seat. A pair of pedals is rotationally mounted with each pedal connected to a respective handlebars by a linkage for transmitting the motion of the handlebars and pedals to each other. The motor drive assembly is connected to the pedals for causing rotation to the pedals.

Abstract: An exercising device which includes a cuff and a mitt usable separately or together. The cuff being a body of flexible material arranged with a central opening therethrough, and including an inner surface of an elastic material to be placed against the skin of a user, an outer surface of an elastic material, the inner and outer surfaces being joined but spaced apart to form a space. There is a flexible ballast material disposed in the space between the inner and outer surfaces and an elastic material. There is a separation disposed along the body, including a strong VELCRO strap, and a flexible attachment, and there is webbing of an elastic material disposed at the inner surface and outer surface as well as an O-ring attached to the outer surface.

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.

Abstract: An aquatic exercise and rehabilitation device includes an exercise cycle which is mounted in a tank or water holding vessel. The user would sit on a seat and the user's legs would be placed on pedals connected to the wheel. The wheel unit can be rotated from the force from the user or alternatively the rotational force could be imparted by a rotating drive surface which contacts the wheel unit. A particularly suitable form of rotating drive surface is a treadmill which optionally offers an alternative form of underwater exercise. Another form of drive surface is a cycle.

Abstract: An exercise device for use in water is made of a material adapted for floating and has sufficient buoyancy to support a user positioned in a body of water. Two opposed end portions are connected by a narrowed central portion that is dimensioned to fit between the upper leg portions of the user. In use the user places the central portion between the legs, causing the end portions to be buoyed upward and enveloping the user's trunk. Positioned thus, the user is supported in an upright position with the limbs free to move, which is suitable for performing an exercise.

Abstract: A support base for use with aquatic exercise devices and stabilizer which includes a body having apertures that receives and releasably secures a support for an exercise device to the base. The apertures in the base also receives and releasably secures stabilizing members which provides a way to support the exercising position of a person exercising with the device. Support base sections are also disclosed with a connecting structure to join the sections together to form a support base, and mounting structure to attach the base to the bottom of the pool, and to level the base.

Abstract: A breathing apparatus having a main body with a generally cylindrical inner cavity. The main body has a main aperture for the user to breath into and at least two sets of outer openings. An inner cylinder is coaxially disposed within the inner cavity of the main body and is adapted to move relative to the main body. The inner cylinder has an open end adjacent the main aperture, and at least two sets of inner openings selectively matable with the openings in the main body upon movement of the inner cylinder with respect to the main body. By selecting the appropriate alignment of openings, varied amounts of resistance can be achieved.

Abstract: A combined exerciser and physical fitness performance monitoring apparatus and related methods. The apparatus includes at least one fluid working device, such as a pneumatic ram, which serves to provide an adjustable load. The fluid working device is movable using an adjustable mount to vary the compression ratio and loading rate. The fluid working device is connected to a user interface, such as foot pedals or hand holds, using a connection linkage. The apparatus also preferably includes a load modifier which adjustably engages the connection linkage and allows the rate of mechanical loading to be varied. This construction allows a large range of loads and force rates to be achieved.

Abstract: A ski-type exercise or therapy apparatus for use with liquid contained within a pool having walls utilizes a frame positionable in a stationary condition with respect to the walls of the pool and a pair of pump assemblies wherein each pump assembly includes a piston and a cylinder within which the piston is slidably received for movement therealong in conjunction with the movement of a corresponding foot of an individual between two positions of movement. A port provides flow communication between the interiors of the cylinders so that as the piston is moved along the cylinder in conjunction with the motions of the individual's foot during an exercise or therapy routine, liquid flows between the interiors of the cylinders by way of the port. By controlling the flow of liquid between the interiors of the cylinders by way of the ports, the emotions of the individual's feet during the exercise or therapy routine can be controlled.

Abstract: An aquatic exercise device which is to be used within a body of water such as a pool has an element which can be engaged by the foot or hand of an individual, which element is linked to a piston-cylinder combination so that as the user engagement element is moved by the user the piston rides in the cylinder. At the head end of the cylinder there is an opening which provides communication between the cylinder chamber and the water environment. As the piston moves back and forth water is either pushed out of the chamber through that opening or drawn into the chamber through that opening. The size of the opening, which may be selected by the user, determines the degree of resistance to the user's movement against the user engagement element.