Utilizing Resilient Force Resistance Patents (Class 482/121)
  • Patent number: 9393454
    Abstract: An exercise machine tension system for improving functionality and linear resistance of a Pilates machine. The exercise machine tension system generally includes an exercise machine including a carriage slidably positioned thereon. A plurality of tension units are connected between the exercise machine and the carriage for creating linear resistance as the carriage is drawn in a first direction and reverting the carriage back to its original position absent application of force. Each tension unit includes a housing, a reel rotatably positioned within the housing, a torsion spring secured to the reel, and a flexible member wound around the reel and extending out of the housing. The housing is secured to the exercise machine and the distal end of the flexible member is secured to the carriage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Assignee: SPX Fitness, Inc.
    Inventors: Sebastien Anthony Louis Lagree, John C. Hamilton, Andy H. Gibbs
  • Patent number: 9370683
    Abstract: A limb-exercising apparatus for coupling to a swivel chair includes a plurality of chair legs that define a chair leg base with an underside. The limb-exercising apparatus has a rigid framework that includes at least one chair coupler that couples the rigid framework with the underside, such that the rigid framework is disposed underneath the chair leg base and a relative movement between the rigid framework and the swivel chair is minimal. At least one limb-exercising unit is coupled with the rigid framework and is operative to provide movement exercise for at least one muscle group of a user's body. A force resistor is coupled with the rigid framework and with the at least one limb-exercising unit. The force resistor provides resistance to movement of the at least one limb-exercising unit. A cable couples between the at least one limb-exercising unit and the force resistor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2016
    Assignee: Chair Trainer Ltd.
    Inventor: Misha Shauli
  • Patent number: 9295876
    Abstract: An exercise device that includes a main base and a pair of resistance members. The main base rests on a support surface. The pair of resistance members are replaceably attached to the main base to allow the device to be portable, are length adjustably attached to the main base to allow the device to be length adjustable, are resistance adjustable so as to allow the device to be resistance adjustable, allow exercising of both feet simultaneously without having to have the feet physically attached thereto, are activated by weight of the user, and are disposed on opposite sides of the main base so as to allow the feet to be positioned in front of each other during exercising both feet simultaneously so as to work in opposition to each other by working the toe portion of one foot simultaneously with the heel portion of the other foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2016
    Inventor: Ashok K. Singh
  • Patent number: 9289645
    Abstract: A reformer exercise apparatus is disclosed that has a generally rectangular frame. The rail portions of the frame each have an upright outer wall and a hidden outwardly open slot therein. A foot bar support assembly movably carried by each of the outwardly open slots supports the foot bar. Each foot bar support assembly has an elongated slide plate movably supported within the slot, a hook plate fastened to the slide plate, and a foot bar support arm rotatably and slidably fastened to the hook plate. A pair of tubular risers each having a lower and upper roller therein at the head end of the frame direct arm cord ends to a cord retraction assembly mounted on the carriage. The retraction assembly mounted to the carriage releases the cords by pivoting either one of the shoulder stops toward the foot end of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Balanced Body, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Masterson, Christopher J. Savarino
  • Patent number: 9242141
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising a base, support and resistive band to provide consumers a method for conditioning, preventing or rehabilitating injuries from running, sports and fitness activities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Inventor: Charles Gillis
  • Patent number: 9233017
    Abstract: A lower back assistance apparatus including: a back frame 14 mounted to the back of a user and capable of movement following a user tilting forward; shoulder straps 22 that are attached to a back mounting section and extend towards the user trunk forward side for supporting the trunk of a user from the forward side; thigh plates 18 for mounting to the front of lower limbs of the user; coupling frames 20 with one end coupled to the thigh plates 18 and the other end coupled to the back frame 14 by joint sections 16 so as to allow relative movement with respect to the back frame 14, and capable of maintaining a non-bent profile during the relative movement; and actuators 40 that in an actuated state prevent the back frame 14 from tilting in the user forward direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2016
    Assignee: TOKYO UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE FOUNDATION
    Inventors: Hiroshi Kobayashi, Takuya Hashimoto, Yutaka Sato, Eiji Ishowata, Keita Suzuki, Hiroyuki Kobayashi, Kouhei Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 9199123
    Abstract: An improved exercise table or reformer having an improved tower, adjustable foot bar assembly and/or improved jump board. The improved tower may also be used without being attached to a reformer. The improved tower includes adjustable spring mechanisms and adjustable pulley mechanisms. The improved foot bar assembly includes a captive hook to improve safety. The improved jump board is attached to the frame by dropping into an envelope and by engaging the foot bar assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Inventors: Howard Solow, John Baudhuin
  • Patent number: 9199113
    Abstract: A yoga prop has a rigid elongate plate and end walls extending from the ends of the plate. The yoga prop is used in various methods to perform various yoga postures. The elongate plate has two ends, and has a preselected length. The end wall extending outwardly from each of the two ends of the elongate plate generally perpendicular to the elongate plate. A resilient coating covering substantially all of the elongate plate and the end walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Inventor: Kristina M Hardy
  • Patent number: 9132310
    Abstract: A reformer exercise apparatus is disclosed that has a generally rectangular frame. The rail portions of the frame each have an upright outer wall and a hidden outwardly open slot therein. A foot bar support assembly movably carried by each of the outwardly open slots supports the foot bar. Each foot bar support assembly has an elongated slide plate movably supported within the slot, a hook plate fastened to the slide plate, and a foot bar support arm rotatably and slidably fastened to the hook plate. A pair of tubular risers each having a lower and upper roller therein at the head end of the frame direct arm cord ends to a cord retraction assembly mounted on the carriage. The retraction assembly mounted to the carriage releases the cords by pivoting either one of the shoulder stops toward the foot end of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2015
    Assignee: Balanced Body, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Masterson, Christopher J. Savarino
  • Patent number: 9033855
    Abstract: An athletic training device, comprising a resilient member adapted to be worn behind a knee of a leg with at least one strap coupled to the resilient member so that the resilient member is located behind the knee. Two straps may be used where the first strap is coupled to the resilient member and securable to the leg above the knee; and the second strap coupled proximate to the first strap and securable to the leg below the knee. The strap or straps of the athletic training device are constructed of resilient flexible elastomeric material. Alternatively or additionally, the straps may be adjustable and held fast about the leg by one or more of the following: hook and loop fastener material, clips, snaps, buttons, and buckles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Inventor: John D. Opfer
  • Patent number: 9028377
    Abstract: The present invention relates to apparatuses for increasing strength through exercise and training. Specifically, the present invention relates to apparatuses that increase the difficulty of well-known exercises and weight lifting techniques in order to increase the efficiency of work-outs. More specifically, the present invention relates to apparatuses that promote whole-body stabilization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Inventor: Ronald Hood
  • Patent number: 9028371
    Abstract: A hand exerciser device that includes a body having a thumb opening and a plurality of finger openings spaced apart from the thumb opening. Between the finger openings and the thumb opening, there is provided at least one and preferably a corresponding number of projections, which can be independently depressed and manipulated by the fingers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Power-Web International, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven C. Trent
  • Patent number: 9028380
    Abstract: A resistance band tensioner is disclosed. The tensioner includes a main body and a pivot pin disposed on the main body proximate a first end, where the main body is configured to rotate about the pivot pin between an up position and a down position. The tensioner also includes a handle extending from a second end of the main body configured for a user to grasp with a hand. A cantilever shaft extends outward perpendicular from the main body and is interposed between the handle and the pivot pin, where the shaft is adapted to secure a first portion of a resistance band around its periphery. In addition, the tensioner includes a locking pin to lock the tensioner in the down position when the resistance band is placed under tension by rotating the main body from the up position to the down position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Inventor: Richard J. Hoole
  • Publication number: 20150126342
    Abstract: A method of varying a resistive force applied by exercise equipment including providing a resistance band assembly for providing resistive force during the performance of an exercise. The resistance band assembly includes a housing having a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis extending therebetween. A bore is defined in the housing and a connector is provided in the bore. The connector includes first and second surfaces and a hole is defined in the connector and extends between the surfaces. A disc is also provided in the bore and also has a first and second surface. An aperture is defined in the disc and extends between the first and second surfaces thereof. A first and second resilient member is provided and these resilient members are selectively engageable with the resistance band assembly to provide a first resistive force during the performance of an exercise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2015
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Inventors: Eric A. Kaye, William C. Cesaroni, Morad Ghassemian, Brian W. Mathews, Eugene L. DiMonte, Donovan D. Zielke, Steven M. Lenz
  • Publication number: 20150126341
    Abstract: A hinged vaginal strengthening device has three points of resistance along its length, which correspond with the three layers of pelvic musculature. The device is inserted into a vagina and compressed by the pelvic floor musculature, in accordance with various regimens to achieve goals such as decreasing vaginal gap or overcoming painful intercourse. The device can be of various dimensions, and various compression resiliencies thereby allowing a user to progress through multiple steps to achieve their goal of increasing or decreasing their vaginal space, as well as increasing muscle tone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2015
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Inventor: Peter A. Philip
  • Patent number: 9022903
    Abstract: A neuromuscular oral appliance comprises a channel with a base adapted to accept teeth from one of an upper and a lower jaw. The oral appliance further comprises a bite pad adapted to accept teeth from the other of the upper jaw and the lower jaw, the bite pad extending from the base and including a pliable chamber that partially deforms when compressed. The oral appliance allows the lower jaw to find a balanced position relative to the upper jaw which will correspond to a position at which the facial muscles are generally at minimal tension. It has been observed that the lower jaw is naturally urged forward relative to the upper jaw in this position. This motion and the position of the lower jaw generally tend to urge the neck backward so that the cervical vertebrae substantially align, thereby facilitating an erect spine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Inventors: Zaki Rafih, Anil Makkar
  • Patent number: 9022908
    Abstract: An exercise device includes a first elastic material portion having a first face and a second face disposed opposite the first face, a second elastic material portion having a third face and a fourth face disposed opposite the third face, and a plurality of joining regions, wherein the second face of the first elastic material portion attaches to the third face of the second elastic material portion at each joining region. Each joining region is capable of simultaneous multidimensional stretching when subjected to or released from an applied load. An assembly of integrally connected exercise devices includes a first exercise device integrally connected to a second exercise device, wherein a joining region is capable of separation into two smaller joining regions when the first exercise device and the second exercise device are separated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Hygenic Intangible Property Holding Co.
    Inventors: Jason Alan Crowell, Anna Schrock, Tanya Loraine Weiker, Nevin Dean Gerber
  • Patent number: 9017229
    Abstract: A training device is disclosed, which includes a ball and an anchored connecting structure that is anchored to the ball. A distal portion of the anchored connecting structure is a connector, extending from a distal portion of the ball, that is capable of connecting with a motion resisting device. A proximate portion of the anchored connecting structure extends into an inner volume of the ball, whereby resistance is provided to twisting and pulling motions between the anchored connecting structure and the ball resulting from torsion and thrust loading during training.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Marty Gilman, Inc.
    Inventor: Neil F. Gilman
  • Patent number: 9017235
    Abstract: A stretching and exercise device has a first strap member having a pair of end portions, a second strap member having a pair of end portions, and a pair of resistance members connected between respective end portions of the first and second strap members. A third strap member has a pair of end portions attached to respective first and second surface portions of the second strap member. A fourth strap member is attached to a third surface portion of the second strap member different from the first and second surface portions thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: oozeeki, Inc.
    Inventor: Ehsan Khademi
  • Patent number: 9011302
    Abstract: A thigh exercise device includes a curved track, two foot pedal assemblies movably attached to the curved track and respectively having a guide pulley, and two resistance assemblies each having two pulleys rotatably mounted on the curved track and a resistance band wound around the pulleys and the guide pulley of one of the foot pedal assemblies. When the foot pedal assemblies are moved along the curved track, the resistance bands can be pulled tight by the guide members of the foot pedal assemblies such that a user can strengthen thigh muscles through the tension provided by the resistance bands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Telebrands Corp.
    Inventor: Nabile Lalaoua
  • Patent number: 9005090
    Abstract: A system for performing proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (“PNF”) stretching. The system includes a harness portion comprising a harness strap with movably attached buckle portions and a hook receptacle surrounding the harness strap to support the harness strap when the hook receptacle is suspended. The harness strap includes a mini-strap with buckle portions extending in parallel with the harness strap. The harness strap buckle portions mate with the mini-strap buckle portions to form a double loop harness configuration, and alternatively, combine with a single loop enabler to form a single loop harness configuration. An attachment strap is configured for attachment to a fixing structure by a movably attached hooking mechanism, which varies the distance between the attaching end of the attachment strap and the hooking mechanism. The harness portion attaches to the attachment strap attached to the fixing structure to provide a user with a body support while in un-balanced positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Yoga Bent, LLC
    Inventor: Miguel James Latronica
  • Patent number: 8992398
    Abstract: An exercise device includes at least first and second weighted toning rings, at least one resistance cord and at least first and second clips. The first and second weighted toning rings each have a toroidal shape, an inner periphery, an outer periphery and a hook that extends outwardly from the outer periphery. The at least one resistance cord has a first end and a second end. The first clip attaches the first end of the at least one resistance cord to the hook of the first weighted toning ring and the second clip attaches the second end of the at least one resistance cord to the hook of the second weighted toning ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Inventor: Kim Marie Ross
  • Patent number: 8992399
    Abstract: A resistance training apparatus and method for providing multiple training vectors having points of origin variable by direction and elevation to a trainee. The apparatus may accommodate multiple trainees and provide multiple training vectors to each trainee. The apparatus provides the training vectors by attaching tethers such as elastic cords to harnesses worn around body portions of an athlete in a configuration that allows the athlete to perform a sports-specific or therapeutic movement at an optimum speed. The apparatus may include a base forming the training area and a pair of tower assemblies, each providing elastic cords for attachment to the harnesses worn by the athlete. In another embodiment training vectors are provided to patients or trainees who cannot fully support their own body weight. The elastic cords are independently adjustable such that balanced or unbalanced loading may be applied simultaneously to a trainee from multiple directions and planes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Inventor: Michael A. Wehrell
  • Patent number: 8968166
    Abstract: A sport performance enhancing system includes a left glove, a right glove, a vest, a belt, a left shoe, a right shoe, and a plurality of resistance bands. The left glove and the right glove each consist at least one D-ring which provide the attachment of the left and right glove with the plurality of resistance bands. The vest also consist a plurality of vest rings that attaches with the plurality of resistance bands, attaching the left and right glove. A plurality of O-rings and a shoe D-ring in the left and right shoe are attached to the plurality of resistance band from one end, and the free end of the plurality of resistance bands attaches with a plurality of vertical rings and a plurality of horizontal rings which are positioned around the belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: True Form, LLC
    Inventor: Christopher T Cranke
  • Patent number: 8961379
    Abstract: An exercise device comprising at least one elastic tube, a connector engaged with the elastic tube, an enlarged element, a webbing interconnecting the enlarged element and the connector; and a handle comprising a yoke and a handgrip. The yoke defining at least one passage sized to receive the webbing and to prevent the passage therethrough of the enlarged element to releasably secure the handle to the elongate member. The elongate member may comprise a plurality of elastic tubes braided together. Each of the elastic tubes may have an enlarged end for engaging the connector. The exercise device further including a sheath disposed over the webbing extending between the connector and the enlarged element. Said one passage sized to receive the sheath and the webbing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: SPRI Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Herbert T. Flentye, Gregory Niederlander
  • Patent number: 8961378
    Abstract: A handle for an elastic resistance cord training system includes a grip on a handle frame adjacent to a first end of the handle frame. A base is provided on the handle frame adjacent to a second end of the handle frame, with the base having one or more one cord channels. A gate is movable or slidable on the handle frame from an open position where the gate is substantially spaced apart from the cord channel, to a closed position wherein the gate overlies the cord channel. With the gate in the open position, the cords can be quickly and easily swapped out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Pro Performance Sports, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Allen Holland
  • Patent number: 8961376
    Abstract: An arm and/or leg stretching apparatus and method where one end of a steel (or other rigid material) cable can be connected to a post, tree or to anything that it can be wrapped around, and the other end fits a cuff that can be placed around the wrist or ankle so that the user can stretch by leaning or pulling against the cable. An alternate embodiment of the present invention can use a waist belt where again, the user uses his or her own weight to stretch against the cable. In the case of an arm stretch, the cuff relieves the user of having to grip something by attaching around the wrist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Inventors: Mark Sweeney, Brett Harker
  • Publication number: 20150051055
    Abstract: A non-gravity type resistance exercise apparatus that includes a base assembly, a connector strut having a first end pivotally connected to the base assembly, a second end spaced apart from the first end and an intermediate portion, a first pair of sheaves rotatably connected to the connector strut proximate the first end thereof, a selector assembly connected to the connector strut for movement between first and second positions, a body engaging member having a first end, a second end and an intermediate portion, the second end of the connector strut being pivotally connected to the intermediate portion of the body engaging member, the body engaging member being movable between a first position and a second position, a second pair of sheaves rotatably connected to the body engaging member proximate the first end thereof and a resistance assembly for yieldably resisting movement of the body engaging member from the first to the second position, the resistance assembly comprising a pair of elastomeric belts en
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2014
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Inventor: Hovhanes Abassian
  • Patent number: 8944976
    Abstract: An exercise device includes a first strap portion having a first elongate portion and a second elongate portion joined together along a common longitudinal axis at varying points to define a first plurality of loops, a second strap portion having a third elongate portion and a fourth elongate portion joined together along a second common longitudinal axis at varying points to define a second plurality of loops, and an anchoring device. The first strap portion and the second strap portion are coupled to one another and the anchoring device is configured to hold or secure the coupled first and second strap portions such that the first plurality of loops and the second plurality of loops extend substantially symmetrically away from the anchoring device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: The Hygenic Intangible Property Holding Company LLC
    Inventors: Jason Crowell, Phillip Andrew Page, Paul Reed Timko
  • Patent number: 8944973
    Abstract: A lower body exerciser mainly comprises: a central base; two support brackets located at each side of the central base respectively; two slide tracks connecting the central base with each of the two support brackets respectively; two foot pedals mounted on each of the two slide tracks respectively; a connecting base being fixed under each foot pedal, matched with the slide track, and used for rotating around and sliding along the longitudinal direction of the arc-shaped slide track. A plurality of O-Ring elastic bands are mounted around the pulley sets to generate tension for exercise. The two slide tracks are hinged at each side of the central base respectively, so the exerciser is foldable for convenient carry and storage. This lower body exerciser could help to strengthen and define thighs, legs, buns and hips muscles with minimizing time and maximizing positive results.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Inventor: Nabile Lalaoua
  • Patent number: 8944978
    Abstract: A pull handle that is ergonomically designed to avoid unnatural stresses and/or discomfort to the user's body and joints through the range of motion. The invention enables a user to perform exercises that cannot be accomplished with existing handles or may be more difficult or uncomfortable to do so. These objects are achieved by providing one or more axes of rotation or flexibility in the pull handle so that the user's hand, wrist and/or arm (or foot, ankle and/or leg) may bend and/or rotate more naturally through the user's range of motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Inventor: David Kristiansen
  • Patent number: 8920293
    Abstract: A resistance exercise device for exercising the arms and upper core of the body. The device includes a pair of handle assemblies connected together with a replaceable elastomeric resistance member to permit the use of a resistance member having a desired length and resistance strength. Each handle assembly includes a handle member and a convex support member attached thereto which are separable to permit replacement of a non-slip hollow cylindrical hand grip that engages a center portion of the handle member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Inventor: Thomas Rosaly
  • Patent number: 8915829
    Abstract: A reformer exercise apparatus is disclosed that has a generally rectangular frame. The rail portions of the frame each have an upright outer wall, an integral downwardly slanted inner wall and a hidden outwardly open slot therein between the outer and inner walls. A foot bar support assembly movably carried by each of the outwardly open slots supports the foot bar. Each foot bar support assembly has an elongated slide plate movably supported within the slot, a hook plate fastened to the slide plate, and a foot bar support arm rotatably and slidably fastened to the hook plate. A pair of tubular risers each having an upper roller therein at the head end of the frame direct arm cord ends to a cord retraction assembly mounted on the carriage. The retraction assembly releases the cords by pivoting either one of the shoulder stops toward the foot end of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Balanced Body, Inc.
    Inventors: Ken Endelman, Christopher J. Savarino, Brian Masterson, Elger Oberwelz, James R. Yurchenco, Anthony Patron, Thomas Dieter Christian Overthun, Joerg Student, David Webster, Jennifer Ellen Davis-Wilson
  • Patent number: 8915827
    Abstract: Footwear for use in resistance band training includes plural spaced straps extending loosely over the instep. Each strap is circumscribed by a connection ring freely movable along the strap such that, when the ring is pulled by an applied force, the ring traverses the strap and is repositioned according to the direction of the force. The user may alternatively select any of the straps to engage a resistance band. A belt for connection to the straps includes a band connection ring movable to different positions on the belt. A pad may be positioned over a front belt ring to comfortably project the band away from the user's body. The footwear and belt may be used with a vest connected to limbs and extremities to body parts for a full body workout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: True Form, LLC
    Inventors: Christopher T. Cranke, Daniel Schreiber
  • Patent number: 8911335
    Abstract: An athlete training device that includes a platform that includes a plurality of spaced apart attachment members disposed adjacent to the periphery of the platform. A pole extends upwardly from the platform and is affixed to the platform. A weight, defining a hole passing therethrough, is disposed on the platform so that the pole passes through the hole. A top plate is affixed to the top of the pole and includes attachment structures disposed about the top plate. An attachment device is coupled to one of the attachment structures. A redirecting device is coupled to one of the attachment members. An elastic cord is attached to the attachment device and is engaged with the redirecting device so that the cord extends radially away from the pole. An exercise device is affixed to the end of the cord.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: Speed Tracs America LLC
    Inventor: Matt Thompson
  • Publication number: 20140364287
    Abstract: A fitness apparatus includes a first frame, a second frame, a nose part, a linear elastic element, and a lever. The second frame and the nose part are coaxially and pivotally connected to the first frame. The nose part is swingly connected to the second frame. The lever drives the linear elastic element. The linear elastic element is extendedly bounced and blocked on the first frame. When the second frame pivotally swings against the first frame, the movable range of the linear elastic element will be constrained by the lever because of its high stiffness. In addition, the linear elastic element can stably bounce instead of hitting the inner wall of the first frame. Therefore, the fitness apparatus using the lever can prevent the linear elastic element from sounds of hitting and attrition, so as to achieve the purpose of low noise and increasing the life time of components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2014
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventors: Jin-Chen CHUANG, Lung-Fei CHUANG
  • Patent number: 8905904
    Abstract: An apparatus includes adjustable resistance exercise assisting devices, including a hand grip and a bar grip, each having a length of cable wound about and fixed at one end to a cable spool and an opposite end with a quick connect fitting for removable attachment to an anchor point, whereupon forced movement of the exercise assisting device away from the anchor point, by pulling, pressing or pushing in the performance of various exercise movements, causes the cable spool to rotate against resistance imparted by a resistance adjustment mechanism. In one embodiment, the resistance adjusting mechanism includes a piston that moves against pressure within a variable volume airtight chamber as the cable spool rotates. The apparatus may also include a rigid garment that is worn about the human torso and which includes multiple anchor points for attachment of the cable quick connect fitting thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: Marcus Carter
  • Patent number: 8905903
    Abstract: A pulling rope fixing structure includes a handle, a grip rope, a fixing device, an elastic element and a pulling rope. The handle is a hollow tubular body with the grip rope passed through the handle; the grip rope has first and second ends with first and second openings respectively; the fixing device includes a retaining ring and a fastening element, and the fastening element has a hollow sleeve passed into the first and second openings and operated with the retaining ring to fix the grip rope. The elastic element is installed in the hollow sleeve and has a penetrating hole for passing the pulling rope and separating the pulling rope from the fixing device. The pulling rope not in a direct contact with the metal fixing device will not be worn directly during exercises, and the service life of the pulling rope can be extended effectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Plus ‘O’Minus Fitness Products (Suzhou) Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Szu-Chia Hao
  • Patent number: 8894554
    Abstract: A physical exercising machine includes a platform to support a user, an aperture formed in the platform, a pulley device includes a shaft for engaging with the aperture of the base and for pivotally attaching to the base, a shank is extended from the shaft and pivotal relative to the base with the shaft, a bracket is rotatably attached to the shank, and a pulley member is rotatably attached to the bracket with a spindle, and a cable is engaged with the pulley member, the pulley member is pivotal relative to the base with the shaft and rotatable relative to the shank for preventing the pulling cable from being disengaged from the pulley member and for allowing the user to suitably actuate or operate the pulling cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventor: Paul Chen
  • Patent number: 8888662
    Abstract: An artificial limb assists a user in combat training. The artificial limb comprises a first arm retainer mechanically coupled to a first upper arm and a first cord, where the first cord travels through a first hollow portion of the first upper arm. The first cord is immediately adjacent to a first lower arm and terminates at first end ball. The first arm retainer is mechanically coupled to a piece of equipment by an upper strap and a lower strap. When a user strikes the piece of equipment the first upper arm, first lower arm and first end ball flail in a manner that simulates an actual assailant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Inventor: Daniel Gomez, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8888667
    Abstract: A clamp device is for use with an elastic band and includes first and second clamp components and a coupling unit. The first clamp component has a resiliently deformable clamping arm portion connected to one end of a connecting arm portion, cooperating therewith to define a clearance, and defining a clamping side. The second clamp component has a clamping side disposed to confront that of the first clamp component. The coupling unit couples the two clamp components together in a manner that permits relative movement of the clamp components between a non-clamping state and a clamping state. In the clamping state, the clamping arm portion of the first clamp component deforms to contract the clearance and the clamping sides of the clamp components clamp cooperatively and tightly a portion of the elastic band therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: ZMI Electronics, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yuta Lee, Po-Ming Yang
  • Patent number: 8888666
    Abstract: An strength training apparatus includes an elastic headpiece and a handle by which to perform, among other exercises, intensive hammer training. Multiple headpieces may be constructed each having distinct characteristics, such as weight and recoil, and may be selectively coupled to the handle. The headpiece is retained on the handle so as to withstand both angular moment and impact force exerted on the apparatus during operation thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Inventor: David Louis Quader
  • Patent number: 8882644
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Inventor: Henner Jahns
  • Patent number: 8882642
    Abstract: A medicine ball device having a shell portion with an internal cavity formed therein and an outside surface. A weight is located in the internal cavity. A pair of hand grips extends out of the shell portion at opposite sides thereof. A pair of elongate loop handles extend out of the shell portion from opposite sides of the shell portion, which elongate loop handles pass through the medicine ball device. The loop handles are formed as a strap that engages with the weight to prevent the elongate loop handles from being pulled out of the medicine ball device. A number of attachments accessible from outside of the shell portion are used to attach other devices to the medicine ball device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Inventors: Mark Chavez, James Edward Grimes
  • Patent number: 8882645
    Abstract: An exercise device for developing strength, balance coordination and flexibility of the arms, legs, back, abdominals and stabilizer muscles of the user. The exercise device includes a large, spherically-shaped, resilient exercise ball having a flat planar base insert with a set of elastic resistance members to perform various resistance training exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Inventor: Sandrine Baptiste
  • Patent number: 8876675
    Abstract: An exercise device and method of use is provided. The exercise device includes an elongated elastic element having a first end and a second end. The elongated elastic element is stretchable along its length. The exercise device further includes a pulley system comprising a pulley having a channel along its outer circumference through which the elongated elastic element runs. An engagement mechanism removably anchors the pulley to a fixed point while allowing the pulley to rotate as the elongated elastic element passes through the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventor: Christopher J. Califano
  • Patent number: 8876678
    Abstract: A handle for engaging a stretchable tube for use in exercise comprising a yoke and a handgrip. The yoke defining first and second passages and a channel. The first passage sized to permit the passage therethrough of the elongate member and a portion associated with the elongate member and the second passage and channel sized to permit the passage therethrough of the elongate member and to prevent the passage therethrough of the enlarged portion. The channel interconnecting the first and second passages for moving the elongate member from the first passage to the second passage for engagement within the second passage. An exercise device comprising one or more of the handles, the elongate member and one or more enlarged portions. A method of constructing the exercise device by securing the handle to the elongate member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: SPRI Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Herbert T. Flentye, Gregory Niederlander
  • Patent number: 8870722
    Abstract: A resistance exercise apparatus is provided, the apparatus comprising: a stretchable cord having opposing first and second ends, the cord having an internal cavity and an external surface; at least one plug being inserted within the internal cavity of the cord adjacent the first end of the cord; at least one sleeve being placed over the external surface of the cord adjacent the first end of the cord, the plug being situated within a length of the sleeve; at least one tether forming two compartments, a first loop compartment is designed to received at least one end of the cord with at least a portion of the sleeve and at least a portion of the plug; and at least one attachment device, at least a portion of the attachment device being designed to be received within at least a portion of the second compartment of the tether.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Bodylastics International, Inc.
    Inventor: Blake Kassel
  • Patent number: 8870727
    Abstract: An abdominal exercise device is disclosed. The exercise device can include a flexible substrate having a first end and a second end. At least one of the first end and the second end can be configured to move with respect to each other. The exercise device can also include a curved portion between the first end and the second end. The curved portion can be configured to flex upon application of a force to the flexible substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Inventor: Dennis D. Palmer
  • Patent number: 8870724
    Abstract: A device (101) for supporting or exercising the pelvic floor muscles in a female human. The device has a unitary elongate body having a first enlarged end (103), a second enlarged end (105), and a relatively narrow interconnecting region (107) that interconnects the first enlarged end and the second enlarged end. The first enlarged end (103) generally extends in a first direction from the interconnecting region (107) and from one end of the interconnecting region. The second enlarged end (105) generally extends in a second generally opposite direction from the interconnecting region (107) and from the other end of the interconnecting region. The first enlarged end (103), the second enlarged end (105), and the narrow interconnecting region (107) are substantially fully insertable into the vagina to provide resistance to contraction of the pelvic floor muscles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Orelle Holdings Limited
    Inventors: Carol Armitage, Ralph Elliott Schneideman, Patricia Ann Coombes