Abstract: A leg exerciser apparatus is disclosed. The leg exerciser apparatus comprises a frame disposed vertically, a base coupled to the frame, wherein the base comprises a linear track that extends horizontally, a foot receptacle that travels along the track, a means for providing resistance to the foot receptacle as it travels lengthwise along the track, a leg cuff that hangs from an upper portion of the frame such that a user may simultaneously place his upper leg within the leg cuff and his foot within the foot receptacle while the user's leg is in a bent position and a means for providing resistance to the leg cuff as it travels downwards, such that the apparatus provides resistance to the user's leg via the foot receptacle and the leg cuff as the user's leg is extended from the bent position.

Abstract: An exercise device for exercising hand, wrist, arm, and upper body muscles having adjustable force resistance and a force setting indicator. The exercise device includes a housing, a first handle connected to one end of the housing, a second handle connected to the opposite end of the housing, an inner spring disposed inside the housing, and an outer spring disposed inside the housing. The outer spring is connected to the inner spring and encases the inner spring. An adjuster knob disposed on the second handle and coupled to the inner spring and configured to adjust a tension of the inner spring and compression of the outer spring.

Abstract: An exercise device for a lower leg and foot is provided. The exercise device provides a user with the ability to exercise multiple muscles in both lower legs and both feet, and provides the user with multiple exercises with a single exercise device. Additionally, the exercise device is capable of providing variable resistances during exercise to accommodate users of different strength and to accommodate a user's increase in strength. To provide variable resistance, the exercise device includes a plurality of resilient resistance member interchangeably coupled to a housing of the exercise device.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame, a resistance lever pivotably attached to the frame, a resistance engagement member moveably attached to the resistance lever, the resistance engagement member being positionable at a plurality of attachment points on the resistance lever, and a resistance element disposed adjacent to the resistance engagement member. The resistance element includes a deflection member having a first end and a second end, a first anchor attached to and positionally fixing the first end of the deflection member, and a second anchor attached to and positionally fixing the second end of the deflection member. When a force is input to the resistance lever, the resistance lever pivots about the pivot point and the resistance engagement member transversely engages the deflection member. The apparent resistance provided by the resistance element is adjusted by positionally adjusting the resistance engagement member along the attachment points relative to the anchors.

Abstract: A method for exercise, physical therapy and rehabilitation includes providing an elastic member having a tension indicator, securing one end of the elastic member, and stretching the elastic member using a part of the body until the tension indicator indicates that a predetermined tension level has been attained. Upon reaching the predetermined tension level, the elastic member is returned to its relaxed state. The tension indicator on the elastic member may be a printed image of recognizable image that distorts to another recognizable image at the predetermined tension level, a printed non-recognizable image that distorts to a recognizable pattern or image at the predetermined tension level, or an electronic indicator that provides audio and/or visual cues at the predetermined tension level.

Abstract: A training apparatus for use by flyers in a cheerleading squad includes a stable base assembly, a balancing assembly, and a fixed or adjustable column located between the stable base assembly and the balancing assembly. The balancing assembly includes a deflectably resilient member and a standing surface that promotes proper alignment and mimics the feel that a flyer experiences when being supported by a base cheerleader. The deflectably resilient member provides two degrees of freedom of movement to the standing surface when the standing surface is under an external load. The standing surface preferably provides about the same standing area as that typically provided by a base cheerleader. The column may be a fluid-activated cylinder that moves between a first and second vertical position and simulates a flyer being raised by the base.

Abstract: An exercise pole comprises a flexible stick having a hand grip at one end and a ground-engaging tip at the other end. The stick is made of any suitable material in any suitable length, and the material and diameter are selected so that the stick may be bent elastically to a significant degree by the user applying a load or bending moment to the hand grip. The poles are preferably used in pairs, one in each hand. Walking with the inventive poles in hand, the user plants one pole on the ground and flexes it; the bending moment applied to flex the stick is resisted by tightening of the abdominal muscles. The user may plant the sticks ahead of or alongside the feet, flex the sticks, and then allow them to unflex in a controlled way while maintaining some tension. The poles can also be used indoors and while seated.

Abstract: An exercise step with air-cushioning legs. The exercise step (1) includes a plate-shaped panel (10), and air-cushioning legs (30). Each of the air-cushioning legs is provided under the panel to support the panel, and absorbs a load applied to the panel by air cushioning effect. The exercise step has a high air cushioning effect, thus protecting a user's knees from injury, allowing the user to exercise in comfort and safety, and minimizing noise generated during a cushioning operation. Further, the exercise step prevents the panel from being deformed due to a load applied to the panel.

Abstract: A resistance apparatus for use with exercise devices includes an axle and outer housing for rotatably mounting the axle therein. At least one inner housing includes an opening for receiving the axle therethrough so that the inner housing is fixably mounted on the axle. The inner housing is rotatably mounted inside the outer housing to permit rotation of the inner housing along with the axle within the outer housing. At least a first tensioned member is disposed within the inner housing. The first tensioned member includes a first end and a second end. The first end of the tensioned member engages an engagement area of the inner housing. The second end of the tensioned member engages an engagement area of the outer housing. The tensioned member creates a rotational restoring force between the inner housing and the outer housing.

Abstract: An exemplary exercise device includes a handheld force sensor with complementary male and female connectors extending from opposite sides thereof. The force sensor senses pulling and/or pushing forces exerted between the opposing sides. The male connector may be resistant to travel through the female connector except in limited orientations. The connectors allow the exercise device to interface with any mobile or immobile device having complementary connectors. Non-complementary connectors can connect with the exercise device through a body passage. Depending on devices interfaced with the exercise device, force readings can be taken during a vast variety of motions using different muscle groups during training, exercise, and rehabilitation/physical therapy in homes, schools, healthcare facilities, health clubs, etc.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, an exercise device in the form of an adjustable resistance multi-use toning system that includes a plurality of elongated elastic bands (tension bands or cables) which can have different tension (resistance) values. Each band has a first end and an opposing second end. The device further includes a hollow sleeve that receives at least a portion of each of the elastic bands so as to at least partially envelope the elastic bands while permitting the first and second ends to be accessible. A first fastener is provided for attaching the first ends of the elastic bands to a support member, such as a piece of exercise equipment, a belt to be worn around a body part of a user; or any other structure to which the exercise device can be attached.

Abstract: A tension exerciser with elastic limit function includes a weaving tape without stretching elasticity which is made of weaving materials and defined into a flexible elongated band pattern. The weaving tape includes a tape body, a fixed part and an operating end. The fixed part is provided with a positioning member. A handle is connected with the operating end, allowing the users to hold it for pulling. An elastic part is connected between the tape body and the operating end, so that elastic resistance occurs when holding the handle for pulling. An elastic limiter is connected between the tape body and the operating end. The elastic limiter enables the extension of the elastic part to be limited within the maximum load range, so as to prevent elasticity fatigue or even rupture of the elastic part of the tension exerciser, extend the service life and improve the operating safety.

Abstract: A wheelchair gym having a support bar releasably connected to the frame of the wheelchair. A vertical post is attached to the support bar and hand grips are slidably mounted on the vertical post. The hand grips are resiliently biased and may be moved conjointly or opposite to one another to provide arm exercise for a patient in the wheelchair. The gym also has leg supports on which resiliently biased foot rests may be moved conjointly or opposite to one another. The leg supports may be moved up and down or may be splayed laterally.

Abstract: The shoulder stretcher assembly detachably connects to a chair frame of a chair. It includes an elongated support assembly that includes a substantially vertical portion securely supportable adjacent to a rear portion of a chair frame of a chair. An upper portion of the elongated support assembly projects forwardly from the substantially vertical portion so as to extend over the chair. The upper portion includes a pulley assembly attaching element for attaching a pulley assembly for supporting a cable assembly.

Abstract: A bi-directional tensioning apparatus including one or more elongate resilient members, one or more support members, one or more first guide members, and one or more optional second guide members is provided. A method of using the bi-directional tensioning apparatus is also provided.

Abstract: An athletic training apparatus to assist a coach training muscle coordination of a player. An adjustable, delayed resistance, burst release, extension coil operatively couples to a first cable harness and a second cable harness. The first cable harness detachably couples to a coach and feedbacks real-time physical movements of the coach to the player. The second cable harness detachably couples to a training muscle group of the player. The training muscle group receives feedback from the real-time physical movements of the coach including a first resistance level during one portion of the exercise routine and a second resistance level during a second portion of an exercise routine. During an exercise routine, movements of the player are substantially unaffected and unstrained by the athletic training apparatus.

Abstract: A therapeutic body strap having a first loop and a second loop. Each loop is made of a strip of material. A central strip having a fixture point such that the first and second loops are connected to the central strip at the fixture point. The strap further includes an attachment portion extending from the central strip for attachment to an attachment point on a stationary object. The first and second loops are configured to snugly surround a user's body parts to allow the user to stretch by creating a tension in the attachment portion.

Abstract: A multifunctional linked fitness equipment has an elongated bottom, a seat stand, a front support frame seat pivotally mounted on a front end of the elongated bottom, a rear support frame seat pivotally mounted on a rear end of the seat stand, a link pivotally mounted between the front support frame seat and the rear support frame seat, a front support frame pivotally mounted on the elongated bottom and the front support frame seat, a rear support frame pivotally mounted on the elongated bottom and the rear support frame seat, and at least one resilient member mounted between the rear support frame seat and the elongated bottom. By combining or detaching the front support frame, the rear support frame or the seat stand with or from positioning pins, the fitness equipment can be utilized to selectively exercise the abdominal muscles and the legs based on the users' demand.

Abstract: An holistic exercise method for enhancing urine retention in a person having reduced urine retention and exercise belt therefore. The method includes: a) providing an elastic resistance exercise belt of a size sufficient to encircle a users abdominopelvic region; b) removably mounting the belt around the abdominopelvic region of the user; c) expanding the abdominopelvic region outward as far as possible by the user against the resistive force of the belt; and then d) pulling the abdominopelvic region back into the body as far as possible with the resistance belt elastically retained in a snug position against the exterior of the abdominopelvic region; e) repeating a cycle comprising the expanding step c) and the pulling step d) for a sufficient number of cycles per day for a sufficient number of days to enhance the urine retention of the person.

Abstract: A change of direction machine provides training for various muscles and body structures of a user. In one embodiment, the machine provides focused training for the muscles and body structures associated with making changes in the body's direction. The machine may comprise a pivoting arm assembly supported by a structure. The arm assembly may be configured to provide a resistance such that when a user engages the arm assembly a downward resistance may be applied to the user. The user may engage the arm assembly with his or her upper body and perform training or exercises involving lifting and lowering the user's body, moving laterally, or both. The machine may have various adjustable components to fit a user and to provide the desired resistance to the user.

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.

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 foot pain relief device can advantageously provide multiple angles of inclination, directed pressure against the plantar fascia, as well as ease of manufacturing and assembly. A toe strap, which is fastened around the ankle and the toe(s), ensures that the toes are flexed up. This toe flexing tenses the plantar fascia of the foot. A ball strap can be threaded through a hole in a ball and then operatively coupled with the toe strap. When operatively coupled to the toe strap, the ball strap keeps the ball positioned on the bottom of the foot while allowing ball mobility. The mobility of the ball can provide directed pressure on at least one component of the plantar fascia. Notably, the simultaneous combination of tension to the plantar fascia and directed pressure to the component(s) of the plantar fascia can be particularly effective at relieving foot pain.

Abstract: An exercise device includes a pivot frame rotatably mounted to a base support along a pivot axis, wherein a pivot brace forms a rotatable connection between the pivot frame and the base support. The pivot frame is formed with two pivot frame ends which are disposed at an angle with respect to a location of the pivot brace. A user position a portion of his body between the ends. The pivot frame includes a plurality of pulley sheaves or wheels operative to transmit energy from the user through one or more cables. One or more handles or grips, each grasped by the hand of a user, are connected to the cable, which extends in substantially opposite directions from the grip. Resistance means comprises a housing connected to the pivot frame operable to rotatably receive a spool to take-up the cable, and which imposes a resistance to the free rotation of the spool, the resistance imparted to the user for therapeutic benefit.

Abstract: A system for enhancing proprioception, balance, and coordination includes a frame, at least one foot pad having an integrated central rail for mating with the frame, where the integrated track allows for the connection of a plurality of different interchangeable attachments which connect with the frame on a mating track. The plurality of different interchangeable attachments includes a plurality of fulcrums having different shapes acting to alter the level of difficulty to increase a patient's mobility and balance.

Abstract: A machine for gymnastic exercises, particularly for muscle stretching, comprising a supporting frame, a seat which is fixed with respect to the supporting frame, and a back rest which is pivoted to the supporting frame for moving the back rest between a position which is substantially inclined with respect to the seat and a position which is substantially perpendicular with respect to the seat, the machine further comprising a carriage which is slidingly associated with the supporting frame and is functionally connected to the back rest by way of kinematic connection elements for transferring the motion of the carriage to the back rest and/or vice versa.

Abstract: This disclosure describes, generally, an omni-directional exercise device. The device includes a platform base, and resistance bands coupled to the platform base. The device further includes at least two enclosures coupled to the plurality of resistance bands. The two enclosures are positioned on top of the platform base at a home position. The two enclosures are configured to slide on top of the platform base in a 360-degree range of motion such that the plurality of resistance bands provide resistance at any point on the platform base and are configured to return to the home position.

Abstract: A resistance exercise apparatus is provided which, includes structures for receiving a body extremity of a user, the means for receiving a body extremity subject to a force provided by the body extremity, structures for maintaining the means for receiving a body extremity in a predefined plane during movement; and resistance providing devices to impose resistance against, the movement of the body extremity. Versions of the apparatus may positioned on a floor, on a wall, or be free standing. Various embodiments of the invention are particularly suited to provide range-of-motion exercises for legs, arms, and hands of the user for both recreational strengthening and physical therapy applications.

Abstract: A compressive device and carrying compartment for focusing a compressive force at the general lateral areas of a human waist, and securing at least one object in a generally fixed position relative to the waist, includes a longitudinally elastic belt having lateral area engaging pads, and further including a bag defining an interior space and laterally apposite slot openings, wherein the bag and belt are cooperatively configured such that the belt passes within the space and the compressive force also works to biasly retain the objects in the fixed position.

Abstract: Embodiments herein include an impact-receiving member to receive an impact force imparted by a mass exerted by an exercise device user during a physical exercise workout session, a shock-absorbing mechanism to dissipate energy transferred from the mass exerted by the exercise device user, and a platform assembly to support the impact-receiving member and the shock-absorbing mechanism in a spatial orientation consistent with objectives of the physical exercise workout session.

Abstract: A parachute-like safety device for use with an exercise resistance band. The parachute-like device can attach to the ends of the band to act as handles, and furthermore, such a device can be used at the center portion of a typical exercise resistance band. The benefit of either use, is that in the event of the accidental release (snap back) of any part of the device, the parachute-like device will “catch-air” and function as an air-brake as it is forced to rapidly move through the air, so as to slow down movement of the resistance band and therefore diminish or prevent injury caused by the snap-back effect.

Abstract: A jaw exerciser is provided. The jaw exerciser includes an elongated first portion having a first cross-sectional area, wherein the elongated first portion is configured to be inserted into the mouth, and includes an outer surface adapted to be engaged and clenched by the teeth. The jaw exerciser also includes an elongated second portion having a second cross-sectional area and an outer surface, wherein the elongated second portion is configured to remain outside the mouth when the first portion is inserted into the mouth. Furthermore, the jaw exerciser includes an intermediate portion having a third cross-sectional area. The intermediate portion joins the elongated first and second portions, and is configured to be grasped and encircled by the lips to thereby retain saliva inside the mouth.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus is provided, the exercise apparatus including a circular elastic band and a handle attached to the band. Also provided is an exercise apparatus comprising a circular elastic band and an anchor device attached to the band. Also provided is a method of exercising the human body with a circular elastic band is provided, the method including exerting a force in one or more planes to stretch the elastic band and releasing the force exerted in one or more planes to allow the elastic band to retract.

Abstract: A spring connector that includes a loop is used in an exercise apparatus that has one or more springs fastened between a movable member and a stationary member. The connector of this disclosure includes a handle to aid a user to fasten one end of a spring to a stationary hook or post. The handle is a solid body generally symmetrical about a central axis, and has a large diameter base end and an opposite small diameter end, the base end having a transverse slot therein intersecting an axial bore through the solid body. The transverse slot has a curved bottom shape receiving a bottom portion of the connector loop. A user can grip the handle and install the loop over a hook or post without putting a finger in the loop.

Abstract: An exercise kit is disclosed which includes a foundation article of clothing adapted to carry user adjustable resistive means which cooperates with the foundation article of clothing to facilitate the exercise or toning of at least one muscle group of a user.

Abstract: A reformer exercise apparatus is disclosed that has a generally rectangular frame with a head end and a foot end and parallel spaced tracks therebetween supporting a movable carriage thereon. The frame includes a foot support at the foot end of the frame and one or more elastic resistance members fastened between the carriage and the foot end of the frame. Supporting the frame is a first rocking support assembly supporting the head end of the frame and a second rocking support assembly supporting the foot end of the frame, whereby the frame can rock from side to side to provide a dynamic feedback to a user of the apparatus as to whether or not the user is properly centered on the apparatus. A kit for changing a conventional reformer into a rocking reformer apparatus is also disclosed.

Abstract: A resistance exercise and physical therapy apparatus is provided. The resistance exercise and physical therapy apparatus includes: an elongate resilient member having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the elongate resilient member includes an elastic material with a first enlargement at the proximal end, a second enlargement at the distal end, and one or more spaced-apart third enlargements along the length of the elongate resilient member, wherein the first enlargement is grasped by a first foot of a human user or by one or more floor or wall mounted sockets. A method of resistance exercise and a kit including the resistance exercise and physical therapy apparatus are also provided.

Abstract: An exercise device has a first frame, where the first frame is generally rectangular and has a head end and a first juncture end. A fixed body support is fixed on the first frame and is configured to support a torso of an exercise participant. A second frame has a second juncture end, a foot end and a pair of rail members extending along opposite sides of the second frame, respectively, between the second juncture end and the foot end. A carriage is mounted on the second frame for movement along the rail members along locations confined between the second juncture end and the foot end. Wheels mounted to the carriage facilitate movement of the carriage along the rail members, among other things, prevent the carriage from tilting upwardly as it is driven toward the foot end.

Abstract: An integral treadmill resistance training apparatus includes a treadmill having a treadway; left and right support columns, each support column including a base portion connected to the treadmill and an upper portion extending upward from the base portion; first and second translation members, each of the first and second translation members rotatingly connected to the left and right support column upper portions, respectively, at a translation axis, each of the translation members including one or more resistance strap connection points radially distal from the translation axis; first and second articulated handles connected to the first and second translation members, respectively; first and second handle locking mechanisms engageable with the first and second translation members and the first and second handles, respectively; and, one or more resistance straps removably connectable between each of the first and second translation members and the left and right support columns, respectively.

Abstract: An abdominal exercise device comprising a seat back pivotally attached to a base that includes a foot plate, wherein a spring or other resistive element is attached between the seat back and the base, which is capable of simultaneously exercising a plurality of muscle groups while standing, in a hands-free manner. While the user is standing on the foot plate, abdominal and other muscles are exercised when the user presses in a backward direction against the seat back, and then releases the pressure on the seat back such that the seat back returns to an upright or near upright position. The exercise device includes the capability of tension adjustment on the seat back, such that more or less force can be applied to cause the seat back to move in a backward direction.

Abstract: This description is not intended to limit the scope of the claims herein. An exercise device comprising a base that can be oriented at any angle and that defines a plurality of connection interfaces, each of which is designed to carry and restrain one end of a cantilevered resilient member. Said connection interfaces can be positioned at or adjusted to a widely varying range of locations and angular orientations with respect to the base. The resilient members can be affixed to any of the connection interfaces that the user desires, so that the resilient members can be positioned in a correspondingly wide range of locations and angular orientations relative to the base to enable the user to perform a wide range of exercises on the apparatus by gripping and exerting a force on the resilient members or other handles attached to the resilient members.

Abstract: In one aspect of the disclosed embodiments, an inertial exercise device has an elongate member with opposing first and second end portions, and a sleeve movably coupled to the elongate member and disposed between the first and second end portions of the elongate member. A first elastic resistance element interfaces between the elongate member and the sleeve. A user-induced rhythmic movement of the sleeve along the elongate member alternatively toward the opposing first and second end portions causes the first elastic resistance element to alternately compress and extend as the first and second end portions of the elongate member oscillate relative to the sleeve.

Abstract: An exercise system is provided in which multiple exercise routines may be conducted with a single system. The exercise system may be used for skiing exercises, rowing exercises, and for weight training/resistance exercises. The exercise system may also be stored in a compact position and may by integrated with articles of furniture for space saving benefits. In one embodiment, resistance to motion is provided by one or more tension transmission members and may be selectively adjusted by controlling the configuration of the tension transmission member relative to a torsion spring. Use of intermediate devices between the spring and the tension transmission member are described that provide a non-linear relationship between force and displacement. In another embodiment, the tension transmission member may be configured in different positions by adjusting the position of movable pulleys, thereby allowing the device to be used for a number of different exercise routines.

Abstract: An exercising set for exercising the pelvic floor muscles of a patient comprises: at least one insert fitted for a human body cavity mechanically interconnected to a force generating means by means of a connector. The human body cavity is selected from: woman's vaginal cavity or any user's inner rectal cavity. The force generating means is adapted to generate a pulling force which is lower than the contraction force of said patient's pelvic floor muscles when applied on the at least one insert to prevent the insert leaving the human body cavity.

Abstract: A leg exerciser apparatus is disclosed. The leg exerciser apparatus comprises a frame disposed vertically, a base coupled to the frame, wherein the base comprises a linear track that extends horizontally, a foot receptacle that travels along the track, a means for providing resistance to the foot receptacle as it travels lengthwise along the track, a leg cuff that hangs from an upper portion of the frame such that a user may simultaneously place his upper leg within the leg cuff and his foot within the foot receptacle while the user's leg is in a bent position and a means for providing resistance to the leg cuff as it travels downwards, such that the apparatus provides resistance to the user's leg via the foot receptacle and the leg cuff as the user's leg is extended from the bent position.

Abstract: An upper limb training device is disclosed. It includes a first rod, a second rod, a third rod, a first resilient element, and a second resilient element. The second rod is pivoted to the first rod by means of a first revolution element. The third rod is pivoted to the second rod by means of a second revolution element. Two ends of the first resilient element respectively connect with the first rod and the third rod for providing resistance when the first rod and the second rod rotate relative to the third rod. Two ends of the second resilient element respectively connect with the first rod and the third rod for providing resistance when the first rod rotates relative to the second rod. The first revolution element is disposed between two connecting points at which the first resilient element and the second resilient element connect with the first rod.

Abstract: An exercise grip and method for performing a low cable pectoral muscle development exercise is disclosed wherein the exercise grip is attachable to a cable weight system. The exercise grip includes a body substantially formed to receive thereon the palmer side of a human hand. The body has an upturned flange formed at an outer edge of the body to bear against the ulnar border of a human hand. An elongate finger grip extends from and is oriented substantially perpendicular to the upturned flange and is formed to accommodate the curled fingers of a human hand therearound. A thumb recess is adjacent to the finger grip opposite from the upturned flange for allowing a human thumb to bear thereagainst. A hook is affixed to the body proximate to the thumb recess to facilitate attachment to the cable of the cable weight system.

Abstract: An arm exercising device includes a frame, a linkage mechanism, and an impeding unit disposed to apply a resistance force to the linkage mechanism. The frame includes an upright support that has a fixed guide rod. The linkage mechanism includes a pair of swing arms pivotally mounted on the upright support for swinging upward and downward, a runner sleeve disposed slidably over the guide rod for movement upward or downward, a pair of linking rods, each connected between the runner sleeve and one of the swing arms, and a force transmitting cord connected to the handgrips and the swing arms. The resistance force applied to each arm of the user who grips both handgrips and pulls downward is applied evenly to enable a smooth exercise to be performed.

Abstract: A parachute-like safety device for use with an exercise resistance band. The parachute-like device can attach to the ends of the band to act as handles, and furthermore, such a device can be used at the center portion of a typical exercise resistance band. The benefit of either use, is that in the event of the accidental release (snap back) of any part of the device, the parachute-like device will “catch-air” and function as an air-brake as it is forced to rapidly move through the air, so as to slow down movement of the resistance band and therefore diminish or prevent injury caused by the snap-back effect.

Abstract: A barrel exercise apparatus in accordance with the present disclosure is a curved, partial barrel shaped body that has an upper curved surface having two portions with different radii of curvature. A removable step block may be included and may be attached to the barrel shaped body.