And User Supplied Counter Force Patents (Class 482/122)
  • Patent number: 6659920
    Abstract: A rhythmic motion driver having a case containing flywheels and a guide along which the flywheels move linearly while rotating. A spring is within the case that compresses and expands in response to oscillatory motion of a bar that extends through an opening in the case. The spring compression and expansion is slowed but not dampened by the movement of the flywheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Inventor: Norman Kurz
  • Patent number: 6652428
    Abstract: The invention provides a hand-wrestling training device, comprising an elongated main base carrying at one of its ends a mounting means to which one end of a spring means is hingedly articulated; at least one mounting plate fixedly attached to the main base near the other end of the base; a head unit pivotably mounted in the mounting plate; a pusher arm fixedly attached at one of its ends to the head unit and provided with a plate element at the other one of its ends; a body movable in translation along the pusher arm, the second end of the spring means being articulated to the body; adjustment means for altering the mechanical advantage afforded to the user by moving the body along the pusher arm, thereby altering the effective length of the pusher arm, and a gripping handle hingedly attached to a portion of the head unit; the gripping handle, when turned downward, causing the pusher arm to be applied against the opposing force of the spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: Shilo Technologies Ltd.
    Inventors: Arie Meller, Moshe Abraham, Zeev Stahl, Binyamin Fredkin
  • Patent number: 6612845
    Abstract: An apparatus for training body movements in athletics includes a waist strap configured for attachment around the torso of a wearer and having a plurality of attachment rings connected detachably thereto, and a shoulder strap configured for attachment around the wearer's shoulders and having two cooperating ends. The shoulder strap is configured to extend around the wearer's shoulders and under the wearer's arms such that the cooperating ends are connectable together at a point located substantially between the wearer's shoulder blades. The shoulder strap further includes a plurality of attachment rings connected detachably thereto. The apparatus may further include leg straps configured for attachment around the wearer's legs and arm straps configured for attachment around the wearer's arms. The leg and arm straps may each include a plurality of attachment rings connected detachably thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Inventors: Mark A. Macri, Lew Wright
  • Patent number: 6609995
    Abstract: A rhythmic motion driver having a case containing flywheels and a guide along which the flywheels move linearly while rotating. A spring is within the case that compresses and expands in response to oscillatory motion of a bar that extends through an opening in the case. The spring compression and expansion is slowed but not dampened by the movement of the flywheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Inventor: Norman Kurz
  • Publication number: 20030153440
    Abstract: A golf swing exerciser uses two lengths of resistance cords or tension elements connected to an exercising handle so that one of the cords extends to an upper resistance region on a back swing side of the exerciser and the other resistance cord extends between upper and lower resistance regions on a back swing side of the exerciser. The cord from the upper resistance region resists downward movement of an exercising handle from a back swing region, and the cord extending between the upper and lower resistance regions resists lateral movement of the handle into a hitting region. The combined resistance of both cords significantly increases as the handle moves into the hitting region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Yong Woo Kim
  • Publication number: 20030148863
    Abstract: A neck strengthening apparatus utilizing isometrics that includes a frame and a headgear. The frame stands freely and extends upwardly from a floor. The headgear is adjustably mounted to the frame and encircles a head of a user to isometrically exercise and strengthen the muscles supporting the head of the user as the user presses the head thereof against any portion of the headgear through exertion of a resistive force on the head of the wearer isometrically.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2002
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Inventor: Robert Thomas
  • Patent number: 6595904
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus providing resistance for hip and knee strengthening without increasing joint loading or shear force beyond that imparted by muscle contraction. A preferred embodiment includes a portable embodiment to allow continued use throughout changes in exercise environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Inventor: Daniel Louis Staffa
  • Publication number: 20030134730
    Abstract: An exercising apparatus is disclosed which can be easily collapsed for shipping or storage but which is easily assembled for use. The apparatus includes an upper frame member pivotally attached to the forward end of a longitudinally extending lower base frame member. The upper frame member supports a seat including a bottom that is movable so as to be parallel to the frame member for shipping or perpendicular for use. An elongated rod has one end pivoted to the upper frame member. The other end is pivoted to a collar that surrounds the base frame member and moves along a length thereof between a shipping position where the frame members are parallel to each other and an operative position where the upper frame member extends upwardly. A pin and aperture arrangement locks the frame members in the selected position. A pair of movable arms with handles connected to an adjustable force resistor allows a user to perform a variety of exercises of the arms and upper body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventor: James A. Deola
  • Publication number: 20030130097
    Abstract: This exercise apparatus was developed in order to permit exercise of the upper legs—quadricep group of muscles—from a number of seated conventional locations such as typical chairs, etc. The apparatus user would sit in a chair, unfold the device (sheet 6), engage it as illustrated in sheet 7, and initiate the exercise routine by setting the resistance as noted on elastic rings (10-15-20-lbs—or ring clustered up to 100 lbs). The user would then extend the legs through a tolerable range of motion up to 90 degrees for multiple repetitions 20 to 50 for aerobics (light resistance) or 8 to 15 for heavy resistance. There would be low to no joint impact if the device is used correctly with smooth movement and reasonable rest between sets of repetitions. The device will fold completely and is light weight enough to be easily portable. Typical quadricep machines utilize weights on sliding tracks which are bolted to large steel frames. Resistance changes require movement to the weight rack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2002
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Inventor: David Beal Harrison
  • Patent number: 6565493
    Abstract: An arm muscle developing device for selectively exercising the triceps or biceps of the arm. The device includes a substantially rigid panel having a first surface, a second surface, a first end, a second end, a first side edge, and a second side edge. A frame includes a first elongate member, a second elongate member, a third elongate member and a fourth elongate member. The first and second elongate members are orientated parallel to each other. The third elongate member is hingedly coupled to the first end of the panel. A first securing member removably secures the upper portion of the arm to the panel. A second securing member removably secures the lower arm. Each of a plurality of loop members is attached to the frame and the panel. A plurality of biasing members bias the loop members attached to the frame toward the loop members attached to the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Inventor: Archiri F. Geh
  • Patent number: 6561956
    Abstract: The combination with liftable apparatus, including at least one weight, includes an assembly comprising at least one generally upright guide or housing supported by a base to extend near at least one weight, at least one elongated cord extending in proximity to the guide, or within the housing, the cord being resiliently stretchable and having a lower end retained relative to the base, the cord having an upper end portion configured to be lifted with the weight, whereby when said assembly is lifted, the cord becomes resiliently stretched to resist such lifting. Multiple such cords can be provided to extend in parallel, and may be coded as by color, for cord selection to provide selected added resistance to weight lifting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Inventor: Kasper Allison
  • Patent number: 6544151
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus that exercises at least three groups of muscles is disclosed. The apparatus exercises the hamstring muscle, the quadriceps muscle and the maximus gluteus muscle. The apparatus utilizes a seated position for the person exercising and incorporates a padded portable seat sitting on a surface. The exercise apparatus also contains rectangular backrest. Two arms are also provided on each side of the exercise equipment. When a person pushes against the backrest, and pushes the arms forward, the exercise apparatus rotates lifting the person exercising off the surface such that the above three groups of muscles are exercised.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Inventor: Dean Tornabene
  • Patent number: 6537184
    Abstract: A swing exerciser especially suitable for golf exercise uses a handle and cord arranged to move a resistance trolley down a track positioned on the golfer's back swing side. A spring and pulley arrangement resists movement of the trolley down the track, and movement of the handle by the golfer through the curve of a golf swing forces the trolley down the track so that the golf exerciser must overcome the resistance while swinging the handle to strengthen the muscles needed for powerfully hitting a golf ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Kellion Corporation
    Inventor: Yong Woo Kim
  • Patent number: 6500103
    Abstract: An exercise belt for use while seated in a normal position in a motor vehicle and preferably while using the installed safety harness in which the exercise belt incorporates a resilient resistance member extending diagonally across the chest of the user and held in position by oppositely extending tie straps tied to brackets secured to the vehicle. The tie straps are adjustable in length to adjust the position of the resistance member and one of the tie straps is provided with a quick release buckle to facilitate removal of the exercise belt when not is use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Inventor: Edward L. Porter
  • Patent number: 6488614
    Abstract: A cycle waist slimmer machine, wherein its main body is a long rod, at each end of the long rod is a pressure component to press down at the user's abdomen, another heavy thing is a rope-like object which is threaded through the corresponding ends of the pressure components which are at both ends of the long rod, when in use, the user holds the handles at both sides of the long rod, and then uses the pressure components to press down at the abdomen in order to allow the heavy thing at the other end of the long rod to turn, the user can, in conjunction with the centrifugal force created by the turning of the heavy thing as well as the size of the movement of turning to change the angle of the turning of the heavy thing, to achieve the results, fun-wise and health-wise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Inventor: Chuan-Pin Chang
  • Publication number: 20020115540
    Abstract: A swing exerciser especially suitable for golf exercise uses a handle and cord arranged to move a resistance trolley down a track positioned on the golfer's back swing side. A spring and pulley arrangement resists movement of the trolley down the track, and movement of the handle by the golfer through the curve of a golf swing forces the trolley down the track so that the golf exerciser must overcome the resistance while swinging the handle to strengthen the muscles needed for powerfully hitting a golf ball.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2001
    Publication date: August 22, 2002
    Inventor: Yong Woo Kim
  • Publication number: 20020107120
    Abstract: The invention provides a hand-wrestling training device, comprising an elongated main base carrying at one of its ends a mounting means to which one end of a spring means is hingedly articulated; at least one mounting plate fixedly attached to the main base near the other end of the base; a head unit pivotably mounted in the mounting plate; a pusher arm fixedly attached at one of its ends to the head unit and provided with a plate element at the other one of its ends; a body movable in translation along the pusher arm, the second end of the spring means being articulated to the body; adjustment means for altering the mechanical advantage afforded to the user by moving the body along the pusher arm, thereby altering the effective length of the pusher arm, and a gripping handle hingedly attached to a portion of the head unit; the gripping handle, when turned downward, causing the pusher arm to be applied against the opposing force of the spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2001
    Publication date: August 8, 2002
    Inventors: Arie Meller, Moshe Abraham, Zeev Stahl, Binyamin Fredkin
  • Publication number: 20020103059
    Abstract: An exercise device including a pair of elastic bands, the inner ends of which are joined together by a releasable fastener. The outer ends of the elastic bands are each provided with a lateral handle and a longitudinal handle. To gain exercise, a user may grasp the lateral handles to stretch the elastic bands when they are joined together by fastener. Alternatively, a user may grasp the longitudinal handles to swing the elastic bands in circles when such are detached from one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2001
    Publication date: August 1, 2002
    Inventor: Stephen Kushner
  • Publication number: 20020091046
    Abstract: The disclosed invention involves a Tension Receiving Exercise Device adapted to bilaterally engage the hands and or forearms of an upright user. The invention is used in an environment where preferably two tension transmitting means are positioned about the upright user's 3D space. These tension transmitting means are adapted to bilaterally engage the exercise device largely about each hand or forearm. By virtue of the bilateral locations of the tension receiving means, unilateral movement is accommodated with unilateral resistance and bilateral movement is accommodated with bilateral resistance. Performable exercises are governed by the position of the tension transmitting means about the user's 3D space. These performable exercises closely simulate real-life movements that are beneficial to both sport-specific and everyday activities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2001
    Publication date: July 11, 2002
    Inventor: Michael John Deden
  • Patent number: 6402667
    Abstract: An exercise device (10) includes a base (11) comprising a rigid piece of material which may be placed flat on a floor. An isokinetic resistance unit (12) is pivotally connected at a lower end to the base, with a harness (13) connected to an upper end of the resistance unit. A user uses the device by attaching the harness (13) preferably around the waist and, while standing on the base (11), bending to a squatting position and then returning to an upright position. The resistance unit (12) comprises a cylinder (30) and piston (31) arrangement which provides resistance as the user moves from the squatting position to the upright position. The resistance is provided through a negative pressure developed in a working chamber (38) defined between the piston (31) and a first end of the cylinder (30).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Inventor: Wade R. Dahn
  • Patent number: 6390959
    Abstract: An Exercise Apparatus having two parallel springs attached to a frame on each end. The frame is spaced apart by a rotating hand grip located at the end of each spring. The frame has a predetermined length, and is also spaced apart by a rotating band that fits around the forearm of the exerciser. The exercise apparatus exercises the pectoral, arm and back muscles as the exercise apparatus is held in front of the exerciser and the hands while on the hand grip are pulled toward each other. Other exercise positions can be used to exercise the muscles of the chest and the back and are described herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Inventors: Dean Tornabene, Charles Perez
  • Patent number: 6383122
    Abstract: The exercise apparatus comprises a frame and a carriage. A resistance system resists movement of the carriage with respect to the frame and the longitudinally headward direction. The resistance system allows the resistance to be changed at the head end portion of the frame and further does not require elastic members to travel with the carriage when they are not use. The rebound system that adjusts the range of motion of the carriage comprises two flexible members attached to the carriage and the frame and a resistance member is attached to a central portion of the flexible members and resists lateral seperation of the central portions of the flexible members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Inventor: Gary Graham
  • Publication number: 20020052269
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus that exercises at least three groups of muscles is disclosed. The apparatus exercises the hamstring muscle, the quadriceps muscle and the maximus gluteus muscle. The apparatus utilizes a seated position for the person exercising and incorporates a padded portable seat sitting on a surface. The exercise apparatus also contains rectangular backrest. Two arms are also provided on each side of the exercise equipment. When a person pushes against the backrest, and pushes the arms forward, the exercise apparatus rotates lifting the person exercising off the surface such that the above three groups of muscles are exercised.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2001
    Publication date: May 2, 2002
    Inventor: Dean Tornabene
  • Patent number: 6368256
    Abstract: Method and device for operating a bicycle having a sprocket and pedals connected to the sprocket for rotating the sprocket during downstrokes and upstrokes of the pedals. The method and device include elastic members worn on the legs such that the elastic members will stretch on the downstroke of the pedals to generate energy and contract on the upstroke to release the energy for assisting the legs to rotate the pedals and in turn the sprocket. For a given cycle and cyclist, greater speeds of the cycle may be obtained by the cyclist. The elastic members are constructed and dimensioned such that about 3 to 12 pounds of tension is created in them during the downstroke of the pedals. Similar members may be worn on the feet to generate energy and transfer it to the feet again to enhance speed of operation of the bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Inventor: Garry Rumbaugh
  • Patent number: 6368254
    Abstract: Hybrid stretching and exercising machine. The machine comprises first and second elongate track members having proximal and distal ends ranged in a co-linear fashion. First and second foot-receiving members are slidably and rotatably mounted upon respective ones of the track members, and are further inwardly biased toward the respective proximal ends thereof. Preferably, the degree of bias may be selectively controlled. In use, the user is able to rapidly stretch and strengthen the muscles of both right and left legs by merely twisting about the device by approximately 180°. The device further preferably includes a handle member to provide support during use of the device, and may be further adapted to enable the user to perform rowing, curl, and abdominal-strengthening type exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Inventor: Robert A. Wall
  • Patent number: 6309329
    Abstract: An exercise device and method of use are provided which allows the user to exercise and strengthen the spinal and abdominal muscles. The device includes a telescoping stanchion which is tension loaded with resilient bands which can be used in multiples to increase the tension and resistance needed. The height of the stanchion can be adjusted as well as its angularly position relative to a base having a seat thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Inventor: G. Wayne Conner
  • Publication number: 20010019987
    Abstract: An exercise device and method of use are provided which allows the user to exercise and strengthen the spinal and abdominal muscles. The device includes a telescoping stanchion which is tension loaded with resilient bands which can be used in multiples to increase the tension and resistance needed. The height of the stanchion can be adjusted as well as its angularly position relative to a base having a seat thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 1999
    Publication date: September 6, 2001
    Inventor: G. WAYNE CONNER
  • Patent number: 6283900
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus that exercises at least three groups of muscles is disclosed. The apparatus exercises the hamstring muscle, the quadriceps muscle and the maximus gluteus muscle. The apparatus utilizes a seated position for the person exercising and incorporates an elastomeric tension member to provide the resistance. The exercise apparatus incorporates a rectangular backrest. When a person pushes against the backrest, the exercise apparatus rotates lifting the person exercising off the floor surface such that the above three groups of muscles are exercised.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Inventor: Dean Tornabene
  • Patent number: 6258016
    Abstract: A folding collapsible exercising apparatus including a wheeled front frame, a tubular bearing bracket, a back frame unit, a wheeled seat, a coupling, a damping device, and two handlebars. The wheeled front frame unit has a backwardly extending longitudinal shaft, and the tubular bearing bracket is slidably sleeved onto the longitudinal shaft of the wheeled front frame unit. The back frame unit is pivoted to the tubular bearing bracket and turned by the user between vertical and horizontal positions. The wheeled seat pivots to the back frame unit and is slidably supported on the tubular bearing bracket. The coupling moves along the longitudinal shaft of the wheeled front frame unit and is locked by a lock screw. The dampening device coupled between the coupling and the bearing bracket, and the two handlebars are pivoted to the back frame unit at two opposite sides and locked by a respective lock screw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Inventor: Johnson Kuo
  • Patent number: 6241644
    Abstract: A stretch exercise device is molded in one piece of a material having the physical properties of a soft, flexible, deformable rubber. Two elongate, spaced apart side members extend along a long axis. Many finger grips or rungs are arranged parallel to one another attached at their ends to the side members. The rungs are spaced apart by a distance small enough so that a hand grasping a first rung may reach out with some fingers to reach an adjacent rung without first releasing a secure grip on the first rung. This enables a user to exert continuously increasing tension in stretching exercises. Grooves on the rungs and grooves on the side members provide finger gripping surfaces to facilitate this progressive tensioning movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Inventor: Phillip S. Tepperberg
  • Patent number: 6231487
    Abstract: A muscle strengthening apparatus comprising a substantially arch-shaped member having a first end and a second end, the arched-shaped member having a predetermined degree of resiliency, an ankle contact member having a pair of ankle contact portions for contacting the ankles of a user, the ankle contact member being attached to the arch-shaped member adjacent to the first end, and a buttocks contact member for contacting the buttocks of the user, the buttocks contact member being attached to the arch-shaped member adjacent the second end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Inventors: John P. Diamond, Jr., William A. Zarillo
  • Patent number: 6220995
    Abstract: An exerciser including a base frame with a seat pad. A leg support is pivotally inward foldably connected with two ends of a bottom face of the base frame. The leg support has a front arch section, a rear horizontal section and a vertical section. Two ends of a rear side of the base frame are respectively disposed with two adjustment seats for adjusting an angle. The other end of the adjustment seat is fixedly connected with each end of a handle. So, the base frame can be swung, lifted and lowered. The angle of the handle can be freely adjusted via the adjustment seat. Therefore, the position of the handle can be adjusted in accordance with various conditions for the user with the user's body stably presses on the seat pad and the base frame. The resilient section creates a resistant force when pushing and pulling the handle to achieve an exercising effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Inventor: Chin Hsiang Chen
  • Patent number: 6213922
    Abstract: A device for treatment of patients with disturbed posture and motor activity comprises shoulder, pelvic, knee, pedal, elbow, hand, and finger supports (1), all of them being interconnected by fixing elements, which are shaped as elastic tie-members (2) and placed on the surface of the patient's body in antagonistic pairs so as to follow anatomical arrangement of skeletal muscles. Each of the tie-members (2) is connected to two of the supports (1) and comprises an adjuster (3) of its tension, which is interposed between the tie-member (2) and one of the supports (1) through a lock (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: Ajurveda
    Inventors: Nikolai Ivanovich Afanasenko, Arnold Semenovich Barer, Anatoly Ivanovich Grigoriev, Inesa Benediktovna Kozlovskaya, Albert Pavlovich Savinov, Gai Iliich Severin, Xenia Alexandrovna Semenova, Viktor Mikhailovich Sinigin, Igor Antonovich Sokolovsky, Evgeny Petrovich Tikhomirov
  • Patent number: 6206812
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a fitness device which includes a seat, a telescoping means which is attached to the seat at a terminal portion thereof by a pivot means and a support means which is attached to a second terminal portion of the telescoping means. The fitness device is adapted to support the hands and feet of a user who desires to stretch, strengthen and condition various muscle groups in the user's body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: Nash Nizamuddin
  • Patent number: 6203470
    Abstract: A chin and neck exercising device made from foam and which may be in the shape of a ball is disclosed. One half of the ball may be made from one type of foam and the other half of the ball may be made from another type of foam. In this way, different resistance is provided to the person using the device. The device also has a side which is cut-out so that the device is contoured to fit under the person's chin and rest on his or her neck and clavicle. The cut-out area is covered with fabric so as to provide a better grip and to prevent perspiration from contacting the ball. Various exercises may performed by the person in order to tone and strengthen his or her chin and neck muscles. While the device has been described as being formed in the shape of a ball, other sizes and shapes may be used. In an alternative embodiment, the exerciser may include a vibrator located therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Inventors: Christopher B. Lundin, Philip J. Tyne
  • Patent number: 6120424
    Abstract: The body building apparatus of the present invention has two cylindrical bars, the bars having a gripping surface and optionally being enclosed within a cushioned tubular pad, the bars being releasably connected at opposing ends by two flexible, elastically extendible side members of equal length so that the cylindrical bars and the side members define a rectangle. In an alternative embodiment, a pair of ceiling hooks replace one of the cylindrical bars, the elastically extendible side members being suspended from the ceiling hooks at one end and supporting a cylindrical bar at the other end, the ceiling, the cylindrical bar, and the side members defining a rectangle. In both embodiments, the side members extend to a maximum length under tension between about 20% to 30% greater than their length at rest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Inventor: Clayton Arline
  • Patent number: 6071217
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus which comprises a track, a track carriage slidably disposed on the track, and a resistance system for providing unidirectional, selectively variable resistance to the track carriage. The track carriage is capable of sliding along the track in a first direction when a force is applied to the track carriage sufficient to overcome the resistance force of the resistance system, and whereby the track carriage is capable of sliding along the track in a direction opposite to the first direction when the applied force is diminished.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Inventor: Larry W. Barnett
  • Patent number: 6053851
    Abstract: The invention provides a simple, small, and easy-to-assemble body exerciser which has a compression arm, a stationary arm pivotally connected to the compression arm, and a spring provided between the compression arm and the stationary arm. The body exerciser can be used to exercise a user's abdomen and arm muscles and can be folded to reduce the storage space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Inventor: Ming-Tsang Tu
  • Patent number: 6048291
    Abstract: A multipurpose exercise device includes a stiff bar terminating in limb engagement members and two flexible elements connected to the center of the bar, extending away from the bar and being provided with its own limb engagement members. The bar can be positioned so that it engages the feet and the flexible members can be positioned to engage the hands or vice versa to perform a large array of exercises. Preferably the flexible members are elastic and have a cross section which increases gradually from said bar to said limb engaging members. The device may be molded as a single unitary piece from rubber-type material with the bar embedded therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Inventor: Karol Fisher
  • Patent number: 6042523
    Abstract: A therapeutic exercise machine particularly adapted for restoring and/or maintaining the range of motion for post operative patients and for general therapeutic use. There is a carriage assembly mounted for back and forth longitudinal motion along a support frame. A plurality of tensioning cords urge the carriage frame to a forward location, and there is a contact plate mounted to the carriage frame. The person using the machine presses his or her feet or hands against the contact plate and moves it back and forth against the force of the tensioning cords. The tensioning cords are arranged so that there is an operating end that can be selectively attached to the front of the frame or to the carriage frame to vary the magnitude of the tensioning force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Inventor: Gary A. Graham
  • Patent number: 6036626
    Abstract: A continuous loop foot strap is connected to a bungee cord by an O-ring. An opposite end of the bungee cord is looped through a flexible handle and back through a clamping device. A push button actuator permits the size of the handle loop to be adjusted to adjust the overall length of the device to a) enable a different user to adjust the device for her/his needs, b) alter the configuration for use in a different exercise, or c) increase the resistance force afforded by the device as repetition of the various exercises results in strengthening of various muscle groups. Illustrative exercises are discussed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Inventor: Brent N. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6022302
    Abstract: A flexural exercise device includes two oppositely-extending arm structures connected to one another by a resilient element, preferably in the form of a coil spring, disposed therebetween to which the inner ends of the arm structures are attached. The middle resilient member is covered by a padded neck roll. Each arm structure preferably comprises a tubular element extending away from the central resilient member and having an initial straight portion and a laterally bent handle portion at the end of the straight portion. The laterally bent handle portion provides a hand-gripping structure, and the transversely bent portions of each of the arm structures are bent so that the hand-gripping portions thereof are directed in directions generally toward one another so that a free end of each hand-gripping portion is disposed inwardly of an outermost extremity of the respective arm structure. The arm structures are preferably bent, steel tube construction and are preferably covered with a foam padding layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Assignee: Stamina Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert W. McBride
  • Patent number: 6013015
    Abstract: A thigh and buttocks exercising device includes a pair of hook shaped or curved clamp members terminating in linear inner legs connected to respective knuckles of a torsion spring-loaded hinge to bias the clamp members to a contracted position with their free ends in relatively vertically offset overlapping positions. Each clamp member is formed of a rigid metal tube preferably covered by a soft plastic or elastomeric sheath. The biasing torsion spring may terminate in tangentially projecting hook shaped cores of the clamp members. In alternative constructions, the clamp members are biased by resilient devices, such as a flexible-compressible member, a compression spring, or an elastomeric cord adjustably extending between the free ends of the clamp members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Inventors: Geraldine Newman, Catherine McWilliams
  • Patent number: 6010431
    Abstract: A hand stretching method and apparatus mimics a well known exercise to reduce the problems with repetitive stress injury. A body of resiliently deformable material has flat and parallel top and bottom surfaces, with a cutout at one edge of the body. A user's hand is placed on the body, with the palm of the hand spanning the cutout. By pushing down on the hand, the opposite sides of the palm are urged apart, opening the carpal tunnel and relieving compression on the blood vessels and nerves. A user may place one hand on each surface of the body and urge the hands towards each other for treatment of both hands simultaneously. The body is preferably made of an expanded polymeric material such as polyurethane. Layers having different compression factors may be utilized; and, darker colored surface layers of material may be adhered to the top and bottom surfaces so the surfaces will not readily show dirt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Inventor: Donald N. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6007463
    Abstract: Disclosed is a triceps exercising apparatus. A support harness comprises a neck band and pectoral flaps extending from the neck band in each direction. The neck band and pectoral flaps may be configured together as a unitary structure or as separate structures. In either case, the neck band is placed at the rear of the base of the user's neck, and the support harness is draped over both of the user's shoulders, so that each pectoral flap rests over one of the clavicles. Attached to each pectoral flap and descending therefrom is an elongated elastic element, such as a bungee cord. The lower end of each elastic element is secured to a D-shaped hand stirrup. In embodiments in which the elastic elements are bungee cords, the upper hook of one cord is looped over a hook secured to the lower portion of each pectoral flap, and the lower look is looped over the top of the respective hand stirrup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Inventors: Lisalee Ann Wells, Jeanette Gordon
  • Patent number: 6004248
    Abstract: Exercise apparatus has a base to which is pivoted one end of a rockable arm, the opposite end of which is coupled to one end of a force transmitting line by means of which the arm may be rocked from and to a rest position. Movement of the arm away from the rest position is yieldably opposed by elastic resistance members which react between the rockable arm and the base. An upright arm is removably supported by the base and is equipped with one or more line guides about which the force transmitting line may be reeved. In one embodiment the line guide automatically compensates for variations in the force which must be applied on the rockable arm to overcome variations in the resistance of the resistance members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: Price Advanced Innovations, Inc.
    Inventor: Shawn Price
  • Patent number: 6001050
    Abstract: An exercise device comprises first and second members connected together by spring means so as to be movable towards each other by the application of a compressive force therebetween or to be movable away from each other by the application of a tensile force to said members. A sounder is provided on one member which, on contact with a striker surface on the other member, emits a warning sound. The striker surface is adjustable towards and away from said sounder so that the warning sound is emitted when a selected predetermined force is applied to the members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Inventor: Eric William Delf
  • Patent number: 5997448
    Abstract: Physical exercising apparatus comprising, a rigid column having first and second ends and adapted to be positioned vertically between the ceiling and floor of a room, a top plate attached to the first end of the column and disposed perpendicularly to the column for contact with the ceiling, a bottom plate disposed at the second end of the column perpendicularly to the column for contact with the floor, a cam lever interconnecting the second end of the column and the bottom plate for moving the column longitudinally with respect to the bottom plate and locking it in a longitudinal position, a horizontally disposed bar, slidable vertically on the column, for supporting an anchored end of at least one resistive exercise band, a projecting handle slidably mounted on the bar for anchoring the end of the elastic band and a rod attached to the outside end of the bar so that the longitudinal axis of the rod is spaced from the longitudinal axis of the bar and perpendicular thereto so that the elastic band may be train
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Inventor: Alex Duba
  • Patent number: 5997450
    Abstract: A combination slant board and abdominal rocker includes a slant board which comprises a rigid body support elevated at one end to incline the body support. The abdominal rocker has a frame with a base section pivotally mounted adjacent to the body support and a grip section spaced from the base section. A neck rest is mounted to the frame between the base section and the grip section. The grip section and the neck rest are located above the body support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Inventor: William T. Wilkinson
  • Patent number: 5984836
    Abstract: An exercise device that includes a support member disposed in a predetermined position by a mounting unit. A resistive ring secured to the support member, wherein the resistive ring includes a first ring and a plurality of resistive members connected to the first ring. A head harness connected to the other ends of the plurality of resistive members. The resistive ring further includes a second ring for attaching the head harness to the resistive members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Joseph Casali