Abstract: A treadmill includes an opening formed in a surface of a running deck, a resistance mechanism incorporated into the running deck, and a cable threaded through the opening, where the cable includes a resistance end connected to the resistance mechanism and a pull end accessible through the running deck.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a method and foot support device for dynamically treating plantar fasciitis in the foot of a patient while enabling patient mobility. The method comprises applying tension to the ball of the foot via a strap held in tension by extending the strap to form a continuous loop, from opposite sides of the knee in the leg of the foot in treatment through an opening in a channel guide member oriented relative to the ball of the foot, with the strap connected at opposite ends thereof to the opposite sides of the knee in alignment with the rotatable joint of the knee and controlling dorsiflexion of the plantar fascia while the patient is mobile by slidably adjusting the position of the strap within the channel guide member in response to the mobility of the patient.

Abstract: A legged robotic device is disclosed. The legged robotic device can include a plurality of support members coupled together for relative movement defining a plurality of degrees of freedom, which can correspond to degrees of freedom of a human leg. The legged robotic device can also include actuators to apply forces or torques to the support members in the degrees of freedom. In addition, the legged robotic device can include potential energy storage mechanisms associated with the degrees of freedom operable to store potential energy as a result of relative movement of the support members in the degrees of freedom and to provide at least a portion of the stored potential energy to the support members as compensating forces or torques to assist the actuators. In one aspect, elastic potential energy can be stored. A spring rate and/or a zero position of the potential energy storage mechanisms can be dynamically variable.

Abstract: A muscle stretching apparatus includes a main loop configured from at least one strap and a handle member within the loop. A foot-rest portion is situated along the loop generally opposite the handle member and, in at least one embodiment, carries a foot saddle fabricated from a durable and flexible material configured to wrap around a portion of a user's foot as the foot exerts force thereon. A strap-constricting device carried by the loop renders the muscle stretching apparatus selectively transfigurable between a first configuration defining the single main loop and a second configuration defining, by selective constriction of the main loop with the strap-constricting device, an upper loop including the handle member and a lower loop including the foot saddle. The handle is variously configured to include a grip and a rolling end cap that rotate relative to one another for implementation in myofascial release and trigger point therapy.

Abstract: Apparatus and associated methods may relate to a natural-gait therapy device for enabling a user with a Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) to independently transition between a locked standing position and a user controlled coordinated natural-gait movement, the method including an unlocking of a left and a right foot movement members, rotating one of the unlocked left and right movement members to a half-period gait position that is 180 degrees out of phase with the un-rotated one of the left and right movement members, coupling the left and right movement members in the 180 degree phase differential orientation, and rotating both left and right leg movement members in a natural-gait motion. In some embodiments, the left and right movement members may be uncoupled to permit a gravity assisted return to a standing position. The transition between the standing and the natural-gait motion may facilitate a user to stand before or sit after performing natural-gait therapy.

Abstract: An apparatus for treatment of plantar fasciitis comprises a first anchor adapted for securing around a leg of a patient, a second anchor adapted for securing around a foot of the leg, first and second toe straps each adapted for attachment between the first and second anchors so as to provide respective first and second dorsiflexion forces to respective first and second subsets of toes of the foot, and a fascia compression strap comprising first and second ends and an intermediate portion between the first and second ends, the first and second ends each adapted for attachment to the first anchor so as to provide static pressure to an underside of the foot via the intermediate portion. The first and second anchors may comprise respective upper and lower portions of a sleeve with the upper and lower portions being adapted for securing around respective ones of the leg and the foot.

Abstract: A portable strength training and exercise apparatus constitutes an attachment belt to be worn by an individual about the waist. The attachment belt has attachments on center and side portions of the belt for attaching locking strap holders, used for attaching adjustment straps, which in turn, attach to resistance elastic tubes. Hollow balls are attached to ends of the resistance elastic tubes. For an upper extremities exercise, hollow balls are grasped in each hand and are moved by both arms in almost any direction or angle an individual can manage against the resistance of the resistance elastic tubes. For a lower extremities exercise, hollow balls are connected to the individual's feet using foot straps and are moved by both legs in almost any direction or angle an individual can manage against the resistance of the resistance elastic tubes.

Abstract: A wearable gym can include base component configured to be worn over a portion of a body of a user. The wearable gym can also include at least one exercise device coupled to the base component, wherein the at least one exercise device is configured to burn calories of the user when the user engages the at least one exercise device.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame, one or more pull cables running through cable guides to provide resistance exercise, and a winding/coiling mechanism for providing variable resistance to the one or more pull cables. A resistance power shaft is engageable with a winding shaft and effective for turning the winding shaft upon rotation of the resistance power shaft. A coupling effective to temporarily disengage the winding/coiling mechanism from a resistance power mechanism, and thus to allow the one or more pull cables to be wound or unwound at a rate different from a rate at which a motor is running may also be included. A cable management spring to bias the one or more pull cables toward a wound condition may be used. A computer/processor may be used to control a resistance force applied to the one or more pull cables and/or to record exercise results.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a battle rope strength trainer device is provided. The battle rope strength trainer device provides a multifunction exercise device that combines strength building properties of body weight strength exercises with the cardiovascular training of battle rope oscillation exercises in one product. In one embodiment, the battle rope strength trainer device includes an anchor, a rope and a mounting device. The rope includes a first end coupled to the anchor and two free ends. The first end is attachable to a structure via the anchor and the two free ends are positioned opposite to the first end. The mounting device is coupled to the structure above the anchor. In that regard, the mounting device is adapted to receive a portion of the rope associated with each of the two free ends to enable movement of the rope for a plurality of exercises.

Abstract: A fitness training apparatus is described that can include at least one pole, at least one set of one or more adjustable members, and at least one elastic member. The at least one pole can be configured to extend from at least one vicinity of at least one shoulder of a user to another at least one vicinity of a waist of the user. The at least one set of one or more adjustable members can be adjustably coupled to the at least one pole. The at least one elastic member can be configured to be adjustably coupled to the at least one set of one or more adjustable members. Related methods, techniques, articles, systems, and apparatuses are also described.

Abstract: A portable and kinetic motion resistance upper body invention that can be used for a variety of exercises. This invention combines dial tension adjustment clutch sheaves, a variable linear tract bearing and a one piece resistance shock-cord, together these core components achieve a unique minimal impact work-out. The multi-motion and changeable adjustments for this invention, result in a wide variety of muscular stimulation and therapeutic exercises that are non-existent in the fitness and health industry. The outcome of the mechanism can be customized for a particular sport requirement or physio and other therapeutic restorations, or even for case specific industrial and robotic counter-balancing controls.

Abstract: A portable exercise device comprising of a base with a plurality of apertures and at least one resistance member threaded through the apertures and with both ends of the resistance member available for gripping by the user during performance of resistance exercises. A device that is flexible, comfortable, light weight and with ease of use provides multiple strengthening, stretching or physical therapy resistance exercises for the chest, shoulders, back, arms, abdominal and leg muscles. The exercise device can be used at home, the office or in a hotel room and unattached on any couch, chair, bed, wheel chair or vehicle seat. With the portable exercise device of the present invention the user can get an upper body, abdominal or leg workout in a minimal amount of time.

Abstract: A golf training aid comprising a flexible arm band adapted to releasably fasten, a flexible strip having a first end and a second end and at the first end and the second end a closed loop is formed, wherein at substantially the midpoint of the flexible strip is attached to the flexible arm band, a first band detachably attached to the flexible strip through the closed loop at the first end, a second band is detachably attached to the flexible strip through the closed loop at the second end, and a securing mechanism attached to the second end of the first band and the second end of the second end by the detachable connects, and the securing mechanism is designed to secure to a golfer's clothing.

Abstract: The present invention provides a leg lifter for those having lower extremity injuries or limited lower extremity strength to facilitate movement. The leg lifter includes a wrapping portion configured to encircle a user's ankle via a fastener. The wrapping portion further includes an adjustable strap that extends outwardly and orthogonally from substantially a midpoint of the wrapping portion. The adjustable strap includes a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end is affixed to the wrapping portion. The distal end is adapted to be held by a user for lifting the adjustable strap, thus causing the user's lower extremity to be lifted. The distal end further includes a fastener that allows a user to removably attach the distal end to his or her clothing. The adjustable strap is configured to be lengthened or shortened to improve a user's movement and achieve independence from caretakers.

Abstract: A running form aid system for efficiently teaching a runner the proper running form. The running form aid system generally includes a waist belt attachable about a waist of the runner, a left binding attachable about a left arm of the runner, a left connector attached between a left side of the waist belt and the left binding, a right binding attachable about a right arm of the runner, and a right connector attached between a right side of the waist belt and the right binding. A left elastic strap is attached to the left binding and a right elastic strap is attached to the right binding for engagement by the left hand and the right hand of the runner respectively to maintain the arms at an approximate 90 degree angle.

Abstract: A dynamic stretching, strengthening and stabilization device is provided for postural correction and retraining. The device has a pair of closed loop resistance tubes and a central harness member which positions the closed loop resistance tubes roughly in the form of a figure 8. Each loop of the resistance tube is sized to accommodate the arm and shoulder of the user. The device may be used in a stabilization mode or stretching/strengthening mode, and transitions easily between these modes to correct and retrain the user's posture.

Abstract: A core muscle training apparatus and method is described. The apparatus comprises a harness that is worn by the user, to which a pair of resistance leads are connected at opposing sides of the user's waist approximately above the hips. A resistance force is applied through the resistance leads against an effort force exerted by the user in order to stimulate recruitment and activation of the targeted muscles. By adjusting the direction and the amount of resistance force applied to the resistance leads, the demand on the muscles being targeted can be controlled. The core muscle training apparatus according to embodiments of the present disclosure further offers versatility in the environment in which it can be used. The apparatus can be used, for example, when the user is in a static position or can be used during dynamic functional movements.

Abstract: The invention provides an exercise device for strengthening muscles in the scapula-thoracic region. The device enables simulated weight-bearing action for the upper limb while maintaining good postural form. The device can also be used to provide feedback on good postural form. The exercise device comprises a spine contact member (26) to be positioned at the thoracic curve of a person (10), and two rigid planar members (28) which extend laterally from the spine contact member (26). The rigid planar members (28) are positioned over the scapulae of the person (10). The spine contact member (26) and associated rigid planar members (28) are held in position by straps (30) which pass over and under the shoulders of the person (10).

Abstract: A vehicle driver exercising system includes a pair of hand exercising members each removably engaged with a steering wheel. The hand exercising members each include a clip having an inner surface and an outer surface. The clip receives the steering wheel and a base is attached to the outer surface. A housing is slidably mounted to an upper surface of the base and has an outer flange is movable between an extended position extended upwardly from and spaced away from the base or a collapsed position abutting the base. A biasing member is positioned in the base and biases the housing toward the extended position.

Abstract: A body having first and second segments is shaped to include distal and proximal and intermediate portions. The segments are hollow to form a chamber. A hinge pin in the proximal portion rotatably couples the segments. A spring within the chamber urges the segments to an open orientation. A locking assembly within the chamber selectively holds the segments in the open orientation and selectively holds the segments in the closed orientation.

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: An exoskeleton device provides for selectively adjusting an exoskeleton hip pivot/pivot position in the sagittal plane relative to the position of the hip pivot of a wearer of the exoskeleton. The exoskeleton hip pivots/pivot positions can be shifted forward or rearward relative to the hip pivots of the wearer and can either be automatically actuated by an exoskeleton control system or manually adjusted by the exoskeleton wearer. The invention particularly allows for differential hip placement in order to compensate for changing load or actuation conditions.

Abstract: A fitness handle which is used as an exercise device that allows a resilient cord or tube to move in a linear direction in order to maintain consistent resistance. The fitness handle includes a grip and a frame. The frame includes an opening which allows the cord to slide. The cord or tube has an adjoining portion which fits into the opening of the handle.

Abstract: A headgear for neck rehabilitation and weight training includes first and second straps forming a loop for wrapping a forehead of a user, an upper strap device abutting a top of a head of the user, and a lower strap abutting a chin of the user. The second strap is coupled to the first strap and is adjustable in length to fit the head circumference of the user. The upper strap device is adjustable in length to fit the spacing between the forehead and the top of the head of the user. The lower strap is coupled to the loop formed by the first and second straps and is adjustable in length to fit the chin of the user. The headgear can be assembled with one of two rehabilitation accessories in a rehabilitation mode or assembled with a weight training accessory in a weight training mode.

Abstract: An article of footwear is provided having an elevated plate structure incorporated in the sole structure and optionally including a fluid-filled chamber. The elevated plate structure can include an upper plate and a plurality of legs extending downward toward the outsole. End portions of the legs can engage an upper region of the outsole. The elevated plate structure can form a cage region that can optionally include a fluid-filled chamber substantially disposed therein. The elevated plate structure can further include a lower plate disposed at an upper region of the outsole, which can form a lower portion of the cage region. Portions of the legs can be integrated with impact-attenuating members in the heel region in various configurations and can provide features for the impact-attenuating members, such as support, impact-attenuation and adjustable impact-attenuation features.

Abstract: A body belt for use by linemen and others engaged in operations on poles or similar structures having a secondary set of D-rings, typically disposed slightly rearward of the primary D-rings on the belt or an auxiliary belt or attachment above or below the primary D-ring of the belt. The secondary D-rings which may differ in size from the primary D-rings, allow a wearer to separate devices that are normally attached to the primary D-rings. This allows less crowding of the primary D-rings, thereby making detachment and reattachment of one or more ancillary safety devices from the body belt as a lineman encounters an obstacle during his or her work on a pole or other elevated structure, thereby improving safety. An add-on D-ring assembly is provided for retrofitting body belts of the prior art. In another embodiment of the invention, an auxiliary body belt is detachably connected to the primary body belt, the auxiliary body belt having its own set of D-rings.

Abstract: There is accordingly provided a flexible sheet assembly for stretching exercises. The assembly has a longitudinal axis. The assembly includes an elongate flexible sheet having a pair of spaced-apart longitudinally extending sides. The sheet has a pair of spaced-apart ends that extend between the sides. The sheet has a first longitudinal portion extending from a first one of the ends towards a second one of the ends. The sheet has a second longitudinal portion extending from the second one of the ends towards the first one of the ends. At least a first one of the longitudinal portions of the sheet has an aperture extending therethrough. Portions of the first one of the longitudinal portions of the sheet adjacent to the aperture are curved.

Abstract: An adjustable training apparatus includes a harness that is worn over an upper torso of a person training, and two tensioning devices that are secured to the harness. Each tensioning device includes a cord that extends from the device, with an outer end of the cord being configured to be secured to a body part of the person training. A method of conducting anaerobic resistance training is further disclosed.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for motion and muscle training are disclosed. An apparatus includes a first retractor device, a second retractor device and a body gear unit for engaging a human. The body gear unit is attached to the first retractor device and the second retractor device. The first retractor device and the second retractor device each provide a constant non-variable load and constant resistance in opposite directions. A method includes attaching a body gear unit to a body, attaching first and second retractor devices to the body gear unit, and performing at least one movement using the body gear unit. The at least one movement is performed in a direction that is opposite to a direction of resistance of the first retractor device. A direction of resistance of the second retractor device is opposite to the direction of resistance of the first retractor device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to devices more specifically for use in sports training in the fields of baseball, softball, golf, tennis, and other sports requiring control of, and the accuracy of a swing of the wrists, the positioning and follow through of the foots, and the positioning of the body when developing its precision and its reactions to moving objects. Important to the concept is the location of the pivot point or “center of action” associated with the muscular control developed when using this device. By attaching the resistance bands at the waist, proper control and muscle development relating to improved performance is accomplished.

Abstract: Apparatus and associated methods relate to a knee-position control system having a knee engagement pad, a lower-leg control member and an upper-leg control member, the knee engagement pad configured to naturally position a user's knee in response to movement of a foot-rest of a natural-gait therapy system. In an illustrative embodiment, the upper-leg control member may pivot about a point substantially axially coincident with a user's hip. In some embodiments, the upper-leg control member may be pivotally coupled to the lower-leg control member at a pivot point substantially axially coincident with a user's knee. The lower-leg control member may be pivotably coupled to the foot rest at a pivot point substantially axially coincident with a user's ankle. The knee-position control system may advantageously position a user's knee in a natural position relative to both the user's ankle and the user's hip, in response to movement of the user's foot.

Abstract: A dynamic stretching, strengthening and stabilization device is provided for postural correction and retraining. The device has a pair of closed loop resistance tubes and a central harness member which positions the closed loop resistance tubes roughly in the form of a FIG. 8. Each loop of the resistance tube is sized to accommodate the arm and shoulder of the user. The device may be used in a stabilization mode or stretching/strengthening mode, and transitions easily between these modes to correct and retrain the user's posture.

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.

Abstract: An omnidirectional exercise device including a platform having a top surface and a bottom surface with the top surface extending generally in a first plane. At least one omnidirectional movement assembly is secured relative to the bottom surface such that the platform is supported for omnidirectional movement. A hand securement assembly, which may be in the form of a glove member, is positioned along the top surface and configured to secure a user's hand relative to the top surface such that the user's hand is substantially parallel to the first plane. Each exercise device may include one or more stoppers extending from the bottom of the platform to selectively immobilize the device. A pair of the omnidirectional exercise devices may be joined together to form a system wherein both devices move omnidirectionally in unison.

Abstract: The present invention is an exercise device that provides resistance training to both lower and upper body muscle groups. While the device is capable of working both the lower and upper body at the same time, the lower and upper body portions of the device work independently. The lower body section features two spirals wound in opposite directions that maintain a constant force throughout the exercise.

Abstract: The present invention relates to exercise equipment and more particularly to a resistance band having a pair hand adapters, a pair of handles, and an extension interposed between each hand adapter and handle. The present invention farther relates to a hand adapter having a plurality of finger loops that are configured to contact the back surface of fingers of a user's hand, and the surface of the hand adapter to which the plurality of finger loops is attached is configured to contact the palm surface of the user's hand.

Abstract: A boxing device is provided with two glove assemblies each including a through hole at either side; a tube having both ends secured to the through holes respectively; a handle formed on the tube between two sides of the glove assembly; two bushing members each including an annular flange at an end, the bushing members are fastened in both ends of the tube respectively with the flanges exposed; two caps each including an arc and a hollow cylinder fastened in one bushing member; an interconnection including two projections at both ends respectively, and openings through one projection; two cord assemblies each including two ring members at either end, each of the ring members being secured to either the arc or the opening; and two retainers each for holding an end portion of the cord assembly adjacent to the projection in place.

Abstract: A mobility walker. The mobility walker includes a removably attached lower section, middle section and upper section. Four wheels are connected to the lower section. A harness attachment spring is attached to the upper section. A user wearing the harness is attached via the harness to the harness attachment spring. The user is then able to walk, maneuver himself and exercise while utilizing the mobility walker.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for limiting plantarflexion of an ankle and thereby maintaining the plantar fascia in a neutral to slight dorsiflection. The device includes a foot assembly, tension members, and a leg strap. The leg strap, is adapted so that a portion of the leg strap is removable and can be engaged above the knee. In some embodiments of the present invention, the leg strap, includes at least one connection member for receiving the tension member wherein the connection member is affixed to the leg strap at or about the knee when the leg strap is engaged to the leg.

Abstract: A pair of identical exercise devices that provides for a pair of hand grips that slide reciprocally in independent axial alignment about their individual devices configured to provide a user with muscular exercise when the user applies force to the hand grips. Each individual exercise device includes a resistance member configured to be engaged by the hand grips for providing the user with resistive exercise.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods that assist a user in utilizing an exercise machine. An exercise support device enables a user to exercise without having to hold on to the exercise machine while exercising. The exercise support device has a belt that can be worn by a user. In embodiments, the belt is connected to arm assemblies, which can be coupled to the side rails of an exercise machine. The exercise support device provides balance for a user of an exercise machine, which can enhance the quality of a user's exercise.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for motion and muscle training are disclosed. An apparatus includes a first retractor device, a second retractor device and a body gear unit for engaging a human. The body gear unit is attached to the first retractor device and the second retractor device. The first retractor device and the second retractor device each provide a constant non-variable load and constant resistance in opposite directions. A method includes attaching a body gear unit to a body, attaching first and second retractor devices to the body gear unit, and performing at least one movement using the body gear unit. The at least one movement is performed in a direction that is opposite to a direction of resistance of the first retractor device. A direction of resistance of the second retractor device is opposite to the direction of resistance of the first retractor device.

Abstract: The invention provides a spinal therapy device that can be used by an individual to self-apply overpressure, spinal decompression, spinal joint mobilization or a combination thereof to the spine, as well as methods for using a spinal therapy device to self apply overpressure, spinal decompression, spinal joint mobilization or a combination thereof.

Abstract: An exercise device for various exercises includes a pair of bridges on opposing ends of a relatively inelastic, flat central webbing/band/belt, with an elastic member extending from each bridge. The elastic members themselves may serve as grips (for hands, feet, ankles, arms, wrists, etc.), or separate grips (such as those of a handle) may be used. The elastic members include a pair of bulbs on opposing ends of a body, and may be secured to the bridges and handle grips via cradles (in which the bulbs may be lodged) and/or channels (through which the bodies may be passed). A user may push or pull on grips with hands or feet to stretch the elastic members while exercising. The elastic members are preferably exchangeable to allow the user to change workout intensity by swapping in elastic members having different elasticities/lengths that provide different resistances.

Abstract: A harness includes a plurality of loops mounted on its front and back at various locations. The harness includes straps that drape over the shoulders of the wearer and a belt allowing the harness to be secured about the waist of the wearer. A plurality of elastic cords are attached to various ones of the loops on the harness and may be threaded through others of the loops in order to guide the elastic cords to desired locations. These elastic cords have attachment members to facilitate attachment to one or more loops on the harness. At the other ends of the cords, they have an attachment member that facilitates attachment to an implement such as a lacrosse stick, a baseball bat, a hockey stick, etc. Through use of the present invention, for example, a lacrosse player can practice shooting skills and gain additional strength and muscle memory.

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.

Abstract: An exercise assembly for selectively providing resistance to a user's hand includes an article of apparel that may be worn on a user's hand. A resistance band is operationally coupled to the article of apparel. A handle is operationally coupled to the article of apparel. The handle is coupled to the resistance band. The handle selectively places the resistance band in a resisting position. The resistance band provides resistance to the user's hand.

Abstract: An upper-body stabilization garment includes a front portion to contact a front upper-body region of a subject, and a rear portion to contact a rear upper-body region of the subject. A plurality of elastomeric strips form an X-pattern on the front and or rear of the garment. The strips forming the X-pattern have at least one end attached to a side seam of the garment.

Abstract: A knee rehabilitation exercise device comprised of a right and left leg brace, a rear knee strap, an upper leg strap assembly, a lower leg strap assembly, a portable rear brace assembly and an elastic resistance band. The left and right leg brace members are each comprised of an upper member and a lower member rotatably pinned together at the area of the knee joint. The left and right leg braces are attached to the upper and lower leg strap assembly. The rear knee strap is attached to the left and right leg braces at the knee joint. When a user places the elastic resistance band onto L hooks mounted on the upper and lower strap assembly, and the rear brace assembly is placed between the rear of the user's knee and the elastic resistance band, a resistive stretching is caused when the user straightens his leg which exercises and strengthens the user's leg muscles in the area of the knee joint.