User Leg Supplies Counter Force To User Arm Patents (Class 482/125)
  • Patent number: 5820533
    Abstract: An arm/shoulder exercise walking vest (10) comprising a belt (12) worn about a waist (14) of a person (16). A pair of shoulder straps (18) are secured to the belt (12) and worn on a torso (20) of the person (16). A plurality of rings (22) are provided. A structure (24) is for affixing the rings (22) in spaced apart relationships to the shoulder straps (18) and the belt (12). A plurality of elastic bands (26) of varying resistances are also provided. A facility (28) is for attaching in a removable manner a first end (30) of one elastic band (26) to one of the rings (22). The elastic band (26) can be pulled through any other of the rings (22) and grasped at a second end (32) by a hand (34) to be used by the person (16) for exercising an arm/shoulder (36) while walking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Inventor: Jay R. Goldman
  • Patent number: 5816985
    Abstract: A multipurpose stretching and sporting equipment, comprising an upper traverse rod, a lower traverse rod and an elastic straps is provided. The upper traverse rod is provided with a neck pillow having a pair of free rotating handles disposed at both sides respectively. A pair of pedals are connected at side portion of said handles. The lower traverse rod is provided with an abdomen pad having a soft pad thereon. The upper and lower traverse rods are connected together by means of the elastic straps which are removably attached to the ends of said upper and lower traverse rods.In use, the user may step on one traverse rod while holds on the handles or rest his/her neck on the neck pillow while holds on the handles to conduct the movement. The user may also conduct the exercise or movement while he/she stands or sits up. With these movement, the muscles on upper limbs can be suitably strengthened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Inventor: Sung-Chao Ho
  • Patent number: 5813954
    Abstract: Thus, the invention lets the user perform a whole group of buttock developing motions, working the muscle from many different angles. These motions are enhanced, through the addition of resistance. The resistance may be varied by adjusting the length of the cords and/or interchanging cords of different elastic strengths. The exercise device further has cords and a shoulder and/or neck piece attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1998
    Assignee: William T. Wilkinson
    Inventor: William T. Wilkinson
  • Patent number: 5776041
    Abstract: A multipurpose exercise device includes a stiff bar terminating in limb engagement members and a flexible element 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 member can be positioned to engage the hands or vice versa to perform a large array of exercises. Preferably the flexible member is elastic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Inventor: Karol Fisher
  • Patent number: 5759138
    Abstract: A portable abdominal and arm exercise device includes a first pair of elongate parallel rigid members forming a base with an elongate trough therein for receiving one end of a rigid spanning bar, a second pair of upstanding spaced-apart rigid members attached at their lower ends to the first pair of elongate parallel rigid members and attached at their upper ends to one end of a cross bar. The cross-bar is attached at its other end to the rigid spanning bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1998
    Inventor: Kevin O'Brien Boland
  • Patent number: 5752901
    Abstract: An exerciser includes a board, a pair of rocking members, and a transverse rod. A connecting tube is fixed to the board. Each end portion of the connecting tube has a hole. Each rocking member has an L-shaped rod, a coil spring member, and a handle which are connected to one another in sequence. Each of the L-shaped rods has a lower end which is inserted into the respective end portion of the connecting tube and which has two positioning holes that are aligned selectively with the hole in the respective one of the end portions of the connecting tube when the L-shaped rod is rotated respectively to first and second positions with respect to the board. Each of the L-shaped rods further has a locking pin which extends through the hole in the respective one of the end portions of the connecting tube and one of the positioning holes in the corresponding one of the L-shaped rods. The upper ends of the handles are connected detachably to the end portions of the transverse rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Inventor: Sunny Lee
  • Patent number: 5746687
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for coupling a tubular handle (4, 6) of an exercise device to a flexible line (10), such as an elastic cord, is described. The elastic flexible line is directed through a circumferential opening (60) in the handle and attached to the inner lumen of the handle with a coupling assembly (24). The coupling assembly comprises a retainer (30) defining a hole (40) for receiving the end portion of the flexible line and fastener (32) for securing the end portion of the flexible line to the retainer to thereby fix the line to the handle. The coupling assembly provides a strong mechanical link between the flexible elastic line and the handle that minimizes wear on the elastic line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Inventors: Silvano Vial, Maria Vial
  • Patent number: 5746686
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus (10) consists of an elongated frame (12) tubular, in construction, having an upper end and a lower end. The frame (12) comprises a frame left slot (12L) and a frame right slot (12R), the frame left slot (12L) and frame right slot (12R) comprises an opening therebetween. A preload housing (16) securely attached to an upper distal end of the frame (12) therearound. The preload housing (16) comprises a preload housing adjuster (16A) removably fastened to a preload housing adjuster handle (16AA) by a removable fastening means. The preload housing adjuster handle (16AA) functions as a grip for the user, the preload housing (16) further comprises a preload housing slide (16B) slidably attached to the frame (12) at a mid distal point. An adjuster (26) functions to vary the resistance load. A lower slide (18) is movably attached to the frame (12). The lower slide (18) functions to support the user's left foot. A resistance device functions to provide a resistance to an user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Inventors: Paul Berman, Jim Kraushaar
  • Patent number: 5743838
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for an exercising device. The exercising device includes an elongated flexible body having a first extremity and a second extremity disposed to either side of a central portion and an elongated elastic member. The elongated elastic member includes a first end and a second end. The first and second ends are (i) adapted to accommodate a human limb and (ii) adapted to removably couple to the central portion of the elongated flexible body. A plurality of ring structures are disposed along an axis extending between the first extremity and the second extremity of the elongated flexible body, a first clip is disposed at the first end of the elongated elastic member and a second clip is disposed at the second end of the elongated elastic member. The first and second clips are adapted to couple the first and the second ends of the elongated elastic member to ones of the plurality of ring structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Inventor: James E. Willis
  • Patent number: 5720700
    Abstract: A portable whole body exercise device utilizes at least one hollow robe and several cords having different tensions for allowing a user to exercise his or her muscles. The exercise device includes elastic cords extending out of open ends of the hollow tube, and another elastic cord connected between the open ends of the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 24, 1998
    Assignee: Camilla, Inc.
    Inventors: Nick J. Buoni, Willis Y. Jordan, Harold Fletcher
  • Patent number: 5720042
    Abstract: An energy expenditure garment includes a body portion and a pair of limb portions, such as arms or legs. At least one section of the garment is made of closed loop circumferential form to completely surround a portion of the user and is made of elastic resilient material thereby applying a compressive force to that portion of the user. The garment also includes a plurality of elongated elements made of elastic resilient material located on the garment and anchored across areas of the garment which would be subjected to back and forth movement during the performance of an activity by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 24, 1998
    Inventor: William T. Wilkinson
  • Patent number: 5716307
    Abstract: A body exercise device that includes a right member for vertically encircling the right side of the exerciser, right shoulder engaging apparatus for selectively maintaining the right member against the right shoulder of the exerciser, right waist engaging apparatus for selectively maintaining the right member against the waist of the exerciser, right knee engaging apparatus for selectively maintaining the right member against the right knee of the exerciser, right foot engaging apparatus for selectively maintaining the right member against the right foot of the exerciser, a right sole assembly positionable on the right sole of the exerciser, a left member for vertically encircling the left side of the exerciser, left shoulder engaging apparatus for selectively maintaining the left member against the left shoulder of the exerciser, left waist engaging apparatus for selectively maintaining the left member against the waist of the exerciser, left knee engaging apparatus for selectively maintaining the left membe
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Inventor: Dinesh L. Vadher
  • Patent number: 5713142
    Abstract: A training shoe includes an anchorage device (3) adapted secure to receive one or more elastic cords (5) against which a wearer may exert him or herself. Preferably, the anchorage device includes a hole (3) extending transversely through the sole (1) of the shoe and through which hole (3) one or more elastic cords (5) are threaded so as to form an elastic loop which may be pulled by the wearer as part of an exercise regime.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 3, 1998
    Inventor: Mohmed Osama Ahmed Fahmey El-Circy
  • Patent number: 5700232
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus comprises an elongate hollow post formed from three interconnectable tube sections. A carriage is mounted slidably to the post, and a pair of handlebars extend transversely from the carriage. A pair of footrests is arranged to be selectably mounted at either end of the post for providing support against movement of the carriage, and a plurality of resistance elements such as rubber bands extend between the carriage and an anchor formation within one of the tube sections. The rubber bands pass around a pulley formation at one end of the post, and selector means are provided on the carriage for allowing a preselected number of the elastic bands to be engaged for varying the overall resistance of the carriage as it is displaced along the post. In use, the footrests are pivotably mounted to a selected end of the post so as to allow the post to pivot freely in a vertical plane when supported on the footrests.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1997
    Assignee: Anthony Robin Clausen
    Inventors: Anthony Robin Clausen, Albert Norman Wesson
  • Patent number: 5695437
    Abstract: A system (100) particularly directed to exercising gluteal and thigh muscles is provided. System (100) includes a longitudinally extended handle member (110) and assembly (150) for engaging a heel portion of a user's foot. A resistive force assembly (120) is coupled on a first end to a central portion of the handle member (110) and on an opposing second end to the heel engagement assembly (150). The resistive force assembly (120) includes an inelastic resistive force subassembly having an inelastic strap member (132) coupled on a first end (138) to handle member (110) and a second end (136) formed in a closed contour. Inelastic resistive force subassembly (130) includes an adjustment buckle (135) for adjusting an overall length dimension of the inelastic strap member (132).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 9, 1997
    Inventors: Brad Olschansky, Scott Olschansky
  • Patent number: 5695436
    Abstract: An abdomen fitness apparatus including a frame bar, a slide slidably mounted around the frame bar and having a longitudinal coupling hole and a transverse coupling hole, a bearing plate pivoted to the frame bar at one end and adapted for supporting on the user's body, a tubular end cap fixed to the frame bar at an opposite end, a connecting tube fastened to the transverse coupling hole of the slide; a plurality of elastic rubber bands connected between curved pegs at the tubular end cap and curved pegs at the slide, and two tubular handlebars respectively connected to two opposite ends of the connecting tube and adapted for pulling the connecting tube and the slide toward the bearing plate, and two spring-supported retainer rods mounted in a respective radial hole at two opposite ends of the connecting tube to position the handlebars in one of four equiangularly spaced angular positions respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 9, 1997
    Assignee: Ming-Chen Wang
    Inventor: Ming-Chih Huang
  • Patent number: 5688213
    Abstract: The exercise apparatus of the invention has a stirrup and an anklet. The stirrup has a lateral strap that extends laterally from the stirrup. The anklet has ankle straps that cross in back of the foot and removably attach in the front of the leg above the ankle. The apparatus has an elastic cord connected to the lateral strap and a handle. The handle can have a rotatable grip which allows the user to change hand positions and vary the type of exercise performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Inventor: Mark I. Recker
  • Patent number: 5674163
    Abstract: An exercise device that can be used to increase cardiovascular conditioning and weight reduction, primarily through the strengthening of the abdominal muscles. The exercise device includes a foot retaining member having a pair of foot straps. The foot retaining member and foot straps retain and hold the user's feet in contact with the foot retaining member during the exercise movement. A pair of adjustable side straps extend from the ends of the foot retaining member and are adjustably connected to a handle. Preferably, the pair of side straps and the pair of foot straps are constructed of a single piece of material. When the foot retaining member is positioned on the user's feet, the user grasps the handle and begins the exercising movement. By moving his or her legs from an upright position to a generally seated position, the user can exercise his or her abdominal muscles without exerting stress on his or her back or neck muscles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1997
    Inventor: Louis W. Sennett
  • Patent number: 5669863
    Abstract: A compact leg exerciser adapted for use at home includes a retractable support bar having a suction disk at a bottom end and a handle bar at a top end, a linking-up bar having a foot rest at one end which is connected to the support bar by means of a resilient bar or spring, the linking-up bar having the other end locked to the bottom end of the support bar. In use, the suction disk of the support bar is caused to hold firmly onto the floor, keeping the support bar in an upright position. The user may grip the handle bar of the support bar and rest his/her feet on the foot rest. With the arrangement of the resilient band or spring, the user may exercise the leg muscles by extending his/her feet to push the foot rest forwardly and then relaxing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Inventor: Sung-Chao Ho
  • Patent number: 5662563
    Abstract: The invention is a portable exercising device comprised of a flexible elastic material strap, held fixedly between three rods which are secured longitudinally by means of semi-rigid plastic caps at each end. The caps are removable from the rods in order to adjust the active length of the elastic material, adapting the tension of the elastic to the user's specific need. The grouped rods are embodied as the handle of the device as exercises are performed. The strap may be connected to a stationary object such as a door, or held by the users foot or other means. The device is used to perform exercises which tone and firm muscles of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1997
    Inventor: James T. Maerzke
  • Patent number: 5653665
    Abstract: According to the present invention, at least one adjustable resilient elastic cable interconnects a generally flat lower elongated rigid member and an upper elongated rigid member. The resilient elastic cable is attached to the lower elongated rigid member by at least one retention structure and is attached to the upper elongated rigid member by at least one connection member. Use of the back exercising apparatus in conjunction with selected exercises subjects the user's spine to vertical compression and, if desired, rotation, thereby placing traction on the spine. One or more masses may be optionally attached to the upper elongated rigid member to further increase the compression of the spine. Following termination of exercise, decompression of the user's spine yields relief of back pain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 5, 1997
    Inventor: Michael Joseph Neeley
  • Patent number: 5643159
    Abstract: A therapeutic exercise device is provided having an adjustable ankle harness, multiple elastic elements of varying resistance, an adjustment device to further adjust tension development on the elastic elements, and handles or handles in conjunction with an elongated bar. The adjustable ankle harness has a quick release ankle harness fastener on the portion which circumscribes the ankle. The ankle harness has a loop portion which is positioned under the heel and attachment loops for attaching the elastic elements. Each elastic element has a quick release fastener at each end which connects the elastic element to an attachment loop of the ankle harness and a handle at the opposite end. Multiple elastic elements may be used simultaneously for planar alignment of the particular joint, limb, or muscle being exercised. Further, elastic elements having variable resistannce or lengthwise tension may be simultaneously used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 1, 1997
    Assignee: Jerry A. Iavarone
    Inventor: Jerry A. Iavarone
  • Patent number: 5643160
    Abstract: A chest developer which includes a cylinder having a close end made with air holes and an open end sealed with a sealing end cap; and arched fixed handle fixedly secured to the close end outside the cylinder, an arched movable handle; a piston rod having one end fixedly mounted with a piston movable in the cylinder and an opposite end extending out of the sealing end cap and fixedly secured to the arched movable handle; a compression spring mounted within the cylinder and stopped between the piston and the sealing end cap, the compression spring being compressed when the arched movable handle is pulled outwards relative to the arched fixed handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 1, 1997
    Inventor: Ma-Li Hsu Huang
  • Patent number: 5569135
    Abstract: A pulling exerciser including a foot bar having one end terminating in a head and an opposite end fastened with an end cap, two foot plates mounted around the foot bar, each foot plate having a plurality of raised portions for massaging the foot, a handlebar having a fixed handgrip at one end and a ribbed portion at an opposite end mounted with a tubular handgrip secured in place by an end cap, and a spring connected between the handlebar and the foot bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1996
    Inventor: Tseng-Cheng Chen
  • Patent number: 5569137
    Abstract: An exerciser including a hollow resilient member and two sleeve members respectively secured at two ends of the resilient member. The resilient member is wrapped by a soft cushion member. Two hollow grips are secured at two ends of the resilient member. The interiors of the grips are communicated with the interior of the resilient member. One end of each grip adjacent to the resilient member is formed with a fitting section for fitting around the sleeve member. An elastic rope is passed through the resilient member and the grips. Two stopper bodies are secured at two ends of the elastic rope for preventing the grips and the resilient member from detaching from the elastic rope. The exerciser can be operated in many ways to achieve various types of exercising effects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1996
    Inventor: Samuel Uen
  • Patent number: 5558609
    Abstract: A system (100) particularly directed to exercising gluteal and thigh muscles is provided. System (100) includes a longitudinally extended handle member (110) and an assembly (150) for engaging a heel portion of a user's foot. A resistive force assembly (120) is coupled on a first end to a central portion of the handle member (110) and on an opposing second end to the heel engagement assembly (150). The resistive force assembly (120) includes an inelastic resistive force subassembly having an inelastic strap member (132) coupled on a first end (138) to handle member (110) and a second end (136) formed in a closed contour. Inelastic resistive force subassembly (130) includes an adjustment buckle (135) for adjusting an overall length dimension of the inelastic strap member (132).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1996
    Inventors: Brad Olschansky, Scott Olschansky
  • Patent number: 5547446
    Abstract: An exercise device for performing a variety of resistance exercises for toning various parts of the body. A rigid one-piece frame member has a substantially "H"-shaped configuration with a central support and two pairs of outwardly extending spaced parallel rails or leg members terminating in outer open ends. Elastic bands extend between the spaced rails and across the end openings. A user performs various arm and leg exercises by selectively pushing in or pulling out on the bands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Inventor: William J. Szabo
  • Patent number: 5545113
    Abstract: An exercise and physical therapy device having an adjustable length elongated resilient element with a wrist attachment strap at one end and a shoe attachment clip at the other end. The device is configured so that the shoe clip attaches to either the shoelace or an eyelet of the user's shoe, allowing the device to be used simultaneously while performing walking, running, or other exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1996
    Inventor: John L. Bobich
  • Patent number: 5514058
    Abstract: A portable whole body exercise device is disclosed that utilizes a rigid hollow tube and two elastic cords that may have different tensions. One elastic cord runs lengthwise through the hollow tube, while the second elastic cord is connected between the open ends of the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1996
    Assignee: Nick Buoni
    Inventors: Nick Buoni, Willis Jordan
  • Patent number: 5484368
    Abstract: A multi-function pull bar for performing a variety of body exercises in chest-expanding and in developing strength in the arm, neck and legs, comprises a hollow main bar body having an extensible dual sleeve tube structure and an elastic cord pull device elastically stretchably located inside the main bar body and having the free ends of two pull cords leading out respectively from the two end housings of the main body. At each end of the main bar body is provided a housing, inside the housings are pulley assemblies for holding and guiding the two pull cords. The two pull cords of the cord pull device are connected at the free ends thereof respectively to a hook and between the two hooks is removably mounted a flexible grip belt or a rigid grip bar. On the main bar body may be attached a removably sleeve cover whereby it allows only the hook end of the pull cords to be exposed out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 16, 1996
    Inventor: Shao-Ying Chang
  • Patent number: 5480369
    Abstract: A new and improved flex center with a standing plate having two side walls and two base walls. Two extension brackets are secured to the standing plate. Each of the two brackets has a threaded aperture therethrough. Two lower L-shaped extensions are secured to the two extension brackets. Two elastic bands are secured to one of the corresponding two lower L-shaped extensions. Also, a shoulder bar has two off-set ends and an intermediate extent therebetween. Each of the two off-set ends has an upper L-shaped extension securely thereon. Each of the upper L-shaped extensions are secured to the corresponding two elastic bands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1996
    Inventor: Randall W. Dudley
  • Patent number: 5397288
    Abstract: A lightweight, compact, portable exercise device which is self contained and capable of a multitude of exercises. The device comprising a resistance band assembly, existing of a resistance band, a hard rubber spine, and an outer jacket. Attached to one end of the resistance band assembly is a resistance adjust handle, comprising a molded grip shell, a one-step resistance adjust knob and twin integrated foldable handgrips. Attached to the opposing end of the resistance band assembly is the resistance meter assembly, comprised of a molded grip shell, a resistance meter assembly, and twin footrests. The integration of the molded grip shells, hand grips, and foot rests make the unit capable of a large range of exercises, while the one-step resistance adjust knob and resistance meter assembly make resistance adjustments simple and precise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 14, 1995
    Inventor: Cotter W. Sayre
  • Patent number: 5382210
    Abstract: A rowing simulator which provides an oarsman with realistic resistance, motion, and feel. A curved frame supports and guides a freely sliding seat and a freely sliding energy dissipation unit. An oarsman, positioned on the seat, places his or her feet on a footrest that is part of the energy dissipating unit and pulls on a handle that simulates an oar. A chain connected to the handle causes a geared, resistance-producing flywheel to spin and a take-up device, having a series of pulleys and an elastic element, controls chain tension. During exercise, the independent seat and energy dissipating unit move apart and then together in a coordinated manner as a function of the stroke cycle of the oarsman. The curvature of the frame allows gravity to keep the oarsman in a central portion of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1995
    Inventor: Casper J. N. Rekers
  • Patent number: 5372565
    Abstract: A universal exercise machine comprising a belt portion (20), which is to be fixed as a conventional belt to the waist of the user. The belt portion (20) has on its upper and lower sides rings (40-56) for the attachment of elastic straps (22-30) which are connected to the hands, legs, and head of the user, for various exercises based on the application of force required for the stretching of the elastic straps. A distinguishing feature of the machine is the provision of an integrated back support (64), which may comprise a portion of the belt, or a part connected to the belt portion. The back support has a transverse rigidity greater than the remaining part of the belt portion (20). Another unique feature of the machine is the provision of floating elements (78a, 78b, . . . 78n) which imparts to the user buoyancy for exercising in the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1994
    Assignee: Igor N. Burdenko
    Inventor: Igor Burdenko
  • Patent number: 5318494
    Abstract: An exercising device comprising an elastic cord forming a continuous loop whereon three movable rings are disposed for forming a triangular stretching device defining three adjustable loops. Two lower loops form stirrups to receive and hold each foot of the user in a side-by-side relationship and a loop at the apex can be adjusted to receive and exercise the neck or head, or be gripped by the hands. A variety of muscle-toning exercises for the back, neck, arms, stomach, thighs and legs can be performed, and the loop can take numerous shapes and arrangements adaptable for a wide variety of exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 7, 1994
    Inventor: Krikor Santighian
  • Patent number: 5318490
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus having foot beams (38a, 40a) rotatably mounted to an upright post member (140a) of a frame to rotate about a first axis (322). Hand levers (132a, 134a) are secured to pivot members (152a) pivotally mounted to the upright post member to rotate about a second axis (328). The hand levers are coupled by resilient linkage members (380) including elastomeric joints (382) to the foot levers so that as each foot lever rotates about the first axis, the corresponding hand lever normally rotates a related distance about the second axis. The linkage members are resiliently deformable to allow discontinuity between the rotation of the foot levers and hand levers when an exerciser exerts a differential force on the hand levers relative to the corresponding foot levers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 7, 1994
    Assignee: Precor Incorporated
    Inventors: William C. Henderson, Cole J. Dalton, Lawrence J. Graf
  • Patent number: 5306222
    Abstract: An aerobic resistance exercise garment effectively supplements a motion exercise. The garment includes an article of clothing including gloves and socks worn on the body with anchor members worn at the gloves and socks. A connecting element is connected to the article of clothing and the anchor member by interconnecting the gloves. A second set of connecting members connect the socks to the garment. Each connecting element is preferably made of an elastic material so as to offer resistance during the movement of the arm or leg in a motion exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 26, 1994
    Inventor: William T. Wilkinson
  • Patent number: 5295931
    Abstract: The present invention provides an exercise apparatus having a frame that extends between a front end and a rear end, and is designed to rest upon a floor surface. The frame supports an inclined rail at an angle of greater than five degrees relative to the floor surface. A seat is slidably secured relative to the rail, and the angle of inclination opposes rearward movement of the seat. A load resistant line means is secured at one end to the seat and at another effective end relative to the frame to further oppose rearward movement of the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 22, 1994
    Assignee: NordicTrack, Inc.
    Inventors: John S. Dreibelbis, Charles C. Hall, Dale R. Henn, Pat J. Novak
  • Patent number: 5286242
    Abstract: An apparatus for flexing a knee capsule of a human body which contains a device for grasping a foot, a thigh strap, a first line cord, and a second line cord, a handle, and eight separate guides for guiding line cord is disclosed. This device may readily be used by a patient to rehabilitate a damaged knee capsule.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 15, 1994
    Assignee: Mechanical Advantage Ltd.
    Inventor: Thomas L. Johnston
  • Patent number: 5277680
    Abstract: An apparatus for flexing a foot of a human body, comprising means for grasping a foot, a first female buckle assembly, a second female buckle assembly, line cord, and ten separate means for guiding the line cord is disclosed. This apparatus allows a patient to rehabilitate an injured foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 11, 1994
    Assignee: Mechanical Advantage Ltd.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Johnston
  • Patent number: 5263916
    Abstract: An exercise and physical therapy device having a central elongated resilient element with a wrist attachment strap at one end and a foot attachment strap at the other end. The device is configured so that the foot strap fits comfortably inside the user's shoe, allowing the device to be used simultaneously while performing walking, running, or other exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1993
    Inventor: John L. Bobich
  • Patent number: 5263917
    Abstract: A plurality of leg straps are arranged for securement about an individual's legs to permit manual manipulation of the legs to enhance circulation for individuals lacking control of their lower limbs. The strap members include cooperative fastening surfaces for securement about the lower limbs, with each strap member having a top surface loop, with each top surface loop interconnected by a connecting belt. The connecting belt permits ease of manual manipulation upon grasping the belt and manipulation of each limb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1993
    Inventors: Lorenzo R. Ybarra, Robert A. Selva
  • Patent number: 5261866
    Abstract: An improved wheeled exercise device which is adjustable for users of different size and muscle capability. The device comprises a wheel rotatably mounted on an axle, a pair of handgrips telescopically mounted on the axle, and a length of elastic tubing telescopically mounted on the opposite ends of the axle. A pair of pads are adjustably mounted on the elastic tubing. The pads may be moved to different points along the length of the tubing to accommodate users of different size and strength. The user kneels or stands on the pads, grips the handgrips, and rolls the wheel and axle forward, away from the pads until the user is in the prone position. Thereafter, the user rolls the axle and wheel backward, until the starting position is reached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1993
    Inventor: Ernest M. Mattox
  • Patent number: 5236333
    Abstract: The leg exerciser is a simple device, preferably made from bent tubing, with a foot support at one extremity of the tubing and a loose fitting knee engaging pad. The knee itself serves as a pivot for the exercising of a leg. The bent tubing forms as L shaped set of parallel rods, between which the foot may be engaged, supported between the rods. A knee pad is engaged on the rods over the knee. There is a handle at the end of the L shape of the rod. The handle can be used with great leverage for easily exercising the leg pivoting on the knee. The leg exerciser can alternately be engaged to a shoe from leg brace for the same use. The leg exerciser is simple to construct, inexpensive, and light weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1993
    Inventor: Alfonso Barba, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5232425
    Abstract: A device for exercising the abdominal muscles which facilitates movement of the lower torso against a resistive force and in a complex arc which conforms to the normal forward arc of rotation of the spine comprising: a rigid shaft slidably disposed within a housing; arcuate thigh supports for maintaining the housing stationary with respect to a person's thighs; a handle generally transverse to and attached to a first shaft end; an elastic band positioned intermediate the ends of the shaft and for connecting the housing to a second shaft end so as to generate a resistive restoring force by pressing on the handle so as to displace the shaft relative to the housing in a direction from the first shaft end to the second shaft end, thereby executing a downstroke; a pivot positioned intermediate the ends of the shaft and for pivoting the upper portion of the shaft away from the torso as a downstroke is executed; a stop member for limiting displacement of the shaft with respect to the housing as the shaft moves in a
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1993
    Inventors: Jack V. Miller, Ned Gvoich
  • Patent number: 5197934
    Abstract: An exercise device comprising a foot board (12) which includes two side-by-side foot receptacles (22,24) separated by a connecting element (36). Spring holder elements (40,42) extend from the outboard edges of the respective foot receptacles (22,24). Elastic members (14,16) are connected to and extend upwardly from the spring holder elements (40,42) terminating in individual handles (18,20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1993
    Inventor: Donald E. Wirtz
  • Patent number: 5190512
    Abstract: An adjustable length pole resiliently tethered at the waist to a body harness is used in exercises to condition certain selected muscles. The body harness is preferably of a type known in mountain climbing, having a belt and two straps encircling the crotch. Two elastic tubes, one on each side of a user's body, are each connected at one end to the body harness and at the other end to the pole near the ends of the pole. These tubes resiliently resist bodily movement. The effort of overcoming this resistance provides muscle conditioning. The pole terminates in enlarged, flat portions large enough to overlap the user's hands, with the palm held against the flat portions, fingers spread out. With the pole held by contact with the palms, arms outstretched laterally from the body, with the center of the pole resting on the back of the user's neck, the user twists about the spinal column to exercise the external oblique abdominal muscles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1993
    Inventor: Daniel J. Curran
  • Patent number: 5186701
    Abstract: An aerobic resistance exercise garment effectively supplements a motion exercise. The garment includes an article of clothing worn on the body with an anchor member worn at the hand or foot. A connecting element is connected to the article of clothing and the anchor member. The connecting element is preferably made of an elastic material so as to offer resistance during the movement of the arm or leg in a motion exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1993
    Inventor: William T. Wilkinson
  • Patent number: 5178596
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus for use by individuals includes a base member formed of hingedly secured base members that in turn each include a hinged pivot plate relative to each base plate, wherein each pivot plate is biased exteriorly of each base plate, and at least one elastomeric band mounted to each base plate to permit simultaneous foot, leg, and arm exercise by individuals in areas of limited available space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1993
    Inventor: Nora L. McIntire
  • Patent number: 5176377
    Abstract: An exercise device for enhanced aerobic walking that coordinates the motion of the arms and legs. The device is worn around the torso by means of a belt mounted yoke which has an extension pole extending downwardly and rearwardly. Both the length of the extension pole and the angle of the extension pole to the yoke can be adjusted. Exercise cords are threaded through guides and brake-lock devices located on the sides of the yoke and a guide loop at the end of the extension pole. At each end of the exercise cord are cuffs, which are attached to the exerciser's extremities. Several threading methods are available for coordinated exercise: left arm to right leg and right arm to left leg; left arm to left leg and right arm to right leg; the left and right arm; and the left and right leg. The brakes can be used to increase the resistance and the locks can be used to fix the exercise cord in a position and use the elasticity of the cord for maximum resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1993
    Inventor: William T. Wilkinson