Utilizing Force Resistance Generated By User Only Patents (Class 482/131)
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Publication number: 20100048364Abstract: A hip flexor is a resistance training device used for training or rehabilitating the muscles and other body structures of the hip and thigh. The hip flexor comprises a frame with a hip actuator having an actuator arm which rotates about a pivot. One or more springs or other resistance devices provide resistance against a user's motion to train or rehabilitate the user's hip and thigh muscles. The position of the hip actuator and the amount of resistance, the variability of the resistance, or both may be adjusted as desired. During training, a user engages the actuator arm with his or her thigh and actuates the actuator arm against the resistance provided by the one or more springs. Training may be focused on various muscles of the thigh.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2008Publication date: February 25, 2010Inventor: Gil Reyes
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Publication number: 20100048366Abstract: The present invention is directed to a hand-held, resistance exercise device in the form of an inelastic, strapping system to be used by two people simultaneously using the bodyweight of each user to generate a resisting force in order to develop a wide range of muscles.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2008Publication date: February 25, 2010Inventors: Marc Joseph Lebert, John Curtis Ayton
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Publication number: 20100048368Abstract: An overall fitness trainer and can be a wall mounted unit that can utilize clip resistance bands as well as other techniques. These bands generally clip on the unit and onto different handles, bars and attachments to perform exercises. The unit can have a removable/adjustable pull up bar, dip bar and seat. It also includes a spring loaded, pull pin carriage that moves freely up and down a vertical spine. This allows for easy adjustment of the carriage and allows the user to attach the bands at multiple angles, widths and levels. This in turn increases the number of exercises the user can perform on the unit. The unit also typically has an o ring that attaches through the arm of the pull up attachment as well as a ½ O-ring at the bottom of the unit again increasing the number of exercises the user can perform. The unit can be attached to the wall with lag bolts into two or more studs.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 19, 2008Publication date: February 25, 2010Inventor: Darren Donofrio
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Patent number: 7658696Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a multipurpose therapeutic device for managing musculoskeletal pain and administering traction. In one embodiment of the present invention, a multipurpose therapeutic device includes a front side, a rear side, a first end, and a second end. An outer gripping surface is positioned in proximity to each of the two ends and a number of invaginating contact surfaces extend from the perimeter of the front side and/or the rear side. In one embodiment of the present invention, a user may place his or her neck against one of the contact surfaces. The user may then grip the outer gripping surfaces with his or her hands and move the multipurpose therapeutic device superiorly and inferiorly along his or her neck while applying pressure against his or her neck to massage sore neck muscles or to stretch his or her spine.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2009Date of Patent: February 9, 2010Inventor: Brett Hunter
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Patent number: 7652953Abstract: The invention is a stretching apparatus comprised of first and second elongate handles having first and second ends for being held by an individual during use and a strap carried by both the first and second handles such that at least a portion of the strap is exposed for engaging the foot of an individual during use. A timer carried by the second end of at least one of the first and second handles determines the time elapsed during use. A timer actuator disposed between the strap and the timer actuates the timer upon a movement of the strap. An audible indicator, carried by at least one of the first and second handles in communication with the timer, audibly indicates the elapsing of a predetermined period of time. The apparatus further consists of a visual indicator for visually indicating the elapsing of a predetermined amount of time.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2008Date of Patent: January 26, 2010Inventor: Michael Fluegge
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Publication number: 20100016134Abstract: The invention is an exercise apparatus consisting of a modified workout mat, attachable rubber resistance bands, and interchangeable handles and ankle straps which can be connected to the resistance bands. The exercise mat has nylon straps with metal rings sewn onto it so that rubber resistance bands of various lengths and weights can be attached to the sides of the mat to provide a multitude of workout options. There are also nylon straps sewn onto the underside of the mat which are used to anchor it to an object such as a bench or chair to provide the user with a wider variety of workout positions. The mat is of a tri-fold design so it can be easily folded up for transport or storage. Taken as a whole, the modified workout mat, resistance bands, and various attachments can be used in combination to provide a convenient and complete body workout.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2009Publication date: January 21, 2010Inventor: Jason Peter Reese
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Publication number: 20090298655Abstract: The present invention pertains to an exercising apparatus comprising a coupling mechanism and a synchronizing mechanism. The coupling mechanism is a rack assembly that includes two elongated bars extending longitudinally within the deck of the apparatus. The elongated bars receive a vertical arm of a platform when inserted through longitudinal slots of the deck. Each end of the elongated bar terminate with a wheel for rolling on a respective trough. The elongated bars further including vertical teeth disposed on the inner surface of each elongated bar for engaging the synchronizing mechanism. A pinion assembly includes a central wheel that rotates about a vertical axis. The external teeth of the central wheel are thereafter meshed with the vertical teeth of the elongated bars to provide synchronous movement as the elongated bars reciprocate.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2008Publication date: December 3, 2009Inventor: Mark LACHER
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Patent number: 7614984Abstract: A hand-held exercise device includes left and right handles that rotate through respective paths about an axis that is centrally located between the handles. In one mode of operation, the device is rotated while walking to enhance aerobic exercise. In another mode of operation, a strap is secured between the device and at least one of a person's lower limbs to link rotation of the device to movement of the person's hands and at least one of the person's lower limbs toward one another, thereby assisting the person in the performance of abdominal exercises and/or muscle stretching.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2006Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Inventor: Mark A. Krull
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Patent number: 7601108Abstract: An user-actuated anterior shoulder stretching device (10) includes a pair of swing arms (32) which are pivoted rearwardly in response to a leg press motion being applied to a sliding footrest assembly (18).Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2008Date of Patent: October 13, 2009Inventor: Stuart John Andrews
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Patent number: 7601100Abstract: The equipment is considered in paired aspect, one construction for each of the exerciser's hands. In one arrangement, a strapping loop for each is respectively run through both of two tunneled components—a handhold and tethering anchor. To use it, the anchor is positioned on the opposing side at the top of a closed door so as to become trapped in place against the door and its frame. The exerciser grabs the handhold and performs chin-ups or other body suspension exercises by pulling upward along the door's face. A hand bracing assembly is optionally included to cushion the hands from excessive pressure against the door. If desired, the operator may also temporarily adapt the assembly to pull-type exercises.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2008Date of Patent: October 13, 2009Inventors: Robert Sylvester Hinds, Loyd William Bonneville
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Publication number: 20090239723Abstract: A foot harness to aid athletic stretching having three adjustable nylon strap members that secure around a user's foot in the areas of the top of the foot, the back of the foot, and the ankle. The harness includes left and right handles and a back loop. A user secures the harness around the foot and then uses the handles and loop to pull the user's foot in a direction to achieve a stretch or pull the user's torso in the direction of the foot to achieve a stretch.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 8, 2008Publication date: September 24, 2009Inventor: Pavle Jovanovic
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Patent number: 7591769Abstract: An exercise equipment apparatus for isolating lower back muscles. The apparatus or device comprises main tubular support posts, secondary tubular support posts, and support feet for providing the foundation of the device. Inner tubular extensions and setting pins are used to adjust the height and length of the device to accommodate the particular size and the proper positioning of the user for the angle of strengthening desired. A removeable torso support is releaseably attached or coupled to one of the main tubular support posts. An angular setting guide is used to select or set the desired angle of use and an articulating lever attached to the removeable torso support provides an arm for stopping or setting the removeable torso support at the selected angle of use by the user.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2008Date of Patent: September 22, 2009Inventors: Scott J. Benjamin, Roy H. Bechtel
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Patent number: 7578797Abstract: A seating system for providing spinal motion and support. The system comprising a substantially static structure adjacent to the back of a user, a moving apparatus supplying a motive force, wherein the moving apparatus is adjacent to the buttocks and thighs of the user and is powered by the lower extremities of the user, a force applying structure disposed between the static structure and the back of the user, the force applying apparatus including a back engaging surface for increasing and decreasing a force applied to the back of the user in response to the supplied motive force, and a structure for locking the moving apparatus in place. Various embodiments of moving apparatus, force applying structure, and locking and/or motion limiting structure are presented.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2005Date of Patent: August 25, 2009Inventor: Rowland G. Hazard
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Patent number: 7563207Abstract: A muscle stretching machine designed to provide the user with easy system of functional stretching and also provide the user with flexibility feedback information as to the performance of the stretch, such as but not limited to the angles of the stretch, the force of the stretch, the position of the stretch, and the duration of the stretch. A user of the muscle stretching machine can turn on the central processor, adjust the height of the machine to suit their height or to suit the type of stretch to be performed, step onto a round turntable subassembly, place the leg to be stretched on a foam pad designed to raise and lower the leg, pull down on a handle to raise the leg being stretched and read the information displayed on the central processor. When the handles are pulled down the leg is raised. When the handles are allowed to go up the leg is lowered.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2005Date of Patent: July 21, 2009Inventor: Denis E. Burek
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Publication number: 20090181788Abstract: A golf exercise device is disclosed that can be used for stretching the shoulder and back muscles. The device expands to a length that allows the user to place the device behind the user's head and grasp each end with the user's hands. The device collapses to a size small enough to easily fit into a golf bag. The center portion of the device is padded for comfort while the user is stretching. Clips can also be included to secure the device to the external portion of the golf bag. The device can hold golf balls in one end, and a net for retrieving golf balls from water hazards in the other. Zippered pockets can be attached to the device to hold personal items such as mobile phones, PDA's, sunglasses, car keys, or the like. Net-type bags with drawstring closures can also be included with the device.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 11, 2008Publication date: July 16, 2009Inventors: Maureen O'Connor, Alfred O'Connor
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Publication number: 20090170673Abstract: An exercise chair comprises a base and a seat. The seat has a back leg and a front leg. The back leg is pivotally attached to the base and pivots between a first position in which the back leg is at an acute angle between the back leg and the base and a second position in which the angle between the back leg and the base is substantially ninety degrees. When the chair is in the second position, there is a gap between the front leg and the base.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 2, 2009Publication date: July 2, 2009Inventor: Michael T. Barretta
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Publication number: 20090149303Abstract: A kick training apparatus includes; a foot-receiving receptacle, which receives at least a front portion of a foot, and a band including a first end coupled to the foot-receiving receptacle, wherein a second end of the band is configured to be restrained by a hand.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 6, 2007Publication date: June 11, 2009Inventor: Eric Meisterling
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Patent number: 7536020Abstract: A wearable communication device includes a bone conduction actuator which is applicable for being in contact with a user's wrist, hand, back of the hand, finger or nail in order to transmit voice signals. The user inserts the user's finger into the user's ear canal, or touches the user's finger to a part near the user's ear, or puts the user's fingertip or nail on the user's ear canal so as to block the user's ear canal when the user uses the wearable communication device.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2005Date of Patent: May 19, 2009Assignee: Nippon Telegraph and Telephone CorporationInventors: Masaaki Fukumoto, Yoshinobu Tonomura
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Publication number: 20090048081Abstract: Provided is a novel physical therapy system and device that can be manually operated by a post-operative patient without the need of professional on site assistance, wherein the degree of movement of the limb or joint of interest is measured and recorded so as to provide a record of the progress of the prescribed post-operative therapy for immediate feedback to the patient as well as for long term data recordation for the therapist or physician.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 17, 2007Publication date: February 19, 2009Inventor: Paul KAMINS
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Publication number: 20090011910Abstract: An auxiliary structure to improve efficacy of a fitness equipment includes a pair of swing bars pivoted to a pair of traction bars wherein in turn pivoted to a crank; the crank drives a sprocket and a resistance control wheel for both swing bars to drive both traction bars to travel up, down, back and forth; each pedal is disposed with a roller to travel in a slide attached to the traction bar and is pivoted to a pull-and-push connection bar, which in turn is pivoted to a transmission connection bar; each transmission connection bar is pivoted to a support; each mid section of the transmission connection bar is pivoted to an active connection bar, which in turn is pivoted to the swing bar; and each pedal is dragged by the push-and-pull connection bar driven by the transmission connection bar when both swing bars alternatively swing to drive the transmission connecting bar to increase longitudinal travel ranges of both pedals for providing adequate exercise amount for waist and legs of a user to improve exerciType: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2007Publication date: January 8, 2009Inventor: Ying-Chou Lai
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Publication number: 20080312040Abstract: An exercise aid device has a hip supporting member movable relative to a base, footrests movable relative to the base, drive means for driving the hip supporting member, body constitution estimating unit for estimating at least one of fat mass and muscle mass of a user, and a controller for the drive means. The controller controls the drive means such that a load acting on a femoral region by own weight of the user supported on the hip supporting member changes according to a relative positional displacement between the user's toe and trochanter major, the positional displacement is allowed in a direction of flexion and extension of knee joint of the user, and an angle of the knee joint is maintained substantially constant. In addition, since the controller controls the drive means by use of an output of the body constitution estimating unit, it is possible to provide an exercise with less burden to the knee joint and a suitable strength for the user.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 21, 2005Publication date: December 18, 2008Applicant: MATSUSHITA ELECTRIC WORKS, LTD.Inventors: Kazuhiro Ochi, Takahisa Ozawa, Youichi Shinomiya
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Patent number: 7426155Abstract: The invention is a stretching apparatus comprised of first and second elongate handles having first and second ends for being held by an individual during use and a strap carried by both the first and second handles such that at least a portion of the strap is exposed for engaging the foot of an individual during use. A timer carried by the second end of at least one of the first and second handles determines the time elapsed during use. A timer actuator disposed between the strap and the timer actuates the timer upon a movement of the strap. An audible indicator, carried by at least one of the first and second handles in communication with the timer, audibly indicates the elapsing of a predetermined period of time. The apparatus further consists of a visual indicator for visually indicating the elapsing of a predetermined amount of time.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2005Date of Patent: September 16, 2008Inventor: Michael Fluegge
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Publication number: 20080176716Abstract: A machine and method for conditioning and strengthening the human frame, and particularly the lumbar muscles of the lower back and pelvic region. The user-controlled machine has a single restraint strap which wraps around the user's pelvic region and connects to both sides of a support structure. The single restraint strap may be positioned high or low about the user's pelvic region while the user faces forward, backward, or sideways relative to the support structure. The user causes the single restraint strap to be drawn tightly about the pelvic region, thereby restraining the pelvic region against the support structure. This isolates the lumbar muscles and permits the user to conduct specific lumbar muscle conditioning and strengthening exercises while remaining in an upright position.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 11, 2008Publication date: July 24, 2008Inventor: John P. Boren
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Patent number: 7393310Abstract: An user-actuated anterior shoulder stretching device (10) includes a pair of swing arms (32) which are pivoted rearwardly in response to a leg press motion being applied to a sliding footrest assembly (18).Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2004Date of Patent: July 1, 2008Inventor: Stuart John Andrews
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Publication number: 20080146423Abstract: Disclosed is a portable exercise pole that generally comprises a first hollow rod with a round base connected at the bottom, an extension, and a top piece. First rod has first and second threaded collars (e.g. nuts) welded therein. The extension generally comprises a second rod having a first threaded rod at the bottom, capped with first and second threaded collars. Third and fourth threaded collars are welded inside second rod. Top piece generally comprises a second round plate connected to a second threaded rod that snugly fits into third and fourth threaded collars or directly into first and second threaded collars, if the extension is not used. An alternate embodiment of the pole generally comprises floor and ceiling bases, a first hollow rod, a threaded insert, an extension, and an adjustment rod. Pole exercises are designed to tone and strengthen an athlete's muscles as well as build self-confidence.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 14, 2006Publication date: June 19, 2008Inventors: David Ammon, Anita Ammon
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Patent number: 7374517Abstract: A portable therapeutic seat exercise apparatus and method that provide a lightweight personal exerciser designed for a person to use to improve physical status, and for the exercise, alignment, and stress reduction of a person's trunk, spine, abdomen, pelvis, and thighs. It encourages and enhances low back mobility in contrast to the static nature of regular sitting. It consists of a lightweight contoured seating surface supported by at least one arcuate hemispherical base that allows unrestricted motion in all directions, including twisting, tilting, and rocking. It can be placed on many seating surfaces including but not limited to sofas, dining chairs, school desk chairs, office chairs, factory benches, and motor vehicle seats. Its use facilitates low back muscular stabilization, conditioning, strengthening, coordination, and enhancement of proprioceptive senses.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2005Date of Patent: May 20, 2008Inventor: Ricky Poole Lockett
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Publication number: 20080103033Abstract: A method of engaging in a physical exercise, while driving a motor vehicle, includes providing instructions for exercising in a vehicle, the instructions including an exercise routine, sitting down in the vehicle driver seat, and following the instructions to engage in the exercise routine. The exercise routine can also be followed by a passenger, and when the vehicle is not in motion.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 3, 2007Publication date: May 1, 2008Inventor: Prem K. Agarwal
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Patent number: 7364555Abstract: A self-assisted shoulder passive range of motion (SA-PROM) apparatus. The apparatus includes a forearm support adapted to receive the forearm of the affected arm, a double pulley assembly, a single pulley connectable to an elevated support such as an upper door edge, and a main support rope, one end of which is attached to the double pulley, the other end having an enlarged handle. A central portion of the main support rope is engagable over the single pulley. A secondary rope arrangement which is preferably formed of a single length of rope, is attached to each of a plurality of holes formed through said forearm support in proximity to each end and each side margin of the forearm support and arranged over the secondary pulleys to self-regulate pitch and roll movement of the forearm support. The affected arm may be passively raised and lowered through a range of motion by pulling on the handle with the unaffected arm.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2005Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Inventor: John Davidson
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Patent number: 7364538Abstract: An exercise device includes a pair of formed handles including openings through which ends of a rope or cord are passed. The rope to one handle is knotted and the rope to the other handle is adjustable but becomes fixed when the rope and the handle are firmly grasped. The base is a platform in which part of the user's body maintains contact with during an exercise. The base includes a channel through which the rope passes. Pulleys are positioned on either side of the platform at either end of the channel.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2006Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Inventor: Fredrick P. Aucamp
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Patent number: 7340786Abstract: A leg stretching apparatus includes an elevation mechanism resting; an elevation structure mounted to the elevation mechanism for lifting and lowering the elevation structure; a first leg support member pivotally connected to the elevation structure and extending from the elevation structure to a support structure in a first direction; and a second leg support member pivotally connected to the elevation structure and extending from the elevation structure to a support means in a second direction; so that operation of the elevation mechanism in one direction lifts the elevation structure so that the first leg support member and the second leg support member pivot progressively downwardly from the elevation structure, and operation of the elevation mechanism in another direction lowers the elevation structure so that the first leg support member and the second leg support member pivot progressively upwardly from the elevation structure.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2006Date of Patent: March 11, 2008Inventor: Oliver A. Smith
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Patent number: 7303458Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention there is provided a hoop having an inner circumference that generally forms a circle with an inner diameter sufficient to receive portion of a human body therethrough. A weighted member is slidably secured onto the hoop to increase a centrifugal force of the hoop when in use. The weighted member has a central body with two ends diametrically opposed and has a hollow channel aligned with the two ends. The two ends being sized to slide over the hoop. Bushings may be inserted into the two ends to reduce friction.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2005Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Fundex Games, Ltd.Inventor: Ryan Wolfinbarger
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Patent number: 7297091Abstract: An apparatus for anterior and posterior mobilization of the human talocrural joints for rehabilitation and/or therapeutic utilization. A patient's foot is secured in an apparatus and an Ankle Mortise Strap is looped around the mortise of an ankle of the foot. A force strap is attached to the ends of the Ankle Ankle Mortise Strap. Anterior mobilization is achieved by moving the force strap ventrally from the foot so that the foot including the talus remains stationary while the tibia and fibula glide anteriorly. Posterior mobilizations are achieved by securing the foot, and looping an Ankle Mortise Strap around the front of the ankle. A force strap is attached to the ends of the Ankle Mortise Strap. Posterior mobilization is achieved by moving the force strap dorsally from the foot so that the foot including the talus remains stationary while the tibia and fibula glide posteriorly.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2005Date of Patent: November 20, 2007Inventor: Michael J. Nushart
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Patent number: 7270629Abstract: An exercise device for strengthening muscles used in horseback riding includes a handle and a base having opposed surfaces. An elongated arm has a joint between a first and a second section. The first section is affixed to the handle at an outer end, and the second section is affixed to the base at an outer end. The joint permits angular movement between the first and the second section in a plane generally parallel to planes defined by the base surfaces. The first and the second section are bendable between a first and a more-acute second angle. In use, a user lies substantially prone and grasps the handle, places one heel against each of the base surfaces, and draws the base toward his/her trunk using heel pressure, thereby bending the arm from the first angle to the second angle.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2005Date of Patent: September 18, 2007Inventor: Hyde Kramer
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Patent number: 7232357Abstract: A hula-hoop is disclosed to include a hula-hoop body that is formed of two symmetrical halves that can be collapsed when not in use or locked in shape when in use, a plurality of sliding members respectively coupled to and movable along the periphery of the hula-hoop body, and weights selectively mounted in the sliding members.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2005Date of Patent: June 19, 2007Inventor: Kun Yueh Chen
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Patent number: 7115075Abstract: A maneuverable exercise apparatus is provided which enables the user to exercise both upper and lower body muscle groups. The apparatus includes a frame structure means, an upper body engagement means, and a lower body engagement means. The upper and lower body engagement means are coupled to the frame structure means. The user operates the apparatus while in a generally lying position. The user may push and pull backward and forward upon two handle members with their hands, which are part of the hand engagement means. This motion is transferred into a pivoting motion of the lower body engagement means, which is engaged by the legs of the user. Alternately, the user may pivot the lower body engagement means with their legs, and move said handle members of said upper body engagement means in the foward and backward directions. The lower body engagement means is pivotally coupled to the frame structure means such that the lower body engagement means may be pivoted in the forward, backward, and side directions.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2004Date of Patent: October 3, 2006Inventor: Gary Lawrence Johnston
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Patent number: 7112165Abstract: An exercise machine comprising a weighted spool assembly having a shaft that freely rotates upon bearings. To accelerate the weighted spool assembly, a user applies a pulling force to a strap assembly. With the strap assembly in a coiled position, the user applies the pulling force causing the weighted spool assembly to rotate in a first direction, uncoiling the strap assembly, until the length of the strap assembly is exhausted. Once exhausted, the weighted spool assembly continues to rotate in the first direction causing the strap assembly to coil upon it. While the strap assembly is coiling and to decelerate, the user then applies a resistance force. Once the strap assembly is coiled again, the user reapplies the pulling force causing the weighted spool assembly to rotate in a second direction, uncoiling the strap assembly, until the length of the strap assembly is again exhausted.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2005Date of Patent: September 26, 2006Inventor: Raul Forsberg
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Patent number: 7022054Abstract: Disclosed is a device to aid in spreading a person's legs to increase the flexibility of the groin and thigh muscles. The device employs a bar having a central curved segment that engages the lower back region. Each end of the bar has a pulley through which a cord extends with a handgrip and a stirrup at opposite ends of the cord. The user sits on the floor and places their feet through the respective stirrups, and pulls on the handgrips which pull the feet to spread the legs.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2003Date of Patent: April 4, 2006Inventor: Isaiah G. Contreras
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Patent number: 6976938Abstract: A motioning exercise apparatus is provided which enables the user to exercise both upper and lower body muscle groups. The apparatus includes a frame means, with a hand engagement means, a seat support means, and a power transfer means are all pivotally mounted to the frame means. The user may alternately push and pull backward and forward upon two handle members of the hand engagement means. This motion is transferred by a power transfer means into revolving or pivoting motion of a seat of the seat support means. Also, pivoting movement of the seat will produce alternating backward and forward movement of the handle members. Optional items include a back support means, inner and outer thigh engagement means, and a resistance means.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2002Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Inventor: Gary Lawrence Johnston
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Patent number: 6921358Abstract: A flexible exercise apparatus is provided which enables the user to exercise both upper and lower body muscle groups. The apparatus includes a frame structure means, an upper body engagement means, and a lower body engagement means. The upper and lower body engagement means are coupled to the frame structure means. The user operates the apparatus while in a generally lying position. The user may push and pull backward and forward upon two handle members with their hands, which are part of the hand engagement means. This motion is transferred into a pivoting motion of the lower body engagement means, which is engaged by the legs of the user. The lower body of the user may be used to provide resistance to the upper body of the user. Conversely, the user may pivot the lower body engagement means with their legs, and move said handle members of said upper body engagement means in the foward and backward directions. The upper body of the user may be used to provide resistance to the lower body of the user.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2003Date of Patent: July 26, 2005Inventor: Gary Lawrence Johnston
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Publication number: 20040254051Abstract: An exercise machine for exercising the arms and legs with a seat height adjustable to a lower and a upper position, in the lower position a preacher rest is also provided which places the elbow joint of the user when sitting on the seat in line with a pivot. Members are attached to the pivot which the user rotates to exercise his arms. The seat in the upper position places the knee joint of the user, when seated on the seat with the preacher rest removed, in line with the pivot members are then rotated about the pivot by the user bending his legs about the knee. Resistance to the exercise is provided rotation of the pivot.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2004Publication date: December 16, 2004Inventor: John James Harrison
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Publication number: 20040242388Abstract: A unidirectional exercise machine with a base, a resistive force coupling fixed to the base that has an extendable member attached to a user. The extendable member is movable between a retracted position and an extended position, relative to the base, to create a resistive force upon movement toward the extended position and a nominal force upon movement toward the retracted position.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 19, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventor: Richard Kusminsky
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Patent number: 6821231Abstract: A body stretching apparatus for stretching and strengthening muscles in the legs of the user. The body stretching apparatus includes elongate leg support members each having first and second ends and also having top and side walls; and also includes foot support assemblies being attached to the first ends of the elongate leg support members; and further includes handhold members being adjustably fastened to the elongate leg support members; and also includes leg extension assemblies being adjustably fastened to the elongate leg support members and being hingedly attached to one another; and further includes knee support assemblies being fastened to the elongate leg support members.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2002Date of Patent: November 23, 2004Inventor: Douglas A. Hall
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Patent number: 6770013Abstract: A device for selectively applying tractive forces to a user's back. In some embodiments, the device is an isometric exercise device. In some embodiments, the device is a portable, collapsible device. In some embodiments, the device enables a user to selectively adjust and control the magnitude and/or application region of the tractive forces while the device is being used. In some embodiments, the user-exerted tractive force is applied to handle portions of the device and transmitted to a lower extremity engaging portion of the device. In some embodiments, the device is configured such that a user can connect and remove the user's lower extremities from the device without requiring the manual manipulation of the mounts used to selectively retain the user's lower extremities. In some embodiments, the device is adjustable for use by a wide variety of differently sized individuals.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2002Date of Patent: August 3, 2004Assignee: Acorn Products, LLCInventor: Scott H. Stillinger
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Patent number: 6755755Abstract: A sports skills training arrangement, which is provided to promote muscle memory of a user, includes an arm loop strap adapted for fittingly encircling an upper arm of the user, a tension strap having a first end and a second end attached to the arm loop strap, a body connector affixed to the first end of the tension strap for detachably attaching to a waist portion of the user, a waist adjuster defining a control portion of the tension strap between the second end thereof and the waist adjuster and a waist loop portion of the tension strap for fittingly fastening around the waist portion of the user, and a length adjustment buckle for adjusting a length of the control portion of the tension strap. Therefore, a distance between the arm and the waist portion of the user is limited to promote coordinated arm and body movements.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2002Date of Patent: June 29, 2004Inventor: James Cheng Wah Loh
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Publication number: 20040116260Abstract: A dynamic hip stabilizer utilized to prevent postoperative and recurrent traumatic hip dislocations. The stabilizer includes a pelvic girdle defining an upper opening for the wearer's waist and a lower opening for the wearer's hips, at least one thigh cuff defining an upper opening for a thigh of the wearer and a lower opening for a lower region of the wearer's thigh, and elastic cables attached to the pelvic girdle and the thigh cuff and extending therebetween in a longitudinal direction of the stabilizer. The stabilizer further includes channeling features associated with the pelvic girdle for guiding and controlling movement of the cables in directions transverse to the longitudinal direction of the stabilizer. The stabilizer may optionally include lateral extensions that connect the girdle to each thigh cuff.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 29, 2003Publication date: June 17, 2004Inventor: Denis Drennan
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Patent number: 6712738Abstract: A readily applicable exercise device is provided constructed of four hinge-like or living hinge devices and four generally shaped blocks. Each said block has a rounded groove in the center for finger placement and grip. This design allows the fingers, placed on opposite sides of the machine, to be stretched equally on both sides and in a number of different variations to focus on specific muscles or tendons within the fingers and hand.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2002Date of Patent: March 30, 2004Inventor: Jason L. Siek
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Patent number: 6689024Abstract: An exercise apparatus and method utilizes a flywheel mounted on a rotatable axle. The user exercises by accelerating and decelerating the rotation of the flywheel. For example, a line which wraps around the axle provides a mechanism for accelerating and decelerating the flywheel when a user applies a pulling force to the line. The inertia of the flywheel resists the user applied pulling force and provides the exercise mechanism. Preferably, spool mounted on the axle and variable pivot locations provide a mechanism for easily varying the exercise resistance.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2001Date of Patent: February 10, 2004Inventor: Richard D. Charnitski
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Patent number: 6659925Abstract: A stretching machine is provided which can be used both for stretching and for measuring a level of flexibility. The machine rests on the floor and a beam is adjusted to a convenient height. The beam is provided with a plurality of handgrips. A foot plate is positioned to abut a user's feet. By leaning forward and grasping the handgrips a person can stretch their legs and lower back as well as determine a level of flexibility by noting which handgrip is grasped. The machine has a cutout on the foot plate to allow compact storage.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventors: R. Leon Wideman, Ryan L. Wideman
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Patent number: 6656094Abstract: The present invention is a modular component leg, arm, and body-stretching device. It includes a main ratchet component having a handle and at least one ratchet bar functionally connected to and capable of passing through the handle. The handle contains a directional ratchet-up mechanism and a trigger wherein when the trigger is depressed, the ratchet bar(s) advance toward the handle. The handle also has a release mechanism to release the ratchet bar from the ratchet-up mechanism. The ratchet bar has an auxiliary component attachment at one end thereof for attachment, directly or indirectly, if a foot or hand auxiliary component. The foot auxiliary component is for leg and body exercise, and has a rigid base for placement of a foot thereon, having a foot securing mechanism to hold a foot in place. There is also at least one attachment for connection with the ratchet bar.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2001Date of Patent: December 2, 2003Inventor: Peter E. Rigas
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Patent number: 6612972Abstract: An adjustable tension exercise device that allows a person to stimulate muscles in the arms and torso from their home including a door bracket adapted for coupling with a top edge of the door. A pulley wheel is coupled with the door bracket. The pulley wheel includes an internal portion and an exterior portion. The exterior portion is defined by enlarged inner and outer disks having a small cylinder therebetween. The pulley wheel includes a length of rope positioned between the inner and outer disks and engaged to the small cylinder. The length of rope has opposed free ends suspending from the pulley wheel. The free ends each have a gripping handle secured thereto. An adjustable tension knob is coupled with the door bracket. The tension knob includes an ovoid plate selectively engaged with the interior portion of the pulley wheel. The tension knob includes a turn knob controlling rotation of the ovoid plate.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2001Date of Patent: September 2, 2003Inventor: Richard Reichard