Utilizing Force Resistance Generated By User Only Patents (Class 482/131)
  • Patent number: 6533635
    Abstract: A foldable hula hoop structure includes multiple arcuate connecting members combined with each other. Each of the arcuate connecting members includes two opposite flexible main bodies combined with each other. Each of the two opposite main bodies has a first end and a second end respectively provided with convex portions and mating concave portions, so that any two adjacent arcuate connecting members may be combined with each other by engagement of the convex portions with the mating concave portions. Each of the convex portions and the mating concave portions is formed with a through hole for passage of a first locking member which is locked with a second locking member, so that any two adjacent arcuate connecting members may be combined with each other by the first locking member and the second locking member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Inventor: Ming-Dong Chern
  • Patent number: 6475126
    Abstract: A hand-held exercise device is described which positions the user's hands and wrists at an appropriate angle to minimize stress on the joints and ligaments, while allowing an isokinetic workout tailored to the user's own flexibility and strength. A method of using the exercise device is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Inventor: E. H. Taylor Hay, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6475120
    Abstract: A revolving 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 twisting 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: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Inventor: Gary Lawrence Johnston
  • Publication number: 20020142894
    Abstract: A lower leg exercise device (1) has an upper panel (2) and a lower panel (3) which are hingedly attached together along opposing longitudinal sides. A pair of elliptical forming panels (8) are hingedly attached to the lower panel (3) and are each foldable between a first position in which they lie substantially flat against the lower panel, whereby the upper panel may be collapsed flat against the lower panel for compact storage, and a second position in which they engage between the first and second panels in an upstanding manner so as to maintain the panels in spaced apart relationship. In said second position, the loading applied by the convexly curved upper and lower edges of the forming panels (8) to the upper and lower panels (2, 3) results in said panels each adopting a convexly curved shape. In use, the device is placed on the floor in its erect configuration, the user placing their feet on the upper panel and rocking the device back and forth on the curved lower panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2002
    Publication date: October 3, 2002
    Inventor: Michael Richard Flynn
  • Patent number: 6416448
    Abstract: Therapy and training equipment for constrained knee-joint movement with a lower leg accommodating arrangement, and a guiding arrangement, the arrangements being connected to one another via an articulated device, the guiding arrangement (12) cooperates with the lower leg accommodating arrangement (11, 25) in such a way that, on a rotational movement of one of the lower legs (14), the other lower leg (15) is constrained to move as a result of the knee-bending movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Inventor: Andreas Hassler
  • Publication number: 20020068665
    Abstract: With the Blood Circulation Helper, people can exercise in a confined space, mostly needed while having a long trip in automobile, buses, trains, airplanes. Of course, it can be used any where that people can sit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2000
    Publication date: June 6, 2002
    Inventor: Ho Ngau Tran
  • Patent number: 6379288
    Abstract: A variably-weighted exercise hoop includes a plurality of large hollow balls, a plurality of plugs corresponding to and received in the balls, and a cable extending through and securing together the combined balls and plugs. A fixed quantity of pellets is enclosed in each combined ball and plug, and that quantity is varied by the manufacturer to achieve hoops of different weights using only one mold, whereby users of different abilities can have suitable hoops. The pellets provide both audible and physical rhythms for a user as the hoop rotates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Inventor: Chi-Chang Liu
  • Patent number: 6352495
    Abstract: A leg stretching device includes a base unit, a connecting frame, a control mechanism, and a pair of leg support rods. The control mechanism includes a slide rod having a frame connecting portion mounted non-rotatably on the connecting frame, and a rack portion extending slidably into a stationary tube of the base unit. A ratchet wheel is mounted rotatably on the stationary tube and meshes with the rack portion. A control lever is mounted pivotally on the stationary tube, and a pawl unit is mounted on the control lever. The pawl unit engages the ratchet wheel to transmit a forward turning force applied on the control lever to the ratchet wheel, thereby enabling the ratchet wheel to rotate in a direction for retracting the slide rod into the stationary tube, and disengages the ratchet wheel when a rearward turning force is applied on the control lever. Each of the leg support rods is mounted pivotally on the connecting frame at one end, and is provided with an ankle support at the other end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2002
    Inventor: Frank Hsu
  • Publication number: 20020025892
    Abstract: The present invention is a piece of exercise equipment designed to train and condition sport-specific muscle groups used during a swinging motion, as in golf. It is comprised of a mechanical linkage, with at least six degrees of freedom of motion so that it effectively simulates a wide variety of golf swings without the need for complex adjustments. It includes a resistance mechanism, such as a pulley system linked to two one-way hydraulic cylinders. This allows a user to simultaneously practice swing form and technique while also strengthening and conditioning the specific muscles needed for the sport.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2001
    Publication date: February 28, 2002
    Applicant: Fit Express, Inc.
    Inventors: David F. Chapman, Truman Vincent Cole, Kevin Paul Cavaretta
  • Patent number: 6273841
    Abstract: A twisting 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 twisting 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: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Inventor: Gary L. Johnston
  • Patent number: 6231420
    Abstract: A hula ring includes a ring-shaped body and a plurality of recesses defined in an inside of the ring-shaped body. Each recess receives a roller therein which rolls on a user's body when the hula ring contacts the user's body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Inventor: Reh-Shong Lin
  • Patent number: 6206812
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a fitness device which includes a seat, a telescoping means which is attached to the seat at a terminal portion thereof by a pivot means and a support means which is attached to a second terminal portion of the telescoping means. The fitness device is adapted to support the hands and feet of a user who desires to stretch, strengthen and condition various muscle groups in the user's body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: Nash Nizamuddin
  • Patent number: 6196954
    Abstract: A sliding exerciser includes a track body, the track body having a base, a transverse bar, and rail means connected between the base and the transverse bar and smoothly upwardly curved from the transverse bar toward the base, a knee board connected to the transverse bar at a front side, and a slide coupled to the track body and reciprocated by the user along the rail means between the base and the transverse bar when the user kneeled down on the knee board, the slide having pairs of rollers bilaterally mounted on the inside and respectively coupled to the rail means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Inventor: Wu Tsung Chen
  • Patent number: 6179756
    Abstract: An exercise device and method are provided for relieving hip and back pain. The device is a firm solid block with side surfaces contoured to fit between a patient's inner thighs. The device is placed between a seated patient's inner thighs just above the knees. By compressing the knees inwardly against the device, the adductor muscles are activated in isometric contractions. By pulling the knees outwardly, the piriformis muscles are activated in isometric contractions. Both actions relieve specific joint and soft tissue dysfunctions in the pelvic girdle and lumbar region thereby relieving hip and back pain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Woodside Biomedical, Inc.
    Inventors: Lawrence E. Bertolucci, Joan M. Bertolucci
  • Patent number: 6113523
    Abstract: The invention is of a device which attaches to a standard bed frame in a manner which provides a foot hold for use during sit ups. The device is configured such that it extends outwardly from the side of the bed during use, but the user may swing it around to extend under the bed (and out of sight) when not in use. Applicant's invention permits its practitioner, with optimum convenience and minimal space usage, to engage in a regular, device-assisted exercise regimen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: David Larry Medina
  • Patent number: 6113564
    Abstract: Disclosed is a portable apparatus for providing lumbar traction in the home or while traveling which is used in conjunction with a door or gate. The apparatus includes an anchoring device which fits over the top of an ordinary door. The anchor is connected to an adjustable support strap which is attached to a junction box. An adjustable rope passing over a pulley in the junction box is provided with a grip at one end, and a pelvic traction belt at the other end. A locking mechanism is provided on the junction box to set the adjustable rope attached to the traction belt in a desired position. The device is attached over a door, and the user puts on the traction belt and lies down on the floor with knees bent, the soles of both feet flat against the door. By pulling the grip of the rope, the traction belt can be raised to a desired position for traction, and then locked in place. After an appropriate period of traction, the user disengages the lock, and lowers the traction belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: Leif McGuire
  • Patent number: 6090022
    Abstract: A exercise apparatus for exercising a user's stomach, back and leg muscles. The exercise apparatus includes a base frame with a front post upwardly extending therefrom. A bench is pivotally coupled to the base frame and attached to the front post. A backrest is pivotally coupled to the bench. A motor with a pair of opposite outwardly extending rotating shafts is mounted under the bench. A pair of side posts upwardly extend from the base frame and each have a pulley rotatably mounted thereto. Each of the rotating shafts has a spool coupled thereto. A pair of elongate flexible cables are coupled to the backrest with a first of the cables looped around one of the pulleys and wound around one of the spools and a second of the cables looped around the other of the pulleys and wound around the other of the spools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Inventor: Anthony P. Colecchi
  • Patent number: 6056621
    Abstract: A hula hoop includes a spheres connected by a circular wire and each sphere has two recesses so that two magnets are received in the two recesses of the sphere. The wire has two ends which are securely connected with each other by an end member which is received in a spherical casing. The two magnets extend out from the outside of each sphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Inventor: Ruey-Hsiung Lin
  • Patent number: 6027434
    Abstract: A device for relieving leg cramps, which is comprised of a shaft, a handle at a proximal end of the shaft, and a stirrup attaching to a distal end of the shaft. The device is comprised of rigid, lightweight, plastic tubing and is detachable and portable for the safety, comfort and convenience of the user. While lying in a supine position, e.g. in bed, a user experiencing a leg cramp (or charley horse) extends the affected leg, places the stirrup of the device over the toes so that the cushion covering the transverse bar bears against the sole of the foot. The user then pulls the handle proximally to pull the foot upwards and hyper-extend the cramped muscles until the cramp is relieved. Assistance of another person is rendered unnecessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gibbons
  • Patent number: 6001051
    Abstract: body exerciser including a frame base having front and rear support rods adapted to support the exerciser on the floor and a long foldable or retractable stem between the support rods; a link having a lower end pivotally connected to the stem near the rear support rod and an upper end provided with a pad; a slide seat pivotally mounted on the stem at a suitable position and having a handgrip unit disposed thereon; a drag bar having one end pivotally connected to the upper end of the link with the other end pivotally connected to the slide seat; and elastic bands or springs connecting the drag bar and the link as well as the stem. In use, the user may stand on a step pad at the rear support rod with his/her abdomen pressing against the pad on the link and both hands holding the handgrip unit while exerting forces using the abdomen and hips, combined with the of his/her body, to cause the link to incline forwardly to thereby push the slide seat forwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Inventor: Chang Chuan-Pin
  • Patent number: 5997449
    Abstract: A hula-hoop includes a body having a hollow portion at an inner side thereof, and a plurality of rollers equi-distantly spaced apart and pivotally mounted in the hollow portion of the hula-hoop body. The rollers are covered by a soft outer sleeve and each roller projects slightly from the inner side of the hula-hoop body. When the user turns the hula-hoop at the waist portion, the rollers may enhance the turning of the hula-hoop, and may prevent possible injury to the waist portion. The hula-hoop is easy to dismantle and assemble to facilitate carrying. Additionally, the rollers may massage the waist of the user during play.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Inventor: Joseph Chen Lung Lee
  • Patent number: 5989167
    Abstract: An exercise device is provided including a head, neck and thoracic supporting member spaced apart from a force receiving or hand grip member. A connecting member extends at a pre-selected angle between the head, neck and thoracic supporting member and the hand grip member. The connecting member includes at least one pivot for cooperating with a portion of a user to provide leveraging of the head, neck and thoracic supporting member via the hand grip member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Inventors: Michael Patrick Manley, James Joseph Manley
  • Patent number: 5984844
    Abstract: An exercise assembly includes a hollow, substantially rectangular housing having a pair of side walls, a rear wall, an openable front wall and an open top in communication with an interior chamber. A cord encompasses a pulley system inside the interior chamber and exits the housing at its open top. The side and rear walls each have a pair of aligned rows of apertures for receiving an anchoring assembly. The anchoring assembly includes two outwardly extending legs which may be placed beneath a furniture item to stabilize the device while a user performs a desired exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Marc A. Royer
  • Patent number: 5938573
    Abstract: A stretch therapy apparatus is disclosed which provides for enhanced physical fitness as well as rehabilitation and medical treatment. The stretch therapy apparatus includes both a leg stretching component and an arm and back stretching component. The leg stretching component allows the user to easily and safely separate his or her legs by 180.degree. or more using hand crank or motorized mechanisms. Sliding leg deck construction reduces the pressure on the user's knees during leg stretching exercises. The arm and back stretching component allows the user to maintain his or her arms and back muscles in a fully extended position without applying undue force during stretching. The arm and back stretching component includes a platform on which the user is seated and a stretching pole which can be selectively oriented in three dimensional space relative to the user's waist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Inventors: D. Robert Davies, III, David Dise
  • Patent number: 5935049
    Abstract: An apparatus for facilitating abdominal exercise (10) which includes a frame (12) having a central portion (20) between left (14) and right (16) hand engaging portions, the left (14) and right (16) hand engaging portions extending forward from the central portion (20), the central portion and the left and right hand engaging portions being essentially co-planar. A receptacle (18) is attached to the central portion, the receptacle (18) having a concave back of a head receiving portion (50) and an elongate groove neck receiving portion (52) extending from the back of the head receiving portion (50), the receptacle (18) extending transverse the plane of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Assignee: LongBall Sports, Inc.
    Inventor: Jack L. Hamm
  • Patent number: 5921901
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus of a push-pull type for exercising a person's abdominal muscles includes a track unit formed by a track board having an upper, body supporting surface extending between front and rear ends; an elongate, track-supporting base board for extending horizontally across a floor; a knee support on the base board adjacent the rear end of the track board; and, a support member for supporting the track board pivotally connected to overlie the base board with the rear end adjacent the base board and the front end at selected elevations. A hand-grip carriage unit with a pair of hand grips and an elbow support aligned rearward of the hand-grips is removably mounted by rollers on the body supporting surface for reciprocal rolling movement therealong. An anchoring unit for a person's legs or hands, alternatively, can be releasably mounted to the front end of the track board, when elevated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Inventor: Nestor J. Palacios
  • Patent number: 5921903
    Abstract: An abdominal exercise device (10) is disclosed to facilitate exercise of the abdominal muscles. The device includes a foam pad support (12) to support the head, upper back and neck. A strap (14) is secured to the support (12) by a plurality of ties (24). The strap forms first and second handles (34, 36) which extend to first and second ends (16, 18). First and second grips (20, 22) are mounted at the first and second ends (16, 18), respectively. The length of the handles (34, 36) are adjustable. The user positions the support (12) behind the neck and grasps the grips (20, 22) to assist in abdominal muscle exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Assignee: Steve A. Lawrence
    Inventor: Steve A. Lawrence
  • Patent number: 5916073
    Abstract: The exercise device of the present invention has an elongated member that extends from a user's head to the user's upper back for providing back support during abdominal crunches. The member is curved to conform to the user's cervical lordosis and kyphotic curve formed by the user's thoracic vertebrae and has a tapered lower portion to provide freedom of movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Assignee: Endurance Plus, Inc.
    Inventor: John S. Ellis
  • Patent number: 5913759
    Abstract: Apparatus for stretching the thigh muscles on the front side of one leg (4) of a user, wherein the apparatus includes a back support bench (10, 11), a foot support (19) which lies in a region above one short end (11) of the bench in a position such that the lumbar region (7) and hip of the user (1) will lie generally flat against the bench (10, 11) when the foot of the other leg (3) rests against the foot support (19). One end of a pivotal arm (30) is pivotally mounted (31) on the apparatus and extends generally away from the short end (11) of the bench (10, 11), wherein the underside of the pivotal arm (30) is adapted to support against the upper side of the thigh of the user's one leg (4). The apparatus includes a drive motor (40, 41) which is adapted to swing the pivotal arm (30) such that when swinging downwards about its pivot axis the pivotal arm will swing said one leg (4) rearwardly such as to stretch the thigh muscles on the front side of said one leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Inventor: Bo Yngve Bostrom
  • Patent number: 5904641
    Abstract: A body exerciser includes two leg-supporting members having first proximate ends pivoted to a seat member, and first distal ends swingable relative to the seat member on a horizontal plane. A guiding member has a second proximate end secured to the seat member between the first proximate ends, and a second distal end. A sliding member is mounted slidably on the guiding member, and is connected pivotally to the first distal ends of the leg supporting rods by two connecting members, respectively. When the user sits on the seat member and bends forward to move the sliding member toward the second distal end, the connecting members will cooperate to spread apart the leg supporting members for spreading apart the user's legs so as to exercise the user's trunk and legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1999
    Inventor: Ming-Hui Huang
  • Patent number: 5893817
    Abstract: A physical exercise apparatus including a hand-propelled lawn mower having an exercise computer for selectively displaying exercise data including speed and the like thereon obtained while mowing a lawn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1999
    Inventor: John E. Morgan
  • Patent number: 5891005
    Abstract: A new head and neck support for abdominal exercise for properly supporting a user's head and neck while performing crunches. The inventive device includes a base member having an elongated stem pivotally coupled to and extending upwardly therefrom. The stem has a notch formed within a free end thereof. An upper member has a forward edge hingedly coupled with a forward edge of the base member. The upper member has a plurality of apertures therethrough for selectively engaging the notch in the elongated stem to fix an angle of the upper member with respect to the base member. The upper member has an open rearward edge. A handle portion is adjustably received within the open rearward edge of the upper member. An adjustable strap is secured to a rearward edge of the base member. The adjustable strap has branched outer ends. A head harness is secured between the branched outer ends of the adjustable strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1999
    Inventor: Henry Drukarov
  • Patent number: 5879272
    Abstract: An adjustable physical therapy apparatus consisting of a support base. A horizontally oriented bounding platform assembly support bar is selectively mounted on the support base so as to be vertically adjustable with respect thereto. A bounding platform assembly consists of two pivotally connected bounding platforms which are selectively draped over the support bar so that the free ends thereof rest upon the floor. The angle of inclination of the pivotally connected bounding platforms is selectivley variable by vertically adjusting the support bar with respect to the support base so as to provide bounding surfaces for vigorous lateral rehabilitation exercises by the patient.A modified adjustable physical therapy apparatus is provided whereby two adjustable physical therapy units are fixedly attached in an end-to-end relationship so as to provide adjacent bounding platforms with a reverse angle of inclination so as to provide bounding surfaces for vigorous medial rehabilitation exercises by the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Inventor: John H. Mekjian
  • Patent number: 5879276
    Abstract: Apparatus for exercising a user's muscles and providing the user with a cardiovascular workout. The exercise apparatus includes a base having two concentric circular closed tracks and a platform for supporting the user, wherein the platform comprises a turntable and four rollers which glide along the tracks of the base. The platform is adapted to rotate about a first axis and to concurrently move linearly along a second axis. The exercise apparatus optionally includes a resistance mechanism for opposing movement of the platform. Also optionally included is a hand rail surrounding the platform which may be detached from the base when the apparatus is not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Assignee: Mass.Fitness, LLC
    Inventor: Kenneth Miller
  • Patent number: 5860899
    Abstract: An apparatus for manipulating a user's back while supporting the user's back and hips includes a support defining a longitudinal axis, and a seat pad disposed along the support at a position corresponding to the user's hips for supporting the user's hips. The seat pad is rotatable around the longitudinal axis and has an attached seat belt for holding a user on the seat pad. A pair of handles are provided, one on each side of the seat pad, which are coupled to the seat pad and which are movable in reciprocal back-and-forth motion to control rotation of the seat pad around the longitudinal axis. A resistance device is coupled to the seat pad or elsewhere for providing resistance to reciprocal back-and-forth motion of the handles, and two mechanical stops are provided, one on each side of the apparatus, for limiting rotation of the seat pad. The mechanical stops each have plural settings for adjusting a maximum angle of rotation of the seat pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1999
    Assignee: New Back Technologies, L.L.C.
    Inventor: William R. Rassman
  • Patent number: 5857949
    Abstract: An apparatus for exercising abdominal muscles comprises a load cable which is received by a pulley. The pulley is connected to a structure through a connector, and a single handle is connected to the first end of the load cable. A neck collar is connected to the second end of the load cable. In the method of exercising, the user lays on a surface and contracts the abdominal muscles to raise the torso no more than halfway to the normal position. Concurrently, the user pulls the handle such that a load is communicated between the handle and the neck collar to assist the abdominal muscles in raising the torso.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1999
    Inventors: James C. Tebbe, Jennifer Rose Kern, Cynthia Ann Nielsen, James R. Tebbe
  • Patent number: 5853357
    Abstract: An abdominal exercise adapter comprising two wedges and a telescopic pole extending between the two wedges. Each wedge has a vertical edge, a horizontal edge, and a third edge extending between the former two. The third edge is concave shaped. A channel runs through the bottom of the horizontal edge. Vertical members of a lower frame of an abdominal exercise device fit in the channels of each wedge, thereby allowing the adapter to rest firmly on the exercise device. Vertical members of an upper frame of the exercise device cradle in the third edge of the adapter, thus preventing the frame from returning to a resting position. When the adapter is in use with an exercise device, a user endures a more challenging exercise session since the wedges of the adapter block the upper frame from descending past a certain point. Thus, the user is forced to keep her head off the head rest, and her stomach and abdominal muscles remain tense.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1998
    Inventor: Frank Jones, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5842960
    Abstract: An exercise and stretch device constructed of semi-flexible tubing. The exercise and stretch device of the present invention has a rectangular frame disposed between a pair of axially aligned and oppositely extending tubular extensions each with an angular leg support depending therefrom which are adapted to receive the legs of the user. The rectangular frame has a pair of U-shaped handle supports connected perpendicular to the plane of the frame which can be used to support the weight of the user during stretching exercises. The handle supports can be removed depending on the exercise being performed or to allow the user to easily position himself or herself on the stretch machine. The present invention also includes an optional back support member which can be used without the handle supports or in combination with the handle supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Inventor: Thomas Chun Yu
  • Patent number: 5810751
    Abstract: Therapy apparatus for the exercise of the patient's trunk, back, spine, abdomen and shoulders consisting of a platform having a periphery and upper and lower sides. A pedestal or column extending vertically above the platform upper side supports a seat receiving the patient, and the platform lower side includes a central supporting projection extending below the platform periphery wherein the platform will engage a flat supporting surface, such as the floor, at the support projection and the platform periphery in a tilted manner and a patient located upon the seat may shift their weight to change the angle of platform tilting for exercising the patient's trunk, back, spine, shoulders and torso muscles and ligaments. Support projections of various vertical dimension may be employed to vary the extent of tilting from the vertical, and the apparatus may be utilized with computerized equipment to obtain accurate determination of the extent of exercise and body flexibility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Assignee: Spectrum Therapy Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert H. Meier, Gary W. Gray
  • Patent number: 5807218
    Abstract: A combination stance limiting and muscle flexing device particularly useful in karate training. The device consists of a flexible strap which is adjustable in total length, connected at opposite ends by means of swivel connectors with cuff assemblies to be worn on the legs or arms of an individual. The flexible strap is made up of two length-adjustable portions connected by an elastic portion. The length-adjustable portions form loops at their free ends which receive the swivel connectors and are adjusted by folding the strap material over on itself at selected positions along the body of the strap material. The strap material is made of Velcro material which easily attaches and detaches to allow for easy adjustment. The elastic portion of the strap allows a limited stretch capability of about two inches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventor: Yasuaki Nagatomo
  • Patent number: 5807220
    Abstract: An exercise device for use in exercising the abdominal muscles by performing sit-ups, which device protects the neck and upper back while the user performs such exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventors: Robert A. Allis, Shelly M. Allis, Thomas A. Baird
  • Patent number: 5779607
    Abstract: A novel abdominal exercise machine is provided which is adaptable for a variety of strength exercises utilizing at least some of the weight of a user for resistance. The exercise machine includes a first frame having laterally spaced and parallel side arms adapted for at least partially receiving a user in a supine position therebetween for abdominal exercise. A second frame is pivotally attached to one side of the first frame and includes a support member for at least partially supporting a user's weight thereon during utilization of the exercise machine. When utilized for abdominal exercise, the support member can support a user's head thereon. When utilized for a variety of strength exercises, the support member can support at least some or all of the weight of a user thereon wherein the user can stand, sit, or kneel on the support member. The amount of resistance encountered during strength exercises can be selectively adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Inventor: Robert W. Harris
  • Patent number: 5776083
    Abstract: The present invention provides an exercise bar for use in rehabilitative therapy of joint structures, especially those of an impaired limb of a user. The exercise bar preferably comprises an elongated shaft having a longitudinal axis and two ends, a loop member comprising a loop attached to a first end of the shaft, and a handle member attached to a second end of the shaft at an angle to both the longitudinal axis of the shaft and the plane defined by the loop of the loop member. The loop preferably is in the shape of an isosceles triangle with the angles forming arcuated notches for receiving a portion of the user's impaired limb. Once the user's limb is seated within one of the notches, the shaft may be rotated about it axis to enable rotational, resistive stretching of a first joint complex or may be reciprocated along its axis to enable the performance of various exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Inventors: Gary Jacob, Charles J. Aplin, III
  • Patent number: 5776042
    Abstract: An abdominal exercise device includes a first U-shaped frame member pivotally attached to a second U-shaped frame member. Each frame member includes a pair of spaced parallel legs and a cross section extending therebetween. A head rest is mounted on the cross section intermediate the legs of the first frame member. An adjustable pivot tube is telescopically mounted within each leg of the first frame member to adjust the length of the legs. The legs of the first and second frame members are pivotally attached to each other generally adjacent the free ends thereof. A pair of spaced flexible straps extend between the cross sections of the frame members. A spring-biased detent pin is mounted within the hollow interior of each of the legs of the first frame member and is selectively engaged in holes formed in the legs of the first frame member to provide linear adjustment to the first frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Inventor: William J. Szabo
  • Patent number: 5772612
    Abstract: A therapeutic method, for simultaneously stretching and lifting a user's lower back while the user is lying on his back on the ground, thereby relieving and preventing lower back pain. The device includes a frame which features a horizontally extending upper cross frame for accommodating the back of the user's knees. In use, the lower end of the frame contacts the ground and serves as a fulcrum. The device further includes a foot rest for accommodating the user's feet. The foot rest is mounted to the frame at a convenient point between the cross frame and the lower end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Inventor: Daniel Ilan
  • Patent number: 5762589
    Abstract: An apparatus for strengthening and toning a person's bulbocavernosus muscle is disclosed which includes a base and a contact portion having a convex elongated upper surface which is fixed relative to the base. The base and contact portion of the device are connected together by hinged connection with a prop moveable between a storage position and an exercise position in which the contact portion is raised above the base. The sides of the contact portion are contoured to reduce the width of the contact portion at the inward end thereof. The contact portion is preferably covered by a layer of padding material on its upper surface. The method of the present invention is an isometric exercise method wherein a convex member is placed on a horizontal supporting surface. The exercise method requires sitting on the supporting surface with the bulbocavernosus muscle resting on the convex member. The bulbocavernosus muscle is contracted and relaxed repetitively to strengthen and tone a person's bulbocavernosus muscle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Inventor: Clarence Parker, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5762592
    Abstract: A leg multi-muscle stretch apparatus for physical therapy includes a foot carriage mounted to a carriage guide track and permitting the foot carriage to move back and forth along a carriage path, for therapeutically stretching a user foot and user leg with reciprocating motion, and a user support structure pivotally connected the carriage track. The apparatus preferably additionally includes user handle grips, and two elongate arm members pivotally connected to the carriage guide track, where the handle grips are connected to the elongate arm members. The user support structure preferably includes a platform structure including two parallel and laterally spaced apart beam members and a planar web member extending between and supported by the beam members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Inventor: Patrick Neveux
  • Patent number: 5749818
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus and method for exercising are disclosed which utilize a conventional staircase to provide varying degrees of inclination during push-up exercises. An exercise apparatus consistent with the invention is specifically adapted for use on a conventional staircase such that it reduces rocking while performing push-up exercises. The level of difficulty of the push-up exercises is varied by placing the exercise apparatus at one of the plurality of elevations along the staircase, thereby allowing different users of different physical capabilities to perform push-up exercises with the same apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Inventor: Bradley T. Sather
  • Patent number: 5743805
    Abstract: A golf swing timing trainer formed, in its preferred embodiments, from (a) a forearm brace that serves as a base for the other operative elements of the device; (b) a generally linear member, which member is pivotally connected to the forearm brace at one of its ends and has a vee shaped notch at its other end which fits against the shaft of a golf club held by the user when said club is cocked in the proper plane for a golf stroke; (c) an adjustable biasing means disposed between said forearm brace and said generally linear member, which biasing means generates an adjustable force proportionate to the angle between the forearm brace and the generally linear member/shaft such that the greatest force is experienced by the user when the shaft is cocked and the least is experienced by the user when it is fully extended; and (d) an audible signal generator that indicates when the shaft is not fully cocked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Inventor: Robert E. Richter
  • Patent number: 5728049
    Abstract: A seating apparatus is provided which has a seating surface that tilts in a full-circle manner, the tilting being controlled so as to be adequate to allow the person seated on the apparatus to change the alignment of body muscles and skeletal members, while avoiding a degree of movement which would be excessive, potentially uncomfortable and/or possibly disruptive. The apparatus can incorporate a ball-and-socket arrangement which provides for the full circle tilting while also incorporating an appropriate stop surface for preventing excessive tilting along the full-circle rotation orientations. When used for extended periods of time, the seating apparatus improves, rather than detrimentally affects, muscle tone and flexibility, while also reducing risk of back injury and muscle stiffness due to prolonged sitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1998
    Inventor: Susan Alberts