Abstract: The invention provides a device to allow the user to perform the plank exercise without having to get on the floor that does not suffer from any of the problems or deficiencies associated with prior solutions. In a related embodiment, the invention includes the ability to do side planks for the oblique muscles and back planks where the user would be facing the anchor point.

Abstract: The bar bell having a plurality of differently oriented hand grips integrated therein is composed of two generally parallel members defining a horizontal axis and in between a plurality of hand grips are provided at varying angles along a vertical axis. The hand grips can be used to conduct weight-lifting exercises involving multiple symmetrical and asymmetrical gripping patterns thereby forming different weight-lifting techniques and exercises. The two generally parallel members include protruding members extending from the respective distal end on which weights may be added and locked in place via a screw lock. The two generally parallel members may include a track therein so as to enable movement of the hand grips along the horizontal axis.

Abstract: A pull handle that is ergonomically designed to avoid unnatural stresses and/or discomfort to the user's body and joints through the range of motion. The invention enables a user to perform exercises that cannot be accomplished with existing handles or may be more difficult or uncomfortable to do so. These objects are achieved by providing one or more axes of rotation or flexibility in the pull handle so that the user's hand, wrist and/or arm (or foot, ankle and/or leg) may bend and/or rotate more naturally through the user's range of motion.

Abstract: A door-mounted portable exercise apparatus having a non-elastic adjustable strap that extends vertically around a door. An attached connector maintains the adjustable strap in a snug position around the door. A first anchor and a second anchor are secured to the adjustable strap by a re-enforcing strap near the top edge of the door. When the door is closed, the first anchor is positioned near the junction of the closing face of the door and the door frame, and the second anchor is positioned near the junction of the opening face of the door and the door frame. At least two non-elastic loops are attached near the top and bottom of the adjustable strap by short strips on the closing side of the door. Elastic bands of various tensions can be attached to or passed through at least one non-elastic loop of the apparatus to permit a wide range of exercise motions by a user.

Abstract: An exercise device includes an arrangement of components to strengthen muscles in a physical body of an individual. In particular, the exercise device can be used to perform exercised to strengthen at least abdominal muscles.

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

Abstract: The invention relates to a training device for fixing in the area of the human waist, composed of a belt-like element (2) and of at least one force element arranged on the belt-like element (2), wherein the force element is coupled at least indirectly to a grip element, and the force element has the property of providing a resistance force (tensile force) against the pull of the grip element. According to the invention, provision is made that the force element (4; 204) is additionally designed such that it also provides an opposing force (pressure force) when the grip element (4.3; 204.3) is moved back in the direction of the force element.

Abstract: A connector device is disclosed for releasably connecting a cord or flexible tube which includes a disk-shaped top plate which has an exit opening for the end of a cord to be retained. A capture cap has a circumferential edge which mates with the top plate. The top plate has a series of indents upon its circumferential edge. A capstan is located between the top plate and capture plate. A cord or flexible tube to be connected is directed through an opening where it enters a helical track in the capture cap. When the capture cap is rotated in a first direction the cord is wrapped around the capstan and captured within the helical track. Rotation in the opposite direction releases the cord. A ratchet capture and release mechanism engages the series of indents to further prevent release of the cord. A retaining device is secured to the top plate for attaching the connector device in a fixed position thereby attaching the cord. Multiple connector devices connect multiple cords or flexible tubes together.

Abstract: The WalkBuddy is the world's answer to a total fitness work out. Simple simultaneous movement while holding the WalkBuddy and walking, running, sitting or standing you can achieve an improvement in posture, muscle tone, reduce inches from your body and increase heart rate causing fat burning results. Shaped like a handle bar from your favorite bike, the WalkBuddy comes in four different sizes (Mini, Small, Medium, Large). Bar tubing is made from Poly Ethylene and covered with Neoprene Mesh. The WalkBuddy is cored with Water/Sand weight used to enhance your work out. Each devise contain a high-density non slip surface enhancing the users grip making it easier to grasp. Anyone can do it from young to elderly you can achieve great results.

Abstract: An exercise system or kit that includes separate components that can be used together during a workout. In one embodiment, the exercise system includes a cylindrical body, an elongated bar, and one or more resistance bands. The elongated bar may be a one-piece bar or a multi-piece bar. The cylindrical body extends along a longitudinal axis and has an annular groove formed into its outer surface that surrounds the longitudinal axis and a bore extending through the cylindrical body in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The dimensions of the bar, the groove, and the bore are such that the bar can be inserted into and through the bore and the bar can be positioned within the annular groove to achieve different types of exercise. Furthermore, the resistance bands can be coupled to the elongated bar.

Abstract: A multi-functional handle assembly for an exercise machine includes: a strap arranged in a Figure-8 configuration to form a near loop and a far loop extending in generally opposite directions from a crossing point in the strap; a handle having a cavity formed therethrough, wherein the near loop extends to the near side of the handle and the far loop extends from the far side of the handle, the crossing point of the strap positioned in the cavity; a cushioning cuff attached to the far loop; a bearing member having a slot, wherein portions of the near loop are threaded through the slot, such that the bearing member is slidable relative to the portions of the near loop; and means for attaching the handle assembly to the exercise machine, the means for attaching the handle assembly being attached to the near loop. The handle can be drawn between the bearing member and the cushioning cuff, the strap sliding within the handle, such that the near loop and the far loop change in size with sliding of the handle.

Abstract: Exercise apparatus (10, 110) comprises a generally spheroidal main part (12, 112) having a weight providing portion (14, 114). The main part defines first and second receiving formations (16, 18, 117, 118) to receive a part of a limb of a user, wherein the weight of the main part is in the range of 1 kg to 20 kg.

Abstract: Exercise apparatus for balance and strength training that enables a user to perform push and pull oriented exercises with the user's hands or feet against the apparatus. Includes a pivot space, for example a slot or area or area with higher or lower areas, wherein the pivot space is configured to couple with a pivot element, for example a ball, cylinder, wheel or any other type of element that may move with respect to the pivot space and exercise interface. The movable pivot element enables force and hence torque required to balance to differ on each side of the apparatus. For example, a user with an injured shoulder may desire to utilize more force to balance during a push-up with the uninjured shoulder and less force and more range of motion to balance with the injured shoulder.

Abstract: A medicine ball device having a shell portion with an internal cavity formed therein and an outside surface. A weight is located in the internal cavity. A pair of hand grips extends out of the shell portion at opposite sides thereof. A pair of elongate loop handles extend out of the shell portion from opposite sides of the shell portion, which elongate loop handles pass through the medicine ball device. The loop handles are formed as a strap that engages with the weight to prevent the elongate loop handles from being pulled out of the medicine ball device. A number of attachments accessible from outside of the shell portion are used to attach other devices to the medicine ball device.

Abstract: Grip handles for coupling to a resistance force provided by exercise equipment, resistance bands, or the user's own bodyweight. Each grip handle is defined by an increasing outer surface circumference along the length of the handle to form a generally conical shaped handhold attached to a rigid or flexible member. Where, the member is coupled at the apex of the grip handle. The generally cone shaped handle provides a comfortable and ergonomic surface to securely distribute the user's grip force during the exercise movements, thus significantly reducing the pressure points and grip requirements of current exercise handles. Where in one embodiment, the flexible member may be a resistance band or in another embodiment, it may be a rope or other type of flexible cable attached to a cable pull machine, suspension trainer anchor, or other type of exercise machine.

Abstract: A handle for engaging a stretchable tube for use in exercise comprising a yoke and a handgrip. The yoke defining first and second passages and a channel. The first passage sized to permit the passage therethrough of the elongate member and a portion associated with the elongate member and the second passage and channel sized to permit the passage therethrough of the elongate member and to prevent the passage therethrough of the enlarged portion. The channel interconnecting the first and second passages for moving the elongate member from the first passage to the second passage for engagement within the second passage. An exercise device comprising one or more of the handles, the elongate member and one or more enlarged portions. A method of constructing the exercise device by securing the handle to the elongate member.

Abstract: A training device that includes a base member having opposed sides that are for grasping by the hands of a user, a cross bar supported over the base member, a support post mounted from the base member at a lower end of the support post and for supporting the cross bar at an upper end of the support post, and a pair of cables separately attached at opposite ends of the cross bar.

Abstract: An abdominal exercise device is disclosed. The exercise device can include a flexible substrate having a first end and a second end. At least one of the first end and the second end can be configured to move with respect to each other. The exercise device can also include a curved portion between the first end and the second end. The curved portion can be configured to flex upon application of a force to the flexible substrate.

Abstract: A grip band used for working out, has a wrist strap and a grip pad. The wrist strap is positioned around a user's wrist and provides the wrist with support, while the grip pad provides a grip surface having a high coefficient of friction, which enhances the user's grip. A proximal end of the grip pad is fixedly connected to the wrist strap, while a distal end can be removably attached. When in use the distal end is detached from the wrist strap and placed across the user's palm with the grip surface facing away from the palm. A finger strap ensures the grip pad remains in position across the palm. When not in use, the grip pad can be concealed by encircling the grip pad around the wrist strap and engaging a pad fastener with a strap fastener.

Abstract: An apparatus for activating particular muscles: a) a belt with two ends , mountable on the torso region of an individual wearer, the belt having a rear portion for traversing a lower back of the individual wearer; b) a pair of shoulder straps connected to the belt wherein each of the shoulder straps includes two ends, one of the ends of each connected to the belt and another end of the shoulder straps is connected to a back support; c) the back support member positioned between and connecting to the pair of shoulder straps and the belt; d) and at least one stationary hand grip element connected and extending from the back support.

Abstract: A humerus-stabilized shoulder stretching device including a first rod, gripping handle coupled to the first rod, force handle, and stationary arm having a first portion and a second portion oriented relative to each other by an angle. The first portion of the stationary arm is coupled to the gripping handle by the first rod and the force handle is coupled to stationary arm via the second portion. An elbow cradle having a base coupled to the stationary arm is configured to accommodate a user's arm such that when the user's elbow is within the elbow cradle and the user grips the gripping handle with the hand of that arm, the user's forearm will be releasably constrained between the gripping handle and the elbow cradle and the distance between the base and the gripping handle will be maintained by the first rod at a length approximately equal to the user's forearm.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus for exercising with an infant, the exercise apparatus including: an infant retaining portion for retaining the infant; and a linking portion extending from the infant retaining portion, the linking portion configured to link the infant retaining portion to a user, wherein the linking portion permits the user, when linked, to hold the weight of the retained infant with their hands at a distance away from the users body, the distance being such that the arms of the user are substantially extended.

Abstract: An exercise support having a base with a top surface, a bottom surface, a first end and a second end. Preferably, the base is curved to form generally an S-shape. Attached to the bottom surface is a support member. A narrowed or head section is formed at the second end of the base. Preferably a pair of handles extend outwardly from the narrowed section for gripping.

Abstract: A method of strap control and an apparatus including a combined strap-length adjuster and strap keeper is disclosed for use with strap-length adjuster comprising two rings. The strap-length adjuster includes openings that permit the attachment of a tether to the strap keeper. The arrangement allows the tether to not interfere with the positioning or movement of the straps, and maintains the straps close to the strap-length adjuster and prevents slippage of the strap through the strap-length adjuster.

Abstract: An exercise system includes a foot harness and an undulation rope that can be connected to the foot harness. The foot harness includes a back rigid section, two side rigid sections, and a front rigid section. A harness coupling is fixed to at least one of the rigid sections. One or more side straps couple the back rigid section to the two side rigid sections and couple the front rigid section to the two side rigid sections. A bottom strap couples the two side rigid sections. A top strap also couples the two side rigid sections. A dorsal strap may be fixed to the front rigid section and looped over the top strap. One or more of the side and top straps may be adjustable. The undulation rope includes a rope coupling fixed adjacent an end of the rope to provide a detachable connection to the harness coupling.

Abstract: A grip pad with bistable spring bands embedded therein is provided for snapping onto a bar to improve a user's grip of the bar. The grip pad is configured with specialized material such as neoprene with textured patterns on both top and bottom sides of the grip pad so that the grip pad securely grips the bar and the user securely grips the grip pad. The grip pad is removably attached to the bar so that a user can easily snap the grip pad into a cylindrical-shaped wrapped position around the bar and remove the grip pad by opening the grip pad from its wrapped position to its bistable straight position. An attachment mechanism may be configured at one end of the grip pad to detachably secure the grip pad around the bar in the wrapped position.

Abstract: A recoil exercise ball includes an elastic material defining an inflatable chamber within the elastic material, a nozzle in the elastic material forming a nozzle opening to provide access to the inflatable chamber, and a pair of ergonomic hand grips extending from the elastic material. The ergonomic hand grips preferably include a gripping portion shaped to receive the front of a hand in a semi-open first state, including openings to receive the fingers. The inflatable chamber is preferably filled with air and liquid water such that the recoil exercise ball has a substantially spherical shape. The nozzle is preferably designed to allow rapid filling and emptying of the recoil exercise ball of both air and liquid water. A recoil exercise ball kit includes the recoil exercise ball, an air pump, an air adapter, a water adapter, and a hose. Methods of using the recoil exercise ball are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a rehabilitation strap including a pair of handles and a strap of adjustable length and a method of using the same. The method includes rehabilitation exercises that an individual may practice after a joint replacement procedure.

Abstract: The present application includes various embodiments of apparatuses, systems, kits, and methods for physical exercise of a user. Some embodiments, for example, include an apparatus comprising: a strap having a first end, a second end, a length between the first end and the second end, the strap having an elastic portion between and spaced apart from the first end and the second end; a first handle configured to be coupled to the strap on a first side of the elastic portion such that the first handle is spaced apart from the elastic portion; a second handle configured to be coupled to the strap on a second side of the elastic portion such that the second handle is spaced apart from the elastic portion; and one or more suspension members configured to be coupled (i) to the strap at a first point between the elastic portion and the first handle, and at a second point between the elastic portion and the second handle, and (ii) to be coupled to a supporting structure.

Abstract: The method and system of this invention provides for core muscle strengthening. The method comprises the step of: providing an apparatus (10) that provides resistance and assistance during core muscle training using dynamic therapeutic movement for chest, back, abdominal and leg musculature to strengthen and condition muscles of the axial skeleton and lower extremities of a performing user. In one embodiment, the method also is for non-invasive physical therapy.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus for exercising muscles of a user comprising a main body, an abdominal crunch exercise member pivotally attached to the main body, the abdominal crunch member configured to engage an upper body area of a user, an abdominal contact member attached to the main body, the abdominal contact member configured to engage an abdominal area of user; and an electronic vibration unit capable of causing a portion of the apparatus to vibrate.

Abstract: An abdominal workout assist device is disclosed. An elongated member and an attachment means are provided, and a support member is attached therebetween. The attachment means connects to the base of a door with the elongated member connected in parallel to the support member. In operation, the user inserts the device under a door and can perform standard abdominal exercises with the elongated member holding the user's feet on the ground. Additional exercises such as legs lifts can be done with the user holding the handles of the device while laying on their back and their arms extended back.

Abstract: A hand protector for use in punching bag exercises comprising a concave shield and a grip mounted in the open mouth of the shield. The shield is shaped and sized to receive a human hand when the hand is wrapped around the grip in the manner to form a fist.

Abstract: The subject matter described herein relates to an exercise device used to strengthen muscles of at least the core of the body of a user. The exercise device includes a base that allows a user to lay, sit, lie, kneel, stand, or stay in any desirable position. The exercise device can include a frame in the shape of an arc that is connected to the frame. Connected to the frame is a grip that is configured to slide along at least some length of the frame and the grip is configured to be held while performing an exercise. Related apparatus, systems, techniques and articles are also described.

Abstract: A device for exercising leg muscles, ligaments, and tendons attendant to movement of a human knee following knee replacement surgery or during rehabilitation following knee injury is provided. The user lies supine on a flat surface and braces the back of his or her upper thigh against the device's leg support bar, so that the user's upper thigh is approximately perpendicular to the user's upper torso. The patient maintains this position and exercises the knee by extending and flexing his or her lower leg. Some embodiments include an elastic band that attaches to the device in a position that limits the degree of leg flexion to within a desired range. Some embodiments include an ankle strap attached to a cord, which may be used to build quadriceps strength through application of resistance, and/or for applying downward pulling force to the lower leg during passive range-of-motion exercising.

Abstract: A biomedical device (1) for robotized rehabilitation of a human upper limb, particularly for neuromotor rehabilitation of the shoulder and elbow joint, includes a first rigid rod (2) and a second rigid rod (3), both of which can be associated with the upper limb (4) of a patient (5) and are articulated to each other at two adjacent ends (2a, 3a) thereof by way of a first universal joint (6) which can be arranged proximate to the elbow joint (7) of the upper limb (4).

Abstract: A method, executed by a computer, of treating or preventing musculo-skeletal pain in a person, including: generating identification data representing sources of musculo-skeletal pain, said sources being associated with structures in the musculo-skeletal system; and determining, based on said identification data, and providing exercise data representing one or more exercises to strengthen or loosen said structures.

Abstract: A removable rubber pole sleeve comprising of an elastomer tube and optional security strap that slides onto metal pole-based exercise apparatus for the benefit of increased grip and adhesion when using metal pole-based exercise apparatus for pole dancing, pole fitness, and all other pole-based exercise. Removable rubber pole sleeve is manufactured with inside diameters substantially similar to specific outside diameters of metal pole-based exercise apparatus and can be applied or removed from the metal pole-based exercise apparatus without any permanent change or damage to the pole and without interference with the other functions of the pole-based exercise apparatus.

Abstract: A training device includes a sack into which weights may be inserted, and a tether. A method using a training device includes attaching the device to a person's leg, placing the sack on the ground, moving forward along the ground, and pulling the sack along the ground.

Abstract: An assisting instrument allows a person to effectively train his/her inner unit by movements in twisting directions or one leg raises, and allows the twisting movements in a prone posture. A first body part is comprised of a rectangular parallelepiped part and an integrated semicircle pillar section. When the assisting instrument is used during workouts in the prone posture, the person's two anterior superior iliac spines and pubis part are protected by a first pad, a second pad, and a third pad, respectively, and his/her abdomen is fitted into a groove part. When the person raises one of his/her legs, the semicircle pillar section to the opposite side. As a result of holding his/her body to prevent the rolling and prevent his/her body from being thrown out of the instrument, the person puts his/her strength in the inner unit and, thus, this part can be trained.

Abstract: A pelvic clamp for back stretching is disclosed which provides temporary relief for low back pain by employing means for stretching the lumbar region. Embodiments which provide this means for stretching include a cam stop assembly, a block stop assembly, a slide panel assembly and a bend rod assembly. Each of these assemblies works by squeezing the sides of the pelvic region in order to hold it stationary while the user exerts pressure on assembly elements to force the upper torso away from the pelvic region.

Abstract: A device for releasably retaining a cord or flexible tube. The device includes a U-shaped yoke and a rotatable handle sized for gripping by the hand of a user. The cord or flexible tube is releasably received by a capture cap and can emanate directly therefrom or be routed to a loop located at the end of the handle in order to alter its orientation.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus that includes a plurality of dip bars arranged in a non-parallel orientation and supported on an elongated self-supporting stand, which is supported on a base. The self-supporting stand may include a plurality of elongated supports that are spaced from one another. The support and the dip bars may be arranged along first and second parallel planes that extend away from the self-supporting stand in the same direction.

Abstract: A reformer exercise apparatus is disclosed that has a generally rectangular frame. The rail portions of the frame each have an upright outer wall and a hidden outwardly open slot therein. A foot bar support assembly movably carried by each of the outwardly open slots supports the foot bar. Each foot bar support assembly has an elongated slide plate movably supported within the slot, a hook plate fastened to the slide plate, and a foot bar support arm rotatably and slidably fastened to the hook plate. A pair of tubular risers each having a lower and upper roller therein at the head end of the frame direct arm cord ends to a cord retraction assembly mounted on the carriage. The retraction assembly mounted to the carriage releases the cords by pivoting either one of the shoulder stops toward the foot end of the frame.

Abstract: An interactive electronic exercise software program and mobile electronic device application with audible feedback resides in a human facsimile apparatus used as a dance partner during aerobic exercises. The interactive software program creates the illusion of working out with a friend, companion or personal trainer, providing interactive visual and auditory stimulus designed to make the workout enjoyable so that the user will continue to work out on a regular basis. The interactive software program is also designed to motivate the user to exercise and to continue exercising for an optimal duration. The interactive software program monitors the user's workout and provides audible feedback to the user regarding workout practices and results, and may respond to user input, such as speech or keypad entry, or may be equipped with sensors to provide feedback on the workout itself.

Abstract: Exercise apparatus and method with selectively variable stabilization enabling a user to progressively increase his/her core body muscular strength. In various embodiments, the exercise apparatus includes a resistance cabling system providing a user defined line of motion, and a partial stabilizer pad being adjustably positionable offset from the line of motion, wherein the user's core body is positionable against the pad and required to resist the torque created by the offset. The user can progressively increase the distance between the line of motion and partial stabilizer pad, in order to progressively increase the force which the user's core body must resist to maintain an upright stature. In this way, the user can progressively, over time, increase his or her core body strength.

Abstract: A full body exercise apparatus and method allowing for a full body workout utilizing all major muscle groups. The apparatus generally consists of a plurality of ropes allowing the user to pull the handles providing for arm resistance as well as leg and core resistance in a downward and upward motion by the user. The result is a full body workout after a series of repetitions using the apparatus.

Abstract: A vibrating handle assembly provides enhanced vibrating therapy and training benefits with important features in a small compact package. The vibration is provided through twin DC motors attached to a common offset weight, re-chargeable batteries, and an on/off switch. Vibration therapy is designed for convenience, portability, therapeutic purposes, and use with other training equipment via a strap attachment.

Abstract: New weight-actuated clips and other fastening and tightening techniques are disclosed. In one aspect of the invention, plate-style weights include a self-contained clipping system that, preferably, is reversibly weight-actuated, and therefore requires no additional clipping step to use—a user need only load a weight-actuated, self-clipping weight. In other aspects of the invention, a lateral tightening mechanism in the direction of loading is also provided, eliminating lateral play. In still other aspects, a user may rapidly and selectively shed weight from a weight-loading member. The weight-actuated tightening aspects are also applied in the context of sporting garments, such as running shoes, allowing a user to put on well-fitted shoes quickly, with easy entry, and no need for separate lacing or binding steps.

Abstract: Weight lifters have traditionally used chalk to improve their grip when performing heavier lifts. However, the use of chalk has been increasingly disallowed at gyms and fitness centers around the country because the residue from the chalk can create a mess. This invention discloses a set of wraps that can serve as a sufficient substitute for chalk so the lifter can still perform the same lifts without any safety concerns due to potential loss of grip, but with none of the resulting mess. The wraps are made up of a sturdy, yet flexible material that allows for a minimal amount of stretching. The stretching is an important feature because the flexible material will have a section with a material that allows for the wrap to securely fasten to itself and the stretching will make the fastening step easier. Also, embedded within the flexible material is a ridge or shape that will further enhance a user's grip.