User Interface Element Patents (Class 482/139)
  • Patent number: 7278958
    Abstract: A variable resistance physical exercise apparatus is provided which provides improved features over prior art devices in that it is more compact, provides a linear resistance profile to the user and provides a variety of modes of operation. The device comprises a motor driven bi-directional linear translation mechanism to vary the effective length of a lever arm and therefore vary the weight of resistance to the user. An alternative embodiment includes a spring winder drum pulley combination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Inventor: Curtis Wayne Morgan
  • Patent number: 7182717
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a novel therapy cushion for use in conjunction with a conventional blood pressure cuff. The cuff is inserted into the cushion, and the cushion with inserted cuff is placed between the legs (or against one leg). The cuff is inflated and used as calibrated resistance training device for therapeutic/rehabilitation purposes. The device is especially effective following hip or knee replacement surgery. The manometer (on the blood pressure cuff) serves to indicate resistance level. Other variations are possible for other exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Inventor: Thomas Alexander Tanglos
  • Patent number: 7175573
    Abstract: An exercising device includes a shaft, a rotation disk, a weight, two connecting members, two handles, two fixing members, and two pull cords. Thus, each of the two pull cords is attached to or removed from a respective one of the two fixing members, and one of the two handles is mounted on or removed from the shaft, so that the exercising device has multiple exercising functions, thereby enhancing the exercising effect of the exercising device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Inventor: Chin-Chen Huang
  • Patent number: 7175576
    Abstract: The instant invention provides an exercise device where there is a central panel to retain the user's head and neck, and a pair of handles, the handles being attached to the central panel by an upper and lower strut, the overall strut shape being C-shaped, so that the handles may be threadedly retained thereon and adjusted in a rotatable and tiltable fashion, to maintain the head and neck in an immovable condition during abdominal exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Goodmarc Designs Ltd.
    Inventors: Marc David Felberg, Margaret Tonne Goodman
  • Patent number: 7163500
    Abstract: A reformer exercise apparatus has a generally rectangular frame having a head end and a foot end and including a pair of spaced apart parallel track members, a movable carriage mounted on the frame for movement along the track members between said head and foot ends against one or more springs connected between the carriage and the foot end of the frame and an elastic member anchor bar and carriage stop assembly to adjustably position the carriage and elastic members on the tracks to accommodate a wide range of user heights. The anchor bar and carriage stop assembly includes an anchor bar having each end disposed in an elongated slot formed in each track member. The elongated slot has spaced gear teeth defining spaced anchor bar stop or lock portions. The anchor bar can be moved between lock portions only when rotated to an unlocked position wherein the bar can operably slide along the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: Balanced Body, Inc.
    Inventors: Ken Endelman, Brian Janowski
  • Patent number: 7163496
    Abstract: A cable pull exercise bar consisting of a hammer curl handle pair, each handle among the hammer curl handle pair having a base end and having a pulling end, the handle pair defining a head clearance space which opens at the handles' base ends; a cross beam spanning between and rigidly interconnecting the handles' pulling ends; and a cable pull hook eye fixedly attached to the cross beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Inventor: Ray Trotter
  • Patent number: 7150701
    Abstract: Cable-and-pulley devices having intermediate tension isolators for exercise machines. In one embodiment, a cable-and-pulley device includes a cable attached to a load and to a user interface, and operatively engaged with a main pulley positioned over the load, a floating pulley, and an end pulley proximate the user interface. A second user interface is attached to the floating pulley. A tension isolator is positioned on the cable at an intermediate position between the end pulley and the floating pulley so that a training force applied on a second user interface draws the tension isolator into contact with the an isolator stop. In one embodiment, the isolator stop is an intermediate pulley. Alternately, the isolator stop is a catch projecting from a frame of the exercise machine. The tension isolator effectively divides the cable into a tensioned portion and an isolated portion, thereby reducing the amount of cable that is stretched during use of the second user interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Assignee: Vectra Fitness, Inc.
    Inventors: L. Kent Lines, A. Buell Ish, III
  • Patent number: 7137930
    Abstract: An improved adjustable weight training apparatus is provided. The weight training apparatus includes a central collar portion, that further includes one or more elongated handles. In addition, each handle includes a gripping portion and a connecting end that attaches to a corresponding end of the central collar. Additionally each handle includes gripping protrusions that attach to a corresponding end of the elongated handles. The weight training apparatus further includes an angled weight support attachment that is received into the central collar and secured by a retaining pin or other similar device. In one preferred embodiment the angled weight support attachment may be pivoted and secured in a substantially upward position or in a substantially downward position. Weights may be retained by a sliding collar or similar means on the angled weight support attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Inventor: John Patrick Carr
  • Patent number: 7118516
    Abstract: The present devices apply resistance force to a user's body in close simulation of the impact and resistive forces experienced in martial arts techniques and interactions to provides more effective muscle and neurological training of the user. The devices include a conformable grip that accepts a user's fist for directing resistive force in a distributed manner to the outside surface of the user's fist. Flexible straps extend from the side of the grip to be positioned, in use, on the sides of a user's arm. The straps are connected by additional cross-straps to allow for transfer of force to the user's forearm. The configuration of straps allows transfer of varying proportions of the resistive force to the fist, and separately, the forearm. A system for physical training includes a resistance device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Inventor: William Ashley Gouthro
  • Patent number: 7115078
    Abstract: An orbital resistance-adjustable sphere exercising apparatus (10) that is designed to allow several exercise routines to be performed through several planes and range-of-motion at selectable friction levels. The apparatus (10) consists of four major elements: a sphere cradle (12), a sphere (116), a set of three sphere friction pads (42, 54, 94) and a telescoping pole assembly (126). The sphere cradle (12) includes a base (14) that has attached three sphere support frames (32, 52, 92) that are evenly spaced and that each have attached the friction pads (42, 54, 94) that interface with and support the sphere (116). The sphere cradle (12) also includes a sphere friction adjusting rod (104) that when rotated clockwise the three sphere support frames (32, 52, 92) simultaneously extend inward allowing the friction applied by the three friction pads (42, 54, 94) to the sphere (116) to increase. Likewise, when the rod (104) is rotated counter-clockwise the applied friction is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Inventors: Robert S. Kalember, Michael W. Knight
  • Patent number: 7108641
    Abstract: A handle for an exercise device, the handle attached to an actuating arm of the exercise device and including a connection structure that allows the handle to rotate with respect to the arm, as well as pivot in at least two directions orthogonal to the rotation axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.
    Inventor: Victor Pertegaz-Esteban
  • Patent number: 7108636
    Abstract: A portable exercise apparatus includes a hollow central bar member and telescopic end portions operably insertable therein. Such telescopic end portions allow the central bar member to be securely engaged between a pair of vertical members. A plurality of spring members are disposed within the hollow portion of the central bar member and provide resistive force for assisting to maintain the telescopic end portions at stable positions during operating conditions. The central bar member further includes a plurality of apertures spaced along an outer surface thereof and for receiving a plurality of fastening members therethrough so that a plurality of handle members can be selectively positioned along the length of the central bar member. The handle members preferably have first and second portions integral with each other wherein the first portion extends substantially perpendicular from the central bar member and the second portion extends obliquely from the first portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Inventor: Gustavo N. Garcia
  • Patent number: 7104926
    Abstract: An exercising machine is provided that has a head engaging member that can provide a hemispherical movement. The head engaging member is attached to rollers that can roll on a pivotable arcuate track. As an exerciser moves the head engaging member in the X-Y plane, the machine forces movement in the Z plane such that the head engaging member can maintain a point of contact on the user's head as the exerciser rotates his head during exercise. The track can be arced or formed in a radius such that the head engaging member traverses a motion approximate to a radius of a neck rotation as measured from the forehead to the base of the neck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Dynabolic Gym Equipment
    Inventor: Alan Carlson
  • Patent number: 7097601
    Abstract: An exercise device is described. The exercise device may include a pair of separate weightlifting units removably coupled to one another. Some implementations may include one or more of the following. Each weightlifting unit may include at least one weight removably held internal to the exercise device. The at least one weight may be coupled to one of a weight bar, a weight bar threaded along at least a portion of its length, and a weight bar having a plurality of spaced apart holes there through along at least a portion of its length. The at least one weight may be held in place by one of a spring clamp, a pressure ring collar, an adjustable nut, and a pin. The adjustable nut may be an annularly cylindrical nut having threads on an inner concentric surface and diamond knurl on an outer concentric surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Inventor: Clark Ronnow
  • Patent number: 7094187
    Abstract: The present invention involves an exercise device having an elongated base member with a linear track on a topside of the elongated base member. A slidable body moves within the one or more linear tracks. The slidable body is attached to a pole to be gripped while exercising.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Inventor: Peter A. Rizzo
  • Patent number: 7090622
    Abstract: An exercise device having many advantageous features is described, including the ability to provide a variety of different accessory grips to the user, and the ability to easily mount the device to a wall. One exercise device described is an inelastic resistance device having integral hand grips. The accessory grips are removably attachable to the integral grip of an exercising device, and provide for gripping by the hands, foot or other body parts. The selection of a specific accessory grip allows the user to exercise by specific body parts and provides for a greater number of possible exercises. Accessory grips are attachable to the integral grips, greatly adding to the flexibility of the device. In addition, a novel hand grip is described having a plurality of cords that can be selected for gripping, and a bracket for mounting a door jamb mountable exercise device to a wall is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Fitness Anywhere, Inc.
    Inventor: Randal A. Hetrick
  • Patent number: 7090623
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus (100) for performing press exercises is disclosed. The exercise apparatus includes a frame (102) and a support assembly (118) adjustably coupled to the frame. A first press arm (108) is coupled to the support assembly and is pivotal about a first pivot axis (140A) between a rest position and an extended position. An adjustment mechanism (152) is coupled to the support assembly and adapted to selectively adjust the support assembly between a first position, wherein when the first press arm is rotated about the first pivot axis a preselected angle, a distal end (304A) of the first press arm scribes a first predetermined path (300A), and a second position, wherein when the first press arm is rotated about the first pivot axis the preselected angle, the distal end scribes a second predetermined path (302A).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Precor Incorporated
    Inventors: Jonathan M. Stewart, Philip S. Lamb, Peter J. Arnold
  • Patent number: 7090626
    Abstract: The exercise device of the present invention includes an elongated rigid bar having a handle disposed at one end and a joint projection disposed at the opposite end. The joint projection is pivotably received by the joint collar of an exercise attachment. In an alternate embodiment, a second joint projection is provided at the opposite end of the exercise device to pivotably receive a second exercise attachment. The pivoting connection between the exercise attachments and the rod mimics normal biomechanical movement to decrease the chance of injury or re-injury to the user. The exercise device is telescopically extendable to selectively change its usable length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Inventor: Daniel S. Miller
  • Patent number: 7086999
    Abstract: An elongate bar having sliding handgrips concentrically mounted thereon adapted for use with a resistance-type exercise device. In a preferred embodiment, the bar has at least two, and more preferably four, axially oriented grooves in the outer surface thereof dimensioned to accommodate handgrip linking means therewithin. The handgrips, which are constrained to move only in an axial direction, are interconnected by linking means such as belts, in such a manner that the handgrips remain equidistant from the center of the bar throughout their axial range of motion. The interconnecting belts or cables are disposed to travel within the elongate grooves on the bar to provide the bar with a low profile. In the preferred embodiment, the linking means are belts that are supported by pulleys housed within recesses in the bar and rotatably attached thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Inventors: Jeff Jeneve, Jeffrey Dale Wilson, Daniel Steven Sanchez
  • Patent number: 7056268
    Abstract: A free weight lifting bar includes a central bar member having opposite ends. A pair of a drop down plates, each having a top end and a bottom end, are attached at the top end thereof to opposite ends of the central bar member. A pair of handle members are adjustably attached to said central bar. A pair of weight bars are provided. One of the weight bars is attached to and extends outwardly from the bottom end of each of the pair of drop down plates. The weight bars are adapted to receive and secure a desired number of free weight. A pair of weight bar clamps are used to secure the free weights onto said weight bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Inventor: Daniel W. Emick
  • Patent number: 7052446
    Abstract: An exercise machine for exercising muscles in the back of an exerciser, includes: a frame; a seat assembly attached to the frame; a movement arm pivotally attached to the frame and movable along a stroke path between an upper forward position and a lower rearward position; a resistance-imparting unit operatively connected with the movement arm to provide resistance to the movement arm as it moves from the forward position to the rearward position; a pair of handles to be grasped by the exerciser; and a pair of extension members, each of which is attached to a respective handle such that each handle is free to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the extension member. The extension members are attached to the movement arm such that each extension member is free to at least partially rotate relative to the movement arm about vertical, longitudinal and transverse axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Nautilus Human Performance Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Wayne Morris, Gregory M. Webb
  • Patent number: 7029426
    Abstract: An exercise machine has a frame with a generally rectangular base and a platform disposed at an angle at one end upon which the user stands. A horizontal shaft rotatably mounted on a pair of vertical frame members near the forward end of the base has an upper central sprocket at its center and smaller sprockets at its outer ends. A lower central sprocket is rotatably mounted on the base. A weight support arm pivotally connected to a pair of upright frame members extends forwardly therefrom and a selected number of weights are received on the outer end thereof. An elongate lift arm pivotally connected to the vertical frame members extends angularly upward and rearward therefrom toward the platform and has a pair of shoulder pads at its outer end positioned a distance above the platform, with a first and second pair of lateral hand grips near each end of the pads for griping the bar in two positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Inventor: Barney R. Fuller, Sr.
  • Patent number: 7029427
    Abstract: An exercise machine includes: a frame configured to rest on an underlying surface; a seat mounted to the frame; a backrest mounted to the frame above the seat, the seat and backrest being configured to receive a seated user; a pair of movement arm units pivotally interconnected with the frame and movable about respective generally parallel first and second axes of rotation; and a resistance system connected with the movement arm units. Each of the movement arms is configured to engage at least one of the elbows, forearms and hands of the user and is movable, within a range of motion plane that is generally normal to the first and second axes of rotation, between an extended position and a flexed position. The range of motion plane forms an angle of between about 30 and 80 degrees with the backrest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Nautilus Human Performance Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Henri Vuurmans, Gregory M. Webb
  • Patent number: 7008355
    Abstract: A safety strap for lifting barbells and dumbbells includes a wrist strap which is wrapped around and secured to the wrist of a user. A tongue is attached to said wrist strap which extends toward an open palm of a hand of the user. The tongue has a plurality sleeves which may receive a lifting hook member. The lifting hook member has a central portion and a pair of hooks. Each hook has a connection point located on a line of pull, an angled portion extending inwardly away from said line of pull and closer to the palm of a user, a downwardly extending portion, and an arcuate portion having an approximate midpoint positioned on said line of pull. With this arrangement, a bar positioned on the pair of hooks will remain at the approximate midpoint of said arcuate portions when lifted by said pair of hooks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Inventor: Daniel W. Emick
  • Patent number: 6988977
    Abstract: An exercise arm assembly for mounting on an exercise machine frame has a main arm, a swing arm, and a handle. The main arm has a first end for pivoting on a frame of the machine to pivot about a first pivot axis. The swing arm has a first end pivoted to the second end of the main arm for pivoting about a second pivot axis. The handle is pivoted to the swing arm for pivoting about a third pivot axis, with each pivot axis being perpendicular to the other two pivot axes to form a perpendicular, tri-pivot arm system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: Hoist Fitness Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Randall T. Webber, George M. Zink
  • Patent number: 6932748
    Abstract: Disclosed is a multipurpose exerciser comprising an upright frame, a top pulley on the frame, a steel rope to run the top pulley, a plurality of stacked blocks of weight fastened at one end of the steel rope, a lower pulley with the other end of the steel rope passed, a pair of first C-shaped tubes coupled to the other end of the steel rope, a pair of second C-shaped tubes, and a chain having both ends coupled to the second C-shaped tubes respectively and a midpoint fastened at the floor. Two or more of the legs and the arms are adapted to pass two or more of the tubes for achieving two or more of the purposes including contracting the abdominal muscles and training the arms, the legs, and the back muscles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Inventor: Hsiao-Chung Huang
  • Patent number: 6913565
    Abstract: An exercise machine includes: a frame resting on an underlying surface; a seat mounted to the frame and configured to receive a seated user; a pair of support pads mounted to the frame forwardly of and above the seat, each of the support pads positioned to engage one of the upper arms and the elbows of the seated user; a pair of movement arm units pivotally interconnected with the frame and movable about respective generally horizontal axes of rotation; and a resistance system connected with the movement arm units. Each of the pair of movement arm units is configured to engage the forearms and/or the hands of the user and is movable between an extended position, in which the seated user's arms are substantially straight, and a curled position, in which the user's arms are bent. The axes of rotation form an angle of between about 115 and 155 degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: Nautilus Human Performance Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary Mitchell, Gregory M. Webb
  • Patent number: 6860841
    Abstract: An exercise device, having a pair of handles—namely a first handle and second handle, and an elastic cord extending through the handles. The elastic cord has a fixed end, the first handle located adjacent to the fixed end. The second handle located along the elastic cord further away from the fixed end than the first handle. The second handle can selectively slide freely along the elastic cord toward and away from the first handle. A stopping device is attached to at least one of the first handle and second handle. The stopping device is capable of fixing the position of its associated handle along the elastic cord so that the elastic cord may then be tensioned to allow exercises to be performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Inventor: Michael Peter Mortorano
  • Patent number: 6860842
    Abstract: An intermediate section is inserted into the mid-portion of an exercise bar's body to increase its effectual length. The section is locked in place at each end thereof by the protrusion of a separation release button in one of the connecting members through a button opening in the member it is joined to. The button is retained in place either by a grasshopper leg spring supported upon a spring seat or a plastic memory resilient integral finger as snap-fit connection means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Inventor: Robert Sylvester Hinds
  • Patent number: 6849036
    Abstract: A conical strap-loop (1) of adjustable size which embraces part of a user's hand (7) in connection with his/her wrist. The loop includes a free-supporting elastic shaft (2) which projects forwards in the direction of the loop axis and includes a curved end-part (3) which is also free-supporting and springly elastic and which is curved through about one-half of a revolution in towards the palm of the user's hand. The width of the curved part (3) corresponds to the width of the user's palm. A handgrip (8), such as the bar of a barbell, can be positioned between the palm of the user's hand and the free end of the curved part so as to be accommodated within said curved part, which is able to straighten out elastically at low loads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Inventor: Filip Forslid
  • Patent number: 6837836
    Abstract: An exercise ball device has a big ball having a hole, an elastic cable penetrating a hole of a big ball, two end hooks disposed on two ends of the elastic cable, and two small ball having retainer rings to receive one of the end hooks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Inventor: Yang-Chin Huang
  • Patent number: 6835168
    Abstract: An exercise ball device has an elastic cable, two end hooks disposed on two ends of the elastic cable, a ball having a retainer ring to receive one of the end hooks, a treadle having a hole, and a soft cushion having a retainer ring to receive the other one of the end hooks, which penetrated a hole on a treadle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Inventor: Yang-Chin Huang
  • Patent number: 6835169
    Abstract: Left and right hand exercisers are formed based upon a modification of the handgrips disclosed and claimed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,979,015, wherein a throughbore is made through the grip, generally vertically through the elongation of the grip, at an angle between 82 and 88 degrees. A flattened tube of nylon webbing, or equal, is disposed through the throughbore, and is either connected to itself to form an endless loop spaced from the body of the grip in one embodiment. In another embodiment, the webbing passing through the bottom end of the grip is retained in place by one of several means. The end of the webbing emanating from the top of the grip may be attached directly to an elastic tube or band, or to a swivel split ring. If the latter, cables or other devices can be appended to the split ring as is known to the art.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Inventor: Stephen K. Tamaribuchi
  • Patent number: 6830542
    Abstract: A rowing weight training machine includes: a frame; a seat assembly attached to the frame; a movement arm pivotally attached to the frame and movable along a generally longitudinal stroke path between a forward position and a rearward position; a resistance-imparting unit operatively connected with the movement arm to provide resistance to the movement arm as it moves from the forward position to the rearward position; a pair of handles to be grasped by an exerciser; and a pair of extension members, each of which is attached to a respective handle such that each handle is free to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the extension member. The extension members are attached to the movement arm (preferably via a universal ball joint) such that each extension member is free to at least partially rotate relative to the movement arm about vertical, longitudinal and transverse axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Nautilus Human Performance Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Benjamin Ball, Gregory M. Webb
  • Publication number: 20040242385
    Abstract: A free weight lifting bar includes a central bar member having opposite ends. A pair of a drop down plates, each having a top end and a bottom end, are attached at the top end thereof to opposite ends of the central bar member. A pair of handle members are adjustably attached to said central bar. A pair of weight bars are provided. One of the weight bars is attached to and extends outwardly from the bottom end of each of the pair of drop down plates. The weight bars are adapted to receive and secure a desired number of free weight. A pair of weight bar clamps are used to secure the free weights onto said weight bars.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2003
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventor: Daniel W. Emick
  • Publication number: 20040235626
    Abstract: An exercise or therapy device to be used in conjunction with an exercise ball having a first region for securely, yet removably, receiving the ball and a second region for positioning a user's body parts thereon for stability while a separate body part is resting on the ball.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2003
    Publication date: November 25, 2004
    Inventor: Raider R. Acher
  • Publication number: 20040229735
    Abstract: An exercise machine for exercising muscles in the back of an exerciser, includes: a frame; a seat assembly attached to the frame; a movement arm pivotally attached to the frame and movable along a stroke path between an upper forward position and a lower rearward position; a resistance-imparting unit operatively connected with the movement arm to provide resistance to the movement arm as it moves from the forward position to the rearward position; a pair of handles to be grasped by the exerciser; and a pair of extension members, each of which is attached to a respective handle such that each handle is free to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the extension member. The extension members are attached to the movement arm such that each extension member is free to at least partially rotate relative to the movement arm about vertical, longitudinal and transverse axes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2004
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Inventors: Michael Wayne Morris, Gregory M. Webb
  • Publication number: 20040229737
    Abstract: An exercise machine (10-101) is provided having a platform (12-121) on which a user (14-141) is supported in a reclining position with the weight of the user (14-14G) being utilized as a resistance which may be selectively varied to the various exercises which may be performed on the exercise apparatus (10-101). A lever (20-201) is pivotally connected (30-321) to the platform (12-121) with the lever being actuated by the user for raising one end of the platform (12-121) with respect to a pivot point with resistance to such raising being varied by the pivotal mounting of the lever (20-201) on the platform (12121). Two of the various embodiments (FIGS. 13-16) include a base support (41F, 41G) having a rail (42F, 42G) on which a lever (20F, 20G) has a roller (47F, 47G) mounted for riding movement thereon and pivotally connected (32F, 32G) to a lower leg (62F, 62G) for pivotal movement. Other embodiments (FIGS.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2004
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Inventor: Kenneth W. Stearns
  • Publication number: 20040229736
    Abstract: A swing trainer composed of a handle, pulley, and cord connected to the handle and passing through the pulley permits a user to freely move the handle in any direction as well as rotate about its longitudinal axis so that he or she can engage in movement specific resistance training in a muscle memory fashion. The swing trainer preferably includes all or portion of a golf club (e.g., golf grip), tennis racket, baseball bat, hockey stick, or other piece of sporting equipment which the user will be training on. Because the handle is connected to the cord, the user can turn, rotate, and swing the handle in the same manner as he or she will when engaged in a sport, and the cord will slide on the pulley during this motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2004
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Inventors: David W. Dise, Chris Mack
  • Patent number: 6802800
    Abstract: An exercise machine for performing squat exercises is provided for. The exercise machine comprises a support frame with a shaft horizontally mounted on the frame for rotation about its longitudinal axis. There is at least one weight arm connected to the shaft. The weight arm is adapted to carry a weight at a point distant from the connection between the weight arm and the rotating shaft. Thus, the weight arm provides resistance and load as the shaft rotates. The novel squat machines also comprise a work arm that is connected to the shaft such that actuation of the work arm causes the shaft to rotate. A yoke is connected to the work arm. The yoke is adapted to accommodate the shoulders of an exerciser such that the exerciser is able to provide upward force on the work arm in opposition to the resistance of the weight arm by performing a squat exercise. When the exerciser performs the squat, the work arm causes the shaft to rotate and the weight arm to travel along an arcuate path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Assignee: Pendulum Fitness, Inc.
    Inventor: Tyler J. Hobson
  • Patent number: 6770011
    Abstract: An elastic exercising wand which can be squeezed, bent, twisted or pulled to benefit certain muscles; and having an elastic band snugly encircling its length under which the exercising operator may repetitively flex the hand or fingers in expansion exercises against its elastic resistance. A tension adjusting ring and attached anchoring hook are optionally present to control the band's resistance and provide tethering means, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2004
    Inventor: Robert Sylvester Hinds
  • Publication number: 20040147380
    Abstract: A universal exercise device comprising a U-shape rigid frame with legs upper portions lying generally in a plane, a bite portion joining the legs at lower portions thereof and handles at an upper portion of the legs. At least one resilient resistance member spans the legs and to yieldably resist elongation when pressed while otherwise holding the frame against the elongation of the resilient resistance member. The lower portions of the legs can be bent outwardly to form generally L-shaped legs with the bite portion lying outside the plane of the upper leg portions or can lie within the plane of the upper leg portions. The legs can be joined together at an upper portion with a crosspiece or free at the upper portions thereof. The crosspiece can be U-shaped and project out of the plane of the legs either forwardly or rearwardly with respect to the bite portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2003
    Publication date: July 29, 2004
    Inventor: E Michael Mattox
  • Patent number: 6764433
    Abstract: A mini body press that is configurable to allow a user to perform a multitude of upper body workout exercises. The mini body press includes a molded contoured back brace member, a pair of shoulder harnesses, a pair of hand grips, and a number of elastic straps that are securable between the hand grips and the back brace member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: Lynwood Sims
  • Publication number: 20040127338
    Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for physical strength, agility and endurance training uses fluid jet reaction forces to train and strengthen muscles. The device for physical training includes a source of pressurized fluid connectable through a hose to a propulsion system and one or more apertures or nozzles for forming one or more jets of fluid that are discharged from the propulsion system such that a nozzle reaction force, acting in a direction opposite the direction of the jet stream, is exerted on the jet propulsion system. Fluid can also be delivered through a curved tube or passage in the propulsion system such that a stream of fluid that is discharged from the propulsion system is not traveling in the same direction as it was before it was discharged such that the change in direction of the fluid causes a change in the momentum of the fluid for exerting an additional reaction force on the propulsion system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2003
    Publication date: July 1, 2004
    Inventor: David M. Munson
  • Patent number: 6746378
    Abstract: An exercise machine for exercising muscles in the back of an exerciser, includes: a frame; a seat assembly attached to the frame; a movement arm pivotally attached to the frame and movable along a stroke path between an upper forward position and a lower rearward position; a resistance-imparting unit operatively connected with the movement arm to provide resistance to the movement arm as it moves from the forward position to the rearward position; a pair of handles to be grasped by the exerciser; and a pair of extension members, each of which is attached to a respective handle such that each handle is free to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the extension member. The extension members are attached to the movement arm such that each extension member is free to at least partially rotate relative to the movement arm about vertical, longitudinal and transverse axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Assignee: Nautilus Human Performance Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Wayne Morris, Gregory M. Webb
  • Patent number: 6730006
    Abstract: An integrated back pain and back health program incorporating proper posture to achieve joint realignment and muscle relaxation, proper breathing to achieve stress management and muscle relaxation, and an exercise program focused on the muscles of the back, neck, shoulders, abdomen and hips to achieve muscle and joint flexibility and strengthening. By providing instruction on maintaining proper posture, the protocol offers back pain sufferers relief from the stress caused by muscles involuntarily attempting to realign and/or stabilize misaligned joints. The breathing techniques used in the protocol aid in muscle relaxation and, together with proper posture, maximize the benefits of the exercises performed in the procedure. The exercises in the protocol stretch and strengthen the muscles that are commonly implicated in the occurrence of back pain, release spasm in those muscles, and reset those muscles to normal tonus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventor: Paul Patterson
  • Publication number: 20040082448
    Abstract: A ergonomic handle having an inner ring with a center opening, a bearing assembly attached around the circumference of the inner ring, a two-piece outer ring attached around the bearing, a grip attached to opposite sides of the center opening of the inner ring, and a mounting point fixed to the surface of the outer ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2002
    Publication date: April 29, 2004
    Inventor: Joseph G. Martin
  • Publication number: 20040063552
    Abstract: Disclosed is a golf exercise weight machine for anaerobically strengthening the large rotary muscles of the body—including the upper thigh, trunk and abdomen, and shoulders—most used in performing a golf swing. Preferably, the device includes a floor mounted base to which a yoke is rotatably attached to fit around the shoulders and arms of a user, so that during operation the user's body remains oriented in the proper swing position so as to mimic and improve the golf swing by strengthening the appropriate muscles. A weight stack provides variable resistance during the simulated golf swing, and the device offers adjustment over multiple degrees of freedom and it can accommodate both right-and left-handed swings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventor: Chester H. Sharps
  • Publication number: 20040033869
    Abstract: A method and system for exercising areas of the body such as the neck, the wrist, the ankle, and the torso which require a wide range of motion and effective resistance over this range. A first member can rotate in relation to a frame and a user interface (second member) is moveable in relation to the first member. As a user pushes on the user interface in any of an X-Y direction the user interface travels in a controlled arcuate three-dimensional motion. The user interface is attached to a lead (rope or cable) which holds the user interface at a rest position and also provides a force on the user interface in the opposite direction of the users force. The lead is attached to an adjustable resistive system and/or a damping system that resists the movement of the sliding assembly. The lead spools in and out of from a central location through a fairlead. Many mechanical configurations can be utilized to allow the user interface to travel in an arcuate path in the direction which it is pushed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Publication date: February 19, 2004
    Inventor: Alan L. Carlson
  • Publication number: 20040033868
    Abstract: An exercise machine which includes a base upon which a user stands alongside an upwardly extending support. A handle, mounted to a lever rotatably fixed to the support, extends over the base so that the user can grip the handle with both hands and rotate the handle along a circular loop, alternately bending at the knees and then moving to an upright position, with arms extended, against a variable resistance force which is generated by a flywheel connected via a drive mechanism to the lever.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Publication date: February 19, 2004
    Inventor: Willem Johannes Van Straaten