Support For Entire Body Of User (e.g., Bench, Slant Board, Etc.) Patents (Class 482/142)
  • Patent number: 8033970
    Abstract: A method of using an adjustable user support platform with an inclinable exercise device includes providing an adjustable user support platform movably attached to an adjustable incline of the inclinable exercise device for movement of the adjustable user support platform along the adjustable incline, the adjustable user support platform including a support platform frame with a support platform and a support frame, the support platform frame operably coupled to the support frame for adjustably inclining the support platform frame with support platform relative to the support frame; inclining the support platform frame with the support platform relative to the support frame to a desired tilt angle; and securing the support platform frame with the support platform at the desired pivot angle relative to the support frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Total Gym Global Corp.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Campanaro, Dan McCutcheon
  • Patent number: 8033969
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus comprised of a base, a plurality of walls, and a user area, said user area being comprised of a sitting portion and a bending portion, wherein said bending portion is above the sitting portion when a user is seated on said sitting portion, wherein said base is formed by said walls; and wherein said walls, sitting portion, and bending portion to an opening. An exercise apparatus comprised of a base and a rocking portion, said base being comprised of a plurality of walls, and a user area, said user area being comprised of a sitting portion and a bending portion, wherein said bending portion is above the sitting portion when a user is seated on said sitting portion, wherein said base is formed by said walls; and wherein said walls, sitting portion, and bending portion form an opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Inventor: Diana Feltz
  • Patent number: 8029425
    Abstract: A portable multipurpose whole body exercise device which can be used for general fitness, Pilates-type, core strengthening, therapeutic, and rehabilitative exercises as well as stretching and physical therapy and which includes storable accessories that can be withdrawn from storage within the device and subsequently secured to the main tubular portion of the apparatus. The storable accessories can be used for a variety of resistance, stretching, and strength training exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Annovium Products, LLC
    Inventors: Darya Kathleen Bronston, Matthew Arf, John Russell Stump
  • Publication number: 20110237412
    Abstract: An exercise device includes a central hub, a plurality of rib structures radiating from the central hub, and a band. Each rib structure has a proximal end secured at the central hub and terminating at a distal, radiating end. The band is secured to the distal end of each rib structure such that the central hub, the plurality of rib structures, and the band form an enclosure operable to seat therein a bottom portion of an exercise ball.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2011
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Inventors: Joseph F. Signorile, Samuel S. Hollander
  • Patent number: 8025614
    Abstract: An exercise system preferably having a mat dimensioned to support a user stretched out on the floor. The mat has a central fastening band disposed widthwise across the mat. A belt fits around the midsection of the user adapted to be aligned with and at least partially adhere to the fastening band of the mat. The user is intended to perform certain flexibility exercises with the belt in contact with the fastening band. If the user lifts her midsection off of the mat during such exercises, the removal of the belt makes an audible noise (and the mat tugs on the user) to cue the user to reposition her body flat on the mat. The fastening band preferably includes one half of a hook-and-loop-type fastener and the belt comprises the other mating half. Alternatively, one or both of the band and belt may be provided with an adhesive material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Inventors: Amy Newburger, Paula Carnabuci
  • Patent number: 8021288
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for moving people or objects for the purposes of play, sport, pedagogy or therapy. Said device consists of a static base surface (2), a mobile surface (1) on which the person to be moved is located, and active, controllable, mechanical adjusting bodies which act between the static and mobile surfaces. Piston-free pneumatic actuators (3) are used for the mechanical adjusting bodies. In this way, the device is essentially more economical, smaller, lighter and more reliable than known comparable devices comprising different active mechanical adjusting bodies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventor: Paolo Ferrara
  • Patent number: 8021287
    Abstract: A restraint, reposition, traction, and exercise device treats acute or chronic mechanical pain, particularly back, neck, hip, pelvis, shoulder, knees, and/or leg pain, and restores and/or increases range of motion in suitable users. The device may include two or more movable support structures and two or more restraints, such as straps. The restraints may be incrementally adjustable to stabilize two or more portions of a person's body, such as the back and/or pelvic regions, against the support structures in any number of three-dimensional orientations that produce a substantially pain-free position. The support structures may be moved apart to apply spinal traction to the portions of the person's body between the restraints. Exercises may be performed while in a substantially pain-free position before, during, or after spinal traction is applied. The user may reposition and restrain herself/himself in another substantially pain-free position and then re-apply spinal traction and/or perform further exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: BackProject Corporation
    Inventors: Swee Lin Hoffman, Steven Ari Hoffman
  • Publication number: 20110224059
    Abstract: An exercise bench with a fillable bladder or other resilient member which provides a support surface for a user exercising thereon. The exercise bench providing many of the benefits of a traditional weight bench, while also providing the potential upside of engaging the user's core during exercise. The resilient member can be shaped according to the needs of the exercise to be performed. The resilient nature of the cushion limits bottoming out providing a true cushion support rather than laying on a hard surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2011
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Inventor: William Joseph Crawley
  • Patent number: 8016732
    Abstract: An exercise device for exercising the human body; said device including a first lower platform supported on rolling elements for omni-directional movement over a supporting surface; said device further including a second upper platform rotatably mounted to said first lower platform; said exercise device adapted for support of at least one portion of the body of a user; a further at least one portion of the body of said user in contact with said supporting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Inventor: Tony Susnjara
  • Patent number: 8016726
    Abstract: Disclosed is a portable exercise device for enabling a user to perform sit-up exercises. Also disclosed is a portable exercise system that comprises the portable exercise device, and a mat for supporting a back portion of the user while performing the sit-up exercises. The portable exercise device comprises a base member having a pair of base portions foldably coupled to each other and a pair of pedal portions configured on the pair base portions, a pair of strap members coupled to the pair of pedal portions, a pair of support members removably coupled at end portions of the pair of pedal portions, and a counting unit movably mounted on the base member. The counting unit comprises a timer adapted to determine a period of the sit-up exercises, at least one pressure, and a counter operatively coupled to the at one pressure sensor to determine a number of the sit-up exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Inventors: Charity Abiemo, Richard Abiemo
  • Publication number: 20110218086
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for stretching and/or exercising a user's body through incremental, controlled inversion and lower body stretching, preferably performed in combination. The user lies atop an exercise table and restrains her lower body to a restraint movably coupled to the exercise table. The user preferably controls the actuation of a first actuator to incrementally pivot the exercise table about a support structure thereby inverting the user's body. Before or after actuation of the first actuator, but preferably concurrently therewith, the user controls the actuation of a second actuator to incrementally extend the restraint axially away from the exercise table thereby pulling the user's lower body away from the user's upper body. This combination of gravity and mechanical decompression produces greater results than either action by itself.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2010
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Inventor: JOHN P. BOREN
  • Patent number: 8012074
    Abstract: An exercise device includes a body having rib-like structures and an annular band. Each rib-like structure has an exterior surface defining a longitudinal extent, terminates at a radiating end, and has at least one wing formed substantially parallel to the longitudinal extent and protruding away from the exterior surface to a given distance that increases along a direction towards the radiating end. The rib-like structures overlap at a central point to comprise a central base. The annular band is connected to the radiating end of each rib-like structure such that the rib-like structures and the band together form a cup-shaped enclosure operable to seat therein a bottom portion of an exercise ball. The at least one wing of each rib-like structure is operable to provide an incremental resistance against a rolling movement of the exercise ball along a substantially flat surface when the exercise ball is seated therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Concept One International LLC
    Inventors: Joseph F. Signorile, Samuel S. Hollander
  • Patent number: 8012073
    Abstract: A fitness machine is provided, which includes a base frame having a pair of vertical side members; a track assembly rotatably mounted to the base frame between the vertical side members; a drive assembly for rotating the track assembly relative to the base frame; a bench rest assembly slidably mounted to the track assembly for supporting a user in a supine position; a handle assembly and a footrest assembly fixedly attached to the track assembly; and a control system for directing the drive assembly to alter the angular orientation of the bench rest assembly to vary the resistance experienced by a user during an exercise routine. The operation may be manual, programmable, or adaptive to the user's performance, based on repetition time and/or heart rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Charles Barnett
  • Publication number: 20110212814
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a diagnostic or training apparatus including a controller, a balance pad connected to the controller and receiving information from the controller, and a patient support, the balance pad being located within the patient support. A patient support and method are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2009
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Inventor: Clarence W Gehris, JR.
  • Patent number: 8007423
    Abstract: An exercise chair of the type wherein a user can sit on a seating platform and extend and retract his legs while his feet are resting on a spring-resisted foot rod includes a structure which permits the chairs to be stacked in nested relationship or a structure using foldable support legs for a seating platform allowing the seating platform to be folded into close relationship with a base frame for storage purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Mad Dogg Athletics, Inc.
    Inventors: Howard J. Solow, James V. Osburn, Julie Lobdell, Jeffery T. Samson
  • Patent number: 8007417
    Abstract: An exercise device for strengthening the core or midsection of the body that is suitable for use in a professional work environment. The exercise device comprises a domed seat positioned atop a plurality of baffled sections. The domed seat is deformable, allowing it to support and conform to the buttocks of a user when sitting on the device. The baffled sections are also deformable, allowing the seat to shift in all directions along a horizontal plane as a user's weight naturally shifts while sitting on the device. As the baffled sections deform and the seat persistently shifts over the course of a given period of time, a user's core muscles repeatedly tense in order to stabilize the body. The constant tension of the muscles over that period of time simulates a workout, particularly in the midsection of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Ergoergo, Inc.
    Inventor: Alan Heller
  • Publication number: 20110207588
    Abstract: An exercise device of an oscillation type is provided having upper and lower panels, and a magnet mounted on the lower plate for generating a magnetic field. A middle ring is coupled to a lower side of the magnet, an outer ring is formed along circumference of the lower plate, and an upper ring is mounted on a lower side of the outer ring. A bobbin is inserted into a magnetic gap formed between the upper ring and the middle ring. Voice coils are wound around the bobbin for oscillating the upper panel upward and downward while interacting with a magnetic field. A linear bushing bearing unit is mounted between the upper panel and the lower panel and a shaft is inserted therebetween for ensuring the bobbin moves in a vertical direction. A buffer spring is formed between the upper and lower panels for buffering oscillation of the upper panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2010
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Inventor: Jin-young Min
  • Patent number: 8002671
    Abstract: The Supine Elevation Cycle is uniquely designed to provide multiple levels of physical therapy, or if desired, a vigorous and effective cardiovascular workout while minimizing painful and damaging physical impact on the body's major joints. The SEC features an elevated cycling device whereby the user exercises in a supine or reclined position while pedaling with the lower extremities positioned above the level of the heart. This results in a transfer of weight bearing stress from major joints to the large muscles in the calves, thighs, abdomen and back. With an adjustable back support, the user, utilizing the extension and angling features of the cycling device, can target numerous muscle groups of the body and extremities. Additional supine or upright positions with proper adjustment of the apparatus allow the targeting of muscle groups in the arms, shoulders, chest and back.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Inventors: Larry Vigilia, Kerry Michael Kilbride
  • Patent number: 8002684
    Abstract: A vibrating plate apparatus including a vibrating plate on which a user rests, a vibration motor member connected to the vibrating plate, several air cushions provided under the vibrating plate for dampening vibration, and an air tank in communication with each of the air cushions. The tank establishes the air pressure in at least one of the air cushions at a predetermined value independently from the user's weight. The motor member includes two motors rotating in opposite directions, each of the two motors including a set of flyweights driven by the two motors and having a center of gravity offset relative to the axis, the two sets having the same mass, being symmetrical to each other and including at least one moveable flyweight that can assume at least one position to vary the vibrating plate's vibration amplitude.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: FITHEALTH sarl
    Inventor: Philippe Laurent
  • Patent number: 7998045
    Abstract: An exercise chair primarily directed to employing an exercise method, with independent, adjustable foot bars and a foldable configuration. The seat is supported by a plurality of support elements, at least some of which are hingeably connected with the seat, so that the chair can be folded into a compact shape for storage or transport. The independent foot bars may each be attached to a lever that is hingeably coupled one or more of the support elements. The position of the foot bars may also be adjustable by extending out of the levers and locking into the desired position. One or more resistance elements may be removably attached to a location below the chair seat, and individually connected with the levers via an adjusting assembly that can either slide or be placed in pre-set mounting locations along the lever to provide variable resistance, or can be equipped with a turnbuckle to provide varying resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Guthy-Renker LLC
    Inventor: Robson Splane
  • Publication number: 20110195827
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus for providing multi-directional training of the body of a user is disclosed. The exercise apparatus allows the a user to exercise the mid-section, hips, legs, ankles and connective tissues joining all the muscles in these areas. the apparatus comprises a support structure, two elongate foot platforms and hanging members for attaching the foot platforms to the support in such a manner that they can move in a substantially horizontal X-Y plane with two degrees of freedom. The foot platforms can be hung so that they are either arranged in parallel or have one of their ends closer together than their opposite ends. At least one substantially horizontal connecting member may be provided to interconnect the two foot platforms, either in front, in the middle or in the rear. The support structure is designed to be free standing or to be mounted onto other supporting structures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2011
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Applicant: BVP HOLDING, INC.
    Inventor: ROBERT A. PIANE, JR.
  • Patent number: 7993250
    Abstract: An exercise ball with handles facilitates an abdominal, chest and arm workout. The exercise ball is a pliable material inflated and having a pair of handles oppositely positioned on a support rod extending through the exercise ball. The exercise ball rotates relative to the handles. An incline or ramp is used with the exercise ball to create added resistance thereby increasing the effectiveness of the muscle workout. Resistance bands attach to the handles of the exercise ball on one end and a user's feet on the other end to provide added resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Inventor: Jerry Abbott
  • Publication number: 20110190104
    Abstract: An exercise machine includes a frame, a body support assembly in pivotable engagement with the frame, and a counter balance assembly connected to the body support assembly, wherein, in operation, the body support assembly is pivotable from a downward position to a top position. The counter balance assembly partially balances a body weight of a user in a prone position against the body support assembly as the body support assembly is pivoted from the downward position to the top position. The counter balance assembly may include a reaction arm extending from a rear portion of the body support assembly and pivotable about the frame, and may include a weight bearing end opposite the body support assembly. A method of using an exercise machine includes positioning a user body prone against a body support assembly, wherein the body support assembly is pivotally engaged with an exercise machine frame and counterbalancing the user's bodyweight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2011
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Inventor: John D. Derrick
  • Publication number: 20110183828
    Abstract: A twisting exerciser includes a base having an arched track arranged along the periphery thereof, two swivel arms each having a front end pivotally connected to a pivot at the top center of the base and a rear end provided with a knee pad and slidably coupled to the arched track of the base, a handlebar detachably fastened to a stem at the front side of the base and having two grips at the distal end and a connection rod for selectively joining the two swivel arms for synchronous movement along the arched track of the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2010
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Inventors: Wei-Teh Ho, Wei-Yu Ho
  • Publication number: 20110172071
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus for providing multi-directional training to the body of a user is disclosed. The exercise apparatus allows the user to exercise the mid-section, hips, legs, ankles and connective tissues enjoining all the muscles in these areas. The exercise apparatus comprises a support, two foot platforms, and means for attaching the foot platforms to the support. The exercise apparatus is designed to be free standing or to be mounted onto other supporting structures. The apparatus has multiple interchangeable parts, attachments and accessories for allowing several types of exercises.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Inventor: Robert A. PIANE, JR.
  • Publication number: 20110160026
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus in the form of a chair has a seat that is flexibly connected to a base such as with a helical spring that allows flexing in multiple directions. The chair has a base such as a plurality of legs so that it may be fixed with respect to a floor. The chair may include handlebars having handles positioned no higher than the height of the seat above the floor. A user may flex his or body so that the seat flexes with respect to the base and thereby exercise the user's core musculature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Inventor: Charles B. Perez, JR.
  • Patent number: 7966679
    Abstract: A stretch assist cushion includes an upper member with an upper surface serving as a sitting surface in contact with the user's hip directly or through a covering member covering the upper member, the upper member made of an elastic material; and a lower member located below the upper member and with lower surface serving as a bottom surface in contact with a floor directly or through a covering member covering the lower member, the lower member made of a material harder than the material of the upper member. When the cushion is positioned such that the bottom surface is in contact with the floor, the sitting surface has a predetermined tilt angle relative to the floor, and the lower member determines a predetermined distance between the floor and the lowest point of the sitting surface that has the predetermined tilt angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Sante Plus, Inc.
    Inventors: Naokai Sakata, Hideo Numazawa
  • Publication number: 20110152047
    Abstract: The present invention is dedicated to a calf exerciser including a foot unit having foot-palm and heel support surfaces. The foot unit provides efficient resistance training of calf muscles by permitting both eversion or inversion movements of the foot-palm in synchronization with the plantar flexion dorsiflexion muscular contraction. This is achieved by inclining the foot-palm support surface either towards the exterior or the interior sides of the foot unit, by anteo-posteriolly curving the heel support surface from the foot-palm surface to the bottom of the foot unit and by including a gradual inclination of the heel support surface towards the exterior or the interior sides of the foot unit, thus forming a variable angulation foot sole gradient area. This variable angulation foot sole gradient area accentuates the eversion and inversion movements at the foot-palm and reduces the biomechanical stress by eliminating coronal rotation at the heel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2005
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventors: Stephane Bedard, Jean-Francois Boulay
  • Patent number: 7963896
    Abstract: A child exercise device including a base assembly, a kick panel support assembly, a kick panel assembly, and a seat assembly. The base assembly includes a housing and a plurality of tracks oriented substantially parallel to each other. The kick panel support assembly is supported by the base and includes a plate coupled to the housing and a front panel coupled to the plate, the front panel having a plurality of apertures. The kick panel assembly is received by the plurality of apertures and includes a frame and a panel supported by the frame. The seat assembly includes a seat adapted to support the child and a plurality of wheels coupled to the seat and adapted to be received in one of the tracks in the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Learning Curve Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Kyle Nanna, Jennifer M. Long, John Kearney, Michael T. Kane
  • Publication number: 20110143898
    Abstract: A patient support apparatus generally includes a base frame and a support deck supported on the base frame, the support deck comprising a seat portion. A segmented patient support surface is slidably coupled to the support deck. A lift system is coupled to the support deck and the segmented patient support surface. The lift system raises, lowers and tilts the support deck with respect to the base frame, and pivots a torso support segment of the support surface with respect to a leg support segment of the support surface. A foot plate assembly is removably positioned proximate a free end of the support deck, the foot plate assembly receiving a patient's feet when a patient is positioned on the segmented patient support surface thereby enabling the patient to slide the segmented patient support surface relative to the support deck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Darin Trees
  • Publication number: 20110143897
    Abstract: The invention is an inclined dome shaped exercise platform. The upper surface of the platform of the invention is large and shallow so that a user can comfortably lie on it. The dome is made of a stiff material and it is preferably covered with a layer of foam, which is in turn covered with decorative upholstery material. Embodiments of the platform of the invention include grasping means to assist in performing the exercises.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2008
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventor: Doron Dahary
  • Publication number: 20110136635
    Abstract: The invention relates to a supporting device for the back and head of a human being. Said device comprises a partial area of a back supporting section at the level of the shoulder blade, a central supporting surface in the region of a vertebral column and open areas which are arranged on the both sides of the central supporting surface in such a way that the shoulder blade regions can be lowered beyond the central supporting area. The invention can be used for furniture for the household or workplace.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Inventor: Joachim Berc
  • Patent number: 7955231
    Abstract: A physical exercising machine includes a carrier having a platform to support a user, a lever attached to the carrier and inclined relative to the carrier and the base, a pivotal coupling mechanism pivotally coupled between the base and the carrier for horizontally moving the carrier and the user up and down relative to the base, a follower slidably engaged with the base and the lever for moving the platform and the user up and down relative to the base when the follower is moved along the inclined lever, and a cable coupled to the follower and having two end portions engaged through two openings of the platform for being pulled by the user and for actuating the follower to move the platform and the user up and down relative to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Inventor: Paul Chen
  • Patent number: 7955224
    Abstract: The invention includes an exercise mat that provides intuitive tactile feedback allowing a user to determine body placement using the sense of touch. The invention enables visually impaired users to determine location and/or direction on the mat. The invention includes devices to assist a user in correct foot and hand placements during a yoga posture sequence, an exercise program, a dance routine, and so forth. Tactile markers for hand and foot placement enable discerning a reference marker as either intended for hand or foot, right side or left side, and forward or backward. The invention makes yoga more accessible to the visually impaired and enables a user to participate in mainstream yoga communities. The invention can be used for the practice of yoga in a class setting in schools for the blind, in public or private studios, or at home. The mat can be used in a yoga class to follow instructions with more ease and independence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Inventor: Tracy Lynn Curley
  • Patent number: 7955232
    Abstract: A physical exercising machine includes a base and a carrier, a lever attached to the carrier and inclined relative to the carrier and the base, a pivotal coupling mechanism pivotally coupled between the base and the carrier for horizontally moving the carrier and the user up and down relative to the base, a follower slidably engaged with the base and the lever for moving the platform and the user up and down relative to the base when the follower is moved along the base and along the inclined lever, and a cable coupled to the follower and having two end portions for being pulled by the user and for moving the follower to engage with the lever and to move the platform and the user up and down relative to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Inventor: Paul Chen
  • Publication number: 20110130258
    Abstract: An exerciser including a movable body support mounted on an exerciser frame for movement along tracks provided by the frame. A movable foot support extends from the exerciser frame. The movable foot support is adapted to be engaged by the user's feet to absorb the energy of movement in a first direction and to provide the user with a bouncing movement, which the user may translate into a movement of the movable body support in the opposite direction. The movable foot support may be provided as an attachment and retrofitted to existing exercisers, and, in some embodiments, may comprise independently movable foot supports for each foot. The exerciser may include a resilient resistance system coupled to the movable body support and a set of pull lines with user grips trained over pulleys carried by the exerciser frame. Also disclosed are methods for enabling users to exercise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2011
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Applicant: STAMINA PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: Kevin GERSCHEFSKE
  • Patent number: 7951056
    Abstract: An exercise device includes a substantially planar upper surface having a first extent and a second extent and a support structure that supports and spaces the upper surface from the floor. The support structure has a curve with a vertex located between the first extent and the second extent and a support-structure extent that extends beyond the second upper-surface extent in a direction away from the first upper-surface extent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Inventor: Eric Radzwill
  • Publication number: 20110124476
    Abstract: Disclosed is an exercise apparatus for use in developing strength and flexibility in all muscular groups of a person's core as well as the major muscle groups of in the arms, legs and neck. The device uses an elastic ball and ball support to evenly distribute contact forces between the person's body and the device while preventing ball motion during stretching, exercising, and physical therapy. The exercise apparatus also comprises a torso support and a foot ladder to that are configured to provide stability and comfort to a user while enabling the user to undertake a multitude of optimal stretching, exercising and rehabilitation regimens. Additionally, the device may be used with free weights or elastic members. In some embodiments the exercise device further comprises elastic members comprised of elastic straps, wherein the exercise apparatus is configured to provide resistance directions, planes of motion, and range of motion to a user that are not achievable with other devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2010
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Inventor: Terry Reed Holley
  • Patent number: 7946972
    Abstract: A seating is provided that is adapted for imparting at least partial body support to a user in multiple positions. The seating apparatus has a support structure holding a body supporting assembly that includes one member defining a seating surface and another member that can be configured to form an auxiliary body support surface essentially parallel to and at a different level than the seating surface. The different level preferably includes at least one level that is below that of the seating surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Gayo Labs Ltd.
    Inventors: Rami Guissin, Yonatan Arnon
  • Patent number: 7946971
    Abstract: An apparatus for stretching at least the hamstring muscle of a user's leg is provided having a first support member for supporting the back of the leg of the user at or near the knee at least at the commencement of stretching and a second support member for engaging the back of the lower leg portion of the user during stretching. This first support member is disposed in front of the user during stretching of the hamstring muscle of the user's leg and the second support member is displaceable generally in a direction to stretch the hamstring muscle of the user's leg. An actuator operable by the user during use of the apparatus can be used for displacing at least the second support member generally in a direction to cause stretching of at least the hamstring muscle of the user's leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Stealth Fitness, LLC
    Inventors: James Conley, Garland McKelvain, Ronald Ziotkowski
  • Publication number: 20110118097
    Abstract: The invention includes an exercise mat that provides intuitive tactile feedback allowing a user to determine body placement using the sense of touch. The invention enables visually impaired users to determine location and/or direction on the mat. The invention includes devices to assist a user in correct foot and hand placements during a yoga posture sequence, an exercise program, a dance routine, and so forth. Tactile markers for hand and foot placement enable discerning a reference marker as either intended for hand or foot, right side or left side, and forward or backward. The invention makes yoga more accessible to the visually impaired and enables a user to participate in mainstream yoga communities. The invention can be used for the practice of yoga in a class setting in schools for the blind, in public or private studios, or at home. The mat can be used in a yoga class to follow instructions with more ease and independence.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventor: Tracy Lynn Curley
  • Publication number: 20110118093
    Abstract: The exercise and training apparatus comprises: A base disposed on a supporting surface for the apparatus. an upper body support arrangement secured to the base frame in a manner that allows several positions from generally horizontal position to a generally vertical position. a lower body support arrangement secured to the base frame adjacent to the upper body support having a generally horizontal position. a head support secured to the upper body support arrangement. a pair of hand levers attached to the upper body support one on each side in a manner that allows the user's hands to move the levers in plural directions. a lever secured to the lower body support arrangement capable of receiving the user's legs in a manner that allows the user to move the lever in plural directions. an adjustable resistance means secured to each lever in order to provide resistance to movement of the lever.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2010
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventor: Joseph Haven (Haviv)
  • Publication number: 20110118095
    Abstract: Provision of bodily exercise equipment, including providing an upright frame and an assembly rotatable about a primary transverse axis while supported by the frame, the assembly including a body support platform, a leg support spaced from the platform, a linearly adjustable element to linearly adjust the position of the leg support, an angularly adjustable element or elements to angularly adjust the position of the leg support about a second transverse axis relative to the platform. The space between the platform and the leg support allows the standing user to position his body adjacent the platform and to position his legs adjacent the leg support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2010
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventor: Leroy R. Perry, JR.
  • Publication number: 20110118096
    Abstract: An exercise device provides a revolving range of motion around an axis designed to provide an exercise of the whole torso muscles in one block. Multiple embodiments include a base frame, an arm portion connected to and extending from the base frame and a rotatable platform mounted on the arm portion. In some embodiments, the arm portion is adjustable and is configured to form a plurality of angles with the base frame, and the platform is configured to be mounted on the arm portion at a plurality of distances from a center of the base frame. Other embodiments include a base frame, a substantially enclosed track mounted on the base frame, a rolling mechanism that rides on the substantially enclosed track and a rotatable platform that rides on the rolling mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventor: Yasser Nadim
  • Patent number: 7942796
    Abstract: An exercise device for controlling the rolling movement of a stability ball during exercise. The exercise device has a central base, a plurality of rib-like structures radiating from the central base, each rib-like structure having at least one wing, formed substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the exterior surface of the rib-like structure and protruding outward at a variable distance, and an annular-shaped band connected to each rib-like structure such that the central base, the plurality of rib-like structures, and the annular-shaped band form a cup-like enclosure. A partial, bottom portion of the stability ball is seated securely in the cup-like enclosure. The at least one wing of each rib-like structure is shaped such that it provides an incremental resistance against the rolling movement of the exercise ball as the ball is rolled along a substantially flat surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Concept One International LLC
    Inventors: Joseph F. Signorile, Samuel S. Hollander
  • Patent number: 7942795
    Abstract: An exercise device that accommodates stretching and toning exercises otherwise performed with an exercise ball. The device comprises a stable support structure and a padded bench that rocks back and forth on the stable support structure safely and predictably in response to the user's movements. The support structure can take a variety of different forms, including an A-frame geometry, a triangular geometry, a T-shaped geometry, and in the form of a pedestal base. A user, during exercise, can support part of his weight on the bench, and cause the bench to rock back and forth by alternately relaxing and contracting selected muscles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Inventor: Robert W. Harris
  • Patent number: 7942786
    Abstract: A training device to target train a body of a person includes a support, a device foot part having action elements for legs of the person, a device arm part having action elements for arms of the training person, and a connecting joint, mounted on the support, to couple the device foot part with the device arm part. The connecting joint allows the device foot part and the device arm part to displace relative to each other about a common longitudinal axis that runs through the connecting joint, device arm part and device foot part which causes a relative turning movement in a region of a vertebral column axis of the person, when lying on the device, between the pelvic girdle and the shoulder girdle of the person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Inventor: Engelbert Rolli
  • Publication number: 20110111922
    Abstract: An exercise machine provides a total body workout by exercising the legs, back, shoulders, obliques and abdominal muscles. The machine's backrest rolls is in phase with the movement of the legs, allowing the body to sit in a position that is comfortable and secure. The spinal column is continually supported during the workout. Pedal movement powers the machine's electronics and maintains the battery's charge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2009
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Applicant: Equator Fitness IP Holdings Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew Weinman, Sylvain Morrissette, Patrick Vincent, Stelio Derventzis
  • Publication number: 20110111935
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a substantially flat, rigid platform for supporting a user during exercise. An inflatable tubular support having an upper portion with a first radial outside diameter, and a lower portion with a second radial outside diameter that is greater than the first radial outside diameter, is coupled to the platform by a fastener. The tubular support defines a central opening that communicates between the platform and a support surface. The platform includes a venting structure for releasing air from the central opening during use. The inflatable support includes an intermediate portion between the upper portion and the lower portion of the tubular support, the intermediate portion including a support feature to restrain the intermediate portion from radial expansion induced by an air pressure internal to the integral inflatable support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2010
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Applicant: ISTEP GLOBAL, LLC
    Inventors: John Cole, David C. Pratson, Tien Le, Jeff Harlan, Axel Mnich, Irene Elisa Mnich
  • Publication number: 20110111936
    Abstract: An exercising apparatus for allowing mobility recovery and slimming activities. The apparatus is an endless belt-like exercising sport mat device which comprises a) an endless belt padded with a relatively soft and elastic material for serving as a sliding sport mat; b) a rolling mechanism for allowing the endless belt to be looped at a relatively low speed around the rolling mechanism, thereby providing a lower belt section and an overlying upper belt section on which a user may perform such activities; c) a supporting surface disposed under the inner surface of said upper belt section supporting relation thereto and depressible therewith under the weight of a user for aiding the user to move the endless belt; and d) a rigid frame for containing the supporting surface and the rolling mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2009
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Inventors: Dmitry Shabodyash, Evgeni Gofman