Support For Entire Body Of User (e.g., Bench, Slant Board, Etc.) Patents (Class 482/142)
  • Publication number: 20120083394
    Abstract: An exercise device has a first frame, where the first frame is generally rectangular and has a head end and a first juncture end. A fixed body support is fixed on the first frame and is configured to support a torso of an exercise participant. A second frame has a second juncture end, a foot end and a pair of rail members extending along opposite sides of the second frame, respectively, between the second juncture end and the foot end. A carriage is mounted on the second frame for movement along the rail members along locations confined between the second juncture end and the foot end. Wheels mounted to the carriage facilitate movement of the carriage along the rail members, among other things, prevent the carriage from tilting upwardly as it is driven toward the foot end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2010
    Publication date: April 5, 2012
    Inventors: Matthew Gregor, Doug Halley
  • Publication number: 20120077655
    Abstract: The present invention is a tap barre practice and exercise device that has a horizontally fixed barre with at two arms for gripping attached to a substantially straight vertical support, which is in turn attached to a base which sits on a flat surface and allows the device to be free-standing. The height of the barre can be raised or lowered vertically as needed, and the vertical support can have a seat, and optionally the seat can pivot around the vertical support and be locked in one of two positions. The barre substantially aligns vertically with the base, so that a user can support his torso by gripping or leaning on the barre and have his center of gravity located over the base, thereby providing a stable, free-standing device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventor: Meghan Wilson
  • Publication number: 20120077654
    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: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventors: Howard J. Solow, James V. Osburn, Julie Lobdell, Jeffery T. Samson
  • Patent number: 8142334
    Abstract: Provided is an early rehabilitation training system that increase the intensity of patient rehabilitation training to shorten the time it takes for patients to progress to a secondary rehabilitation training stage by allowing patients incapable of self-ambulation to be artificially rehabilitated in a prone, bed-ridden position. The system includes a treatment bed (2) configured with a mattress (2a), a base (2b) disposed below the mattress (2a) and coupled through a hinge to one end of the mattress (2a), and a tilting unit (2c) provided between the mattress (2a) and the base (2b) to adjust an upright angle of the mattress (2a); and a rotating unit (10) provided below the mattress (2a) of the treatment bed (2) to secure a patient's feet and provide artificial exercising of the patient's feet through gravity when the upright angle of the mattress (2a) is changed by the tilting unit (2c).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Industrial Cooperation Foundation Chonbuk National University
    Inventors: Nam Gyun Kim, Mun Ho Ryu, Tae Kyu Kwon
  • Patent number: 8137247
    Abstract: An exerciser including a movable body support mounted on an exerciser flame 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. 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: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Stamina Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin Gerschefske, Robert McDonial
  • Patent number: 8137250
    Abstract: An abdominal exercising apparatus includes a frame with a first lateral member, a second lateral member, a first end member and a second end member attached together in a rectangular configuration. A pair of slides is provided. Each of the first and second lateral members has one of the slides attached thereto. The slides are slidable toward or away from the second end members and are engageable with a person's foot. A connecting assembly is coupled to each of the slides. The connecting assembly couples together the slides to cause a first one of the slides to move away from the second end member when a second one of the slides is moved toward the second end member. A person's feet are positionable on the slides while the person faces the upper surface of the frame. The person moves the slides back and forth to exercise the person's abdominal muscles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Inventor: Andrew Caban
  • Publication number: 20120065033
    Abstract: An exercise platform system and apparatus is disclosed that includes a plurality of angled step surfaces. In one aspect, the exercise platform can include an exercise platform base adapted to interface with a supporting surface and an exercise platform upper surface coupled to the exercise platform base that includes a first step having a first step surface, a second step having a second step surface, and a center landing area located between the first step and the second step, the center landing area being substantially parallel to the exercise platform base, wherein the first step surface and the second step surface are angled toward the center landing area by an angle between 5 and 30 degrees, inclusive. Further, the first step surface and the second step surface can be angled by a second angle between 5 and 30 degrees toward a transverse axis laterally bisecting the exercise platform base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Applicant: HYPERSQUAT SYSTEMS, LLC
    Inventors: Tommy Moring, JR., Michael Cummings, David Wilber
  • Publication number: 20120065039
    Abstract: A gymnastic equipment usable to perform a training exercise in sitting position and comprising at least one flexible member that is delimited by two end portions, associated with a bucket seat provided with a seat and a backrest connected to each other by a respective elbow; a handgrip being carried by the flexible member between the end portions; a load unit being associated to the flexible member to be suitable, in use, to exert resistance against movements of the handgrip relative to the bucket seat; the load unit being arranged between the end portions to connect them one to the other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Inventors: Nerio Alessandri, Mario Fedriga, Simone Casagrande
  • Publication number: 20120058870
    Abstract: The present invention includes an exercise apparatus adapted to exercise a user's gluteus muscles. The exercise apparatus and method of use allow the user to focus on and exercise gluteus muscles with specificity. Embodiments of the exercise apparatus include an upper body support, a foot support, and an exercise space. The exercise space is typically disposed substantially between an upper body support and a foot support, and permits substantial movement of a user's hips in both a forward direction and a rearward direction, substantially in or parallel to a user's sagittal plane. The exercise apparatus is adapted to load a user's gluteus muscles throughout a generally large range of gluteus muscle flexion and extension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2011
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Inventor: Bret Contreras
  • Publication number: 20120058869
    Abstract: A back machine and method that can be employed by individuals particularly those with chronic back pain to stretch the lower back muscles, realign and strengthen the lower spine and also to reduce pain. The back machine includes a base portion and a frame portion. The frame portion includes a lower end attached to the base portion. The frame portion extends in a vertical direction from the base portion to a height that is substantially above that of an average user standing upright on said base portion. The back machine includes a handle bar portion, a right foot support elevated above the base; a right leg restraint adjacent to the right foot support; a left foot support elevated above the base; and a left leg restraint restraining movement of a user's left leg when elevated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2010
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Inventor: FIKRE ATNAFE
  • Patent number: 8128543
    Abstract: A twist exerciser includes a base, a first gear unit, a second gear unit, a seat, a feet rest and a handle unit. The first gear unit includes a first shaft rotatably connected to the base and a first gear is fixed to the first shaft and co-rotated with the first shaft. The second gear unit includes a second shaft rotatably connected to the base and a second gear is fixed to the second shaft and co-rotated with the second shaft. The seat is connected to a top end of the first shaft and co-rotated with the first gear. The feet rest has a first end fixed to the first shaft and a second of the feet rest has a transverse bar. The handle unit has a handle and drives the second shaft. The exerciser is easily operated and has simple structure and less noise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Inventor: Shu-Chiung Liao Lai
  • Publication number: 20120053029
    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: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: Amy Newburger, Paula Carnabuci
  • Patent number: 8123664
    Abstract: Seats that are moveable from a seating orientation, which allows a user to sit on the seat, to a standing orientation, where the seat at least partially supports the user in a standing posture are disclosed. At least a portion of the seat is moveable away from the user's legs when the seat is in the standing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Invacare Corp.
    Inventors: Michael Warren Lokken, Wesley Lee Ovre, Jeffrey Vernon Schmidt, Mathew Allan Haugen, Leo Joseph Schweiss
  • Patent number: 8118720
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus designed to specifically target the abdominal muscles is described along with a method of using the apparatus. The apparatus generally comprises four parts: a base; a seat frame attached to the base; an upper portion having a back support and handles; and a lower portion to retain the legs of a user. The apparatus allows a user to complete a typical “crunching” motion and a twisting motion encompassing both the upper torso and the lower body simultaneously. In other words the lower portion and the upper portion of the device are capable of movement about at least two distinct axes simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Inventor: Scott M. Sebastian
  • Publication number: 20120040812
    Abstract: A twist exerciser includes a base, a first gear unit, a second gear unit, a seat, a feet rest and a handle unit. The first gear unit includes a first shaft rotatably connected to the base and a first gear 21 is fixed to the first shaft and co-rotated with the first shaft. The second gear unit includes a second shaft rotatably connected to the base and a second gear is fixed to the second shaft and co-rotated with the second shaft. The seat is connected to a top end of the first shaft and co-rotated with the first gear. The feet rest has a first end fixed to the first shaft and a second of the feet rest has a transverse bar. The handle unit has a handle and drives the second shaft. The exerciser is easily operated and has simple structure and less noise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Inventor: SHU-CHIUNG LIAO LAI
  • Patent number: 8105221
    Abstract: An exercise device for the mid to lower body muscles comprising an inclined base, a base frame to support the base a first support bar and a second support bar, the first and the second support bar each having a mounting end and a support end, wherein the first support bar mounting end is pivotably attached to a first pivot point and the second support bar mounting end is pivotably attached to a second pivot point and the first and the second support bar support end are movably mounted on the perimeter of the base such that the first and the second support ends are movable through an arcuate path along the perimeter of the base a first knee pad pivotably attached to the first support bar at the first support bar support end; a second knee pad pivotably attached to the second support bar at the second support bar support end; and a handle attached to the front portion of the base frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Robson Splane
  • Publication number: 20120015786
    Abstract: A manually operated back stretching device may relieve compressive forces of the lower lumbar vertebrae and may safely stretch lower back muscles. The device may include a platform to support a user's lower legs. As the user moves a portion of the device with their arms towards their legs, the forward edge of the platform may rise up and tilt away from the user's torso, causing the user's hips to lift off the floor and stretching the user's back at the same time. As the user moves their arms back over their head, the user's back and legs may relax while the arms are pulled above the user's head. The result may be a back-and-forth dynamic rotational arching motion to repetitively raise the completely relaxed hips and tilt them forward to decompress the spine using appropriate longitudinal and torsion forces at the most pain causing compression points of the lower lumbar vertebrae.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2010
    Publication date: January 19, 2012
    Inventors: Joseph W. Evans, Robert G. Gottlieb
  • Patent number: 8096928
    Abstract: An arrangement for treatment of the back having a base, a backrest, a footplate and a spring arrangement. The spring arrangement is disposed against the backrest so that when a user sits on the seat, and presses against the footplate, the lower back of the user is pressed against the spring arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Inventor: Izhuk Ovadia
  • Patent number: 8096930
    Abstract: The invention is an exercise equipment apparatus. More specifically, the invention is for an exercise equipment apparatus that facilitates performance of variations of a boxer crunch stand. An exercise equipment apparatus in accordance with the present invention comprises a frame, a substantially rectangular pad coupled to the frame, a first pair of substantially cylindrical pads coupled to the frame, and a second pair of substantially cylindrical pads coupled to the frame, and situated between the rectangular pad and the first pair of cylindrical pads, wherein the cylindrical pads height level may be adjustable for users of various heights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Muscle Dynamics Corporation
    Inventor: Oscar Leon
  • Patent number: 8092355
    Abstract: Motional training is achieved by providing a subject with vibrotactile feedback in response to an attempt by the subject to perform predetermined motions. In particular, an attempt by the subject to perform at least one predetermined motion is monitored using sensors, such as force plates or inertial sensors. The sensor signals indicate results of the attempt by the subject to perform the at least one predetermined motion, and a variance between the at least one predetermined motion and the results of the attempt by the subject to perform the at least one predetermined motion is determined. Vibrotactile signals are then sent to the subject by activating one or more actuators coupled to the subject, where the one or more actuators are spatially oriented with respect to the subject to indicate one or more directions. The vibrotactile signals indicate the variance with respect to the one or more directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Inventors: Bruce J. P. Mortimer, Karen L. Atkins, Gary A. Zets
  • Publication number: 20120004083
    Abstract: A device is disclosed that provides for relaxation and back stretching. In particular, the device allows the user to assume a position similar to the prone fetal position, often referred to as the “balasana” or “child's pose” in yoga. The device provides additional advantages over traditional ways of assuming the “child's pose” by providing support for the user's body which relieves the stress caused at the point of contact between the floor and the user's feet, knees and ankles. A cavity is disposed for accommodating the user's face, allowing for comfortable breathing. Further, the facial cavity supports the user's head in such a way as to align the spine while stretching. The device of the invention utilizes gravity to enhance the stretch of the user's back and spine over the traditional “child's pose” without placing the user of the device in an unnatural or uncomfortable position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2011
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Inventor: Gerardo Simon Cuba
  • Patent number: 8088046
    Abstract: An adjustable exercise device that includes one or more inclined riser blocks for readily elevating and inclining a platform to enable stepping and other exercises to be readily performed on an inclined platform. The inclined riser blocks may be matingly engageable with the bottom of the platform to elevate and incline the platform. The inclined riser block may include a top face matingly engageable with the bottom of the platform, a bottom face, and a central portion extending between the bottom and top faces and having a front and rear, the central portion increasing in thickness from the front to the rear. The top face extends at an incline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Spri Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Herbert T. Flentye, Gregory Niederlander
  • Publication number: 20110319238
    Abstract: A training apparatus (1) which includes, in a position of use, a movable platform (2) for a person (9) who is to train a muscle which is moving a body joint training, the training apparatus (1) including at least one transmission device (4) with an associated rotatable manoeuvring element (45) which is arranged to be able to move the platform (2), the person (9) and the transmission device (4) in a direction which has a vertical directional component along at least one supporting element (3), as the manoeuvring element (45) is operated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2010
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Inventor: Tor Einar Sandvikmoen
  • Publication number: 20110312478
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a knee receiving unit comprising a stationary base, a rigid platform rotatable about the stationary base about an axis, at least one compliant member on a top surface of the rigid platform, the at least one compliant member including knee receiving portions. The knee receiving portions may be located on substantially diametrically opposite sides of the axis. The exercise apparatus may further include a hand grip unit. In a method for using such an exercise apparatus, a user positions both knees on the knee receiving portions, grips the hand grip unit and rotates the rigid platform relative to the stationary base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2010
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Inventor: Ajit Khubani
  • Patent number: 8079971
    Abstract: A spinal treatment system for treating a spinal region of a patient's back includes a harness configured to be coupled to a preselected location on the patient. A force transfer member is coupled to the harness and is configured to transfer force to the harness. A vibrational movement head is controlled by a computer and is configured to apply a preselected laterally vibrating force to the force application member extending therefrom. A vertical displacement member is coupled to the computer and is configured to move the vibrational movement head to a preselected vertical displacement relative to the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: North American Medical Corporation
    Inventor: Carlos Becerra
  • Publication number: 20110306480
    Abstract: A rectangular workout bench with removable legs for use directly on the floor or raised on legs 12, 13, 108 has an inflatable flexible air filled plastic material cushion 2 work out area allowing a person to lay on for physical therapy, strength training and balance. The rectangular shape allows spine and neck support while the instability of the air filled cushion 2 allows muscles to activate. Beginners use the workout cushion 2 directly on the floor and advanced workouts are on the elevated bench with accessible footrests.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2010
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Applicant: CORE BENCH FITNESS
    Inventors: Stephen M. Beaulieu, Ellen Como, Tony Greasley, Michele Beaulieu
  • Patent number: 8075464
    Abstract: A portable abdominal exercise mat apparatus is disclosed comprising, in one embodiment, an elongate, flexible mat having a relatively rigid elongate handle portion engaged at one end of the mat, the apparatus being sized and configured for providing adequate support for a user's back, neck and head while the user performs a wide range of abdominal exercises. In further embodiments, the handle portion is configured for removably accepting a variety of attachment accessories, some of which are designed to allow the user to selectively add resistance to their abdominal exercises. Other attachment accessories allow the user to perform various non-abdominal exercises using the apparatus. When the apparatus is not being used, it can be easily rolled up or laid flat for storage or transport with very little space or weight requirements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Inventors: Christopher Blake Hayes, Nick L. Payzant
  • Patent number: 8075463
    Abstract: An exercise device for achieving desired abdominal contractions during exercise movement includes a back support and a pair of leg blades removably attached to the back support. The device includes an adjustable back blade attached to the back support and extending upward from the lower end along a centerline of the back support, and a neck support assembly attached to the back blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Implus Footcare, LLC
    Inventors: Alden M. Mills, John G. Holland, Kevan Hollenback, Mark Eastwood, Jeff W. Sand, Ian C. MacColl, Stephen G. Hauser, Lucas B. Ainsworth
  • Patent number: 8075457
    Abstract: An abdominal crunch board for an inclinable exercise device includes a handle bar including opposite terminating engagement portions; a pair of opposing brackets coupled to the opposite terminating engagement portions, the pair of opposing brackets and the opposite terminating engagement portions forming a frame; a padded support coupled to the frame; and the opposing brackets are removably attachable to an adjustable incline of the inclinable exercise device at one or both of a location between a first end of the adjustable incline and a user support platform of the inclinable exercise device and a location between a second end of the adjustable incline and the user support platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Total Gym Global Corp.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Campanaro, Dan McCutcheon, Charles Josephn Mahon
  • Publication number: 20110301002
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus designed to specifically target the abdominal muscles is described along with a method of using the apparatus. The apparatus generally comprises four parts: a base; a seat frame attached to the base; an upper portion having a back support and handles; and a lower portion to retain the legs of a user. The apparatus allows a user to complete a typical “crunching” motion and a twisting motion encompassing both the upper torso and the lower body simultaneously. In other words the lower portion and the upper portion of the device are capable of movement about at least two distinct axes simultaneously.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Inventor: Scott Sebastian
  • Patent number: 8066622
    Abstract: Disclosed is a complex bench press which can be switched into a flat bench press, a decline bench press, or an incline bench press to achieve improved space utilization in a narrow space, and which enables users to switch the bench press into the bench press for a specific function in a significantly simple and quick manner to achieve improved convenience of use, and which enables users to always assume a posture appropriate for exercising even when the bench press is switched into the bench press for a specific function, to thereby protect users from injury during exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Inventor: Seongil Kim
  • Patent number: 8062197
    Abstract: The invention has an object of providing an exercise assisting device which allows the user's thigh to contract while having a simple structure with low manufacturing cost. The device comprising a seat member and a seat drive unit. The seat member has a bearing surface configured to support buttocks of a user with one' feet placed on a predetermined foot rest. The seat drive unit is configured to activate a driving source to displace the seat member in such a manner as to vary a user's own weight acting on legs of the user. The seat drive unit swings the seat member at least along a lateral direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Panasonic Electric Works Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Youichi Shinomiya, Takahisa Ozawa, Kazuhiro Ochi
  • Patent number: 8062189
    Abstract: An exercise platform system and apparatus is disclosed that includes a plurality of angled step surfaces. In one aspect, the exercise platform can include an exercise platform base adapted to interface with a supporting surface and an exercise platform upper surface coupled to the exercise platform base that includes a first step having a first step surface, a second step having a second step surface, and a center landing area located between the first step and the second step, the center landing area being substantially parallel to the exercise platform base, wherein the first step surface and the second step surface are angled toward the center landing area by an angle between 5 and 30 degrees, inclusive. Further, the first step surface and the second step surface can be angled by a second angle between 5 and 30 degrees toward a transverse axis laterally bisecting the exercise platform base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Hypersquat Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Tommy Moring, Jr., Michael Cummings, David Wilber
  • Publication number: 20110281700
    Abstract: A system and method for training a boxer is provided that includes a mat having a top surface with at least one series of adjacent positional sections identified sequentially on the top surface, at least one of a left foot and right foot placement marker situated in each positional section, and an orchestrated sequence of foot placements in the respective positional sections for providing boxing training instruction. In addition, the sequence can further include additional body portion movements and/or positions to be executed in relation to the left or right foot placements in the positional sections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventors: Larry Garstki, Benjamin Huyck
  • Patent number: 8057372
    Abstract: A resistance chair with wheels assists users with performing correct abdominal crunches by guiding the user's effort. The resistance chair includes a seat connected to a hinged back with back support that extends to support the user's back and assist in the crunch recovery following the crunch extension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Fitness IQ LLC
    Inventor: Johann B. Verheem
  • Patent number: 8057368
    Abstract: A multipurpose exercise machine requiring only three points of adjustment centrally located. It has a one point height adjustment and two adjustments for the rotating arm assemblies. Dip and chin up bars are attached to the arm assemblies. The machine contains an integrated swingable workout bench. Through the use of a pulley system and counter balance assembly, the cable system maintains tension and provides a constant length of cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Inventor: Grzegorz Lyszczarz
  • Patent number: 8057369
    Abstract: Floatable chair devices, apparatus, systems and methods of using the chair having buoyant material in the headrest as well as the arm rests to provide for a stable floatation platform that would suspend the user to “lounge” or relax or engage in various exercises. The chair can be adjusted by moveable and extendable outrigger floats and/or a head rest, Parallel sideway extending gripping handles can provide the ability to maintain control of the chair and prevent the user from drifting out of the chair during various rigorous exercises. The seat can incorporate unique features to hold the user in place to facilitate the various exercise and prevent “drift” out of the chair yet not secure the individual to the seat in a way that would prevent rapid separation from the device in case of capsize or a compromised position that could increase the risk of drowning. The chair can be easily maneuvered around a swimming pool by kicking with the legs or propelled forward or backward by arm movements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Inventor: Rod Salach
  • Patent number: 8057371
    Abstract: A portable workout apparatus comprising a bar, a frame, and a padded structured secured to the frame. The bar is held at an adjustable bar height. The frame supports the bar at the adjustable bar height. The padded structure is secured to the frame, and has a first portion and a second portion. The first and second portions have a deployed position forming a substantially horizontal surface that forms an opening with the bar and the frame that is adapted to accommodate a user. The first portion is further capable of pivoting, relative to the second portion, to a substantially vertical position for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Stamina Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert W. McBride, Robert McDonial
  • Publication number: 20110275500
    Abstract: A strengthening and rehabilitation exercise apparatus includes a hip joint strengthening and rehabilitation exercise apparatus for strengthening a pelvis, an abdominal region, and a waist through exercise of a lower body symmetrically interlocking with a weight while fixing an upper body in a prone position, a hip joint strengthening and rehabilitation exercise apparatus for strengthening the pelvis, the abdominal region, and the waist through exercise of the upper body interlocking with the weight while fixing the lower body in a sitting position, a waist joint strengthening and rehabilitation exercise apparatus for strengthening the waist and the abdominal region through exercise of the upper body interlocking with the weight while fixing legs and the pelvis in a straight line in a supine position, and a stretching apparatus for performing muscle exercise of a back and shoulders using hands and arms in the sitting position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2010
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventor: Young-baek Hur
  • Patent number: 8052587
    Abstract: A yoga brick includes first and second casings. Each of the first and second casings includes inner and outer faces spaced along a first axis, a peripheral wall extending between the inner and outer faces, and a first recessed portion formed in the outer face. The first recessed portion includes a wavy holding face having a plurality of anti-slipping ribs. Each of the first and second casings can further include a second recessed portion formed in the outer face thereof. The second recessed portion includes a wavy holding face having a plurality of anti-slipping ribs. The first and second casings can be engaged with each other with the first recessed portion of the first casing aligned with the second recessed portion of the second casing along the first axis and with the second recessed portion of the first casing aligned with the first recessed portion of the second casing along the first axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Inventor: Ying-Ching Wu
  • Patent number: 8052584
    Abstract: An apparatus and method evaluate the power of a muscle group of a user by measuring velocities of an engagement assembly coupled to a resistance element and moved by the user at a highest achievable velocity through a selected number of exercise strokes at each of two resistance levels. A first velocity is determined at a first resistance level. A second velocity is determined at a second resistance level. The first and second velocities are used in combination with the two resistance levels to determine a relationship between the velocity and the resistance level for a particular user. The resistance level where the resistance level and the velocity correspond to an overall maximum power is determined and is displayed for the user so that the user may use the optimum resistance level for training for maximum power generation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Keiser Corporation
    Inventor: Dennis L. Keiser
  • Patent number: 8052586
    Abstract: A ladder barrel for use in Pilates type exercise is disclosed. The adjustment mechanism to hold the barrel in place on the floor rail comprises a locking rail and a cam mechanism to press the locking rail into engagement with the floor rail, holding the barrel in position. The locking rail has spring biased plungers to hold it out of engagement with the floor rail when the cam is not engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Hart Wood, Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher J. Hahn
  • Publication number: 20110269605
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a multipurpose exercise apparatus. More specifically, the multipurpose exercise apparatus is configured so that various kinds of exercise can be done by turning a crescent-shaped main body up and down according to the kind of exercise desire by a user, and by stepping on the main body to mount thereon or sitting down thereon, thereby allowing exercise to be enjoyed regardless of place or time and to even be enjoyed outdoors in addition to indoors and the efficiency of exercise can be maximized even with simple exercise movements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2009
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventors: Ki-Soo Kim, Young-Sook Kim
  • Publication number: 20110263397
    Abstract: An exercise device comprises a base having a generally planar top. The base is supported at a first height above a support surface by downwardly extending supports, or may be raised to a second height by one or more extendable feet. The exercise device may include an exercise tower rotatably mounted to the base and movable between a stored position under the base and a raised position in which it extends above the base. The base and tower may define one more exercise accessory attachment points or mounts and such accessories may be stored in a storage area associated with the tower.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2011
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Jackson
  • Patent number: 8043199
    Abstract: An exercise machine for providing a low impact workout that targets the core muscles. The exercise machine generally includes a lower frame adapted to rest upon a floor surface, an upper frame movably connected to the lower frame and movable between an upright in-use position and a folded compact position, an arced track supported in an inclined orientation by the upper frame, a pair of sway bars each pivotally connected adjacent an upper end of the upper frame, wherein the pair of sway bars are adapted for swinging movement along a length of the track and wherein the pair of sway bars move in unison, and a pair of knee retainers each movably connected to a respective sway bar, wherein the pair of knee retainers slidably and rotatably move independently of each other. Other components, such as handlebars, foot bars, seats, and elbow retainers are also utilized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Inventor: Jerry Barker
  • Publication number: 20110256991
    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 movable bar for pivotally supporting the foot rod and which is positionable in an operative position or a storage position. In the operative position, the foot bar is positioned for desired use in pre-determined exercises while in the storage position it is positioned so as to permit nestable stacking of a plurality of the chairs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventors: Howard J. Solow, James V. Osburn, Julie Lobdell, Jeffrey T. Samson
  • Patent number: 8038588
    Abstract: A combined shoulder shrug and neck exercise machine includes a shrug exercise system having a first shrug arm assembly and a second shrug arm assembly and a neck exercise system operable to receive a ratio of a first weight load on the first shrug arm assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Rogers Athletic Company
    Inventors: Tyler James Hobson, Kenneth Edward Staten
  • Publication number: 20110251031
    Abstract: A reformer exercise apparatus is disclosed that has a generally rectangular frame with a head end and a foot end and parallel spaced tracks therebetween supporting a movable carriage thereon. The frame includes a foot support at the foot end of the frame and one or more elastic resistance members fastened between the carriage and the foot end of the frame. Supporting the frame is a first rocking support assembly supporting the head end of the frame and a second rocking support assembly supporting the foot end of the frame, whereby the frame can rock from side to side to provide a dynamic feedback to a user of the apparatus as to whether or not the user is properly centered on the apparatus. A kit for changing a conventional reformer into a rocking reformer apparatus is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2010
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Applicant: Balanced Body, Inc.
    Inventor: Barbara Mayr
  • Patent number: 8033971
    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: April 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Total Gym Global Corp.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Campanaro, Dan McCutcheon
  • Patent number: RE43167
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus including two parallel, longitudinally extending hand rails, a longitudinally extending base unit, legs that connect the hand rails to the base unit, the base unit including a rail assembly and a rail support frame, and four roller pads mounted on the rail assembly so as to be individually movable along the rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Inventor: Juliu Horvath