Abstract: An exercise apparatus for applying desired stretch exercises while a user is sitting down on a chair or laying on his back. The exercise apparatus includes a frame, a leg supporting means for fixedly supporting the legs of the user in the frame, and a sole pressing means for pressing the soles of the user in the direction stretching the Achilles tendons. When the legs are fixed by the leg supporting means, the soles of the user are pressed by inflating bags formed in the frame to stretch the Achilles tendons. The user can enjoy desired degrees of stretch exercises as well as massage on his legs.

Abstract: The present invention includes a bench mounted to a base frame. A foot truck is slidably mounted to the bench to secure the feet of the user. A tiltable upper body support is mounted to the base. A first belt is provided for securing the legs of a user to the bench. A second belt is provided for securing the pelvic area of the user to the base. A third belt is connected to a support slidably mounted to the upper body support for mounting in a vertical direction. The third belt is used to secure the user to the upper body support. A first pneumatic cylinder is provided for extending the foot track to a selected forward position. A second pneumatic cylinder is provided for tilting the upper body support to a selected tilt position. A third pneumatic cylinder is provided for forcing a pelvic pad toward the lower back area of a user. A fourth pneumatic cylinder is provided for forcing a seat pad against,the user at a selected position adjacent the upper back or neck of a user.

Abstract: An abdominal exerciser device includes a self-standing casing that freely movably supports an exercising member such as a ball with an exposed surface protruding upward from the casing for contacting a user's body part. The device also includes a hollowed cover connecting to the casing to protect the exposed surface from outside environment when the device is unused, and a handgrip for hand-carrying the same. The device can include a carrier having an adjustment member mounted thereon to adjust position of the casing relative to the carrier.

Abstract: The rotary tilt exercise machine is a gravity-controlled device wherein the user, cradled in a body support unit, employs bodily balance and thrust to roll the body support unit, which is tiltably mounted on the ball joint of a housing drum. A pendular shaft is fixed to the base of the body support unit so that body support unit tilt produces angular displacement of the shaft within the housing. At its extension, the pendular shaft is weighted to provide ballast and centrifugal impetus to body support unit roll. Body support unit motion parameters are defined by either of two optional control devices, specified as a rotary wheel motion controller and as a crank arm motion controller. Auxiliary equipment includes a seat belt and grab bars mounted on the body support unit that stabilize the torso and enable body balance movements that work the back and abdominal muscles.

Abstract: A non-slip exercise mat for use on multiple surfaces including at least one layer of material having a top surface, a bottom surface, and side surfaces. The mat also includes systems for removably securing the mat to carpeted surfaces and for preventing the mat from slipping on non-carpeted surfaces. Both systems can be joined with the bottom surface or joined on opposite surfaces of the mat. The mat may include shock absorbing materials as well as texturized, slip-resistant materials. The sides of the mat may be beveled. The mat may also include a cover for the system for removably securing the mat to carpeted surfaces.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a novel push-up device which is configurable by user body characteristics and by predetermined conditions for range of motion so as to guide an exerciser to perform a push-up which meets such predetermined range of motion and exercise form criteria. Through the use of the device of the present invention, exercisers are able to perform push-ups that meet predetermined range of motion criteria regardless of their body characteristics and receive feedback based upon whether the exercise was properly performed or not.

Abstract: A tiltable twisting exerciser includes a base and a cover. The base has a top surface and a bottom surface. There are several fixing recesses disposed on the top surface. A rotatable disk is pivotally disposed the bottom surface. This cover is hinged on a first hinge portion of the base. This cover has an outer surface and an inner surface. A supporting portion is hinged on a second hinge portion which is fixed on the inner surface such that it can rotate out to a desired position. So, the user can do the twisting exercise on a sloped surface. The sloped surface is adjustable. And, it can be easily switch to one of the four operation modes.

Abstract: A device and method is shown for invoking a muscle's natural involuntary, reflexive response or stretch reflex by imparting a sudden increase in load on the muscle over a defined period of time from a predetermined base load at which the muscle has assumed a baseline tonus, and over a predetermined amplitude of motion. The muscle is stimulated by cycling the load with a frequency of between 1 and 60 Hz, or more preferably between 10 and 30 Hz, and an amplitude of displacement of the muscle between 2 and 50 mm, or more preferably between 5 and 10 mm. The force input to the muscle can be provided by either the mass of the body to which the muscle is connected or by an external mass or resistance to motion. A seesaw platform can be oscillated in a vertical direction at the correct frequency and amplitude.

Abstract: A stretching machine is provided which can be used both for stretching and for measuring a level of flexibility. The machine rests on the floor and a beam is adjusted to a convenient height. The beam is provided with a plurality of handgrips. A foot plate is positioned to abut a user's feet. By leaning forward and grasping the handgrips a person can stretch their legs and lower back as well as determine a level of flexibility by noting which handgrip is grasped. The machine has a cutout on the foot plate to allow compact storage.

Abstract: An exercise bench includes a seat and a back which are independently adjustable angularly and are mounted on a carriage that rolls along rails of a stationary base. The linear position of the bench can be adjusted without the need to move any part of the frame along the surface on which the base rests. The adjustments for the angular positions of the seat and base and for the linear position are easily accessible and operable by a user sitting on the seat. The seat has an independent angular adjustment but can be maintained locked to the back so that pivotal adjustment of the back to different inclinations does not affect the angular position of the seat relative to the back.

Abstract: A physical therapy chair-bed is a patient bed consisting of three parts, the first, the second and the third parts. The first can also be used as backrest of a physical therapy chair with its flanking parts arranged as armrests. The second part can also form a seat. The third part can be kept inside a case underneath the first and the second parts. All the other components are kept inside the case. There are wheels and wheel-locks mounted under the case at each corner. The chair-bed is equipped with a foot-leg exercise set having a footwear set to help the seat occupant exercise his feet and legs in a bicycling manner. The armrests can move to have the patient's arms exercise. Rack guards and footrests are provided. The chair-bed can be mechanically or electrically and electronically controlled where a remote control may be applied.

Abstract: An exercise system comprising a flexible, multi-positional net-like strap assembly, encapsulating a resilient ball shape such as peanut, egg, disc or convex spherical segment with resistance tubes or bands attached to the said strap assembly. The attachment and placement of said tubes or bands on the said strap assembly guides the correct bio-mechanic function of the joint being exercised and produces correct alignment of the joint being exercise. The movement of the joint activates the propioceptive trunk response and the body response elicited by the movement of the ball in order for the ball to remain stable. This movement combination integrates the entire body response and increases the exercise benefit multifold for the user.

Abstract: A physical interaction means comprising a wall including an outwardly presented surface of one of a hook component and loop component of a hook and loop fastening system. Also provided is at least one glove with an outer surface including the other one of the hook component and loop component of the hook and loop fastening system to be selectively and releasably attachable by a person who may wear the glove to the surface of the wall to thereby immobilise the hand and allow the person to apply an action force which is countered by the wall in a reactionary manner.

Abstract: A method for strengthening coordination between a person's hand muscles and muscles of the lower part of a person's body involves (a) the person jumping into the air while holding a hanging article; and (b) placing while in the air the hanging article on an elevated, substantially horizontal flexible support, so that the hanging article is retained on the support after the person releases the article from his hold. The support is positioned above the extended height of the person. An exercise system for strengthening coordination between a person's hand muscles and muscles of the lower part of a person's body thus includes (a) an elevated substantially horizontal flexible support; and (b) a hanging article, wherein the support is positioned above the extended height of the person.

Abstract: An exercise kit includes an article of clothing stitched together using strands of a metallic fiber, wherein the metallic fiber imparts a memory property to the article of clothing to cause dynamic tensioning and compressing when the article of clothing is deformed from an original shape through the natural extension and flexing actions of a user wearing the article of clothing.

Abstract: A restraint and exercise device is provided to treat acute or chronic mechanical pain, particularly lumbopelvic and/or leg pain, and to restore and/or increase range of motion in suitable users. The device is particularly useful during exercise. The device may contain a restraint, such as two straps, connected to a support structure. The straps help restrain a portion of a person's body such as the pelvic region. The portion of the person's body may be restrained in a substantially pain-free position so as to reduce the pain that would otherwise be felt during exercise.

Abstract: A swing trainer apparatus for the teaching of a sport player the proper follow-through of a swing to hit a ball or puck. The swing trainer apparatus comprises a movable hanger assembly supporting a plurality of swing resistant straps and a support arrangement for adjustably supporting the hanger assembly, to permit the swing resistant straps to be moved for different sport players.

Abstract: A figure skating practice system for practicing figure skating techniques within a non-ice environment. The figure skating practice system includes a plate structure having an upper plate and a lower plate, a bearing structure attached between the upper plate and the lower plate, and a gripping pad attached to an upper surface of the upper plate. A figure skater stands upon the gripping pad and then may rotate the upper plate with respect to the lower plate.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus comprising a frame, and at least one elongated sheet of flexible material has a first end coupled to the frame and has a second free end positioned frontwardly relative to the frame. The sheet of flexible material has an upwardly facing support surface, and the sheet of flexible material has a predetermined stiffness for supporting substantially the entire weight of an exerciser of the apparatus. At least one support assembly is mounted to the frame and generally overhangs the support surface of the sheet of flexible material for further supporting the exerciser upon pushing downwardly against the sheet of flexible material and thereby moving the free end of the sheet of flexible material downwardly, and for supporting the exerciser upon pulling upwardly to release the downward force against the sheet of material and thereby permitting the free end of the sheet of flexible material to move upwardly.

Abstract: An exercise device, such as a trampoline, that is foldable with long-lasting rigidity in the framework. The trampoline is made foldable by using hinges to connect sections of the frame of the trampoline. The hinges are configured to provide lateral flexibility in the framework, thereby decreasing the stress applied to the hinges (and increasing the life of the hinges) when the trampoline is folded.

Abstract: A collapsible rail glide or grind bar for use by skateboarders, in-line skaters, and snowboarders is disclosed. The present invention would be used by such individuals as a surface to skate or glide across or to perform tricks, stunts, or maneuvers. The present invention is fully collapsible and can be easily transported as needed by a single person, with the present invention collapsing to about half of its length. A pair of included supports which are stored on the present invention in the collapsed position are used to fully support the present invention in the extended position, even providing enough support to allow the present invention to be free standing with no fixed attachment to a ground surface.

Abstract: An exercise belt which includes resilient connectors which connect a back panel with overlapping front panels, said overlapping front panels containing compressible hemispherical protruding elements which apply localized pressure to the abdomen of the user.

Abstract: Yoga grip blocks having one or more block sections and a grip section that provide support and comfort in the practice of yoga exercises. The invention includes preferred materials to fabricate yoga grip blocks and describes methods of using yoga grip blocks.

Abstract: A therapeutic back stretching device that stretches and relaxes the muscles in the lumbar section of the spine as well as concomitant muscles, such as the abdominal muscles. The device includes a rigid base constructed from a strong rigid lightweight plastic material. The base has two opposed ends with a plurality of spaced parallel slots between which is selectively fit an arched insert. The insert being formed from a lightweight flexible material and includes an opening in the center thereof to accommodate the spine of a user. The insert can be fit between slots closer or further apart to vary the degree of curvature.

Abstract: An apparatus for training muscles in a gonadal region in the human body, such as a sphincter muscle, is provided. The muscles training apparatus includes an upper base maintained to be at a predetermined height from a lower base by a plurality of support rods, on the central portion of which a throughhole is formed, an ascent and descent seat coupled to the upper base ascendingly and descendingly, on which a user is seated, and an ascent and descent mechanism for ascending and descending the ascent and descent seat.

Abstract: A medical aid and apparatus for enhancing sexual intimacy for facilitating a gynecological examination or performance of the marital act. The medical aid and apparatus includes a pair of main tubular support members, each includes a first, second, and third extents, the first extent is operationally coupled to a proximal end of the second extent, the third extent is operationally coupled to a distal end of the second extent, the main tubular members are positioned in a spaced parallel relationship and provide vertical support for the apparatus; and a main platform member operationally coupled to the pair of main tubular members, the main platform member which includes a first surface, the main platform member is positioned such that the first platform surface is substantially above a surface of the second extents of the pair of main tubular member, the main platform is designed for supporting a first user.

Abstract: An exercising ball holder for fixing an exercising ball and locking elastic cords includes a base seat, multiple extension arms and at least one elastic cord. The base seat is formed with a rest depression. A lower end of the exercising ball is rested and located in the depression without easily rolling out. The multiple extension arms respectively outward horizontally extend from the base seat. Each extension arm has a fixing loop section. The elastic cord has a hook section and has a handle. It can ensure safety in use of the exercising ball. The position of the elastic cords can be quickly changed to achieve various exercising effects. And, it has simple structure.

Abstract: In one preferred embodiment, first and second platforms are respectively provided for supporting a user's arms and knees. Rollers on the bottom surface of at least one of the units facilitate relative movements between the units. A detent may extend from the unit receiving the user's legs to retain the user's calves or ankles on the unit. An elastic cord separable from at least one of the units may extend between the units to provide for a controlled relative movement between the units and to facilitate a collapse of the unit into suitcase size. In another preferred embodiment, a pair of units having straps for grasping by the units hands are provided, one for each of the user's arms. Each unit is rotatable and/or movable linearly on a support surface in any direction independently of the other.

Abstract: An exercise/play loop is formed from a strap of predetermined length, cross-section, strength and extensibility, being selected from polyolefin and polyurethane elastomers and rubber, with a cross-section having a width to thickness ratio greater than five, and having the elastic extensibility of the loop limited to about 100%. A polyurethane elastomer is selected from the group consisting of polyester and polyether urethanes whch may be extruded and mechanically conditioned to provide a modified molecular structure of enhanced elasticity and reduced plasticity, having tensile strength of up to about 6,000 lbs per square inch. The polyolefin elastomers have a hardness number of at least about Shore 80. The ends of the plastic strap are thermally welded to each other, to form the loop. A method of mechanically enhancing the plastics is given.

Abstract: A balance training apparatus is disclosed for supporting individuals with a reduced ability to maintain balance while standing, comprising means for biasing a user towards an upright position when deviating therefrom in two planes. The apparatus comprises a variable spring system that combines a 2-degrees-of-freedom joint with said biasing means into a single element in a simple and advantageous construction.

Abstract: A flexible fitness and rehabilitation exercising and massaging apparatus formed from tubular, flexible, web-like material and having a plurality of internal pockets. The pockets may hold objects such as resilient balls that aid in gripping the apparatus, and which have also been found to be conducive to self-massage therapy. The objects may be removed, and alternative objects inserted, through openings that allow access to preselected pockets. The openings may include resealable fastener means.

Abstract: A muscle stretching and spine decompressing apparatus including a base frame (20), a flexible sheet (12) attached to the top of the base frame (20) for supporting the body of a user, and a motorized actuation means (16) for bending the flexible sheet (12) from a substantially flat position to a substantial arc. The motor (18) includes a main shaft (30) connected at each end (30e) to counter grooved helix pulleys (46). As the motor (18) turns the main shaft (30), the counter grooved helix pulleys (46) wind up cable (48) attached to the ends (12a, 12b) of the flexible sheet (12), thereby drawing the flexible sheet ends (12a, 12b) inward to cause the flexible sheet (12) to bend. The motor control system (92) provides for automatic or manual control of the arc of flexible sheet (12).

Abstract: This machine is solely operated by the paitient under the supervision and coaching of a professional physical therapist. After a total knee replacement a physical therapist is assigned to the paitient to bring back the mobility of the knee function.This is done by the therapist to stretch the tendons and the ligaments to normal flexability. The therapist sits the paitient on a bench and while holding thigh tight to the bench they forcibly push the lower leg with a free hand to achieve the required bend. This causes the paitient a great deal of pain and anxiety. This procedure is necessary to bring the tendons back to normal flexability. My invention allows the paitient to accomplish this without the fear of pain and shortens the time of recovery.

Abstract: The present invention disclosed relates to heart beat analysis device and method capable of measuring the heart beats of an individual in physical exercise, notifying the individual of a suitable exercise amount with messages or warning sounds, and allowing the individual to listen to the radio or music.

Abstract: A therapeutic seat device which in combination comprises: (a) a support (1) having elements (2, 3, 6) for receiving a separate seat member; and (b) a seat member comprising a seat (4) fastened to an elongate element for elastic, resilient interaction with the support.

Abstract: The present invention provides a muscle strengthening and rehabilitation apparatus and a method for use thereof wherein multiple radii of curvature are used to provide a full three plane range of motion. The apparatus includes a first surface for receiving a patient's extremity and a generally hemi-ellipsoidal second surface for contacting a support surface. The patient applies a force to the extremity on the first surface, and can pivot the apparatus around the second surface in any direction to strengthen and rehabilitate the muscles of the extremity.

Abstract: A device for allowing a person to perform one or more leg stretch exercises. In one embodiment, the device comprises first and second bracket members. Each of the first and second bracket members comprise first and second support members and an upper support member. The upper support member of said first bracket member is connected to the first and second support members of the first bracket member. The upper support member of the second bracket member is connected to the first and second support members of the second bracket members. The upper support member of the first bracket member is engageable with the upper support member of the second bracket member to a use position where the first bracket member is substantially perpendicular to the second bracket member. First and second leg support members are removably engaged with the first and second support members of the first bracket member to support the leg of the person.

Abstract: An exercise table and exercise routine useful in treatment of low back pain is disclosed. The table design permits a users to apply low levels of traction to the lower back by pushing lightly on adjustable arm support posts. The table design permits the users to have complete control of the level of traction applied to the lower back. An exercise routine uses the methodology of relaxing the user and applying very low levels of traction to the lower back. The low level of traction is alternated every few seconds and utilizes deep breaths to keep the user in a relaxed condition.

Abstract: A compliant body-pressing exerciser is adapted to be detachably coupled to a seat frame, and includes a bowl-shaped lower member and a dome-shaped upper member formed respectively with upper and lower surrounding edge portions that engage each other and adapted to contact the ground and compliantly press against a user's body. A height of the upper member is larger than that of the lower member. A shortest one of radial distances measured from a central point to the lower surrounding edge portion is not less than the height of the upper member so as to lower the gravity center of the exerciser.

Abstract: The invention relates to a javelin, especially for use in an indoor arena, which is essentially comprised of a shaft (2) whose javelin tip (3) is blunt and which comprises a hand grip (4) that is situated in the proximity of the center-of-gravity of the javelin. The shaft (2) is constructed as a core which is enclosed by a sheathing (7) made of a elastic material.

Abstract: An inflatable device can be used for physical therapy, conditioning or training. The device has a support platform and a flexible member. The flexible member is attached or affixed to, and has a bowl-shaped distention projecting from one side of, the platform. This flexible member is inflatable to a pressure for supporting a person. The device is inflated in order to support at least some of the weight of a person by compressing the inflatable device at or adjacent to its center. When the person wishes to later change the characteristics of the device, the pressure in the inflatable device can be changed to change its stability.

Abstract: A method of exercising and a handheld exercise or amusement device are provided. The handheld exercise and amusement device includes a handle adapted to be gripped by a user and at least two weights which are at least one of freely rotatably mounted and freely orbitally mounted about an axis running through the handle. The method of exercising includes gripping the exerciser with at least one hand and moving the exerciser in at least one direction.

Abstract: The present invention is a device or apparatus to stretch and massage the back and shoulders in an active way in order to naturally fix the muscles and shoulders of these areas and obtain a correct and natural position of the shoulders, spine and back. It includes a frame/base and a back support anchored to a handle in the obverse of the upper end of the support, so that the support is attached and held in place by means of a steel cable that anchors in turn to a pulley inside the motor-reductor on the base frame. The back support is attached to the base frame in its lower end by means of a pivot axis inserted in a steel countersheet joint. This system is operated through an electrical motor-reductor that gradually pulls the cable and rolls it up to an internal pulley, thus inclining or retracting the support on which the user lies face up and is firmly held against a handle or grip with his/her arms up, allowing the back muscles and shoulders to stretch and the spine to return to its correct position.

Abstract: A device, together with a method for its use, for ensuring that a patient's limb is maintained in a steady, predetermined oriented relative to the torso of the patient during an entire exercise routine. The device is versatile and, through particularly adapted to benefit shoulder rehabilitation and strengthening therapy, may potentially also be utilized for many other types of therapy related to any limb. The device comprises a first member for supporting the extremity of the patient, a second member for engaging the torso of the patient, and a third member for connecting the first and second members. In its preferred embodiments, the third member comprises a telescoping shaft, which is adjustable to a plurality of potentially desirable lengths. The second member preferably comprises a tubular structure having an arcuate configuration, being generally “C”-shaped and having a convex side and a concave side, wherein the concave side thereof is adapted to engage the torso of the patient.

Abstract: Grasping the device by its handles, and applying motive force through wrist and forearm motion, the pair of arms and the final component of the device may be made to simultaneously or individually whirl about their axes of rotation in an infinite variety of sequences and an assortment of styles. Holding the device by either handle, or by both of its handles, and applying concentration and steadiness of hand, there are several balancing configurations which may be achieved. Setting the device on a surface, there are additional balancing configurations which may be attained.

Abstract: The invention relates to a structure for practicing the acrobatic and ludic form of sport consisting in creating figures in the air while being hung from elastic means (E) and, eventually, while bouncing on a flexible and/or elastic surface (T), the structure being formed by assembling elements (3, 4, 5) that create several exercising areas comprising, each, a pair of hanging-up points (41) at which the elastic means (E) are hooked in. It includes a base (1) which aggregates (2) of elements (3, 4, 5) are made integral with, independently from each other, each of the aggregates (2) having a globally triangular shape and being made integral with the base (1) through one of its angles and resting on the floor through another angle, while the third angle (41) forms one of said hanging-up points.

Abstract: A precision tether adjuster for use with a rebound board, an exercising device including the tether adjuster, and a method for achieving high levels of aerobic exercise in an enjoyable fashion using the device. The device includes a rebound board, and a precision tether adjuster having first strip of hook-and-loop fastening material attached to the rebound board, and a tether having a first end attached to a ball and a second end attached to a second, mating strip of hook-and-loop fastening material. The excess length of the tether is wrapped around the second strip, which is mated horizontally across the first strip at the appropriate vertical level for the user. The length and vertical position of the tether are now optimized to suit the user's requirements, and the tether is secured firmly between the mating strips of hook-and-loop fabric.

Abstract: This invention relates to health and fitness, and more particularly to exercise methods and devices. More particularly, the invention is directed to stretching exercises and physical therapy, for example an apparatus and exercises for lower back pain. The exercise apparatus comprises at least three cells abutting each other on a common base or frame. Each cell can be independently inflated and deflated to provide an adjustable support cushion having a range of shapes and firmness. An articulated frame is optionally provided for additional independent movement of the cells. Users lie down on the cushion and produce precise stretches and exercises by controlling the rate and degree of inflation or deflation of each cell or group of cells, and optionally, articulated movement of the frame. Stretching can occur passively, as when the body conforms to the shape of the cushion, or actively by exercising in concert with the conformation of the cushion.

Abstract: An inertial training apparatus and method utilized for strength training and rehabilitation strength training of muscles. The inertial training apparatus and method allows for generation of rotational inertial forces by accelerating a mass by a concentric contraction of a muscle and converting the rotational inertial forces of the mass into a substantially equivalent eccentric action of the muscle used to decelerate the mass. A tether is coupled between the mass and a body part to transfer the tension forces provided by the body part to accelerate the mass and, in turn, those provided by the body part to decelerate the mass. A swing arm and a mass on the swing arm are rotatably mounted to a frame to preferably allow for low-friction rotation about a substantially vertical axis. A primary tether guide is preferably coupled to the frame and can be positioned near an intermediate rotational position of the swing arm where acceleration forces are transferred into deceleration forces.

Abstract: An integrated hand exercise device with a hand-held container or a hand-carried object such as a briefcase, handbag, umbrella or a walker-cane is provided. The integrated hand grip exercise device generally includes a handgrip exerciser combined with a handle of the hand-held container or hand-carried object. Such combination oft he handgrip exerciser with the handle permits the hand exercise device to be operated as the briefcase, handbag or umbrella is being used by a user. The handgrip exerciser generally includes one or more springs and a handlebar for interposing a desired resistance or compressible tension between the handle and the handlebar for exercising hands, wrists and arms. Alternatively, a squeezable resilient member may provide a desired resistance or compressible tension. The integrated hand exercise device may be detachable from the hand-held container or hand-carried object, and the resistance or compressible tension maybe user-selectable.