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.

Abstract: The invention discloses an equipment for improving physical fitness, whose primary aspect is muscle strengthening. Another objective of the invention, besides maximizing muscle development, is to minimize the risk of injury during and after practices. The invention has a comfortable, tailor-made design shell (1), filled with filling material. The shell (1) of the filler can be filled or emptied during exercises (in-situ method). The shell (1) does not have any strips or handles on its outer surface. The shell (1) size is designed in a way that its size matches the shoulder width of the user. In addition, the device is equipped with a scale (3), which indicates the charge status.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process and a system for monitoring exercise motions of a person. The process comprises monitoring a first sensor signal from the person. While the first sensor signal does not deviate from a first sensor signal template by more than a pre-determined amount, signals from further sensors from the person are monitored, compared to templates processing and the comparison result is evaluated. If unit sensor signals deviate from the templates by more than a pre-determined value this is communicated to the person.

Abstract: A workspace fitness apparatus, comprising a standard workspace such as a computer desk or cubicle, a plurality of physical activity devices arranged upon or about the workspace, a plurality of interactive devices for computer operation comprising keyboard, pointer, and voice-recognition elements, such as to facilitate physical activity for fitness and health benefits without interrupting other work-related activities.

Abstract: Play gyms and methods of operating the same are disclosed. A disclosed example includes a floor mat dimensioned to be positioned within a play yard and/or a bassinet. It also includes a play gym to suspend an object above the mat when the mat is positioned in the play yard and/or the bassinet, and at least one connector to couple the play gym to the mat when the mat is removed from the play yard and/or the bassinet.

Abstract: A method of exercising a human body, the method comprising: providing a sliding element having a body portion adapted for receiving a limb of the human body, and a sliding surface adapted to slide on a exercise floor; placing the sliding element on an exercise floor and placing the human body limb on the body portion; and performing an exercise routine including sliding the sliding element by moving the human body limb. The exercise routine includes routines performed with the human body in a standing position; routines performed with the human body in a prone position; routines performed with the human body in a supine position; and routines performed with the human body in a side-lying position. The invention also includes an exercise device for exercising a human body, the device comprising: a sliding disc having a body portion adapted for receiving a limb of the human body; and a sliding surface adapted to slide on an exercise floor.

Abstract: There is provided an audio interval training device, including a sensing unit to obtain a parameter of a user in physical exercise, a memory to store a plurality of audio signals having predetermined tempos; and a processing unit configured to (1) receive a first and second target parameter value, (2) select from the plurality of audio signals a first and second audio signal having respective tempos, (3) alternatively rendering the first and second audio signals, wherein a respective audio signal is rendered to the user corresponding to the first and second target parameter value, as determined by the processing unit using the parameter from the sensing unit.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a ball-like exercise device adapted for insertion in the mouth and to be used for exercising, strengthening and/or toning facial and/or jaw muscles.

Abstract: An exercise device for a lower leg and foot is provided. The exercise device provides a user with the ability to exercise multiple muscles in both lower legs and both feet, and provides the user with multiple exercises with a single exercise device. Additionally, the exercise device is capable of providing variable resistances during exercise to accommodate users of different strength and to accommodate a user's increase in strength. To provide variable resistance, the exercise device includes a plurality of resilient resistance member interchangeably coupled to a housing of the exercise device.

Abstract: A pair of identical pushup exercise devices that replaceably engage on a same pair of adjacent cove molds of a staircase simultaneously, and are separate and spaced-apart from each other so as to accommodate users of different upper body structures. The pair of identical pushup exercise devices are identical to each other, are separate from each other, and are spaced-apart from each other for accommodating the users of different upper body structures. Each identical pushup exercise device includes a rod. The rod of each identical pushup exercise device replaceably engages on the same pair of adjacent cove molds of the staircase simultaneously, and is gripped by the users of different upper body structures to perform a pushup exercise.

Abstract: The invention relates to an exercise device for use by a user on a selected surface material comprising a grasping member having a first end and a second end, a first tool head mounted to the first end of the grasping member and a second tool head mounted to the second end of the grasping member. Each of the first tool head and the second tool head has sufficient structural rigidity to be interacted with the surface material without significant deformation whereby a user can perform exercises upon the selected surface material by physically interacting the first tool head and second tool head with the surface material.

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.

Abstract: A hyperbaric exercise facility is provided allowing a persons to perform exercises and other activities at increased pressures along with controlled levels of oxygen. Additionally, a catastrophe shelter is provided to protect its occupants from peril.

Abstract: An exercise device includes at least one arc-shaped wing structure shaped to conform to a curvature of an exterior surface of an exercise ball such that when applied to the exterior surface thereof the at least one arc-shaped wing structure has a lower proximal end and an upper distal radiating end, protrudes away from the exterior surface of the exercise ball to a given distance that increases along a direction from the lower proximal end towards the upper distal radiating end, and is operable to provide an increased resistance against a rolling movement of the exercise ball along a surface when the at least one arc-shaped wing structure comes into rolling contact with the surface. An exercise ball with a plurality of the wing structures is likewise provided, the wing structures being integral or removable.

Abstract: An apparatus is configured with one or more sensors arranged to detect a first shape-related parameter, one or more control elements arranged to provide a force, and circuitry operably connected to the one or more sensors and the one or more control elements to determine the force provided to the one or more control elements.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for resistance stretching and strengthening of the muscles of the lower leg of a human user. The device and method provide a lever arm for hinging the foot about the ankle joint for providing resistance first against a series of concentric, and preferably but optionally, isometric contractions of the muscles of the lower leg sufficient to fatigue at least one of the muscles, and then for applying force sufficient to oppose and overcome the opposite force of the user to perform an eccentric contraction of the muscles. The device includes an elongated portion that acts as a lever arm for hinging the foot about the ankle joint and a fastening means for securing the foot against the top surface of the elongated portion and allowing for manipulation of the foot to assist in the performance of the various contractions of the muscles of the lower leg.

Abstract: Play gyms and methods of operating the same are disclosed. A disclosed example includes a floor mat dimensioned to be positioned within a play yard and/or a bassinet. It also includes a play gym to suspend an object above the mat when the mat is positioned in the play yard and/or the bassinet, and at least one connector to couple the play gym to the mat when the mat is removed from the play gym and/or the bassinet.

Abstract: A foot pain relief device can advantageously provide multiple angles of inclination, directed pressure against the plantar fascia, as well as ease of manufacturing and assembly. A toe strap, which is fastened around the ankle and the toe(s), ensures that the toes are flexed up. This toe flexing tenses the plantar fascia of the foot. A ball strap can be threaded through a hole in a ball and then operatively coupled with the toe strap. When operatively coupled to the toe strap, the ball strap keeps the ball positioned on the bottom of the foot while allowing ball mobility. The mobility of the ball can provide directed pressure on at least one component of the plantar fascia. Notably, the simultaneous combination of tension to the plantar fascia and directed pressure to the component(s) of the plantar fascia can be particularly effective at relieving foot pain.

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.

Abstract: A physical exercise apparatus comprises a mat/cushion device and accessories designed for fitness interactivity using an array of variations of graphics specifically placed on the mat. The locations of the graphics are provided as an aid to guide proper body positions or postures, placement and alignment in yoga and physical exercise, and for the use of creative sequencing of movement, proper technique, and body mechanics. The apparatus is a foundation and map for physical exercise programs, games, interactive play, physical therapies and methods. The apparatus contains graphics with anthropometric measurements that may be synchronized with instruction, audio and/or video displays, and/or video games containing and delivering corresponding graphics for body placement and timing.

Abstract: A full body twisting exercise machine has a support frame comprising a lower layer portion and an upper layer portion, a bearing respectively installed at the lower and the upper layer portions, a revolving shaft disposed though both bearings, one end of the revolving shaft protruding from the upper layer portion and connected to a crank and having an extension bar, a free end of the extension bar having a connecting portion; a connecting rod, a driving rod and a handle, an aperture of the connecting rod pivoted to the connecting portion of the extension bar and secured to one end of the driving rod; another end of the driving rod connected to a handle; and a flywheel disposed between the lower layer portion and the upper layer portion and jacketing the revolving shaft, and the lower layer portion of the support frame having a damping device.

Abstract: Kit and method for treatment or rehabilitation of medical conditions of the human knee using an apparatus having a substantially rigid support member having two substantially similar sides joined at one end, which forms an apex, and having a third side including two opposing linear surfaces separated by a cavity; an adjustable strap; and a wedged insole.

Abstract: An oblong hoop formed of six tube pieces fitted together end to end has tube junctions at each of four beveled corners. A pair of telescoping side junctions preferably connects side tubes together to make the oblong hoop extendable and retractable in length. The hoop can be used in three ways during three stages of learning—first, with the pupil supported in the front region of the hoop and an instructor within the hoop and close behind the pupil, second, with the pupil remaining forward in the hoop and the instructor moving to a rear region of the hoop, and third, with the pupil remaining in the forward region of the hoop, and the instructor moving outside the hoop to hold onto a rear region of the hoop.

Abstract: An apparatus for simulating sculling or rowing on water includes a support frame with foot rests, a sliding seat, bilateral oars that are rotationally coupled to a set of actuators, integrated input velocity and torque sensors, computer and computer display. Each actuator incorporates a mechanical transmission, a rotational inertial mass, a variable linear and a variable non-linear damping element. The damping elements can be controlled manually or automatically by computer programs under user control.

Abstract: A stick assembly for sporting and/or recreational use includes an elongated shaft extending from a proximal end to a distal end. A handle is coupled to the proximal end of the shaft for allowing a user to grip the assembly. The shaft includes an engagement portion for engaging a surface and an extension portion separating the engagement portion from the handle. The shaft includes at least one curve. The engagement portion of the shaft comprises a flexible material. The shaft may also define an inner passage for accommodating at least one weight.

Abstract: A mat that can be used for the practice of yoga includes a curve-shaped design and strategically placed stitch markings to assist the user in producing a properly aligned position with each yoga pose or yoga posture. Both the shape enhancements and stitch markings can help create a technological and functional mat to help both novice and expert practitioners achieve better performance in their yoga practice.

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.

Abstract: A weightlifting barbell holder assembly is especially useful for mounting a weightlifting barbell in a generally horizontal position on a horizontal metal beam, typically an I-beam or U-beam. Preferably, the barbell is at least partially within a horizontal channel defined by the beam when mounted thereon.

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.

Abstract: A system and method are provide for an obstacle course including first and second lanes associated with first and second difficulty ratings, respectively. The first lane includes a first plurality of obstacles associated with the first difficulty rating and the second lane includes a second plurality of obstacles associated with the second difficulty rating. The first difficulty rating indicates greater difficulty than the second difficulty rating.

Abstract: A multi-functional yoga brick comprises a multi-sectional holding portion at a middle section thereof. The holding portion has a shape of “8”, or a round shape or an elliptical shape. The holding portion has a through hole or no through hole. The holding portion has a plurality of layers. The multi-functional yoga brick is an elastic body. The multi-functional yoga brick is made of elastic plastics or rubber or injected plastic material. The user has a better balance in exercise and can support effectively so as to expand the body.

Abstract: A physical exercise method and apparatus comprises a mat/cushion device and accessories designed for fitness interactivity using an array of variations of graphics specifically placed on the mat. The locations of the graphics are provided as an aid to guide proper body positions or postures, placement and alignment in yoga and physical exercise, and for the use of creative sequencing of movement, proper technique, and body mechanics. The apparatus is a foundation and map for physical exercise programs, games, interactive play, physical therapies and methods. The apparatus contains graphics with anthropometric measurements that may be synchronized with instruction, audio and/or video displays, and/or video games containing and delivering corresponding graphics for body placement and timing.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a stretching apparatus that is useful to apply controlled, gradual muscular stretching, and is particularly useful for controlled stretching of the hamstring muscle.

Abstract: An exercise device is provided for enabling a user to obtain a full body workout. By attaching the device at selected positions on the hands, feet, arms, legs, or torso, different muscle groups of a user's body can be isolated for training and strengthening purposes. The exercise device includes two or more pieces of tubing material fitted together in a telescoping manner. Pressurized air within the tubing provides a user with resistance to movement in order to tone and strengthen the muscles. At one end of the telescoping tubing material is a handgrip and at the other end is a strap of a suitable resilient or elastic material that allows a user to securely place a foot or hand in for exercise purposes.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a tumbler apparatus comprises a metal roller padded with foam, a frame to give support and height to the roller and elastic bands connected at opposite ends of the roller to connect the roller to the frame. The elastic bands connect to support hooks on the frame risers.

Abstract: A collapsible play structure has a coiled wire supporting a covering which is attached to the wire to define an interior tunnel-like passageway. A number of features are disclosed for addition to the structure, including one or more openings provided in the covering, a basketball goal assembly attached to one end of the coiled wire and covering, tie members for varying the length of the passageway, a helical track provided about the covering, a plush toy attached to the covering, and electronic devices attached to the covering.

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.

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.

Abstract: The strikeable exercise apparatus provides several exercise benefits, all capable of being practiced indoors or out. The apparatus provides a plurality of bats and a plurality of hexagons, each of which may be padded. The bats' shapes are shaped to provide as much striking area as is possible. The abrupt taper disposed at the cylinder second end provides as much room for the handle as is possible within the length of each bat. The apparatus is especially useful in providing for the development of core power, as well as power in the extremities by providing that each dual-handled hexagon can be wielded as is chosen, as can each bat. The plurality of weights of the bats and hexagons importantly provide for the strongest as well as the not so strong to enjoy a myriad of activities that provide for both core power development and extremity development.

Abstract: Described is an exercise tool. More particularly, it is a therapy and exercise tool specifically devised as a foot-therapy and toe-aligning device to align, separate, and stretch toes. The foot-therapy and toe-aligning device comprises a frame with a plurality of posts connected with the frame. The device is formed of an elastic material such that a user may place at least one of the plurality of posts between a user's toes and pull the post to stretch and elongate the post between the toes. Upon release, the elastic material of the post causes the post to attempt to return to its original shape, thereby causing it to expand out and conform its shape to fit snugly against the user's toes. Additionally, the elastic material allows the toe posts to be positioned and maintained at numerous locations between the user's toes for customizable positioning between the toes.

Abstract: A method for passive and active exercises of the human knee using an apparatus having a substantially rigid support member having two substantially similar sides joined at one end, which forms an apex, and having a third side including two opposing linear surfaces separated by a cavity; and an adjustable strap.

Abstract: An apparatus is configured with one or more sensors arranged to detect a first shape-related parameter, one or more control elements arranged to provide a force, and circuitry operably connected to the one or more sensors and the one or more control elements to determine the force provided to the one or more control elements.

Abstract: One embodiment of an exercise device placed on top of a door (122) and of the type having an elongated body (102) which has a half circular profile. A base sheet (106) is attached to the base surface (104) of the elongated body (102) and a top sheet (108) is attached to the curved surface (100) of the elongated body (102) such that it drapes past both long edges of the elongated body (102). A primary end sheet (112) is attached to one end of the elongated body (102). The user places the exercise device on the top of a door with the base sheet (106) contacting the door and the primary end sheet (112) contacting the upper sill (118). The user (120) grabs the top sheet (108) in the area of the curved surface (100) and performs a pull-up or hangs freely.

Abstract: A device and method for treating and preventing plantar fasciitis includes a wedge adapted to be placed under the big toe. The wedge has a top surface for supporting the big toe, a first support surface separated from the top surface by a first angle, and a second support separated from the top surface by a second angle. The first and second support surfaces are perpendicular with each other so that one rests on the floor and the other serves as a backstop. The wedge has a first position for inclining the top surface upwardly at the first angle to provide moderate stretching of the plantar fascia, and a second position for inclining the top surface upwardly at the second angle to provide maximum stretching. The first angle is within a range of 20 to 25 degrees, and the second angle is within a range of 65 to 70 degrees.

Abstract: A workout aid including a beverage container, and a band secured about the beverage container, the band comprising a first surface and a second surface, wherein at least a portion of the first surface is matingly engaged against the beverage container, a first end and a second end, a means for detachably securing the first end of the band to the second end of the band, and wherein the second surface of the band is opposite from the first surface and has a schedule printed thereon or viewable therethrough, wherein the schedule includes a plurality of cells arranged in at least one column and at least one row.

Abstract: A foam roller exercise apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment, the foam roller exercise apparatus may have first and second portions. The first portion may have a uniform cross-sectional shape, a first curved outer surface having a first radius of curvature, and a second curved outer surface spaced from the first curved outer surface and having a second radius of curvature. The second portion may be separable from the first portion and may have a uniform cross-sectional shape complimentary to the first portion. The foam roller exercise apparatus may have a third portion.

Abstract: An athletic training device to develop speed and agility. A robot can be programmed or remote controlled to move in an erratic manner so that it can be chased by an athlete. An on-board shut-off unit stops the device when it is removed by the athlete chasing the device.

Abstract: An apparatus comprised of: a base unit having a top portion and a bottom portion; a leg supporting structure on the top portion at an angle and adapted to receive the lower portion of a user's leg; one or more temporary securing member(s) to temporarily secure the user's leg to the leg supporting platform; and at least one rolling member positioned below the bottom portion, such that the user is able to move using a free leg and the apparatus without the use of hands.

Abstract: An isolated curl machine and method therefor is disclosed herein. Generally, the isolated curl machine provides a resistance having a force which is directed upward and away from the user. The machine may also support the user's upper arms, or a portion thereof. In this manner, training on the machine is highly focused on the biceps. The machine may comprise a frame, a seat, an arm rest, and a resistance device. The user may engage the machine by sitting in the seat and placing his or her arms on the arm rest. In this position, the user may engage the resistance device such as by grasping a handle of the resistance device. The resistance device provides the resistance which resists movement of the user's arm during a bicep curl and may be configured such that the force of the provided resistance is directed upward and away from the user.

Abstract: An exercise system provides incentives for individuals by providing either a collective exercise goal or a sponsored exercise reward.