Miscellaneous Patents (Class 482/148)
  • Publication number: 20080090708
    Abstract: An exercise device and corresponding methods involving a frame; a track being mechanically coupled to the frame; and a plurality of platforms for accommodating an exerciser's feet, each platform of the plurality of platforms including at least one moving member for facilitating both a divergent movement and a convergent movement, the at least one moving member moving on the track. The device includes a tensioning structure for providing adjustable resistance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2006
    Publication date: April 17, 2008
    Inventors: Matt Balaker, Christopher J. Thompson
  • Patent number: 7357768
    Abstract: A recliner exerciser for simulating walking in which the user can adjust the degree on reclining as well as the amount of simulated walking and exercise his or her legs are subjected. A motorized gear box operates two moveable foot rests in varying degrees of incline to provide minor to aggressive walking simulation for the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Inventor: William Marshall
  • Publication number: 20080081742
    Abstract: An device and method of use for the same adapted for aquatic exercise comprising. The device comprising an inner member and an outer foam member, each having a length much greater than its respective average outside diameters and both the inner member and an outer foam member having approximately the same length. The inner member adapted to be water-tight and being located substantially within the outer foam member. Where the inner member is more rigid than said outer foam member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2006
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Inventors: Sharon Dumke, Joanne Randell
  • Publication number: 20080070753
    Abstract: A portable free-standing pole assembly having a vertical pole extending from the center of a platform. The platform is formed from a number of interconnected tubular rails that cooperate to provide a stable platform for the vertical pole and its use as a pole dancing implement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Publication date: March 20, 2008
    Inventors: Jeffrey R. Suida, Patricia L. Pelto, James L. Fairchild
  • Publication number: 20080070754
    Abstract: A portable exercise device comprising a clamp, configured to removably coupled to an object, which includes: a spacing member; a first clamping member coupled to the spacing member and extending therefrom; a second clamping member spaced from the first clamping member, coupled to the spacing member, and extending from the spacing member. A clamping device, coupled to the second clamping member, which includes: a pressure reducing plate, disposed between and substantially parallel to each of the first clamping member and the second clamping; and an adjustment device mechanically coupled to the pressure reducing plate, configure to adjust a position of the pressure reducing plate. A plurality of attachment members coupled to and each extending outwardly from the clamp. A plurality of exercise handlebars composed of a substantially rigid elongated member removably coupled to the attachment members which include: a coupling member, a gripping portion, and a spring portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2006
    Publication date: March 20, 2008
    Inventor: JESUS GILBERTO GONZALEZ MONROY
  • Patent number: 7344488
    Abstract: A balancing device has a base and an inflatable flexible portion wherein the center of the inflatable portion is higher than the edges. The device is used by placing the base on the floor and standing and moving on the bladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: Bosu Fitness, LLC
    Inventors: David Weck, James E. E. Cotter
  • Publication number: 20080064580
    Abstract: An exercise device comprising an elongate shaft coupled to a base, which may provide support to maintain the elongate shaft in an upright, vertical position. The elongate shaft may include one or more gripping members, such as foam sleeves, for grasping the elongate shaft. A method of exercise using the exercise device is also disclosed. The method of exercise includes having a participant move in a controlled movement, such as a gyratory motion, while maintaining balance in order to extend one's outer extents of balance and/or pain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2007
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Inventor: Roer R. Hollowell
  • Patent number: 7338418
    Abstract: An assembly for stabilizing an individual while exercising in a seated position, such as, but not limited to, a wheelchair. A harness assembly comprises a plurality of harness structures each intended to be removably secured to a different part of the individual's body in a manner which stabilizes that body portion while performing a particular exercise. A restraint assembly comprises a plurality of restraint members interconnected to each of the plurality of the harness structures being used and to an anchor assembly, disposed in underlying, supporting relation to the individual and the support structure. The restraint assembly is cooperatively structured with the anchor assembly to maintain any of the harness structures being utilized and the corresponding body portion in a stable, operative position best suited to effectively perform the intended exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Inventor: Miki Erez
  • Patent number: 7338411
    Abstract: It is the object of the current invention to provide a removable exercise pole with a base connected with a housing pole that is extended by means of a telescoping upper extension pole. The pole is held in place by a compressive tensioning mechanism that also allows for manual adjustment. The pole is held in constant tension so that horizontal forces may be resisted. A capture plug that may be selectively mounted on an overhead horizontal surface serves to locate the pole on the overhead surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Inventor: Randy Eugene Blacker
  • Patent number: 7338417
    Abstract: The invention relates to a perineum muscular power increase device and a method wherein a user can do perineum shrink training continuously with interest and goal because the shrink and the relaxation degree of the perineum muscles may be displayed visually. According to the invention, there is provided with a muscular power increase device for perineum region comprising a pressure assembly 2 which presses the perineum muscle P of a sitter upwardly and makes the center of the perineum region pressed upwardly, a first detection means 53 which is provided at the pressure assembly 2 and detects the force or the pressure that the pressure assembly 2 is pushed downwardly by the shrink force of the perineum muscle P while the user is shrinking the perineum muscle P.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Inventor: Byung Mo Kang
  • Patent number: 7335147
    Abstract: An apparatus in both single and multiple arm forms that adjustably and securely mounts to a variety of exercise equipment and provides adjustable and secure mounting for a laptop computer or similarly configured audio visual device. The apparatus allows for ergonomic access to the laptop or audio-visual equipment for users of various statures who use exercise equipment in various configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Inventors: Andrea Sieg Jones, Saumen Neil Bar, Kweku David Fleming, Bruce (Ying) Pan, Howard Shen, Dong Ik Kevin Shin, Chun Hsien (Johnson) Wu
  • Patent number: 7335143
    Abstract: An exercise machine that can simulate the act of paddling a kayak with a spinning flywheel to provide exercise resistance and also produce a gyroscopic force to rock the exercise platform for a realistic effect. The flywheel is mounting on a shaft with moving supports that allow the flywheel and shaft to articulate in one plane only. Paddling inputs from the operator cause the flywheel to spin and also apply a force couple to the flywheel shaft itself in a direction where there is freedom of movement. The force couple applied to the spinning flywheel shaft causes a gyroscopic reaction force that is 90 degrees offset and in a new plane where the mounting method for the shaft does not provide a freedom of motion to articulate. In this plane the forces are transmitted to the exercise platform and cause a rocking reaction due to the gyroscopic force of the spinning flywheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Inventor: Robert Dana Lundahl
  • Patent number: 7335085
    Abstract: A device is described that possesses an overall shape that comfortably fits into a user's hand, and in particular, can be manipulated by the fingers. The device is fabricated of a pliable material that readily can be manipulated by manual pressure, yet holds its equilibrium positions absent pressure. The device has convex/concave surfaces which can be inverted to provide two stable equilibrium positions. The surfaces of the device may have different textures, such as smooth and ridged. The material of the device can have various colors, and also may be phosphorescent. Floral, fruit, spice and other scents may be added to the material such that the scent emanates from the device as the user manipulates the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Inventor: Daniel F. Lyman
  • Patent number: 7331914
    Abstract: A device and method for stretching, toning and strengthening the chest, shoulder, neck and upper back muscles of a patient thereby relieving pain and improving posture. Typically the patient is suffering from tension related muscle problems. The device and method are used to facilitate therapeutic treatment of the muscle problems by progressively stretching the muscles and thereby relieving the muscle problems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Assignee: Delta Glide, L.L.C.
    Inventors: John Carlucci, Rick Kocsis, Mario Accumanno
  • Patent number: 7331909
    Abstract: A scalable high-performance bouncing apparatus provides convenient access to untensioned internally semi-mounted springs/tension elements. A holster retains the inoperative semi-mounted elements and avoids contact or friction with fully engaged tension elements. Adjustable connection elements permit compensation for lengthening of spring elements due to creep or elongation set. The connection elements include collars that compress the tension elements, and may be connected to the springs/tension elements by first stretching the elements beyond their working elongation and then placing the collars onto the stretched portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Inventor: Bruce Middleton
  • Patent number: 7322910
    Abstract: A training device is disclosed, or a device for training, sport, gymnastics and for therapy, characterized by an arched planar element (1), having a largely rectangular outline. The arching or curvature encloses an angle of at least 30°, said angle generally being an angle of ca. 30-180°, preferably ca. 60-100°. The arched planar element can have a nearly form stable embodiment, made from wood, a polymeric material, such as a reinforced polymer or light metal. It is also possible to give the element a weakly elastic embodiment, using a correspondingly weakly elastic material such as wood, or a correspondingly weakly elastic polymer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Inventors: Viktor Denoth, Sandra Bonacina
  • Patent number: 7322948
    Abstract: A therapeutic device, such as an exercise device, includes the principles of osteogenic repair by incorporating a loading mechanism into the exercise device. By doing so, the therapeutic device provides an increased osteogenic effect, thereby enhancing the benefits of the therapy. As an example, a exercise device includes a support surface for supporting all or part of the bodily tissue of an individual using the device. A linear or rotary loading mechanism associated with the frame or a rotational element of the exercise device drives the support surface at a selected load and frequency, thereby inducing mechanical loading of bodily tissue adjacent to the support surface sufficiently to facilitate the growth, development, strengthening, and/or healing of bone tissue. The loading mechanism may be incorporated into any exercise device, including standard exercise devices such as rowing machines, stair climbing machines, elliptical trainers, bicycles, cross-country ski trainers, treadmills, or weight trainers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Assignee: Juvent, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger J. Talish, Kenneth J. McLeod, Clinton T. Rubin
  • Patent number: 7322915
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an exercise tool. More particularly, it relates to an exercise tool specifically devised as a toe stretcher to align, separate, and stretch toes. The toe stretcher comprises a frame with a separator for separating a plurality of toes. The frame further includes holes or indentations for placement of the toes. Additionally, the frame is flexible, allowing a user to easily manipulate the toe stretcher and place it on the user's toes, effectively separating and stretching toes. Furthermore, the toe stretcher may be attached with a footwear, allowing a user to not only stretch toes, but to also use the toe stretcher as a footwear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Inventor: Frederic Ferri
  • Patent number: 7318795
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus for use by a crippled person for exercising their hips and legs. The apparatus comprising a base and a seat mounted on the base, the seat having two sides along the longitudinal axis of the seat. Cushions are located on the least two sides of the seat to spread the knees of a user of the exercise apparatus. A handrail mounted on the base over the anterior side of the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Inventor: Ross Dauterive
  • Patent number: 7316637
    Abstract: A mechanical device that performs single, orthogonal, alternate, and independent movements which, adapted in an apparatus, can be applied to the prevention of lower limb thrombosis suffered by people who spend long hours in a sitting position. The device includes a solid cylinder shaped as a horizontal axis with a solid, centered, and jointly-moving sphere with grooves on its surface, along which runs a guiding bolt that guides the movement all along the grooves. The guiding bolt is joined to one of the arms of a fork-shaped piece. On the other arm of the fork, there is a ball-holding cavity with a spring to push a ball into a depression on the sphere surface opposite to the grooves. The guiding grooves engraved on the piece, which are read by the guiding bolt, are transferred to the pedals adhered to the gym apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Inventors: Jaime Alberto German, Norberto Hugo Baldoni, Natalio Hupert, Julio Cesar Bralo
  • Publication number: 20080004168
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a fitness equipment cover for attachment to fitness equipment comprising an elongated, planar piece of material and a hood on at least one end of the cover for attachment to a piece of fitness equipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2006
    Publication date: January 3, 2008
    Inventor: Ingrid Jackson
  • Patent number: 7314435
    Abstract: Apparatus for training a body part, such as for example the feet or head, of a person is shown. The apparatus structure is configured to receive and support the body part. The structure includes a body part-supporting member defining a movement path of a selected distance to be traversed by the body part during training. At least one sensor is positioned along the movement path representing a selected distance to be traversed by the body part during trained. The sensor is physically contacted by and is actuated by the body part. A signal control circuit is responsive to actuation of the sensor for generating a feedback signal which is communicated to such person to verify that such person's body part has traversed the selected distance. A method for training a body part of a person including a head, leg or arm is also shown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Inventor: Frank J. Schlosser
  • Patent number: 7311646
    Abstract: A reciprocating exercise apparatus is provided which enables the user to exercise lower body muscle groups. The apparatus includes a frame structure means, a user support means having a seat, and a user engagement means. The back end of the user engagement means is pivotally mounted to the frame structure means. An engagement assembly is mounted to the front end of the user engagement means via an assembly support, with the assembly support capable of moving in the upward and downward directions. The lower end of the assembly support is connected by a wheel member to a guide member, which is mounted on the frame structure means. To normally operate the device, the user sits in the seat and pushes against the engagement assembly, with the general thigh portion of the leg, in either the downward, upward, and/or side directions. The wheel member will follow the contour of the guide member. Optional items may include a back support member, handle members, a resistance means, and/or a motor means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Inventor: Gary Lawrence Johnston
  • Patent number: 7309304
    Abstract: A adjustable portable belt device for providing decompression support and therapeutic heating and/or cooling while preventing pressure against an incision or injured portion of the body. The support device being adjustable to enable the person to adjust the comfort level of the belt device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2007
    Inventors: Kenneth G. Stewart, Thomas Sweeney
  • Patent number: 7309305
    Abstract: A size-adjustable, foldable hamstring stretching apparatus of unitary construction provides for easily, effectively, and efficiently exercising (stretching) the hamstrings. The apparatus consists of a unitary frame and is used in a prone position, thus, avoiding back strain. The apparatus provides means for supporting the user's foot and means for assuring that the user's leg is maintained in a straight position. Means for holding allows for ease in grasping the apparatus allowing the user to pull or push the apparatus as desired. The means for supporting a foot, maintaining the leg in a straight position, and for holding may all be padded or made of a soft material for increased ease of use and comfort. The frame is made of any strong, lightweight material, such as plastic or aluminum and it is contemplated that the apparatus be made using a molding process to reduce the cost of manufacturing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2007
    Inventor: Steven M. Nichols
  • Publication number: 20070287620
    Abstract: A training method and apparatus attaches at least one marker device to the clothing of each of two users. The users engage in a training interval wherein attempts are made by each of the users to detach the at least one marker devices from the clothing of the other, each of the users defending against the attempts to detach the at least one marker devices by the other. The training interval ceases when one or more of the at least one markers of one of the users has been detached by other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2006
    Publication date: December 13, 2007
    Inventor: Mark Matthew Hiburger
  • Publication number: 20070275839
    Abstract: A stretching apparatus for a knee flexor enables a patient having spasticity in a knee flexor and/or contracted muscle to be stretched for treatment and maintain the stretched position without help from another person such as a therapist. The stretching apparatus includes a support part adjustable in angle with respect to a floor, and arranged to support a rear part of the trunk and head of a user; a backing part for supporting a lower limb of the user in a stretched position, the backing part having one end hingeably connected to the support part; and an adjustment part for rotating the backing part at a predetermined angle with respect to the support part. The lower limb of the user can be rotated at the predetermined angle with respect to the trunk and head, thereby stretching the knee flexor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2007
    Publication date: November 29, 2007
    Inventor: Yang-Soo Lee
  • Publication number: 20070265151
    Abstract: The present invention is a carrying device for an exercise fitness ball. The carrying device comprises of a fabric shape and fabric, nylon webbing and the like straps. The shape of the fabric section must be so that the corners of the shape are on the bias of the fabric to facilitate the ease of shaping to the exercise ball. The fabric carrier section is positioned under the exercise fitness ball. A fastening mechanism of two pieces of fabric, nylon webbing and the like straps is positioned around the ball in either a crosswise without hook and loop fastener or side-by-side position and secured with hook and loop fastener at the topmost position of the handle. The carrying device holding an exercise fitness ball can be held by handles to transport or hung on hook or similar by handles for storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2007
    Publication date: November 15, 2007
    Inventor: Diane Carol Ballard Olson
  • Patent number: 7294097
    Abstract: An articulated bench comprising a two-section pad and two folding/pivoting support leg assemblies attached to a frame. A length-adjustable (telescoping) dual tubular brace assembly folds out of the frame from beneath the pivoting padded section (i.e. the section for supporting the upper body) and is inserted into one of a series of catches located on the section's rear surface to hold it at a selectable incline. Improved pivoting support leg assemblies include primary foot cross-bars, and secondary foot crossbars each fixedly attached to a leg to either provide lateral floor-support when the support legs are locked in the inwardly stowed position, or alternatively serve as a hand holds or foot rests when the legs are deployed for performing exercises, thereby allowing a broader range of positions and much greater utility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Inventor: James Parker
  • Patent number: 7294099
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for improving flexibility in a user. The apparatus may include: a base frame having forward lateral, medial, and rear lateral supports; a post having a flexible joint and an upper extremity support; and a user support assembly having forward, rear, foot supports. If desired, the post may provide a plurality of non-fixed, upper extremity positions and recoiling from same. The user support assembly may provide a plurality of non-fixed pivot points for conducting compounded progressive stretching of at least one muscle group.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Inventor: Peter Schenk
  • Publication number: 20070259764
    Abstract: The present invention includes a detachable device for connection to a motorized vehicle. The detachable device may retain pieces of exercise equipment in a safe, effective, and secure manner in order to allow an individual to conduct desired physical activities in a wide variety of environments and/or locations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventor: Timothy W. Kelly
  • Patent number: 7291103
    Abstract: An apparatus and a first method of the invention for stretching a user's leg muscles, the apparatus comprising a rocker device having an arcuately shaped lower rocking surface for rocking motion on a generally flat surface and an upper platform surface having a recess for receiving a user's knee in a bent condition of the user's leg for stretching the user's quadriceps upon rocking motion, and the first method comprising the steps of: (a) resting the lower rocking surface on a generally flat surface; (b) placing a user's knee in a bent condition in the recess of the upper platform surface; and (c) rocking the apparatus forwards using the user's knee in the recess to guide the rocking motion of the rocker device for stretching the quadriceps. The apparatus is alternatively positionable in a second position for stretching the hamstring and calf muscles using a second method of the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Inventor: Joseph J. Estwanik
  • Patent number: 7291099
    Abstract: A variable resistance exercising device is described for doing isometric, isotonic and isokinetic exercises. The device includes a unitary, tortuous rod, which is shaped to include at least one mandrel for receiving several turns of a rope, a first loop for receiving the rope near one end of the mandrel, and an overlapping curl for receiving both the rope and an adjustably mountable anchor strap at an opposite end of the mandrel. The shape of the rod is such that there are no tight radius curves. Also, the rod creates a cord-receiving throat that allows the rope to be readily inserted and removed; yet the throat inhibits the rope from falling out from within the loop when tension in the rope is released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Inventor: George B. Marczewski
  • Patent number: 7288056
    Abstract: A method for identifying and developing body rhythm, comprising having a practitioner move a first hand in a first pattern in a continuous and a repetitive fashion until a first rhythm has been established; move a second hand in a second pattern in a continuous and repetitive fashion until a second rhythm identical to or closely resembling the first rhythm has been established; move the first and second hands simultaneously in a third pattern in a continuous and repetitive fashion until a third rhythm is established; wherein the method improves cardiovascular heath, improves muscle toning, coordination, and flexibility, and further wherein the method assists the practitioner in identifying and developing an individual sense of rhythm. A rhythm-developing device useful in executing the method disclosed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Inventor: Jennifer M. Whiting
  • Patent number: 7288057
    Abstract: Easily performed exercises quickly raise the tolerance to motion sickness and do not require supervision. The exercises are comprised of a warm-up phase and a conditioning phase. The warm-up phase includes a series of rotation and tilting exercises which both warm-up the muscles and joints, and provide some degree of conditioning. The conditioning exercises are directed to specific motion sickness causing movements and provide direct and powerful conditioning to overcome motion sickness. The exercises requires about fifteen minutes each day, and provide substantial relief from motion sickness in as little as two weeks. A demonstrator may be recorded on recording media performing the exercises, and the exercises are preferably self taught by a user viewing the recorded demonstration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Inventors: Samuel C. Puma, Susan W. Puma
  • Patent number: 7288050
    Abstract: A magnetically resistive exercise device for rehabilitative therapy provides a body with adjustably inclinable planar work surfaces and a curvilinear work surface all formed of magnetically permeable material. A movable exercise piece supportable by or on a user's hand or foot carries at least one magnet for user generated motion over the work surfaces. Therapeutic rehabilitation is provided by frictional resistance to movement of the exercise piece on work surface. The frictional resistance may be adjustably varied by number and strength of magnets carried in the exercise piece and by surface coverings of differing frictional characteristics on the exercise piece, the work surface or both.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Inventor: William T. Murphy
  • Publication number: 20070238593
    Abstract: A method of six (6) weeks duration for increasing body fitness level while reducing health risks, reducing inches of girth for body parts and losing body weight is provided. The method is comprised of three steps: (1) Body Cleansing, (2) Muscle Toning and Strengthening, and (3) Body Balancing. Each step is of two weeks duration and is comprised of a specific eating plan (in the case of step 1 includes a water intake regimen) and a specific exercise plan. The eating plan and exercise plan of each step is specifically formulated to provide upon completion of the six (6) weeks significant weight loss, lower BMI and reduced body part girth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2007
    Publication date: October 11, 2007
    Inventors: Mary Dorothy Ellis, Marion Edmond Ellis
  • Patent number: 7278960
    Abstract: A method of exercising in which selected muscle tissue contacts against externally applied pressure. A user places an object, or member, in contact with a body part, and applies pressure to the member, which is transmitted through the body-contacting surface of the member to the underlying muscle tissue. The pressure provides resistance to muscle expansion as occurs during a muscle contraction. A plurality of body-contacting surfaces is provided, each having different dimensions, which will allow a user to alter the pattern in which pressure is transmitted to the underlying tissue. This will allow a user to select an appropriate body-contacting surface to develop specific portions of muscle, rather than muscles as a whole. Pressure can be applied to the member in various ways, such as by manual force or with the use of a strap that is wrapped around the member and the body part being exercised.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Inventor: Steven Paul McGibbons
  • Publication number: 20070225138
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus has plural indicia printed on its exterior surface, including warm-up, work out and cool down indicia depicting exercises by the use of a graphic figure in various poses, the indicia also includes frontal and rear views of the figure showing the portions of the anatomy that benefit from each exercise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2006
    Publication date: September 27, 2007
    Inventor: Michael Alexander Mednick
  • Patent number: 7270643
    Abstract: An apparatus for exercising and supporting an upper limb includes two support modules connected on the first side by a rigid connecting piece. Both support modules have a frame, with a support plate fixed to their upper part. An exercising part is removably attached to the support plate of the first support module. An upper arm support part is articulated in the support plate and an actuator actuates the support part relative to the support plate. The frames of the support modules can be fitted immediately underneath the shoulder joints, the other upper limb being supported on the support plate in such a way that the upper limb exerts a force on the rigid connecting piece. The first upper limb is supported on the exercising part so that the weight of the upper limb exerts a force on the rigid connecting piece, the forces being balanced by the connecting piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: Olecranon Oy
    Inventor: Ari Pellinen
  • Publication number: 20070184952
    Abstract: Disclosed is a training apparatus, which comprises a seat unit 30 including a seat 35 allowing a user M to sit thereon, a foot plate 42 adapted to allow the user M sitting on the seat 35 to keep his/her feet bottoms in contact therewith, a displacement mechanism unit 38 adapted to apply to the user M a load against a straining force generated when the user M sitting on the seat 35 while keeping the feet bottoms in contact with the foot plate 42 strains his/her legs, and a base board 20 mounting thereon the above components. The foot plate 42 is adapted to be changed in posture between a horizontal posture T1 where it protrudes approximately horizontally and outwardly from a pair of footrest frames 41 mounted on the base board 20, and a vertical posture T2 where it protrudes approximately vertically and upward from the footrest frames 41 at approximately the same height level as a that of the seat 35.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2007
    Publication date: August 9, 2007
    Applicant: Konami Sports & Life Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Keiichi Matsubara, Hisashi Mori, Kojiro Minami, Masatoshi Mukai, Daisuke Shijo, Toru Higuchi, Yasuhiro Noguchi
  • Publication number: 20070184946
    Abstract: A physical therapy apparatus includes a pole, a weighted base, and one or more types of grips. Weights are attached to the pole near the grips to counterbalance gravitational forces on the user and to thereby provide evenly proportioned tension throughout the full range of motion of the apparatus as it is moved. The apparatus may be moved in virtually any direction, providing constant tension for working and stretching muscles to aid in recovery from muscle injuries.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2007
    Publication date: August 9, 2007
    Inventor: SCOTT F. KUHAGEN
  • Publication number: 20070173382
    Abstract: A yoga belt to assist in Dhanurasana (Bow Pose) prevents lumbar and sacroiliac problems arising from the exercise or asana. The belt includes a first portion, a second portion, a third portion, a first loop positioned between the first portion and the second portion, and a second loop positioned between the second portion and the third portion. The user picks up the belt and places one loop over one foot and the other loop over the other foot. Each belt strap should be pulled through the inside part of the foot to maintain the integrity of the thighs and feet in an effort to remain hip width apart. The user then faces forward with the elbows under each shoulder and is ready to begin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2006
    Publication date: July 26, 2007
    Inventor: Helena Axelrod
  • Publication number: 20070161479
    Abstract: A knee-stretching device and methods of increasing knee range of motion in extension are disclosed. The knee-stretching device allows a patient to self-stretch and acts as a first class lever, applying force supplied by the patient's arms to the knee through the distal portion of the leg. The knee-stretching device can apply traction, varus, and valgus forces in addition knee extension force. Disclosed treatment methods include the use of the knee-stretching device before surgical intervention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventor: Donald T. Harris
  • Patent number: 7241252
    Abstract: A tapered elastic back support is situated in a fabric tube formed at the top edge of a variety of shorts and pants suitable for use during athletics, exercise or rehabilitative therapy. Unlike traditional back braces, the portion of the back support encircling the front of the wearer's abdomen is tapered to pass well beneath the wearer's navel, permitting low cut garment designs that expose significant portions of the wearer's abdomen. The rear portion of the back support increases in height to cover at least the lower three vertebrae (L5–L3). The front portion of the back support allows the wearer to tighten the appliance such that a continuous elastic stabilizing pressure is exerted across the lower back. Branched drawstring portions or tapered belt portions are secured to the elastic back support material and extend through the fabric tube at the front of the garment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Inventor: Victor W. Gagliardi
  • Patent number: 7235040
    Abstract: A weight stack exercise unit particularly for working on one's waist, abdomen and legs comprised of a frame that can be folded up for storage or shipment and expanded holding onto ground to support the unit; a handlebar each being provided on both sides and a lever laterally provided in the center of the frame; the lever pivoted to a rotary turntable; a circular track formed on the turntable to engage with a pulley beneath the seat; a lateral bar extending from front of the seat; a foot support each provided to the utmost front of the lateral bar; two weighted sections on both sides of the handlebar; the user sitting or lying on the seat to hold the handlebar with feet in both foot supports applying force to cause the lateral bar and the seat to swivel up and down, or to swivel laterally by releasing the seat for it to slide along a circular track on turntable and by changing loads of the weights depending on the individual user and the length of the training session.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Inventor: Tseng Chung-Ting
  • Patent number: 7226396
    Abstract: A rehabilitation and fitness trainer apparatus includes a handle frame of generally U-shaped configuration, with two telescopic members attached at an angle to the base of the U-shaped handle portion, a generally U-shaped base frame including an elongated cross bar and two side members which extend rearwardly and at an outwardly extending angle from the elongated cross bar, and with the cross bar including a pair of elongated members that extend generally upwardly and rearwardly for cooperating and telescopingly engaging the pair of telescopic members extending from the handle frame. A locking device is provided for vertically adjusting and maintaining the vertical distance between the handle frame and the base frame in order to accommodate a wide variety of users of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: Balance Gym LLC
    Inventors: Frederick Buechel, Jr., Colin Hoobler
  • Patent number: 7214170
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus in which movement of a weight by the user generates a vibration which acts on the muscles being exercised.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: South Bank University Enterprises Ltd.
    Inventors: David Paul Sumners, Roger Leslie Brown
  • Patent number: 7207932
    Abstract: An exercise device for cushioning and supporting a user while exercising and developing arm, leg, back, and abdominal muscles and reducing fat around the stomach and abdominal area. The exercise device has a pair of equally sized rectangular mats including an upper and a lower mat having a hinge connection for folding in half. Said mats have a top surface, a bottom surface, and side edges. The upper mat has two internally positioned flexible shafts, two adjustable straps extend upwardly from the upper mat, and an outwardly extending head support panel. The lower mat has two internally positioned, non-flexible shafts, two adjustable feet straps, and two grasping straps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventor: David Dean
  • Patent number: 7204791
    Abstract: An exercise station for an exercise device such as a shoulder press or other device includes a dock extending from the exercise device, and a user support such as a shoulder press bench or other support engaging the dock in docking relation and releasably locked thereto. The user support is removable and replaceable in a one handed operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas K. Baumler, Nathan R. Luger