Abstract: A mobile unit configured to train an athlete is disclosed. The mobile unit includes multiple sensors, communication devices and a mobility system. The mobile unit executes one or more training paths to simulate chasing associated with various sports. The mobile unit is capable of determining its own location and the location of the athlete throughout a training session, as well as other information. The mobile unit is configured to adapt the training path to stress weaknesses of the athlete with respect to various types of athletic skills.

Abstract: A hand exercise device 100 and method for exercising human hands 102 and digits 104 comprising a plurality of separate digit sleeves 110 wherein the diameter and length are such that the separate digit sleeves 110 slide over finger and thumb digits 105, 106 of a human hand 102; a magnetic element 120 is attached with the separate digit sleeve 110 at or near a distal end 116 of the separate digit sleeve 110, wherein the magnetic element 120 will facilitate a desired exercise in multidirectional movements when the magnetic element 120 is approximated near another magnetic 129 or ferrous metal surface 150. The hand exercise device may include a flat or wavy ferrous material 150, 151, 152 or a randomly disposed magnetic field 161 to aid in exercising the hand.

Abstract: A trampoline exercise system that is designed to show an avatar of a user, which is jumping on a trampoline. The exercise system includes a computer module, a trampoline configured to provide a platform for a user to perform exercises thereon, and a sensor module designed to sense movements of a user performed on the trampoline. The sensor module provides information that is received by the computer module that controls the display of a users' avatar on a video monitor in response to the users' motion on the trampoline. Several types of sensor may be used to sense the movement of the user, including body mounted sensors, trampoline mounted sensors, and remote viewing sensors.

Abstract: A convenient device, such as a mobile phone, provides a user interface for a system that generated personalised exercise programs and guides users through the exercises in a generated program. The generation of the program may be performed by the device providing the user interface.

Abstract: An exercising device includes a base, a driving unit and a limit cap. The base has an upper surface provided with two toothed racks, a first contact switch and a second contact switch and a lower surface provided with an antiskid member. The limit cap has an elongate slideway. The driving unit includes a housing, a rotation shaft, a motor, two driven gears, two handgrips, and a control switch. When the driving unit touches the first contact switch or the second contact switch, the motor is controlled to change the rotation direction of the rotation shaft. Thus, the slideway limits the moving direction of the driving unit to prevent the driving unit from being deflected sideward during movement. In addition, the base will not slip from the ground by provision of the antiskid member.

Abstract: A mobile unit configured to train an athlete is disclosed. The mobile unit includes multiple sensors, communication devices and a mobility system. The mobile unit executes one or more training paths to simulate chasing associated with various sports. The mobile unit is capable of determining its own location and the location of the athlete throughout a training session, as well as other information. The mobile unit is configured to adapt the training path to stress weaknesses of the athlete with respect to various types of athletic skills.

Abstract: A punching bag system is provided for determining the position of a punching bag. A punching bag is suspended by a coupling from a stand which permits the punching bag to travel between an up position where it is in contact with a contact area on the stand, and a down position where it is free from contact with the stand. Light-emitting devices and light-receiving devices are radially positioned on the stand between the coupling and the contact area. Light is emitted from the light-emitting devices and reflected into the light-receiving devices when the punching bag is in the up position. The light-receiving devices generate an output proportional to the amount of light received therein which is analyzed to determine if the punching bag is in the up position. A metric is determined based in part on the determined position and is presented by an output device.

Abstract: A leg exercising apparatus includes a support that includes a base having a top side and a post extending upwardly from the base. A housing is attached to a distal end of the post with respect to the base. The housing has a perimeter wall and a plurality of weight sensors is mounted within the housing. A seat is positioned on the housing. The weight sensors detect weight positioned on the seat. The sensors are positioned to detect weight differentiation positioned on sections of the seat. The sections at least include a right lateral section and a left lateral section. A control circuit is electrically coupled to the weight sensors. The control circuit emits a first signal when the weight sensors detect weight differentiations between the sensors within acceptable limits. The control circuit emits a second signal when the weight sensors detect weight differentiations outside of acceptable limits.

Abstract: A training device includes a motor including a sensor member connected therewith which is electrically connected to a vibration control unit which controls the motor via commands from a user. A torque output unit is connected with an output shaft of the motor and transfers a resistant force to users and to transfers the force from the user to the motor. The torque output unit includes a speed reduction unit and a tension unit so as to transfer proper force between the motor and the users. The vibration control unit sensing status of the motor according to input commands so as to control the motor simultaneously to generate vibration and resistant force on user's muscles by rotating to-and-fro repetitively.

Abstract: A device for conditioning the balance and motor co-ordination of a user (2) comprises a system (3) for acquisition of information relative to the kinematics of at least one part (4) of the body of the user (2), a processing interface (9) connected to the acquisition system (3) to encode the information in a signal, a pair of earphones (12, 13) operating between the processing interface (9) and the user (2), to feed the user the signal suitably defined by a stereophonic sound which can be transmitted in an audio channel.

Abstract: A control system for an exercise apparatus has an input mechanism for setting a goal for exercise in measurable units, a display for displaying the goal in the measurable units, and an initiation mechanism. Upon setting the goal, the goal in measurable units is displayed in the display, upon activating the initiation mechanism the display begins to decrement in the measurable units, and upon reaching zero, the original goal is displayed and then increments in the measurable units.

Abstract: A method to evaluate a client by a physical therapist, which includes determining if a client is experiencing distress. If a client is experiencing pain, the method selects an evaluation algorithm responsive to the distress, wherein the selected evaluation algorithm comprises (N) evaluation factors. The method determines if any of the (N) evaluation factors is designated an Emergency Referral evaluation factor, and if any of the (N) evaluation factors is designated an Emergency Referral evaluation factor determines if the client's reported distress corresponds to a point rating of “5” for any of the Emergency Referral evaluation factors. If the client's reported distress corresponds to a point rating of “5” for any of the Emergency Referral evaluation factors, the method refers the patent for immediate emergency care.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to systems and methods for providing exercise devices with motivational programming. The programming includes motivational content and control signals, synchronized with the motivational content, for controlling operation of the exercise device. The motivational content includes audio and/or video designed to simulate a group exercise setting and optionally instructional and educational content for the benefit of a user. The control signals can be carried in wireless carrier signals and can include bytes of data that define changes to the value of one or more operating parameters of an exercise device. The control signals can control one or more operating parameters of one or more exercise devices, whether at once, or device specific.

Abstract: An automated striking and blocking trainer is disclosed. In some embodiments, the trainer includes the following: a frame; a striking body joined with the frame, the punching bag including one or more strike zone assemblies, the strike zone assemblies each having a light indicator and a striking force sensor; an arm assembly joined with the frame, the arm assembly including one or more arms, each of the one or more arms including a voltage differential sensor and a motion indicator in the form of an electrical motor, wherein the voltage differential between the power being used by the electrical motor when the one or more arms are not struck and when the one or more arms are struck is used to determine a torque of the one or more arms and an input force of a blocking strike; and a head assembly including a processor unit and a display.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for monitoring and encouraging health and fitness. In accordance with a first aspect, an apparatus is provided that is adapted to assist in weight loss and exercise. The apparatus comprises a personal digital assistant (PDA) having computer program code adapted to assist in at least one of calorie counting, meal selection, meal suggestion, weight monitoring, weight loss or gain monitoring, fat consumption monitoring, sugar consumption monitoring and salt consumption monitoring. The PDA also includes computer program code adapted to display historical data regarding at least one of calorie counting, meal selection, meal suggestion, weight monitoring, weight loss or gain monitoring, fat consumption monitoring, sugar consumption monitoring and salt consumption monitoring. Numerous other embodiments are provided, as are methods, systems and computer program products.

Abstract: An exercise system includes a local system having an exercise apparatus and an associated local computer, where the local computer controls and monitors the operation and use, respectively, of the exercise apparatus. The system further includes a remote system having a remote computer, and a transmission medium preferably including the Internet that couples the local system to the remote system for data communication between the local system and the remote system. The remote system may receive local system data from the local system concerning the use of the exercise apparatus, and the local system may receive remote system data from the remote system concerning the operation of the exercise apparatus. The local computer preferably controls the operation of the exercise apparatus based upon a modifiable script stored in a read/write memory of the local computer, which can be updated by the remote system.

Abstract: A platform or mat for exercising and dancing that is lightweight, has non-slip features and can be folded up for storage. The platform allows a user to determine foot position without having to look down at the platform thus allowing the user to watch a display screen while exercising or dancing. The platform includes tactile indicia molded that foot placement is determined by feel by the user's foot touching the tactile indicia. The material used to make the platform surface includes ethylene vinyl acetate. The platform includes electrically conductive switches that are activated by a force from the user's foot on a segment while exercising or dancing. Placing a user's foot on a segment communicates signals about the user's foot placement to a control device. The control device includes popular video game player devices and computers and includes the use of a display screen.

Abstract: An article of clothing constructed from one or more materials includes a flexible display element attached to the one or more materials of the article of clothing and circuitry for controlling the flexible display element.

Abstract: A device, wearable by a user, includes: a plurality of sensors, each for providing an indication of position of at least a part of the user's body; a receiver for receiving each indication of position provided by each of the plurality of sensor elements to provide a composite position signal. The individual sensor readings may all be transmitted to the external entity for further analysis. The sensors may be placed in different locations or positions for measuring the curvature of at least a part of the user's body.

Abstract: An apparatus for displaying a fitness exercise condition is provided. A user (that is, an exerciser) of the apparatus inputs personal basic information on the exerciser. When the apparatus is applied to an arm or wrist of the exerciser and the exerciser carries out fitness exercise, a heart rate is measured during the fitness exercise to record it. Load data indicating hardness of the fitness exercise is calculated on the basis of the personal basic information thus inputted and data on the recorded heart rate. A display section is caused to display notice with a color according to a load on the exerciser for each of predetermined time periods on the basis of the calculated load data. The display section may include first and second display sub sections for displaying first and second notice with first and second colors, respectively.

Abstract: A system and method for providing visual feedback to a user of an exercise machine for gauging fitness progress of the user. The system provides a user of an exercise machine with a virtual competition in which the user competes against virtual competitors based on his past performances or those of other users, either as an individual or as a member of a team. The team may also be part of a league. For an individual competing against his own past performance(s), the system may raise the level of performance required to win the virtual competition, and may also lower the level of performance required if the user is not performing well on a particular day. For an individual competing against others in either real-time or against designated results, either as part of a team or a league, the system may reduce the isolation, disconnection, and tedium often experienced by users of cardiovascular exercise equipment and provide a social outlet.

Abstract: Consistency of motion is monitored over a period of time while a person is exercising on an exercise machine that impacts one or more muscles and/or muscle groups of the musculoskeletal system of the person. A measure of fatigue of the one or more muscles and/or muscle groups for the period of time is calculated. An evaluation of the exercise session is provided, based at least in part on the measure of fatigue and the monitored consistency.

Abstract: An activity meter includes a sensor for detecting acceleration in a plurality of directions, representative acceleration calculation means for calculating a representative acceleration based on an output signal of the sensor, and exercise intensity calculation means for calculating an exercise intensity of a body motion performed in the unit period from the representative acceleration. The exercise intensity calculation means includes a plurality of calculation formulas to use in the calculation of the exercise intensity, and determines the calculation formula to use in the calculation of the exercise intensity of the body motion performed in the unit period based on a horizontal component and a vertical component of the representative acceleration. The activity amount on various types of body activities from daily activity to exercise thus can be accurately measured.

Abstract: A light-emitting control circuit and a wrist training ball using the same are described. The wrist training ball includes a light-emitting device. The light-emitting device includes an electricity generating circuit and a light-emitting control circuit. The electricity generating circuit generates electric power by rotational kinetic energy of the wrist training ball and outputs the electric power to the light-emitting control circuit. The light-emitting control circuit includes first and second light-emitting elements.

Abstract: An exercise and performance evaluation apparatus includes a revolving belt on which a subject can perform bipedal locomotion, a harness for securing the subject at a fixed position relative to the apparatus, a means for measuring the force applied by the subject to the belt, and a means for monitoring and controlling the velocity of the belt. The harnessing of the subject allows monitoring of the velocity as a function of time. An overhead harness may be used to alter the effective mass of the subject. The velocity of the belt may be controlled by a motor and brake system, where the motor may be uni-directional or bi-directional.

Abstract: An audio-signal generation device includes a generation circuit which generates track data and an input unit which receives information input by a user. The generation circuit generates the track data on the basis of information about the user's body, information about an exercise to be done, and information about a characteristic of a track to which the user listens during the exercise that are input via the input unit.

Abstract: An exercise machine including a weight measurement system which provides a signal representative of a user's weight. An embodiment of the weight measurement system includes at least one load cell outputting a signal used by a microprocessor to determine an accurate value of the users weight. An embodiment of the weight measurement system includes a plurality of load cells using a Wheatstone bridge configuration to output a signal representative of a user's weight regardless of whether the weight is evenly distributed across each load cell. A calibration process calibrates the load cells for each exercise machine.

Abstract: A controller is disclosed, especially but not exclusively, for use in combination with an exercise apparatus. The controller comprises in one arrangement a handlebar assembly and one or more input devices, of at least one of the input device being responsive to movement of the handlebars. The controller may include a support such as a handlebar stem, and may provide output signals to a microprocessor in turn to control operation of a programme running on the microprocessor.

Abstract: A portable, electronic device having wireless location or positioning technology used to test and improve the physical fitness of a person is provided. The device includes a memory, an operating program, a user interface, a display and a location signal receiver adapted to receive location signals from a plurality of sources external to the fitness training device. A command and control circuit is coupled to the memory, the user interface, the display and the location signal receiver. The control circuit executes the program and generates control signals based upon the user entered data and the location signals from the receiver. The device tracks the distance traveled by the device throughout the performance of an exercise routine based upon the location signals and thereby determines the fitness level of the person. The program then determines a plurality of timed exercise regimens based upon the calculated fitness level.

Abstract: A portable personal training device is disclosed. The device generally includes a location determining component operable to determine a geographic location of the device, a housing having a first portion and a second portion coupled to the first portion at an angle, and a strap operable to secure the housing to a user's wrist such that the first portion is operable to be positioned on a top of the wrist and the second portion is operable to be positioned offset from the top of the wrist. Such a configuration facilitates both wearing and operation of the device.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes an input device, a communication circuit connected to a communication link, and a display device. A control circuit controls the communication circuit to contact a computer connected to the communication link in response to exerciser input to the input device and controls the display device to display mental activity data such as sports scores, stock prices, or a weather report received from the contacted computer while the exerciser exercises to thereby provide a mental activity for the exerciser.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for pacing human exercises includes a sequence of pre-recorded, repetitive humanly perceptible signals in which a first, accented signal pulse, such as the first beat in a four-four measure of musical time, establishes a repetitive rhythmic tempo to thus provide timing track signal for synchronizing various phases of an exercise. The rhythmic pulses, which are preferably provided by a percussion instrument such as a drum and accompanied by musical tones, are accompanied by instructions verbalized by an exercise trainer in synchronization with the timing track signal. The perceptible signals are preferably audible and are optionally accompanied by or replaced by visibly perceptible signals such as flashing lights.

Abstract: An exercise system has an operating unit, an input unit, a detector, a control unit and a display unit. The operating unit is an operation device that receives forces exerted by a user. The input unit is for setting a personal physical parameter set of the user. The detector senses a heart rate of the user. The control unit receives the personal physical parameter set from the input unit, receives the heart rate from the detector, defines a boundary heart rate according to the personal physical parameter set and generates a display command by comparing the heart rate with the boundary heart rate. The display unit receives the display command to accordingly generate a safety indication signal. The user can prevent injuries or over-training fatigue by perceiving the safety indication signal and then adjust the exercise intensity.

Abstract: A behavior of a walker is detected according to combination of detection of the walking behavior on a level and an altitude variation of the walker to more accurately detect the behavior of the walker. A burned calorie can be obtained according to the type of the walking behavior. An altitude variation can be obtained more accurately by integrating altitude variation only at sections with vertical movement during walking. A stride is estimated according to the behavior of the walker in consideration of the vertical movement. Obtained position and traveling direction are used for compensating values in inertial navigation system. The behavior with and without vertical movement is used in a walker navigator and a worker observing system including a worker terminal carried by the walker for detecting the behavior of the worker and a worker observing terminal for providing the detected position and behavior of the walker.

Abstract: A multifunctional virtual-reality fitness equipment provide user to select mode of one user doing exercise alone or multiple users participating in on-line internet competition game with others through internet, which has a detachable interactive manipulator equipped with single-chip microcontroller and served as an interface for coupling conventional fitness equipment and personal computer to enable the conventional fitness equipment to become a novel man-machine interaction fitness equipment having function of internet 3-dimensional virtual simulation, and the communication between the detachable interactive manipulator and the personal computer is achieved by employing male-to-female plug-socket connecting means and according the International Standard Communication Protocol; when the detachable interactive manipulator is connected to a personal computer and a fitness equipment, an automatic detection to software program of personal computer shall be executed, if correct message is detected, the fitness eq

Abstract: Systems and methods for facilitating an isometric contraction exercise regimen for many subjects across a network are provided. One or more exercise constraints are developed for a subject as a function of the medical health information of the subject. The subject performs a plurality of isometric contraction exercises using exercise equipment always in the presence of a personal fitness trainer thereby producing an exercise result. The exercise equipment has a strain gauge in order to impose exercise constraints in the one or more exercise constraints. A mandatory recovery period for the subject is then imposed. During this mandatory recovery period, the subject does not perform isometric contraction exercises. These steps are repeated using a new set of one or more exercise constraints that were refined based upon the exercise result of a previous isometric contraction exercise work out session.

Abstract: A modular exercise device that provides isometric and speed training in a plurality of embodiments by providing a single sensing core that can be encased in multiple housings. A force measurement smart core is an electronic piece although a pressure indicator or physical force gauge could be used also. A feedback interface providing visual/auditory tactile interaction could be visual using an LCD or LEDS, audible, or tactile (vibration feedback) Means to setup the device include buttons or dials to set the goal force or change the exercise program. A memory allows the device to be programmed to walk the user through a routine or to allow the user to see previous workouts. A connection means to connect to a computer, the network or other electronic device using standard known architecture would be utilized. This could be wireless, wired or through memory cards.

Abstract: The present invention allows users to monitor their workouts using a small, portable device which provides feedback regarding speed of exercise repetition and range of motion, enabling the user to use pneumatic or cable driven workout structures safely, efficiently, and effectively. In a typical embodiment, the present invention allows a user to define pre-set requirements, attach the device to a cable-driven exercise structure, and complete the exercise while using the device to monitor the exercise. The device signals to the user if the user's execution of exercise repetitions falls outside the user's pre-set requirements for speed and range of motion. The results of the user's exercise repetitions are displayed on a display screen and are stored in the device's memory, and may then be uploaded onto the user's personal computer to further monitor progress.

Abstract: A process is disclosed for enabling an operator to exercise on an exercise device. The process includes measuring a range of movement of the operator during exercising on the exercise device for generating an electronic range of movement data. A strength is measured of the operator during exercising on the exercise device for generating an electronic strength data. An electronic program is designed based on the electronic range of movement data and the electronic strength data. The electronic program is stored in an electronic media. The electronic program is displayed as a moving scale on a screen for instructing the operator to exercise at the same rate as the moving scale to complete the exercise in a timely and controlled matter.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame, an arm supporting member, and a leg supporting member. A sensor is connected to at least one of the arm supporting member and the leg supporting member, and/or a resilient member is interconnected between the arm supporting member and either the leg supporting member or the frame. The sensor communicates with a user display and/or a resistance device to indicate the amounts of work performed by the arm supporting member and the leg supporting member, and/or to adjust resistance to movement of the leg supporting member as a function of user force applied against the arm supporting member. The resilient member encourages synchronization of the arm supporting member and the leg supporting member, while allowing some relative movement therebetween.

Abstract: A portable system retrieves one or more exercise programs from a remote communication system that provides motivational content for a user exercising upon an exercise mechanism. The exercise program further includes at least one control signal that controls one or more operating parameters of the exercise mechanism. The portable system includes a control device configured to retrieve the exercise program and deliver the motivational content to the user by way of an audio delivery device, while delivering the control signals to the exercise mechanism. A sensor communicates with the control device and tracks one or more measurable parameters of the user during the user's performance of the exercise program. Data representative of the one or more measurable parameters can be delivered to the control device for delivery to the remote communication system.

Abstract: A personal training device (10) adapted to assist a user in reaching performance goals, navigating, and accumulating performance statistics. In a preferred embodiment, the device broadly comprises a housing (10); an attachment mechanism (30); a GPS component (40); a user interface (50), including an input portion (52) and an output portion (54); a processor (60), including a timer (62) and a memory element (64); a data interface (70), including an input portion (72) and an output portion (74); an audio component (80); and a power supply (90). The device (10) is adapted to store goal information, monitor performance using GPS-derived data, and communicate performance information.

Abstract: The invention relates to an interactive gymnastics practice device which is used together with an image and sound system forming the gymnastics program to be followed by a user, comprising a first level of generally-pressure-sensitive surfaces, the surfaces extending essentially in a continuous manner and in substantially the same plane. The invention is characterized in that the device comprises at least one second level of surfaces which are pressure sensitive or which can control an action in response to a pressure, the second level surfaces extending essentially in a continuous manner and in substantially the same plane.

Abstract: Systems and methods for facilitating an isometric contraction exercise regimen for many subjects across a network are provided. One or more exercise constraints are developed for a subject as a function of the medical health information of the subject. The subject performs a plurality of isometric contraction exercises using exercise equipment always in the presence of a personal fitness trainer thereby producing an exercise result. The exercise equipment has a strain gauge in order to impose exercise constraints in the one or more exercise constraints. A mandatory recovery period for the subject is then imposed. During this mandatory recovery period, the subject does not perform isometric contraction exercises. These steps are repeated using a new set of one or more exercise constraints that were refined based upon the exercise result of a previous isometric contraction exercise work out session.

Abstract: Systems and methods for facilitating an isometric contraction exercise regimen for many subjects across a network are provided. One or more exercise constraints are developed for a subject as a function of the medical health information of the subject. The subject performs a plurality of isometric contraction exercises using exercise equipment always in the presence of a personal fitness trainer thereby producing an exercise result. The exercise equipment has a strain gauge in order to impose exercise constraints in the one or more exercise constraints. A mandatory recovery period for the subject is then imposed. During this mandatory recovery period, the subject does not perform isometric contraction exercises. These steps are repeated using a new set of one or more exercise constraints that were refined based upon the exercise result of a previous isometric contraction exercise work out session.

Abstract: An abdominal exercise apparatus includes a device that instructs and encourages a user. The apparatus comprises a slide member positioned in a channel of a body. The slide member has a user engagement end extending from the channel for engaging a targeted muscle area of the user. A resilient member biases the body and slide in one direction. Handles are attached to the body at opposing locations, and extend away from the body. The instructional device instructs users how to perform multiple phase abdominal exercises and provides motivation. The instructional device comprises a microprocessor, a sound creating mechanism, a visual display, and a user interface. The sound creating mechanism produces prerecorded instructions or motivation. The visual display includes lights to visually instruct the user of the proper amount of time for each phase of an exercise. The user interface allows for a user to select various exercise routines and levels.

Abstract: A device, wearable by a user, includes: a plurality of sensor elements each for providing an indication of position of at least a part of the user's body; a receiver for receiving each indication of position provided by each of the plurality of sensor elements to provide a composite position signal. The individual sensor readings may all be transmitted to the external entity for further analysis. The sensors may be placed in different locations or positions for measuring the curvature of at least a part of the user's body.

Abstract: A fitness device integrally incorporating digital technology can include capabilities for providing music and auditory stimulus that can be heard through a headphone, Bluetooth; or speakers for ambient music. Further capabilities enable the device to record video and still imagery, play video to provide instruction, feedback; or for leisure viewing. Along with sound and video capability, the device can have light emitting capability for a visual dimension in use. For biofeedback, the device can include a heart rate calculator to provide feedback on the level of exercise intensity and caloric consumption. The light emitting capacity allows the user to create patterns in use. Thus, the device can be multi-faceted able to provide ambient music, recording and viewing video, enveloping the user in a “bath” of light, sound, very subtle electromagnetic fields.

Abstract: Systems and methods for sensing and monitoring various athletic performance metrics, e.g., during the course of a game, a practice, a training session, training drills, and the like, are described. These systems and methods can provide useful metrics for players and coaches relating to athletic performances in various sports, including various team sports.

Abstract: Systems and methods for sensing and monitoring various athletic performance metrics, e.g., during the course of a game, a practice, a training session, training drills, and the like, are described. These systems and methods can provide useful metrics for players and coaches relating to athletic performances in various sports, including various team sports.