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: An exercise device includes a member that moves through a selected one of a plurality of differently available paths. A display provides a visual representation of the movement of the first member.

Abstract: A system for managing exercise of an animal such as a human being so that the animal can be trained to move with an appropriate scale and rhythm while harmonizing the motion of the animal with the operations of two devices which induce the motion of the animal in different manners, is provided. According to the exercise management system (1) of the present invention, the speed of the walking motion of the user is adjusted by an operation of a treadmill (first motion induction device) (10). The user's walking motion is induced with the motion scale being adjusted with a rhythm harmonized with the motion rhythm of the animal by an operation of a walking motion induction device (second motion induction device) (20). At this time, the operation of the walking motion induction device (20) is controlled based on the walking speed v (walking rate p, as required).

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 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: Resistance garments include for example a first cuff and a second cuff that circumscribe a portion of a wearer's body; an adjustment device fixedly attached to the first cuff; and a resistive element connecting the first cuff and the second cuff, and coupling with the adjustment device. An active material includes a backing fabric and one or more length-adjusting devices, that each include a first filament and a second filament that are interwoven with the backing fabric and substantially parallel with one another, and one or more motors. Each of the motors drives first and second spooling elements that alternatively reel in or reel out portions of the first and second filaments, respectively. The reeling in or out thereby adjusts (a) a length of the filaments, (b) a length of the length-adjusting device corresponding to the at least one motor, and (c) a length of the active material.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for the treatment of computer vision syndrome using a computer including a screen, a processor, memory and an I/O device. A set of instructions for the computer that includes programs for conducting hand-eye exercises in preselected sequences are loaded into the computer and run. Alternately, a pair of hand wands having a handle at one end and an LED light positioned on the other end are held by a user in front of the computer and a plurality of slap switches having means for detachably attaching the slap switches to a surface are positioned relative to the user and the computer. The user through the use of the slap switches and the hand wands carry out sequences of exercises that will rehabilitate the user regarding computer vision syndrome. The results of the exercises are communicated wirelessly from the hand wands and the slap switches to the computer.

Abstract: A safe, physically demanding interface device for children or other users to play video games according to the present invention includes a base and a joystick or control rod. The base supports a significant portion or the entirety of the child weight (e.g., supports a child in a seated or standing position), while the joystick is manipulable by the child to play the games. The device is configured to force the child to utilize many of the large muscle groups to interact with the game. Since the child weight is supported by the base, the interface device is stable (e.g., unlikely to tip or move) and, therefore, provides for safe, compelling video game play for users either alone or with other users.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for storing an exercise performance of a user of an exercise device that is shared by several users. The invention is characterized by installing into the exercise device software for identifying the user and for collecting information on the exercise performance; assigning a first identifier to the user; assigning a second identifier to the exercise device; identifying the user in response to the first identifier; associating the first identifier with the second identifier; collecting information related to the exercise performance of the user by associating the combination of the first and second identifiers with the information related to the exercise performance; and storing information related to the exercise performance.

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: In accordance with a preferred embodiment, there is provided a system and method for assisting a user complete an exercise program. According to a first aspect, there is provided a system that allows a coach to design an exercise program for an individual client and have that program written to portable non-volatile media that is provided to the client. The client then moves from machine to machine during his or her workout program, in each case first inserting the memory card into the selected machine before starting to exercise. The selected machine, if it is one that has been specified in the client's exercise program, will automatically set its performance parameters to match those on the memory card after which the client will be able to immediately start exercising. Optionally, actual performance data from the user's workout will be written back to the memory card for subsequent printing and/or analysis.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for creating a fitness training program based on performing neuromuscular and muscular performance tests on an individual, analyzing the results of the neuromuscular and muscular performance tests, and creating the fitness training program based on the analysis of the neuromuscular and muscular performance test results. The equipment used to perform the neuromuscular and muscular performance tests may be equipment designed for rehabilitation physical therapy used for recovery from injuries and surgical procedures that permits general neuromuscular and muscular performance testing and testing of the difference in muscle performance between a right side and a left side of the body of the individual. The individual is tested to create a fitness training program to increase neuromuscular and muscular performance, not for purposes of injury and/or surgery rehabilitation. The individual tested may be a healthy individual.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed, comprising a speaker suitable to be applied at a user's ear and enabled to be supplied with an audio signal for rendering; a microphone arranged in vicinity of the speaker to acquire a sound signal from sounds present in the ear of the user; and a signal processor, wherein the signal processor is arranged to subtract the audio signal from the sound signal to provide a physiological sound signal, and the signal processor is further arranged to detect a physiological measurement from the physiological sound signal. A method and a computer program are also disclosed.

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: The invention relates to method and system for controlling a training plan for a user having a chosen aim for training, where at least one parameter describing physical characteristics of the user is determined, and a training plan consists of plurality of days, each day having one or more training sessions or rest, and each performed and coming session having a training load described by one or more parameters a training template is determined according to the aim and the said one or more parameters describing physical characteristics, each training template having a cumulative training load target according to the said parameter and the chosen aim and consisting of one or more training sessions or rest in each day, each training session of the template having a pre-selected training load, and an adapting window is determined, the adapting window consisting of a plurality of days, which include one or more previous sessions and one or more coming sessions according to the training template, and training l

Abstract: The present invention provides a power generation device for exercise equipment including a fixing seat, a swinging seat and a power generating component. The joint and positioning end of the swinging seat has a hinge connection part to be connected with the fixing seat, and the power generating component is configured on a preset position on the swinging seat. A magnetic lifting component is configured to cause magnetic repelling between the swinging end of the swinging seat and the fixing seat, so that the swinging end of the swinging seat can be elastically lifted. The driven part of the power generating component will constantly maintain tight contact with the flywheel of exercise equipment. The magnetic lifting component can exert a magnetic repulsing function without elastic fatigue and solid abrasion.

Abstract: A multiple exercise activity recording system in which each piece of equipment, exercise movement exercise area, fitness activity or biometric in a facility where exercises are preformed is assigned to an exercise identification module. Each exercise identification module is linked or coupled to a terminal with a display and a manual input device. Each user is assigned a personal identification device that is presented or inputted into the terminal before or after the exercise equipment or exercise area is used. After exercising, the user activates the exercise identification module assigned to the exercise equipment or to the exercise area. Upon activation, one or more sub-routines automatically run in the terminal. Prompts presented on the display then request user input of information pertinent to the exercise activity. The inputted information may be stored in the terminal or immediately transmitted to a permanent member data file on a local or remote server.

Abstract: An isometric exercise system according to the present invention facilitates user interaction with a host computer system and includes at least one effector, at least one sensor coupled to the effector, a platform to accommodate the user and control circuitry including a processor. The platform accommodates a user and includes the effector attached thereto. The sensor measures at least one force applied by a user to the effector, where the applied force effects a strain on or deflects the effector. The processor receives and processes data corresponding to applied force information measured by the sensor for transference to the host computer system in a compatible format and facilitates user interaction with the host computer system via effector manipulation by the user. The host computer system processes the information to update or respond to events within an executing software application (e.g., a game).

Abstract: A “Complete Body Fitness Machine” that provides for a muscle building workout as well as a cardiovascular workout for the total body consists generally of an adjustable seat and two arms on either side, which are adjustable in height and have an infinitely and independently variable resistance possible in either clockwise or counterclockwise rotation. The arms are designed to have several types of mechanisms attached, so as to be able to work with a variety of body parts including, but not limited to, hands, arms, legs, feet, torso, neck and shoulders. When the proper attachment is used, the resistance for each direction of rotation of the arm is set, and the exercise is conducted. Depending on the workout desired, the seat and arms could be adjusted to different positions as well as the seat can be free-moving.

Abstract: A method for creating a virtual online gym for providing members with a shared workout experience and decreasing the feeling of isolation when members are not all working out at the same physical location. The method including the steps of receiving a request for access to the virtual online gym and receiving a selection for a first exercise program from a plurality of available exercise programs from the first member. The method also includes the steps of determining a program length based on the selection of the first exercise program; presenting updated status information during a length of the program length; and, providing a notification when the program length has been reached. An apparatus and system for implementing the method are also disclosed.

Abstract: A shock-absorbing device for an exercycle dynamo comprises a bracket and a dynamo. The dynamo generates electricity for the exercycle, and the bracket is connected to the dynamo and the exercycle by plural elastic members, which can provide different shock-absorbing and buffering effects on different positions of the bracket. By such arrangements, better shock-absorbing and buffering effect can be provided to the dynamo.

Abstract: A training apparatus is disclosed which allows a trainee to attain a sense of accomplishment by continuing an exercise until a target is reached, without undue strain. A torque motor applies a load to a handle bar, which is driven by the exercise of a trainee. If the movement of the trainee who moves the handle bar is about to stop, then the load is gradually reduced. If the handle bar once again begins to move due to a load reduction, then it is inferred that the trainee has resumed the exercise, and the load at that time is maintained until, for example, the direction of motion of the handle bar changes. By gradually reducing the load at the fatigue limit of the trainee, it is possible to promote the resumption and the continuance of the exercise.

Abstract: A powered strength trainer includes: a motor of a load element being a DC or brushless motor; a controller, provided for users to adjust current and signal of the motor through a microcomputer control panel, and control the torque, vibration frequency and amplitude of the motor, such that the motor can produce a pulling force, a resistance and a vibration force at the same time, and a vibration waveform can be selected as needed, and a movement path sensor is provided for feeding back a position and determining a positive and negative rotation, and a curved load control is used for compensating a load current appropriately, and allowing users to obtain a smooth and real-world setting. A planar spiral spring drives a winch to rewind the steel wire to prevent the steel wire from falling out during a power disconnection or a power failure.

Abstract: An intra-oral system is disclosed for assisting an individual in developing intra-oral muscle control and strength. The system may also be used to enable an individual having limited use of the upper extremities to control an electrical apparatus such as a wheelchair, a bed or a light fixture. The intra-oral system includes a mouthpiece having a plurality of air cells embedded therein. The air cells are configured to receive pressure applied by the tongue of an individual. Movement of the tongue over and against the air cells causes an object to be moved over a display. In one embodiment, the object is moved through an obstacle course or over a simulated track as part of a therapeutic regimen. In another embodiment, a character or icon on the display is selected and activated to manipulate an electrical apparatus. Methods for moving an electrical apparatus using a mouthpiece controlled through lingual movement are also provided.

Abstract: A mental activity for an exerciser exercising on an exercise apparatus connected to a communication link is provided by contacting a computer connected to the communication link and providing a display of mental activity data such as sports scores, stock prices or a weather report received from the contacted computer on a display device of the exercise apparatus while the exerciser exercises.

Abstract: A loading device of a leg extension machine includes: a set of symmetric left and right gear disks linked and engaged with each other and installed onto two axles of left and right leg extension elements respectively, such that if the leg extension elements are pulled apart or pressed together, the two axles drive the left and right gear disks to rotate in opposite directions synchronously; a motor having a first gear installed on a main shaft and engaged with one of the left and right gear disks and a second gear engaged between the first gear and the gear disks for producing a driving resistance to the left and right gear disks synchronously; a current controller, provided for an exerciser to adjust the current transmitted to the motor through a microcomputer control panel; and a movement path sensor, for using pulse signals generated by a pair of optical couplers as feedback positions and determining the positive or negative rotation if the axle drives the optical interrupt disk, so as to control a curved

Abstract: We have disclosed a modular personal network (MPN) that includes multiple devices that may be worn, carried, or used in close proximity to a user. The devices communicate wirelessly. Functions of the MPN may be modified by adding or removing components. The MPN may communicate with a personal computer. General purpose devices may include a control unit, a display, a user input, and an audio output. The MPN may provide a variety of functions, including time, communication, entertainment, organization, guidance, athletic, medical, travel, outdoors, identity, security, and military.

Abstract: The Integrated Body Conditioning (IBC) exercise system is a method of exercising employing three defining elements: integration of aerobic, resistance, and Range of Motion exercises performed at a properly elevated heart rate with exercise intensity and duration adjusted in view of biofeedback data.

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: An electronic method of obtaining a service alert pertaining to exercise equipment uses a control server associated with a fitness facility to gather service information from at least one fitness equipment unit. The method further includes determining whether the service information gathered is significant, automatically sending a service alert message to at least one predefined recipient regarding service information that is significant.

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 device can search for an appropriate walking route with an exercise condition such as of the calorie consumption and the walking speed. When a user enters information at least on the walking time, calorie consumption, walking speed, and distance as the exercise condition, the exercise condition is stored in a data storage unit of the device. When the user enters position information on the walking start point and the walking end point, the position information is also stored in the storage unit of the device. Map information is also previously stored in the data storage unit. A route searching unit of the device searches for the walking route and determines it according to the stored exercise condition, the position information and the map information. The determined walking route is presented to the user through a presenting unit of the device.

Abstract: The present invention is related to a feedback device (10) for guiding and supervising physical exercises, particularly home rehabilitation exercises of a person (12), comprising a computer device having a CPU and a memory, a mirror display device (11) comprising a conventional display device having a reflective surface, and position-sensing means (13, 14) for a person disposed before the device. Furthermore, the invention is related to a feedback method for guiding and supervising physical exercises, particularly home rehabilitation exercises.

Abstract: A universal system for monitoring activities and motions during exercise and controlling the resistance provided to a user of exercise equipment during the motions. The system having at least one sensor to detect at least one of physical parameter of the exercisers activity such as force, acceleration, and/or direction of user movements. The resistance mechanism provides an adjustable and variable resistance and a dampened response to an exerciser while the sensors monitor the forces and resulting movement of the user interface. The system provides an adjustable resistance system for exercising parts of the body having complex movements over a full range of motion such as the arms, legs, neck, wrist, ankle, and torso. The present invention is also adaptable to existing fitness equipment. The system can also provide effective resistance and damping over the range of motion in free space.

Abstract: An exercise machine is provided. The exercise machine includes a support defining a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction, a first motion unit coupled to the support to provide a combined translational and pivotal movement of the first motion unit in the transverse direction, a second motion unit coupled to the first motion unit to provide one of a translational movement and a pivotal movement of the second motion unit in the longitudinal direction, and a driving source configured to impart movement to the first and second motion units.

Abstract: An exercise console is disclosed as including a housing and a display incorporated into the housing. The display is adapted to align substantially parallel to the top surface of the housing. A tilt mechanism connects the display to the housing and is operable by a user to tilt the display to a nonparallel angle with respect to the housing. In another aspect in accordance with the invention, the exercise console includes a substantially fixed array of buttons incorporated into the housing. The buttons provide to a user various input options which are selectable in a pre-determined sequence by operation of the buttons to program the exercise console. Various indicators are associated with the buttons and inform the user which input options are next available for selection after the user has selected one or more input options.

Abstract: A self-contained, real-time self-use gait therapy device with a gait sensor, actuator, output speaker, and battery receptacle enclosed in a component case with a belt clip. Based upon step duration, step impact force, or step form data generated by the gait sensor, the actuator drives the speaker, producing beeps on a real-time basis with the pitch of each beep being a function of the step duration, step impact force, or step form for each step of the user. The speaker output is monitored and used by the user on a real-time basis to modify and improve his or her gait.

Abstract: A method of creating rigid cards (32) having an exercise routine (58) thereon for use by a user (26). The rigid cards (32) are prepared utilizing a computer (34) in communication with a database (40). A plurality of exercises (54) are determined and the exercises (54) are input into the computer (34) to define the exercise routine (58) specific to the user (26). A unique identifier (60) specific to the user (26) is input into the computer (34) and linked to the exercise routine (58). The unique identifier (60) and the exercise routine (58) are stored in the database (40) and printed on the rigid card (32). The method further includes modifying the exercise routine (58) and inputting the modified exercise routine into the computer (34) to define an alternative exercise routine (144). The alternative exercise routine (144) is linked to the unique identifier (60) and stored in the database (40). The unique identifier (60) and the alternative exercise routine (144) are printed on a second rigid card (116).

Abstract: The user puts on a wearable electronic device at a gym and the wearable electronic device updates itself wirelessly through a server with a fitness session for the user that is stored within a plurality of user workout routines in a database as part of the server. The fitness session is a sequence of exercises the user should perform at the gym where the wearable electronic device provides an indication to the user of the various exercises. The user determines which exercises to complete and thereafter at the end of the fitness session the user's progress is stored back to the database. On a subsequent visit to the gym a second fitness session is derived based upon the first fitness session where preferably this second fitness session is derived with the assistance of a trained professional. Optionally if an article of fitness equipment is busy, the user is advised of another article of fitness equipment to utilize.

Abstract: An exercise device is configured to enable a user to interact with a trainer in real-time communication. The exercise device includes an exercise mechanism having a movable element for movement in performance of exercise by a user. Communicating with the exercise mechanism is an interface adapted for gathering a first real-time signal from the user. The interface communicates with a communication system for receiving a packetized second real-time signal including a synchronized control signal from the trainer. The exercise device includes an output device configured to reproduce the second real-time signal. The control signals carried by the second signal are used to control the operating parameters of the exercise mechanism in real-time.

Abstract: An exercise system including a support base and an operable member movably coupled to the support base. Electrically coupled to the operable member is an interface console. The interface console includes a plurality of speed level keys and a plurality of grade level keys. The speed level keys enable a user to selected different pre-set speeds of the operable member, while the grade level keys enable a user to select different pre-set grades of the operable member. Associated with the speed level and grade level keys are incremental keys that enable a user to incrementally increase and/or decrease the speed, grade, or resistance of the exercise system.

Abstract: An electronic agility training system, including an array of multilayer, flexible footfall portions, a microprocessor operationally connected footfall portions, a user interface connected to the microprocessor, a pressure sensor positioned in each respective footfall portion and connected to the microprocessor, and a light source positioned in each respective footfall portion and operationally connected to the microprocessor. The microprocessor is programmed to receive user information and to sequentially light respective footfall portions in one of a plurality of predetermined patterns and speeds. Actuation of the pressure sensor positioned in a lit footfall portion generates a first signal to the microprocessor, while actuation of the pressure sensor positioned in an unlit footfall portion generates a second signal. Likewise, a null activation of the pressure sensor positioned in a lit footfall portion generates a second signal to the microprocessor.

Abstract: The present invention embodiments promote performance of exercise by users during a computer simulation or game. An embodiment of the present invention includes an exercise device with a plurality of effector or gripping members in the form of handles to be manipulated by a user. A coil steel spring provides the resistance for the handles that may be compressed together or pulled apart for resistance-based exercise. The device further includes additional input devices to interact with a simulation or gaming scenario. The user applies forces to the handles to interact with the scenario, thereby requiring the user to perform exercises during the simulation or game play.

Abstract: A system for representing a virtual environment is described, in which the system comprises means which comprise a fitness device, a means for two-dimensional and/or three-dimensional visual representation, at least one acoustic output and/or recording means and means for generating wind, temperature and/or odour.

Abstract: Improved techniques and systems for utilizing a portable electronic device to monitor, process, present and manage data captured by a remote sensor are disclosed. The portable electronic device offers a convenient user interface that can be visual and/or audio based customized to a particular application, user-friendly and/or dynamic. The portable electronic device can pertain to a portable media player and thus also provide media playback.

Abstract: An exemplary exercise system embodiment includes an exercise apparatus having a level of effort that is adjustable with an actuator. The exercise apparatus preferably provides a scripted virtual personal training experience for a user of the exercise apparatus. The exercise apparatus preferably includes a loudspeaker to provide a vocal forewarning of an impending change in the level of effort prior to a change in the level of effort by an automated control of the actuator. An exemplary method embodiment for creating an exercise experience includes providing a scripted virtual personal training experience for a user of an exercise apparatus including a vocal forewarning of an impending change in a level of effort required of the user and automatically changing the level of effort after the vocal warning.

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 brace compliance monitor is disclosed that includes a compliance sensor, a signal processor, and a display. Compliance data displayed on the display to provide the patient or subject with immediate compliance information on whether they have been wearing the brace for the specified period and in the specified manner. The brace compliance monitor may also include a secondary sensor such as a tilt sensor, a pressure sensor, a force sensor, an acceleration sensor, or a velocity sensor. The secondary sensors may provide additional compliance data to the patient and health care provider.

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 treadmill test protocol is provided having a linearly increasing work rate profile achieved by increasing walking speed while simultaneously increasing treadmill inclination. Specifically, according to the protocol it is possible to use a test subject's projected maximum end-test work rate to calculate a treadmill test protocol having a linear increase in walking speed and simultaneous curvilinear increase in treadmill grade so that when the test subject is tested according to the calculated protocol, the test result yields a work rate and oxygen uptake response with a linear slope.