Abstract: Several embodiments of martial arts practice assemblies are described involving variations spanning from apparatus permitting movement along a single translational axis and about a single rotational axis to an embodiment mounted on a robotic arm enabling translation in all three axial directions and about all three rotational axes. A dual-lockout circuit requiring simultaneous activation by an operator and a user is used to activate the pneumatic system powering the assembly.

Abstract: Methods and systems for use in connection with a fitness routine and/or an exercise apparatus. In one such method, fitness information is stored in a fitness analysis system and operative communication is established with an exercise apparatus and/or a wireless communication device. A fitness information request is received at the fitness analysis system, and the system sends a setting associated with the exercise apparatus to facilitate a workout using an exercise apparatus. The system receives exercise information corresponding to the workout, and updates fitness information during the workout. The updated fitness information is analyzed to generate associated with the exercise apparatus to facilitate a subsequent workout.

Abstract: A method and apparatus receive an identification of a user at a fitness equipment unit, retrieve a current subscription plan for the user based upon the identification and make features for the fitness equipment unit in the current subscription plan of the user available for use by the user on the fitness equipment unit.

Abstract: A system for managing physical training includes: a goal achievement planning module establishing a training goal and a time schedule for a physical training participant on the basis of a profile reflecting physical characteristics of the physical training participant; a section creation module separately creating training items on a section basis according to the training goal and the time schedule of the physical training participant with reference to a predetermined standard; and a management contents creation module creating contents required to manage the physical training of the physical training participant on the basis of physical measurements previously established by the goal achievement planning module and the section creation module and various physical measurements measured from sensors attached to the physical training participant in real-time.

Abstract: A method for controlling an exercise apparatus, including steps of controlling a touch screen to display an information field, and then monitoring the touch screen to detect whether a touch is located in an input zone which has a plurality of sensing areas in the information field. A user can use one of specific actions to move a first tag from a first sensing area to a second sensing area. And one of the steps of the method relocates the first tag proximate to the second sensing area to have a portion of the first tag to point at the second sensing area. The final step of the method operates the exercise apparatus from a first condition using a first value corresponding to the first sensing area to a second condition using a second value corresponding to the second sensing area.

Abstract: An independent electric power type speed race apparatus is disclosed. The independent electric power type speed race apparatus comprises a first health cycle comprising a first pedal, a first cycle rotary body rotating by handling of the first pedal, and a first cycle load driving part working as a load checking the rotation of the first cycle rotary body; a first cycle speed sensor sensing a rotation speed of the first cycle rotary body; a second health cycle comprising a second pedal, a second cycle rotary body rotating by handling of the second pedal, and a second cycle load driving part working as a load checking the rotation of the second cycle rotary body; a second cycle speed sensor sensing a rotation speed of the second cycle rotary body; a display plate installed at the front of the first health cycle and the second health cycle.

Abstract: In a fitness equipment that provides a user with walking, running, or bicycling exercises, signals generated by a driving device corresponding to the forward/backward movement of the user is converted into the forward/backward control of an electronic game or the up/down scrolling control of the content of an application of an electronic device, such that the user is capable of enjoying the content control while physically exercising, which beats boredom of just exercising. On the other hand, content control of the electronic device transferred from manual operation to movement on the fitness equipment provides fitness objectives when using the electronic device. Furthermore, the resemblance between the movement of walking, running, or bicycling of the user and the movement of the figures in the electronic games or the scrolling of the content of the application adds to similarity, sense of presence, and convenience.

Abstract: An interactive boxing training device is made up of an inner tube, an outer tube and a fluid propulsion system for propelling the outer tube outwardly along a generally horizontal axis in a stroke defined between a retracted position and an extended position, upon demand. A retraction system returns the outer tube to the retracted position after each stroke. The inner tube is mounted in a housing at a pivot point which allows 360 degrees of freedom of movement. The housing is itself mounted on an upright rail which allows the housing to have a vertically adjustable height. The retraction system is made up of one or more elastomeric elements which are stretched as the outer tube moves to the extended position and which are relaxed as the outer tube moves back to the retracted position. The housing is also removable from the upright rail so that the device can be pointed at a boxing trainee in order to simulate punches thrown at the boxing trainee.

Abstract: A rehabilitation exercising equipment includes a main frame, a first geared member rotatably mounted on the main frame, a second geared member rotatably mounted on the main frame, two handlebars secured on the first geared member and the second geared member respectively, a connecting mechanism mounted between the first geared member and the second geared member to connect the first geared member and the second geared member, and a transmission mechanism mounted between the main frame and the second geared member. Thus, a user's two hands can hold the handlebars to pivot the handlebars in two opposite directions by connection of the connecting mechanism so as to achieve an exercising or rehabilitating function.

Abstract: A speed controlled strength machine is provided. The machine includes a frame and a number of support members. A driver is mounted to the frame and includes an adjustable speed controller. During exercise, the user engages grips/handles and pulls them via one-way clutches through the resistive movement of the driver. The clutches are engaged when the user is able to reach a predetermined speed, which is adjustable and controllable.

Abstract: To increase effects of KAATSU training and improve safety thereof. A training system includes a tight fitting device 100 having an inflatable tube which is intended to be wrapped around a compression target range of an arm or a leg, a pressure regulating segment 200 that controls an applied pressure applied by the tight fitting device 100 to the compression target range by means of supplying air into the inflatable tube of the tight fitting device 100 or removing the air from the inflatable tube, a measuring segment 300, and a control segment 400. The measuring segment 300 measures a measurement target value which is one of a heart beat rate, a pulse wave value, and an oxygen saturation value, of a user who is receiving KAATSU training. When the measurement target value measured by the measuring segment 300 indicates that the KAATSU training should not be continued, then the control segment 400 notifies it to the pressure regulating segment 200 and terminates the KAATSU training.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device particularly intended for sports training, for example for cycling competitions. The device comprises an exercise system with which a sportsman engages so as to generate a fictitious movement at a certain speed, according to a certain positioning angle. A database is provided in the form of an optical record concerning said movement. Said database contains images of the landscape surrounding the movement and also stores positioning information (climbing/downhill) for determining said positioning along the entire movement.

Abstract: A trampoline includes a frame and a jumping mat assembly that is supported by the frame to allow at least one user to bounce thereon. The trampoline also includes a sensor system that includes a plurality of sensors that are supported by the frame and/or the jumping mat assembly. The plurality of sensors are spaced apart from each other. At least two of the plurality of sensors generate a respective signal due to the user impacting the jumping mat assembly. The trampoline further includes a feedback system that provides a feedback signal and a controller that compares the respective signals from the sensors to determine a status of user. The controller is operable to cause the feedback system to provide the feedback signal according to the determined status of the user.

Abstract: A method and a device are disclosed for an exercise machine having an integrated or removable computing device with a Graphical User Interface (GUI) to enable a user to control and interact with the computing device. In various embodiments, the computing device is configured to access other computers, run software applications related or unrelated to the exercise machine, communicate with other users via voice and/or visual data channels, and substantially perform all functions available using a personal computing device.

Abstract: An interactive exercise system includes an exercise device having one or more movable elements that a user may move during exercise. The movable elements may have one or more selectively adjustable operating parameters. Other interactive features may also be includes to enable a user to interact with the exercise system in multiple ways. The interactive features may include simulations of real word locations, educational programming, multitasking features, and a voice response system.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an exercise-assisting device, and more specifically to a seat able to move reciprocally automatically in the front-to-back direction, which is one of the constituent elements of a rowing machine constituting a remedial exercise device for physically disabled individuals, and particularly paraplegics, while also constituting a whole-body exercise device able to prevent heterotopic ossification.

Abstract: An exercise system includes one or more exercise devices that communicate via a network with a communication system. The communication system stores and/or generates exercise programming for use on the exercise device. The exercise programming is able to control one or more operating parameters of the exercise device to simulate terrain found at a remote, real world location. The exercise programming can include images/videos of the remote, real world location. The control signals and the images/videos can be synchronized so that a user of the exercise device is able to experience, via the changing operating parameters, the topographical characteristics of the remote, real world location as well as see images of the location.

Abstract: An exercise system includes one or more exercise devices that communicate via a network with a communication system. The communication system stores and/or generates exercise programming for use on the exercise device. The exercise programming is able to control one or more operating parameters of the exercise device to simulate terrain found at a remote, real world location. The exercise programming can include images/videos of the remote, real world location. The control signals and the images/videos can be synchronized so that a user of the exercise device is able to experience, via the changing operating parameters, the topographical characteristics of the remote, real world location as well as see images of the location.

Abstract: In general, a computing device disposed in a cardio exercise machine receives data related to a fitness level of a user. The computing device selects a workout program based at least in part on the data. The operations of the cardio exercise machine are controlled based at least in part on the workout program. The computing device generates audio feedback based on at least one of the user's operation of the cardio exercise machine and the selected workout program. The processed data is stored on a removable computer storage medium that is insertable into a port of the cardio exercise machine.

Abstract: There is provided a machine for rehabilitation or exercise, comprising: a frame; a first arm movably secured to the frame via a first actuator; a first force sensor for measuring a force exerted by a user on the first arm; and a control unit adapted for controlling a displacement speed for the first arm via the first actuator as a function of the force and for increasing the displacement speed of the first arm via the first actuator when the force is superior to a target force. In one embodiment, there is further provided an electromyograph for location on the exercised muscle for measuring an electrical potential generated by the muscle and for lowering the target force when the electrical potential is superior to a predetermined maximum electrical potential. There is further provided a system for exercising a muscle.

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

Abstract: Methods and systems for use in connection with a fitness routine and/or an exercise apparatus. In one such method, fitness information is stored in a fitness analysis system and operative communication is established with an exercise apparatus and/or a wireless communication device. A fitness information request is received at the fitness analysis system, and the system sends a setting associated with the exercise apparatus to facilitate a workout using an exercise apparatus. The system receives exercise information corresponding to the workout, and updates fitness information during the workout. The updated fitness information is analyzed to generate associated with the exercise apparatus to facilitate a subsequent workout.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are training devices useful for improving the agility and/or speed of a trainee, systems comprising same, and methods of improving a trainee's agility and/or speed. In one embodiment a training device comprises a first sensor operatively associated with a control mechanism, wherein the control mechanism is optionally configured to enable the device to move (a) randomly, (b) in a predetermined movement pattern, or (c) in relation to a second sensor.

Abstract: A fitness center work-out station with electromechanical control of the end of stroke position, including a base, from which there arises a structure where there is fastened a seat, a back rest, arms for action by the user, pulley for connecting the arms, and a steel cable which descends to the level of the base passing through a compensating pulley and following on horizontally to the opposite end of the base where there is a vertical tower where there are stacked the weights, where the end of the steel cable is connected. The base is provided with a contour structure, with two centrally supporting frame rails of the upper structure and a compensating pulley pivoted between the pair of frame rails and at the base of the structure.

Abstract: A rehabilitation system that combines robotics and interactive gaming to facilitate performance of task-specific, repetitive exercise to enable individuals undergoing rehabilitation to improve the performance of coordinated movements of the ankle, and to practice balance activities, is disclosed. More specifically, the rehabilitation system includes at least one two degree-of-freedom robotic, haptic interface for a mammalian foot and interactive gaming hardware that is coupled to a controller, to provide a virtual reality-like environment.

Abstract: Provided is an alternate vibration type exercise apparatus that alternately vibrates a pair of vibration generators each other in which a vibration plate of each vibration generator is vibrated by up- and down-displacement of a moving driving coil inserted into a magnetic gap of a magnetic circuit, to thereby enable an alternate exercise of both of the feet of a trainee.

Abstract: A low-cost, virtual environment, rehabilitation system and a glove input device for patients suffering from stroke or other neurological impairments for independent, in-home use, to improve upper extremity motor function, including hand and finger control. The system includes a low-cost input device for tracking arm, hand, and finger movement; an open source gaming engine; and a processing device. The system is controllable to provide four types of multiple patient/user interactions: competition, cooperation, counter-operative, and mixed.

Abstract: A training system for training of part of a trainee's body includes a training machine, a control device controlling the training machine, and a display unit displaying a game screen. The training machine imposes a load on the trainee, with an MR-fluid load generating unit using MR fluid, which has viscosity varying with a magnetic field strength. The load is calculated on the basis of a target load and a relationship between the current in the MR-fluid load generating unit and the load generated by the MR-fluid load generating unit. The control device produces the game screen in correspondence with the trainee's training motion detected by a displacement detection sensor, and makes the display unit display the game screen, while controlling the load in the training machine.

Abstract: A disc holder dock includes a top cover having an opening for a driving wheel. The top cover has a cradle area for docking a gyroscopic wrist exerciser. The top cover further comprises a guide vane for directional guiding of the gyroscopic wrist exerciser. The top cover has a top cover sidewall. A middle frame mounted to the top cover. The driving wheel is mounted to the middle frame. The driving wheel is connected to the middle frame by a support. A lower plate is for holding a disc. The lower plate has a lower plate upper side and a lower plate lower side. The lower plate further includes a disk storage area.

Abstract: Exercise aiding apparatus includes a step 2 that a user puts a user's foot on, and a step drive means 5 that causes the step to perform movement including turning motion so that exercise is performed with respect to the foot put on the step. The apparatus includes a lock means 6 that fixes the step by engagement with the step except when the step drive means 5 drives the step. When the step is not driven, the step is fixed. The step is prevented from moving inadvertently at getting on and off, thereby ensuring safe getting on and off.

Abstract: An electric cushioning mechanism of a treadmill having a cushioning rod assembly positioned at the rear end of the front support frame. The cushioning rod assembly is coupled to an electric cushioning mechanism. The electric cushioning mechanism includes a linking support, a cushioning drive motor, a slide element, and a slope guide plate. The linking support is provided with a roller at the bottom of both sides thereof, respectively. The cushioning drive motor has a guide screw rod. A pushing slope is formed at the bottom of both sides of the slide element. The pushing slope pushes against the slope guide plate. The roller of the linking support tends to slide on the path with different slopes by use of the angular change on the slope guide plate, thereby creating different reactive cushioning forces.

Abstract: A new apparatus, system and method for fall prevention training is provided that delivers, studies and analyzes the biomechanics of a disturbance event, such as a slip or trip incident, so that an appropriate response can be executed by the person to reduce or eliminate the number of falls experienced. The apparatus includes a platform that delivers a disturbance event in less than about 500 ms and preferably in the range of about 100 ms to about 200 ms. The method includes a unique protocol for fall prevention training using the apparatus. The disturbance event can create instability in the joint of the individual. An individual's walking gait can be monitored with the portions thereof detected. A disturbance event can be triggered when a given portion of the walking gait is detected. Also, the disturbance even can be triggered manually, at preset intervals or according to preset script.

Abstract: The invention relates to a portable electronic device and computer software product. The portable electronic device comprises a motion detector for generating motion data characterizing the local movement of the portable electronic device, a motion intensity determiner for determining a instantaneous motion intensity value of the user of the portable electronic device from the motion data, and an active time counter for determining an active time accumulation that sums up the time periods, during which the instantaneous motion intensity value meets predefined activity criteria.

Abstract: A weight training assistance apparatus which requires a user to overcome the force exerted by one or more weights comprising: one or more sensors for monitoring a user's activity by monitoring the position of an item indicative of the position of the weights during a weight training exercise; a processor in communication with said sensors; the processor enabled to dynamically compare the user's activity of the item during the exercise with a predetermined activity profile to determine a dynamic level of fatigue for the user; the processor further enabled to determine a response at a given moment based on the exercise undertaken, the current user activity and the determined dynamic level of fatigue; a load bearing device that is controllable by the processor, the load bearing device enabled to dynamically vary the magnitude of the net force exerted by the weight as determined by the response, the processor further enabled to maintain the magnitude of the force when the user's activity is within a predetermined

Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame for residing on a horizontal surface, a pair of arm-supporting members for supporting the user's arms and a pair of leg-supporting members for supporting the user's legs. A linkage assembly couples the arm-supporting members and leg-supporting members to the frame and moves the arm-supporting members and leg-supporting members in closed paths relative to the frame in response to user forces applied to the arm-supporting members and leg-supporting members. The linkage assembly includes actuators for adjusting dimensions of the closed paths in response to control signal inputs. Sensors mounted on the linkage assembly generate force-indicating signals representing user force. A user interface receives and processes the force-indicating signals and supplies the control signal inputs to the actuators. A dimension of at least one of the closed paths is a function of at least one of the forces applied to the leg and arm-supporting members.

Abstract: An activity device including an activity sensor generating an activity interaction signal responsive to a sustained large-muscle physical activity of a user operating the activity device; a controller, coupled to the activity monitor, generating a virtual environment supporting a virtual user frame-of-reference in the virtual environment, the controller generating a set of virtual education elements in the environment and a goal for the set virtual representation with respect to the virtual education elements wherein the controller is responsive to the activity interaction signal to produce an affected interaction of the virtual representation with the virtual education elements with the controller measuring a conformation of the goal by the affected interaction; and a feedback system, coupled to the controller, presenting the virtual environment with the frame-of-reference in relation to the virtual education elements providing the user with feedback regarding the goal and the conformation of the goal by the

Abstract: A treadmill is provided with a security apparatus. The security apparatus includes a plug and a socket. The plug includes a casing and a conductive card. The conductive card includes a first portion disposed in the casing and a second portion extended from the casing. The socket includes a casing and two conductive elements. The casing includes a slot defined therein. The conductive elements are disposed in the casing so that the conductive elements are isolated from each other normally but connected to each other through the conductive card when the conductive card is inserted into the casing through the slot.

Abstract: A treadmill with man-machine interaction speed regulation and a control method thereof are presented. The treadmill includes an arm swinging detection unit for detecting an arm swinging amplitude or frequency. When a user runs on the treadmill, the arm swinging amplitude or frequency of the user can be detected by the arm swinging detection unit. In the situation that a variation of the arm swinging amplitude or frequency is greater than a preset threshold value, a new transmission speed of a treadmill belt is worked out according to a new arm swinging amplitude or frequency, and the speed of the treadmill is regulated to the new speed automatically. Otherwise, the treadmill belt keeps the former transmission speed. The treadmill speed is automatically regulated according to dynamically monitored arm swinging information, which allows the user to change the transmission speed of the treadmill belt in a natural way.

Abstract: A method for controlling an exercise apparatus via a control interface of an exercise apparatus, including steps of controlling a touch screen to display an information field, and then monitoring the touch screen to detect whether a touch has occurred on the surface of the touch screen and whether the touch is located in an input zone which has a plurality of sensing areas in the information field. A user can use one of specific actions, such as drag, to move a first tag in the input zone from a first sensing area to a second sensing area. And one of the steps of the method relocates the first tag proximate to the second sensing area to have a portion of the first tag to point at the second sensing area. Then, the final step of the method operates the exercise apparatus from a first condition using a first value corresponding to the first sensing area to a second condition using a second value corresponding to the second sensing area.

Abstract: Athletic performance monitoring systems and methods, many of which utilize, in some manner, global positioning satellite (“GPS”) data, provide data and information to athletes and/or to equipment used by athletes during an athletic event. Such systems and methods may provide route information to athletes and/or their trainers, e.g. for pre-event planning, goal setting, and calibration purposes. Such systems and methods optionally may provide real time information to the athlete while the event takes place, e.g., to assist in reaching the pre-set goals. Additionally, data and information collected by such systems and methods may assist in post-event analysis for athletes and their trainers, e.g., to evaluate past performances and to assist in improving future performances.

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

Abstract: A method for creating a personalized exercise routine with at least one user interface used in connection with forming machine-readable instructions protected as private to a user subsequently carrying out the exercise routine on an exercise machine, the method including the steps of: providing the user with at least one user interface to define the personalized exercise routine; forming machine-readable instructions to control the exercise machine to carry out the exercise routine on the exercise machine, said machine instructions protected as private to the user; storing the personalized exercise routine formed in the machine-readable instructions in a memory device; and user-triggered engaging of the machine-readable instructions to control the exercise machine in carrying out the personalized exercise routine.

Abstract: The method and system of this invention provides for core muscle strengthening. The method comprises the step of: providing an apparatus (10) that provides resistance and assistance during core muscle training using dynamic therapeutic movement for chest, back, abdominal and leg musculature to strengthen and condition muscles of the axial skeleton and lower extremities of a performing user. In one embodiment, the method also is for non-invasive physical therapy.

Abstract: An apparatus for body fat reduction and muscle building includes a bridge having a rectangular shape. A chassis is joined to the bridge and extends away from a back side. A piston having a surface for applying a load resistance to an abdomen is positioned proximate the bridge with a stem extending through a central hole. A swash plate is joined to a distal end of the stem. A return spring is in communication with the swash plate. A drive shaft is mounted to the chassis. A cam is joined to the drive shaft where the cam contacts the swash plate. A motor rotates the drive shaft and cam to move the piston in a first direction towards the abdomen and the return spring moves the piston in a second direction away from the abdomen. A belt secures the bridge to a user with the piston adjacent to the abdomen.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for controlling load parameters of an exercise machine (2) as a function of the heart rate of an exercising person, wherein the heart rate of the exercising person is captured by a heart rate sensor (8), a controller (4) modulates pulse signals corresponding to the heart rate on the basis of saved exercise programs, and wherein the exercise machine (2) follows a preprogrammed exercise program on the basis of modulated pulse signals (16), said program having been selected in advance by the exercising person using a control unit (6) of the exercise machine (2).

Abstract: An example exercise system includes an exercise apparatus including a processor, a movable element and an output device and a device including a processor and coupled to the exercise apparatus and to a communication network. The device is configured to receive an exercise program information and mental activity data and to output the exercise program information and the mental activity data to the exercise apparatus. The processor of the exercise apparatus is configured to use the exercise program information to control a parameter associated with the movable element and to control the output device to output the mental activity data during use of the exercise apparatus.

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: Athletic performance monitoring systems and methods, many of which utilize, in some manner, global positioning satellite (“GPS”) data, provide data and information to athletes and/or to equipment used by athletes during an athletic event. Such systems and methods may provide route information to athletes and/or their trainers, e.g., for pre-event planning, goal setting, and calibration purposes. Such systems and methods optionally may provide real time information to the athlete while the event takes place, e.g., to assist in reaching the pre-set goals. Additionally, data and information collected by such systems and methods may assist in post-event analysis for athletes and their trainers, e.g., to evaluate past performances and to assist in improving future performances.

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 including a telephone line 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: An elliptical exercise apparatus includes a frame, a pair of footpads, and a linkage coupling the footpads to the frame and for guiding the footpads in closed paths when a user's feet apply forces to the footpads. The linkage, which includes a rotatable member having an angular position indicative of the positions of the footpads within their closed paths, responds to input control signals by adjusting length and height dimensions of the closed paths. A control system senses the angular position of the rotatable member, senses the forces the user applies to the footpads, and generates the control signals to increase or decrease the path dimensions when it senses particular combinations of angular position and user forces, thereby permitting the user to control the path dimensions by controlling the forces applied to the footpads.