Abstract: Example embodiments may relate to a system, method, apparatus, and computer readable media configured for monitoring a user performing an exercise and generating a avatar of the user and a virtual shadow, wherein the virtual shadow illustrates proper form of the exercise. The example embodiments may further be configured for determining an amount of overlap between the virtual avatar and the virtual shadow, and generating a feedback score based on the amount of overlap.

Abstract: An exercising device includes a main frame, a seat, a backrest, a swing unit, a magnetically controlled damper, and an electronic control panel. The swing unit is swingably mounted on the upright of the main frame. The swing unit includes two handlebars extending from the upright to the seat respectively. The magnetically controlled damper is pivotally mounted between the swing unit and the main frame. The electronic control panel is electrically connected with the magnetically controlled damper. When the two handlebars are moved by the user, the magnetically controlled damper provides a damping force to retard movement of the two handlebars. The electronic control panel controls and regulates the resistance of the magnetically controlled damper.

Abstract: An adaptive device utilizing neuroplasticity for a rehabilitation of stroke victims. The adaptive device includes a base platform, an elongated superstructure, a first axle, at least one interchangeable handle, and a torsional-resistance mechanism. The base platform and elongated superstructure suspend the first axle in an elevated position, wherein the interchangeable handle may freely rotate coaxial to the first axle. The torsional-resistance mechanism is operatively coupled to the first axle, providing a variable resistance to the rotation of the interchangeable handle. Thus, the interchangeable handle is configured to support a repetitive pronation-supination exercise to aid in rehabilitation and physical therapy.

Abstract: To provide a brake device and an electric brake system that appropriately brakes a rotary body of a human powered vehicle in various situations, a brake device is applicable to a human powered vehicle and includes an electric actuator operated by electric power from a power supply, a braking portion driven by the electric actuator to brake a rotary body of the human powered vehicle, and a power storage provided separately from the power supply to supply electric power to the electric actuator.

Abstract: An exercise device is disclosed which is safe to use, resists muscle adaptation, incorporates multiple methods of resistance, can quickly and easily switch between exercise modes to provide the user with the most optimal exercise routine and the least amount of hassle, and can otherwise remove the limitations of prior art machines. The exercise device can be utilized by the user to perform rowing exercises targeting cardiovascular training, high intensity training, strength training, muscle-building training and core building. Moreover, the exercise device is easy to use, will have multiple methods of operation, can quickly and easily switch between these methods of operation, and will not limit the user in the types of exercises to be performed.

Abstract: Provided is an exercise guide system. The exercise guide system guides a user in an exercise on a treadmill, of which the speed is controllable according to the user's free will. The exercise guide system includes an input unit configured to receive at least one target exercise speed, a detection unit configured to detect an actual exercise speed of the user on the treadmill. The exercise guide system further includes an exercise guide unit configured to provide information related to the actual exercise speed and the target exercise speed so that the user personally adjusts an exercise speed on the treadmill.

Abstract: An exercise machine is disclosed. The exercise machine comprises a pancake motor. The exercise machine comprises a torque controller coupled to the pancake motor. The exercise machine comprises a high resolution encoder coupled to the pancake motor.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling a tension in an exercise apparatus are provided. The system includes an input/output (I/O) subsystem for permitting a user to enter at least one resistance value and for displaying a resistance exerted by the exercise apparatus; a controller configured to control the tension of the exercise apparatus based on the at least one resistance value entered by the user adjusting a position of a holder and moving a plurality of guides for selective attachment of tension members to catches on the exercise apparatus; and a power source connected to the controller and the I/O subsystem and configured to power the controller and the I/O subsystem.

Abstract: A method of adaptive control of a treadmill, the treadmill includes a base extending along a longitudinal axis, the base includes a first rotatable element and a second rotatable element adapted to rotate about respective rotation axes transversal to the longitudinal axis of the base. A physical exercise area operatively connects to the first and second rotatable elements. A motor is operatively associated with the first and/or second rotatable element. The motor is configured for rotating the first and the second rotatable and dragging in rotation the physical exercise surface. The method includes: determining by a data processing unit of the treadmill, a first electrical parameter of the treadmill representative of the interaction between a user and the physical exercise surface of the treadmill. The data processing unit controls the motor based on the first electrical parameter detected by the data processing unit.

Abstract: Disclosed is a fitness equipment including a fitness equipment terminal and a data terminal. The fitness equipment terminal includes a movable member and a damping device for controlling the damping intensity of the movable member, and also includes a travel tracking module for feeding back motion data of the damping device and a control module for controlling the damping device. The damping device includes an electromagnetic induction assembly. A fitness system is also disclosed.

Abstract: A system for a treadmill including a tread that rotates around a front axle and a rear axle and side rails on opposing sides of the tread, comprises a brake configured to slow rotation of at least one of the front axle or the rear axle, a controller, and a first presence sensor in communication with the controller, the first presence sensor positioned on a side rail and configured to detect the user on the side rail. The brake is not engaged during operation of the treadmill when the tread is moving and the first presence sensor does not detect the user on the side rail. The controller is configured to, in response to the first presence sensor subsequently detecting the user on the side rail, engage the brake.

Abstract: An ideal target weight training recommendation system and method ascertains a user's ideal target weight with a user-data algorithm that computes a strength coefficient based on weight repetitions. The user generates initial completed repetitions until the muscles fatigue. A baseline strength value is calculated with the initial completed repetitions and a baseline strength coefficient. A resistance value of the free weights divided by the baseline strength coefficient, produces the baseline strength value. The baseline strength value is used in calculating ideal target weight values. A user-data defined y-intercept approximate functions. Each y-intercept approximate functions involving user-selected desired target repetition values. The user manipulates a resistance structure associated with the ideal target weight values. The ideal target weight values are rounded to the nearest whole number. The user-selected desired target repetition values generate second completed repetition values for subsequent sets.

Abstract: A method for controlling a motor of a derailleur of a bicycle electronic gearshift during a displacement from an initial position (A) towards a destination position (B) includes the step of feedback controlling the current (I(t)) absorbed by the motor. A controller of an electric motor of a derailleur of a bicycle electronic gearshift is configured to carry out a feedback control of the current (I(t)) absorbed by the motor during a displacement from an initial position (A) towards a destination position (B).

Abstract: A treadmill safety control system, method, and apparatus are described for operating an exercise treadmill by enabling a treadmill motor to start moving the treadmill belt after an initial height of the user on the treadmill belt is measured, and then continually measuring a current height of the user on the treadmill belt for evaluation against the initial height so that a first treadmill motor control signal is generated to stop the treadmill motor from moving the treadmill belt when the current height is lower than the initial height by a minimum height threshold.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices for measuring force applied to a machine, where an exercise machine comprises a frame; a motor assembly; a mounting plate, wherein the mounting plate is attached to the motor assembly; a force transducer. The force transducer is attached to the mounting plate and the frame and is the only point of contact between the frame and the motor assembly. The force transducer is configured to measure force applied to the motor assembly.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of monitoring an activity session comprising receiving activity data indicative of at least one activity performed during the activity session, the activity data comprising a plurality of measurements associated to a plurality of parameters monitored during the activity session; a processor comparing at least some of the received measurements associated to at least two of the parameters with at least one set of a plurality of sets of measurements stored on a tangible computer readable medium; and a processor generating a training plan based at least partly on a comparison between the received measurements and the stored measurements. Other aspects of the invention provide an exercise coaching system.

Abstract: Provided is an assisting torque setting apparatus and method, wherein the apparatus is configured to calculate an evaluation value of at least one index based on gait data of a user, set a stable assisting torque based on the evaluation value, set a basic assisting torque corresponding to a gait motion of the user based on the gait data, and set a final assisting torque based on the stable assisting torque and the basic assisting torque.

Abstract: A treadmill may include a deck, a first pulley disposed in a first portion of the deck, a second pulley disposed in a second portion of the deck, a tread belt surrounding the first pulley and the second pulley, an upright structure connected to the deck, and a pull cable incorporated into the upright structure.

Abstract: A wearable device such as a garment is disclosed, having at least one resistance element at a motion segment such as a hip or knee. The garment includes at least one sensor, for sensing a parameter. Electronics are provided for processing the sensed parameter, and for providing feedback. Feedback may be in the form of proprioceptive tactile or audible feedback, or in the form of an adjustment of a performance parameter of the wearable device. In one implementation, resistance to movement of the wearer is adjusted up or down in response to changes in power output by the wearer.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing therapeutic rehabilitation exercise to bedridden individuals and patients, including comatose individuals. A vertical support column extends upwards from a base, with one or more arms extend from the vertical support column, each providing a rotary mechanism at the distal end, with pedals or handles attached thereto. The individual's feet or hands are secured to the pedals or handles, respectively. Straps, brackets, or other fastening means may be used to secure the feet and hands. An electric motor causes the rotary mechanism to move the pedals or handles in a rotary fashion, thereby providing movement and exercise for the individual's legs and arms.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a bicycle-type game simulation device comprising: a crank pedal unit; a swing footrest horizontally rotatably installed in the crank pedal unit; a swing detection means which detects a left-and-right rotation of the swing footrest and transmits a signal thereof; and a forward-and-backward rotation detection means which detects a forward/reverse rotation of a crank shaft and transmits a signal thereof, wherein a user can easily operate a behavioral motion of a player in a game with his/her foot, using the mechanism of a crank pedal of a bicycle, so that the user can perceive a good sense of reality.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a resistance system which has a first rotating shaft, a second rotating shaft and a transmission mechanism mounted between the two rotating shafts, such that the two rotating shafts are rotated with respect to each other at a predetermined transmission ratio. Besides, a first resistance device is controlled to apply a first resistance against rotation of the first rotating shaft, and a second resistance device is controlled to apply a second resistance against rotation of the second rotating shaft. The first resistance device and the second resistance device can be controlled independently. When a user uses the exercise apparatus to perform exercise, a moving member is driven by movement of the user. When the moving member is moved, the two rotating shafts are driven to rotate simultaneously, namely the user has to overcome the rotational resistance of the two rotating shaft during exercise.

Abstract: An adjustable resistance system for use with an indoor cycle comprising a magnetic resistance assembly, a friction brake assembly, and a resistance adjustment assembly.

Abstract: An adjustable dumbbell device includes a handle bar, a housing attached to one end of the handle bar, a weight element engageable into the housing, a pawl slidably received and engaged in the housing, and an actuating device rotatably engaged onto the handle bar and having a cam member for engaging with the pawl and for actuating the pawl to engage with the weight element and for detachably anchoring the weight element to the housing and the handle bar. The housing includes a guide channel for slidably engaging with the pawl, and a guide pin engaged with the pawl for guiding and limiting the pawl to slide relative to the housing.

Abstract: A treadmill safety system that detects the runner or treadmill user without the need for attaching a string to the runner. It includes two basic components: 1) a distance or proximity sensor, laser, ultrasonic, IR, or other and 2) a method to kill treadmill power in the case the runner is not detected in position by the sensor. This can be by deactivation by electromagnet as in present treadmills, interruption of main power, or by any other method.

Abstract: A post-mountable exercise apparatus includes an exercise device, a 3-walled bracket and a bridge. The exercise apparatus is attachable to a post by surrounding the post with the 3-walled bracket and bridge, which tighten together in place on the post. The exercise device has a frame that supports a horizontal shaft rotatably mounted in the frame such that two crank arms extending outside the first side and the second side of the frame can be rotated to turn the horizontal shaft. A band tensioning device using a threaded member may be added so that tightening or loosening the threaded member causes a change in the tension of the pliant band and resistance of the exercise device to being rotated.

Abstract: Disclosed is a force measuring article of athletic equipment and method of monitoring caloric output during a physical exercise. Force transducers are positioned within the palm region of a lifting glove or sole portion of an athletic shoe for measuring force versus time data and storing the data for later retrieval and analysis. The force output for a given exercise is analyzed such that the user is able to monitor and gauge energy output during an activity without the use of a heart rate monitor or larger, external equipment. The data can be used to determine caloric output, from which the user can directly measure the energy required for a specific exercise and the necessary calories required to complete the exercise. The method involves gather this information and using it as means to further understand caloric output, and thus meter caloric intake and maintain a proper daily caloric balance.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for promoting healthy behavior. The methods, systems, and apparatus include an action of receiving device capability information for multiple devices. The device capability information from each device describes capabilities of the device. Additional actions include receiving an indication of a health goal of a user and receiving health information of the user sensed by a first device of the multiple devices. Further actions include generating a health related instruction for a second device of the multiple devices based on the health information of the user sensed by the first device of the multiple devices, the health goal of the user, and the device capability information of the second device. An additional action includes providing the health related instruction to the second device.

Abstract: An apparatus and method operably coupled a movable member of an exercise apparatus to a carriage such a movement of the movable member moves the carriage along a rail. A magnetic portion carried by the carriage induces eddy currents in the rail to resist movement of the carriage along the rail to resist movement of the movable member.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing therapeutic rehabilitation exercise to bedridden individuals and patients, including comatose individuals. A vertical support column extends upwards from a base, with one or more arms extend from the vertical support column, each providing a rotary mechanism at the distal end, with pedals or handles attached thereto. The individual's feet or hands are secured to the pedals or handles, respectively. Straps, brackets, or other fastening means may be used to secure the feet and hands. An electric motor causes the rotary mechanism to move the pedals or handles in a rotary fashion, thereby providing movement and exercise for the individual's legs and arms.

Abstract: A robot includes a yielding element for mechanically coupling first and second arm segments of a robot arm. A motor moves the second arm segment relative to the first arm segment. A sensor determines a relative position of the first arm segment in relation to the second arm segment and outputs a position sensor signal representing the relative position. A control unit controls the motor in accordance with the position sensor signal such that the first arm segment is moved into a desired relative position in relation to the second arm segment, when no external force is applied to the robot arm, and when an external force is applied to the robot arm, the motor generates a counterforce which depends on the deviation between the actual and desired positions. The control unit has a predetermined time constant so that changes in the external force are substantially absorbed by damping elements.

Abstract: A wearable device and method of monitoring the condition of a patient. The wearable device includes at least one sensor and at least one processor operatively connected to the at least one sensor. The wearable device also includes an operator interface device operatively connected to the at least one processor. The at least one processor causes the device to allow for customization of at least one output message to be delivered via the operator interface device.

Abstract: A method and system for applying therapeutic stimulation to a patient stricken with paralysis or other condition. The inventive method includes the steps of: inserting an acupuncture needle against the spine of the patient and applying an electrical potential to the needle with a signal that mimics natural neural impulses in the body. The needle is located depending on the nature of the patient's condition. In the illustrative application, the needle is inserted against the ligamentum flavum of the patient's spine at L3. In the best mode, the patient's legs are moved during the application of the electrical potential. The inventive system is adapted to minimize a notch reaction and includes an electrode inserted into a tissue of the patient and a circuit for applying an electrical potential to the electrodes with a signal that mimics natural neural impulses in the body.

Abstract: Provided are a method for strengthening blood vessels with extreme ease and a compression and decompression control system used for performing the method. A compression and decompression control system 1 includes a band adapted to be placed around a particular part of a limb of a user and to apply a compression force to the particular part and a controller for controlling the compression force applied to the particular part with the band. The controller controls the compression force applied with the band in a manner that a compression operation applying a predetermined compression force to the particular part and a decompression operation completely removing the compression force applied to the particular part by the compression operation are alternately repeated. Repetition of the compression operation and the decompression operation allows the vascular endothelial cells of blood vessels of the user to generate a larger amount of nitric oxide, thereby strengthening the blood vessels.

Abstract: A resistance exercise system having, in certain embodiments, a DC power supply system, a DC motor connected to the DC power supply system, a drive section connected to a drive element, a resistance delivery element connected to the drive element, and an extractable exercise resistance delivery section, a predetermined variable resistance section intermediate the DC power supply system and DC motor, an electrical condition sensor, and a variable resistance section control in communication with the electrical condition sensor and the predetermined variable resistance section. In some embodiments, the resistance exercise system includes a computing facility providing the ability to configure the exercise system to provide predetermined static or variable exercise resistance during exercise, and for example, during a positive or negative exercise stroke. Some embodiments allow users to create and, if desired, display varying and complex resistance exercise routines with or without use of resistance weights.

Abstract: A frame storage stores an image obtained by imaging a region of at least part of the body of a user. A vital sign signal detector detects a signal sequence of a vital sign that cyclically varies from plural imaged regions of the body of the user by using captured images of a predetermined number of frames stored in the frame storage. A correlation calculator obtains the correlation between the signal sequences of the vital sign detected from the respective imaged regions of the body. An identity determining section determines whether or not the respective imaged regions of the body belong to the same user based on the correlation between the signal sequences of the vital sign detected from the respective imaged regions of the body.

Abstract: A system and method for mechanically coupling an energy harvester to strength training type exercise equipment is disclosed. An energy harvester with unwanted vibration forces is mechanically isolated from exercise equipment by a system comprising a plurality of mechanically compliant vibration isolators and a ballast mass; a flexible cord, pre-loaded with a near constant force spring is used to transmit motion from the weight stack to the energy harvester; the flexible cord has a force limiting feature to pre-excessive force from being transmitted from the energy harvester to the weight stack during an exercise motion.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing therapeutic rehabilitation exercise to bedridden individuals and patients, including comatose individuals. A vertical support column extends upwards from a base, with one or more arms extend from the vertical support column, each providing a rotary mechanism at the distal end, with pedals or handles attached thereto. The individual's feet or hands are secured to the pedals or handles, respectively. Straps, brackets, or other fastening means may be used to secure the feet and hands. An electric motor causes the rotary mechanism to move the pedals or handles in a rotary fashion, thereby providing movement and exercise for the individual's legs and arms.

Abstract: The invention comprises a method and/or an apparatus using a computer configured exercise system equipped with an electric motor to provide physical resistance to user motion in conjunction with means for sharing exercise system related data and/or user performance data with a secondary user, such as a medical professional, a physical therapist, a trainer, a computer generated competitor, and/or a human competitor. For example, the exercise system is used with a remote trainer to enhance exercise performance, with a remote medical professional for rehabilitation, and/or with a competitor in a competition, such as in a power/weightlifting competition or in a video game. The exercise system is optionally configured with an intelligent software assistant and knowledge navigator functioning as a personal assistant application.

Abstract: A wearable device and method of monitoring the condition of a patient. The wearable device includes at least one sensor and at least one processor operatively connected to the at least one sensor. The wearable device also includes an operator interface device operatively connected to the at least one processor. The at least one processor causes the device to allow for customization of at least one output message to be delivered via the operator interface device.

Abstract: A method for determining a viewing configuration of a rendered figure of a rehab-patient or a sports trainee, aiming to deliver a suitable view on the rendered figure, the method comprising the steps of capturing motion data in the 3D space of one or more body parts of the rehab-patientor the sports trainee and providing them to a computer; and further the step of performing on the computer measurements of deviation of the captured motion data from a reference list of motion data and/or measurements of main motion direction; and based on the results of the above measurements, determining the viewing configuration.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to exercise equipment for enabling a user to vary the effective muscle tension during the course of the performance of an exercise and, more particularly, to an exercise system for shifting an optimum length of peak muscle tension. In some embodiments, the system is an apparatus which comprises a force-generating element, e.g. a fluid cylinder, a user-input element which a user forcibly moves during the course of performance of an exercise, and also a coupling means, which is preferably a cable-pulley system, which transfers forces between the force-generating element and the user-input element. Finally, the apparatus comprises a control unit which controls and varies the level of force generated by the force-generating element during the course of performance of the exercise. The apparatus effectively varies the effective muscle tension through the generation of forces.

Abstract: A resistance exercise apparatus comprising a mechanism for allowing the machine to inhibit in intervals along a range of motion for an amount of time, movement in a direction caused by an external force applied to a movable surface on the machine, while allowing movement of the surface in the opposite direction to the external force, wherein said movable surface is linked to a resistance source.

Abstract: The invention comprises a method and/or an apparatus using a computer configured exercise system equipped with an electric motor to provide physical resistance to user motion in conjunction with means for sharing exercise system related data and/or user performance data with a secondary user, such as a medical professional, a physical therapist, a trainer, a computer generated competitor, and/or a human competitor. For example, the exercise system is used with a remote trainer to enhance exercise performance, with a remote medical professional for rehabilitation, and/or with a competitor in a competition, such as in a power/weightlifting competition or in a video game. The exercise system is optionally configured with an intelligent software assistant and knowledge navigator functioning as a personal assistant application.

Abstract: Exercise apparatus is provided, which includes pedals on which a user can exert loads in a first direction, and a motor that is configured to drive the pedals in the opposite direction and that is controlled to run at a predetermined speed, so that the loads from the user are exerted by using muscles eccentrically. The apparatus is configured such that the user's body is in a generally upright orientation when using the apparatus—preferably in a standing orientation, without using a seat.

Abstract: A dual treadle treadmill. The dual treadle treadmill includes a frame, a first treadle, a second treadle, and a generator. The first treadle and the second treadle are each pivotally coupled with the frame and each have a moving surface. The generator is operably associated with the first treadle such that the generator is driven in response to the first treadle pivoting relative to the frame. Other embodiments of dual treadle treadmills are also described.

Abstract: A portable physical therapy/rehabilitation/exercise device is provided for evaluating the condition of a patient and for evaluating and tracking the progress made by a patient over time. The device is hand held and has an evaluation mode to determine the current condition of the patient. The device also has a manual exercise mode and a preset exercise mode. During exercises in each mode all of the data pertaining to the forces (compression, tension, torque, and the like) are all stored in the device along with other kinds of quantitative and qualitative data. The stored data may be uploaded to the internet or external computer system in order to be further analyzed. The device is suitable for use by doctors, health care providers, insurance companies and other entities having an interest in the medical condition of the user.

Abstract: Systems and methods for optimizing muscle development are disclosed. A method includes identifying one or more parameters of a user and force data associated with the user. The force data corresponds to an exercise to be performed by the user. The method further includes generating an exercise program to be executed using an exercise device, and determining a resistance to be applied by the exercise device during execution of the exercise program. The resistance is determined based at least partially on the force data and the one or more parameters of the user.

Abstract: A system and process that selectively provides lifting assistance during the concentric phase and possibly during the eccentric phase during lifting of weights for rehabilitation or training, the system being programmable to provide a variety of exercise programs dedicated to a particular user, and the system monitoring the progress of the user during the exercise to selectively respond to certain trigger conditions.

Abstract: A walking-trainer device for persons with a walking disorder to relearn walking has a movable tread surface and a display unit for displaying target indications of the corresponding and consecutive foot positions for movements made by a person walking on the tread surface. The target indications have the form of a number of consecutive patterns located above a target surface at the height of and in the longitudinal direction of the tread surface moving in the direction of the person, which visibly move from a distance of between 0.5 m and 0.5 m, preferably between 15 m and 5 m and more preferably between 0.7 m and 2.5 m, from the target surface in the direction of and over the tread surface up to the feet of the person. The speed of movement of the patterns is substantially equal to the speed of movement of the tread surface.