Abstract: To support a deck of an exercise treadmill one or more arcuate leaf springs are used in a deck support structure. The leaf springs can be made of a single member of elastomeric material. An adjustment mechanism can be used to changed the radius of the leaf springs in order to vary spring rates of the leaf springs. Where a number of different leaf springs are used, the adjustment mechanism can be used to adjust the spring rates of different springs independently.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus having a plurality of upper and lower interchangeable surfaces. The apparatus includes a plurality of interchangeable upper surfaces sized and shaped to fit on an upper side of the fitness platform and a plurality of interchangeable lower surfaces sized and shaped to fit on a lower side of the fitness platform. A user selects one of the plurality of interchangeable upper surface and affixes the selected upper surface to the upper side of the fitness platform and selects one of the plurality of interchangeable lower surfaces and affixes the selected lower surface to the lower side of the fitness platform. The upper surfaces may include an incline surface, a flat upper surface, and a cushion surface. The lower surfaces may include a stable base, an unstable base, and a surface having a plurality of pivotable wheels. The user selects the upper and lower surfaces for the desired exercise.

Abstract: An exercise device comprises at least one pedal pivotably mounted to a leg rest portion and having a neutral position relative to a pivot axis. The pedal is configured to rotate about the pivot axis in a first direction and a second direction opposite the first direction. The exercise device further comprises a resistance mechanism configured to exert a torque on the pedal opposite to a direction of rotation of the pedal about the pivot axis and away from the neutral position. The device is adjustable to at least a first configuration wherein the pedal is disposed in the neutral position to receive a foot of a user in a sitting position, and a second configuration wherein the pedal is disposed in the neutral position to receive a foot of a user in a supine position.

Abstract: A stationary exercise machine that offers the physical workout attained through surfing by simulating the act of surfing.

Abstract: An exercise and rehabilitation apparatus including: a frame, an exercise device movably supported on the frame, and a user positioning unit connected with the frame, for properly positioning a user with respect to the exercise device and the frame for performance of a predetermined exercise. The exercise and rehabilitation apparatus also includes a device adjustment unit for positioning the exercise device with respect to the frame to properly position the exercise device with respect to a properly positioned user, to accommodate user size and shape diversity, the device adjustment unit permitting the exercise device to be alignable with a predetermined body part of the user. The exercise and rehabilitation apparatus further includes a feedback unit providing feedback to the user to indicate whether the predetermined exercise is being performed correctly.

Abstract: An elliptical exercise device including a frame having a pivot axis, a foot link, a coupling, a swing arm, an engagement mechanism, and a guide system. The foot link has rearward, forward and foot support portions. The foot support portion has a central location. The coupling couples the rearward portion to the pivot axis so that the rearward portion of each foot link travels in a closed path relative to the pivot axis. The engagement mechanism has a first portion coupled to the swing arm and a second portion coupled to the foot link at a location rearward of the central location. The guide system supports the forward portion of the foot link along a preselected reciprocating path of travel as the rearward portion of the foot link travels along its path of travel. The guide system is selectably positionable in a plurality of different positions.

Abstract: A bicycle trainer with a hill training apparatus is described. The hill training apparatus enables bicyclist to simulate uphill riding (incline), downhill riding (decline) and hill resistance or lack thereof. The hill training apparatus also provides for correct body positioning while riding uphill or downhill and with or without resistance. Riding on a trainer with correct body positioning provides for improved training.

Abstract: An exercise device for performing a variety of movement patterns is provided, having upper right and left leg links pivotally mounted to lower right and left leg links respectively. The upper leg links are pivotally coupled to the frame. A foot support is provided on the distal end of the lower leg links. The device includes first and second transfer systems for coordinating movement of the right and left sets of upper and lower leg links. The first transfer system is movably coupled to the frame and includes a first transfer member coupled to the first upper leg link, a second transfer member coupled to the second upper leg link, and a pivot bar pivotally mounted to the frame between a first end and a second end thereof with the first end coupled to the first transfer member and the second end coupled to the second transfer member.

Abstract: An activity device including an activity sensor for 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, for presenting the virtual environment with the frame-of-reference in relation to the virtual education elements for providing the user with feedback.

Abstract: Methods for profiling exercise sessions are described. An example method for profiling an exercise session includes receiving physical characteristics or workout parameters via an input interface, generating output signals proportional to a magnitude of vertical forces imparted to the exercise machine by a user during the exercise session, and processing the output signals via a control system to determine the magnitude of peak or trough values of the output signals to profile the exercise session.

Abstract: A stationary exercise device having variable footpaths is disclosed. The exercise device includes a frame, a pair of supporting members that have a first end to rotate about an axis and a second end to move along a reciprocating path, a pair of pedals joined to the supporting members, and a guider assembly for adjusting an incline angle of the reciprocating path.

Abstract: A collapsible ladder for use primarily for athletic training and the like has a plurality of spaced-apart, substantially rigid rungs secured with collapsible connectors to a plurality of spaced-apart, substantially rigid spacers extending therebetween. In one disclosed embodiment, the collapsible connectors are strips of flexible material extending between the rungs and spacers. Another disclosed embodiment has a second set of rungs aligned substantially parallel to the plurality of spaced-apart rungs along a common central set of spacers. The collapsible connectors allow the ladder to be quickly and easily transitioned between an extended, operational position, and a collapsed, storage position.

Abstract: A spinal correction device that corrects the spinal column of a user comprising a lower limb exercising part that swings the lumber region to impart a symmetrical motion to positions symmetrical with respect to the spinal column of a user facing forward with his or her trunk erect, a pair of gripping parts provided in a position in front of the lower limb exercising part and gripped by both hands of the user, and a control unit that relatively moves the gripping parts with respect to the lower limb exercising part between the position in front of the lower limb exercising part and a lateral position, with the lower limb exercising part in a driven state.

Abstract: An exercise treadmill for simulating a dragging or pulling action, having an endless moveable surface looped around rollers or pulleys to form an upper run and a lower run, with an exercise surface for walking or running on while operating the treadmill; and a moment arm weight resistance means for simulating the dragging or pulling of a load.

Abstract: The present invention provides a treadmill with an automatic speed control function, including: a body having a belt for supporting an exerciser; an exerciser detecting portion installed in a predetermined area of the body to detect movement of the exerciser; a driving motor coupled to the body to drive the belt; a control portion for generating a control signal for adjusting a rotation speed of the driving motor based on a signal received from the exerciser detecting portion; and a motor driving portion for adjusting the rotation speed of the driving motor according to the control signal received from the control portion, wherein a provision braking torque provided corresponding to the control signal is varied as the rotation speed of the driving motor is reduced.

Abstract: A dual compound and isolated exercise machine includes a frame including a first portion and a second portion positioned in a plane generally perpendicular to the first portion. The spool line may be relocated to any leverage point on or near the frame. The spool assembly can be wirelessly controlled. Wireless signal sent to a wireless receiver activates a motor, gear reduction box, and variable speed drive to join the spool assembly, causing the release or retraction of the spool line. Tension along the spool line is measured by a force transducer and converted to readable real time measurements for display on a data monitor. The device is capable of producing and measuring maximum (0 to 100%) potential muscle concentric, isometric and concentric muscle contractions. The device is collapsible, portable and wheel chair and paraplegic accessible.

Abstract: A method of exercising a human body, the method comprising: providing a sliding element having a body portion adapted for receiving a limb of the human body, and a sliding surface adapted to slide on a exercise floor; placing the sliding element on an exercise floor and placing the human body limb on the body portion; and performing an exercise routine including sliding the sliding element by moving the human body limb. The exercise routine includes routines performed with the human body in a standing position; routines performed with the human body in a prone position; routines performed with the human body in a supine position; and routines performed with the human body in a side-lying position. The invention also includes an exercise device for exercising a human body, the device comprising: a sliding disc having a body portion adapted for receiving a limb of the human body; and a sliding surface adapted to slide on an exercise floor.

Abstract: An exercise bicycle is provided with a planar four bar linkage with cranks. The bicycle frame (5) is used as the machine frame of the planar four bar linkage, the seat (2) of the bicycle is fixed on a connecting rod (8) of the planar four bar linkage, and the connecting rod (8) is not directly connected with the bicycle frame (5). A middle axle (10) is used as the crank shaft, and one end of the connecting rod (8) is rotationally connected with a crank pin journal of the crank shaft (10), the other end thereof is connected with the member of the bicycle frame (5). The seat of the bicycle can do periodic movement with translation and rotation while a person rides the bicycle.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus providing a base having a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the top surface is smooth and planar. The top surface includes a first plurality of apertures arranged in a circular pattern having a first diameter, and a second plurality of apertures arranged in a circular pattern having a second diameter. A plurality of repositional stops are further provided including mounting posts for securing the repositional stops within any of the first and second plurality of apertures.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a ungrounded, reconfigurable, parallel mechanism based, force feedback exoskeleton device for the human ankle. The primary use for the device is aimed as a balance/proprioception trainer, while the exeskeleton device can also be employed to accommodate range of motion (RoM)/strengthening exercises. This device is also used for metatarsophalangeal joint exercises.

Abstract: A hip thrust sled may include a pair of spaced apart runners configured in generally parallel relation to each other. A first cross member extends between and is connected to the spaced apart runners proximate to a distal end of the hip thrust sled. A second cross member extends between and is connected to the spaced apart runners near a proximal end of the hip thrust sled to receive removable weights. A pendulum arm is rotatably attached at its distal end to the first cross member and is configured at a proximal end to move vertically relative to the spaced apart runners. The pendulum arm extends towards the proximal end of the hip thrust sled at an upward angle. An adjustable stop may limit the vertical movement of the pendulum arm. A handlebar may be attached to the proximal end of the pendulum arm.

Abstract: A sports activity swing trainer having a concave curved surface area on which a person stands to practice a swing for a sports activity.

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: Exercise devices for exercising the abdominal muscles and other muscle groups are disclosed. Each of the exercise devices has a housing from which opposing interconnected ends of an axle extend and a support ball that is captured within and partially extends from the housing. The housing has a cavity defining a partial sphere for receiving the support ball. Each of the exercise devices also comprises a plurality of strips which are attached to the surface of the cavity. Each of the strips includes a plurality of bearings each of which is captured within a bearing race. The strips are positioned upon the cavity surface so as to engage the support ball surface and to provide free-rolling support of the housing on the support ball in any direction when the exercise device is in use. Methods of using the exercise devices are also disclosed.

Abstract: An adjustable stepping structure for aerobic exercise is disclosed having a platform and a plurality of support elements. The support elements include a downwardly arcuate notch or channel for receiving a sidewall or endwall of the platform, allowing the platform to be arranged in multiple angled orientations.

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, a connecting mechanism mounted between the first geared member and the second geared member, a first idle geared member rotatably mounted on the main frame and connected with the connecting mechanism, a second idle geared member rotatably mounted on the main frame and connected with the connecting mechanism, and two handlebars secured on the first geared member and the second geared member respectively. 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: In at least one embodiment, a component for use with a weight-bearing health equipment system having a user, the user being within the middle 90th percentile of dimensions of a user class includes a fitness equipment base having a back end and a plate having a periphery. The component includes a framework connected to the plate including a first pair of elongated members, a second pair of elongated members, and a third pair of elongated members connected to the first and second pair. The pair of first elongated members are configured such that the second ends are disposed closer to one another than the first ends. The first elongated member is adapted to prevent contact with the user when the user enters, exits, or engages the system. The longitudinal axis of the third elongated member is adapted to be outside the ergonomic sweep of the user's arms.

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: A collapsible ladder for use primarily for athletic training and the like has a plurality of spaced-apart, substantially rigid rungs secured with collapsible connectors to a plurality of spaced-apart, substantially rigid spacers extending therebetween. In one disclosed embodiment, the collapsible connectors are strips of flexible material extending between the rungs and spacers. Another disclosed embodiment has a second set of rungs aligned substantially parallel to the plurality of spaced-apart rungs along a common central set of spacers. The collapsible connectors allow the ladder to be quickly and easily transitioned between an extended, operational position, and a collapsed, storage position.

Abstract: An exercise device is disclosed having at least a base, first and second knee supports which are bilaterally coupled to first and second pivots located off from the center of the base. Independently rotatable knee pads are coupled to the perimeter-side end of the first and second knee supports arranged around a perimeter of the base. An upper extremity support is coupled to the base, and a first base supporting member is positioned at a rear of the base and a second base supporting member is positioned at a front of the base, wherein at least one of an inclination and elevation of the base is determined by adjustment of the base supporting members, wherein the first and second knee supports move around different arcs to generate an elliptical motion for an individual.

Abstract: A leg training equipment has a base fixed in place, a support portion configured to support a part of a user's body, and a coupling mechanism provided between the base and the support portion. The coupling mechanism movably couples the support portion to the base such that a load applied to a leg of the user by the user's own weight changes by a relative positional displacement between a foot position and a position of center of gravity of the user. In addition, the coupling mechanism limits a movable direction of the support portion such that at least when the load applied to the leg increases, a direction of the relative positional displacement between the foot position and the position of center of gravity is substantially limited to a direction of flexion and extension of knee joint. Thereby, it is possible to efficiently provide the user with an exercise that applies less load on the knee joint.

Abstract: An exercise device providing a fore and aft horizontal component of striding motion that is dynamically user-defined, while providing a vertical component of the motion that is maintained on a predetermined vertically reciprocating path in some embodiments. The exercise device guides the user's foot in a pseudo-elliptical stride path, while providing a dynamically variable stride length that allows the user to move with a natural stride length. The exercise device allows tall and short users to extend or curtail the stride length to match their natural stride lengths. The length of the reciprocating path is dynamically adjusted during the exercise operation without equipment adjustments by changes in the length of the stride input by the user at a pair of foot engagement pads disposed on laterally spaced apart foot support members.

Abstract: An exercise device includes a flexible support element and a step height adjustment mechanism. The flexible support element couples at least one crank to a right foot support and a left foot support. The step height adjustment mechanism allows a person to adjust a step height of a path through which the left and right foot supports move.

Abstract: A training device, including a frame having an interior opening and at least one support means, at least one piece of conditioning equipment supported on the frame by the support means, at least one resistance harness coupled to the frame, wherein the at least one resistance harness has a portion thereof selectively attachable to a user, and a cardiovascular exercise machine disposed within the interior opening of the frame.

Abstract: An exercise device includes a flexible support element and a step height adjustment mechanism. The flexible support element couples at least one crank to a right foot support and a left foot support. The step height adjustment mechanism allows a person to adjust a step height of a path through which the left and right foot supports move.

Abstract: A hyperbaric exercise facility is provided allowing a persons to perform exercises and other activities at increased pressures along with controlled levels of oxygen. Additionally, a catastrophe shelter is provided to protect its occupants from peril.

Abstract: A trampoline board includes a resilient body with a foam core. At least one flex zone (e.g., a channel) which acts as a living hinge extends from a first lateral edge to a second lateral edge to facilitate bending to conform to the shape of a depressed trampoline surface. Sandal-like trampoline board bindings are threadedly coupled to inserts molded into the resilient body. Each binding includes a shock absorbing midsole and is devoid of any potentially harmful structures that extend above the ankle of a user, such as the molded support behind the heel characteristic of snowboard bindings. Adjustable cushioned straps secure the sandal-like trampoline board bindings to a user's feet. The insert pack includes a base with a plurality of parallel threaded shanks extending perpendicularly therefrom.

Abstract: A muscle toning kit includes an exercise garment having a first resistance article and a second resistance article. The first resistance article and the second resistance article cooperate to facilitate the exercise of at least one muscle group of a user. The first resistance article is adjustable to provide a range of user selected resistance levels, while second resistance article has another range of user selected resistance levels so that as the user maneuvers the exercise garment, its adjustable pressure opposing structures facilitate the toning and conditioning of the at least one muscle group of the user. The method includes wearing and deforming the exercise garment from its original shape through natural extension and flexing actions of the user to facilitate providing a resistive force to condition the at least one muscle group of the user.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for strengthening leg muscles having a substantially flat support surface, an external work surface, a front, a back and two flanks, the strengthening device further comprising at least one relief portion proximal to said back and distal from said front.

Abstract: An elliptical trainer has a base, and two crank assemblies, a handle assembly and a linkage assembly mounted on the base. Each crank assembly has two cranks and a transmission wheel. A transmission strip is mounted around the transmission wheels of the crank assemblies to simulate rotations of the crank assemblies. The linkage assembly connects the cranks of the crank assemblies to the handle assembly. When the elliptical trainer is operated, the linkage assembly drives the cranks to alternately rotate upwardly and downwardly. The cranks that rotate downwardly drag the other cranks to rotate upwardly. Therefore, the crank assemblies and the linkage assembly operate smoothly, and consequently, the user is capable of smoothly performing walking or running movements.

Abstract: The present invention is a plyometric jumping exercise game apparatus and method of use. The apparatus is adapted to provide a challenging game for a participant that causes the participant to jump from a first location to a second location in response to predetermined signals. The apparatus provides for timed score keeping and may be used by a single individual or by groups of individuals in competitive play. While use of the apparatus is entertaining for the participant, it also improves the participant's jumping ability, speed, reaction time, and physical endurance.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a housing, a pair of pivoting foot treadles and a pair of reciprocating bellows that support the foot treadles. A sealed air system including a conduit interconnects the bellows and is operable for reciprocating transfer of air from bellow to bellow. Each of the foot treadles is pivotably movable between upper and lower positions, and has a resting position between the upper and lower positions. The resting position of the foot treadles defines a resting position of the bellows while the upper and lower positions of the foot treadles respectively define elongated and compressed positions of the bellows. In use, the elongated and compressed positions of the bellows are each no more than 5 degrees off the center resting position thereby reducing stress on the bellows.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame configured to rest on a floor surface; left and right cranks rotatably mounted on the frame; left and right first rocker links pivotally mounted on the frame; left and right drawbar links pivotally interconnected between respective cranks and respective first rocker links; left and right second rocker links pivotally mounted on the frame; and left and right foot links supported by respective cranks and respective rocker links. On one embodiment, the second rocker links are selectively pinned to respective first rocker links to configure the apparatus for elliptical striding exercise, and the second rocker links are alternatively pinned to the frame to configure the apparatus for arcuate stepping exercise. On another embodiment, adjustable length members are interconnected between respective second rocker links and respective first rocker links to accommodate variable elliptical striding motion.

Abstract: A device for generating power from a locomotion energy associated with leg muscles acting across an ankle joint. The device including: a cuff worn on the leg; a shoe; an energy absorbing element operatively connected to the cuff and shoe for absorbing energy during one or more periods of a periodic motion of the joint in which energy is absorbed by the muscles.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus in this disclosure includes a doorway mountable runner restraint device. The device has a generally rigid, preferably padded, belly pad that is placed against and in front of a user's pelvis and abdominal area. A pair of cords are attached to the belly pad, each having an opposite end attached to an elastic member. Each of the elastic members is, in turn, attached to an anchor which is removably fastened to a stationary object such as a closed door, a doorway frame, or sandwiched between a closed door and the doorway frame. A user fastens the apparatus in place in a doorway, faces away from the doorway, and places the belly pad against his or her torso directly over the pelvis area, and then runs in a direction away from the doorway. The elastic members resist and restrain the user from substantial movement away from the doorway but stretch to allow forward running movement during each step.

Abstract: An adjustable height exercise platform device having a platform that is removably secured between a pair of risers. The risers are held upright by an H-shaped horizontal base whose legs extend outward slightly to provide stability to the base. Each riser has spaced apart horizontal slots along its rear side for receiving one of two U-shaped bolts extending upward from the platform. Notches are cut out of the rear edge of the platform so that one of the U-shaped bolts straddles each notch. When the platform is attached to the risers, the U-shaped bolts rest in the slots and the two notches extend around the risers. One or more locking mechanisms are provided on the platform as a means of locking the platform and preventing the platform from being tilted in such a manner as to allow it to disengage from the risers.

Abstract: A tent-like structure has a compact configuration and can be expanded to an expanded configuration large enough totally to enclose a patient. A recirculating gas supply arrangement supplies a mixture of oxygen and helium to the inside of the structure. The structure may contain exercise equipment, such as a static cycle, so that the patient can exercise in the gas mixture. The structure could also be used over a swimming pool. A weight or other means at the lower end of the structure helps to seal it with the floor surface and reduce escape of gas.

Abstract: Seats that are moveable from a seating orientation, which allows a user to sit on the seat, to a standing orientation, where the seat at least partially supports the user in a standing posture are disclosed. At least a portion of the seat is moveable away from the user's legs when the seat is in the standing position.

Abstract: A rowing machine or rowing machine attachment with an energy absorbing component configured to add responsive and compliant roll, pitch, and yaw motions to the rowing machine. The energy absorbing component is also configured to change shape so as to absorb energy in response to a compressive force by the user. Said energy absorption component returns substantially to its first shape in response to the removal of the compressive force. The energy-absorbing apparatus is configured to reduce a reaction force exerted on the user of the rowing machine.

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.