Abstract: An exercise bike may include a magnetic braking system to resist rotation of a flywheel. The magnetic braking system may be magnets mounted on brackets selectively pivoted relative to the frame to increase or decrease the resistance opposing rotation of the flywheel. The brackets may be pivoted using a brake adjustment assembly joined to the brackets in such a manner that the magnetic forces resisting rotation of the flywheel increase or decrease in a proportional manner over at least a portion of the adjustment range of the brake adjustment assembly. The exercise bike may further include a console that displays information, such as power. The power may be estimated from a look-up table using the crank or flywheel speed of the exercise bike measured using a speed sensor and the tilt angle of the brackets relative to a reference point measured using a power sensor that includes an accelerometer.

Abstract: An incentivized exercise machine comprising an exercise machine including a monitor to monitor the pace of a user of the exercise machine. The monitor is configured to communicate with a processor for controlling the rate of text scrolled onto a visual screen for reading by a user. The text may be scrolled at a rate based on the user's exercise pace to incentivize the user to keep pace. The processor may also, or alternatively, be configured to receive electronically stored print materials to be presented on the screen and scrolling the print material's words at a rate and in a font readable by the user of the exercise machine.

Abstract: The invention discloses an exercise arrangement having a stationary frame with a seat and handle for a user attached to the frame. At least one flywheel is rotatably mounted on the frame and is operatively joined to a crankshaft, with at least one pedal, by a flexible drive element. Vibration means are associated with the flywheel and/or crankshaft being adapted to apply vibration to the user.

Abstract: A collapsible training device and method are disclosed. The training device is of the cycling type and may be fully folded into a relatively small and aesthetic stowing cabinet when not in use leaving the room free and nice or may be opened to a workout position when training is carried out.

Abstract: An exercising device includes a front frame, a resistance flywheel mounted rotatably on the front frame, a drive wheel connected drivingly to the resistance flywheel, a crank wheel, a shaft connected rotatably to the front frame and extending centrally through the drive wheel and eccentrically through the crank wheel for co-rotating the drive wheel and the crank wheel, two pedal units connected respectively to left and right ends of the shaft, a handle assembly mounted on top of the front frame, a rear frame extending rearwardly from the front frame, a slide seat mounted slidably on the rear frame, a chair supported on the slide seat, and a link mechanism connected to and disposed between the slide seat and the crank wheel. The link mechanism is driven by the crank wheels as to move forward and rearward the slide seat.

Abstract: An example portable module is for use with an exercise system which includes a moveable element, a first processor and a port adapted to receive the portable module. The portable module includes a second processor and a memory storing information usable to control one or more parameters associated with the movable element.

Abstract: Training apparatus for physical exercise, preventive exercise and rehabilitation of injuries and increased balance, the apparatus designed as a stationary bicycle, similar to ergometer bikes or spinning bikes. The apparatus consist of a first lower stable frame configured to be supported on a floor and a second upper frame tiltable relative to the lower frame. The upper frame has an adjustable tilt movement relative the lower frame crosswise the flywheel's revolving motion. A steering gear is guided through the upper frame where a prolonged part of the steering gear is in contact with the floor, the part having a wheel suspension like design, consisting of barlinks, dampers, springs and wheels. Stabilizing of the upper frame is done by movement of the steering gear.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an exerciser having magnets adjusting device, which comprises a frame assembly, a flywheel, a driving assembly, a power transmission mechanism and a magnets adjusting device. The magnets adjusting device includes a guiding rail, a sliding unit with magnetic units, and a control mechanism. The guiding rail is fixed on the frame assembly. The sliding unit is mounted on the guiding rail so that the sliding unit and the magnetic units can be linearly moved along the guiding rail. The control mechanism controls the reciprocated movement of the sliding unit and the magnetic units linearly close to or away from the axis of the flywheel. Whereby, to improve the stability of the adjusted variable damping and accurately calculate the corresponding resistance after the adjustment, and to enhance the durability of the machine can be achieved.

Abstract: An exercise device configured to sense and respond to objects in proximity to the exercise device is provided. The device includes a sensor configured to sense objects in proximity to the exercise device other than the user who is operating the exercise device. A console is in communication with the sensor that instructs components of the treadmill to provide, for example, an audible and/or visual response to the user of the exercise device, or to slow or stop the exercise device from moving. Sensors that are capable of sensing whether objects are within different spatial zones of proximity are disclosed. Multiple pre-defined and/or user-defined responses to objects detected in multiple corresponding spatial zones of proximity are also disclosed herein.

Abstract: A weighing system, using the principle of electromagnetic force compensation, which includes a permanent magnet system (14) having an air gap, a shielding cover (12), a coil (13) located inside the air gap, a transmission lever (7) to whose longer lever arm the coil is attached, and upon whose shorter lever arm the weight transferred by the load receiver acts, a position sensor (20, 21, 22) which detects the position of the transmission lever and which is situated in the vicinity of the coil, and a control amplifier (16) for controlling the current passing through the coil. Further, at least one vertical support (25) is connected to the transmission lever in the vicinity of the coil and the position sensor and projects through an opening (27) in the shielding cover. A counterweight (26) is placed on this/these support(s) closely above the shielding cover.

Abstract: A folding elliptical exercise machine is disclosed. The folding elliptical machine has a frame that comprises a base support structure and an upright support structure, wherein the base support structure has a front portion and a rear portion, the front portion having a first end and a second end, wherein the rear portion is rotatably attached to the front portion at a pivot mechanism such that the elliptical exercise machine is selectively moveable between an operating position and a storage position. The upright support structure extends upward from the first end of the front portion of the base support structure. The folding elliptical machine further comprises first and second reciprocating foot supports, each foot support having a first end and a second end, a drive assembly situated on the rear portion of the base support structure, and a ramp assembly situated at the first end of the front portion of the base support structure.

Abstract: A unique structure for an indoor exercise bike that provides strength in its design, as well as the flexibility to create an aesthetically appealing frame structure. The monocoque frame design, including two symmetrical halves joined together, forms a very strong, light shell that can take on a variety of shapes and sizes. The seat structure, handlebar structure, drive train and support platforms are all able to be readily attached to the primary frame structure to provide an exercise bicycle that is sturdy, easy to manufacture, and light enough to easily move when necessary.

Abstract: An elliptical exercise machine comprising a base support structure having a front portion, a rear portion, and a pivot joint comprising a pivot mechanism configured to pivotally connect the front and rear portions, the pivot mechanism being configured to facilitate a breakaway of the base support and an upward rotation of the rear portion with respect to the front portion, thereby enabling the elliptical exercise machine to fold into a compact configuration; an upright support structure extending upward with respect to the base support structure; a drive assembly operably supported about the rear portion of the base support structure and comprising a drive component configured to rotate about a pivot axis; and a reciprocating foot support operable with the drive assembly and configured to travel about a closed path upon rotation of the drive component and operation of the elliptical exercise machine.

Abstract: A variable speed training apparatus of a continuous horizontal mechanism is disclosed, in which a lower body can be exercised by pedaling along a circular trace while overcoming the problems found in the conventional art, and an exercise effect can be doubled by using many leg muscles. The variable speed training apparatus of a continuous horizontal mechanism comprises a body frame; first and second rotation casings which are opposed to each other and are installed in both sides of the body frame 1 at slanted angles, and are equipped with pedals; and a driving force transfer means which rotatably connects the first and second rotation casings.

Abstract: The invention relates to a fitness apparatus for improving the health of the human body by a combination of physical exercise and alternating pressure applied to the body. The fitness device comprises a housing forming a pressure chamber. The housing is adapted to contain a training pressure. The training pressure is different from the ambient pressure on the outside of the housing. The housing comprises a sealable opening adapted to sealingly receive said person's waist. Within the pressure chamber, an exercise device is arranged having a seat for taking off the weight off the person's legs, a pair of movable actuation surfaces where exercise work can be introduced from the person's legs into the exercise device, and a resistance means connected to the actuation surfaces and adapted to absorb the exercise work. The actuation surfaces and the seat may be arranged to be movably adjustable relative to each other and to the opening.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention discloses a cardio-fitness equipment with a seat that features height adjustment, proximity to handlebars adjustment, and easy removal of the seat for the purpose of exchange with a different user-selected model or for cleaning.

Abstract: An upper body exercise cycle comprising crank arms that may independently drive a flywheel, which provides resistance to the crank arms, an adjustable headstock and seat to accommodate users of different sizes and isolate different muscle groups, and a base plate ramp to provide support for the feet and to facilitate transportation of the upper body exercise cycle.

Abstract: The variable stride exercise device utilizes various configurations of linkage assemblies, cam members, and other components, connected with a frame to allow a user to dynamically vary the user's stride path during exercise. The exercise device allows for a foot engagement member travel path that adapts to the change in stride length rather than forcing the user into a fixed size path. A user's exertion level may have several components impacting the stride length provided by the machine, such as leg power, torso power, and (in versions of the exercise apparatus with arm supports or exercise components) arm power. The exercise device may include a lockout device that selectively eliminates the variable stride features of the exercise device and allows the user to exercise in a stepping motion.

Abstract: A wireless communication apparatus including a master unit and a slave unit. The master unit includes a transmitter configured to transmit a beacon periodically and a receiver. A detector is provided that is configured to output a detected signal, and the slave unit is configured to receive the detected signal from the detector. The slave unit includes a receiver configured to receive the beacon periodically at a receiving timing determined based on the beacon, and a transmitter configured to transmit the detected signal to the master unit receiver at a transmitting timing determined based on the beacon if a value of the detected signal changes by a threshold amount.

Abstract: A variable stride device may include right and left foot engagement members operatively coupled to right and left cam-link assemblies, respectively. The cam-link assemblies may each be operatively coupled to a rotating member, such as a crank assembly, and to right and left swing arms, respectively. The cam-link assemblies may each include a cam member and first and second links. A user may engage the foot engagement members to move the foot engagement members in a substantially constant or variable elliptical, pseudo-elliptical or other stride path. The variable stride device may further include a resistance system for resisting movement of the foot engagement members.

Abstract: An elliptical cross trainer having a double-recessed crank in match of a load-coupling mechanism installed at the external side of a crank support. In this way, the gap of two pedal planks arranged parallel to each other can be reduced, thereby achieving the natural opening space of both human feet. Meanwhile, a hanging support together with suspension arm is connected with two pedal planks such that the pedal planks can create an optimal exercise path corresponding to the exercise pace of both human feet.

Abstract: A crank mechanism useful on a bicycle or an exercise machine utilizing a pair of crank arms. A crank arm is attached to a crankshaft so that it can turn the crankshaft in either direction but is free to move through a defined angle about the crankshaft between positions of oppositely driving engagement with the crankshaft. The mechanism can be used in training athletes. In one embodiment the mechanism can be used to aid a bicyclist in maintaining an aerodynamic posture.

Abstract: A stationary exercise device with adjustable members for varying the stride path and the exercise intensity of a user. The stationary device having a stationary frame and a movable frame that moves relative to the stationary frame to vary the exercise intensity of a user.

Abstract: A driving and resistance device for stationary bikes includes a frame including two boards between which a flywheel is located, a shaft extends through the flywheel and the two boards. A driving wheel is mounted to the shaft and drives the flywheel. The driving unit includes a first belt, a second belt, an idle wheel unit, an intermediate wheel unit and a passive wheel, the passive wheel is connected to a sleeve which is secured to the shaft. The driving wheel is driven by rotating the cranks on two ends of the shaft and the first belt, the intermediate wheel unit, the second belt, the passive wheel, the sleeve and the flywheel are driven in sequence. Because the driving wheel and the flywheel share the same shaft so that the driving and resistance device is compact.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a variable stride exercise device having a variable size close curved striding path during use. The exercise device described and depicted herein utilizes various configurations of linkage assemblies, cam members, and other components, connected with a frame to allow a user to dynamically vary his stride path during exercise. An exercise device conforming to aspects of the present invention provides a foot path that adapts to the change in stride length rather than forcing the user into a fixed size path. Some embodiments of the exercise device include a lockout device that selectively eliminates the variable stride features of the exercise device and allows the user to exercise in a stepping motion. Other aspects of the present invention relate to a releasable connection mechanism that can be used to selectively and/or automatically limit or eliminate the variable stride feature of an exercise device.

Abstract: A folding elliptical exercise machine that allows for easy, safe, and quick storage and being capable, upon a single motion by a user, of changing its shape into a substantially compact form for storage, and vice versa, is provided. The elliptical exercise machine comprises first and second reciprocating foot supports interconnected to the frame, each foot support having a first end and a second end with a collapsible joint therebetween, wherein each reciprocating foot support is collapsible such that the exercise machine can be moved between the operating position and the storage position in a single step by rotating a rear portion of a base support structure upward and toward a front portion of the base support structure. A method for changing the position of the elliptical exercise machine of the present invention from an operating position to a storage position, and vice versa, also is provided.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for allowing a person with disabilities to learn to pedal a conventional bicycle which device also converts a conventional bicycle into an in-place exercise bike. In the bike trainer embodiment, the device allows the training wheels which are attached to the rear wheel of a bicycle to be elevated by being placed in a right and left trough of the base of the device so that the rear wheel of the bicycle is elevated off the ground and spins freely in a space between the right and left troughs. In the exercise bicycle embodiment, an adjustable rear roller assembly can be attached to the base of the device so that the rear wheel of the bicycle rests on a pair of rollers so as to allow the rear wheel of the bicycle to contact and roll on a front and rear roller so as to increase pedaling resistance while the front wheel of the bicycle is stabilized by a stand having a pair of adjustable upright members and a pair of laterally extending members for maintaining the bicycle in a stable position.

Abstract: An exercise machine has a number of features relating to ease of use. The machine has a widened step through design, improved foot straps, an adjustable reading display or a pivotal arm rest.

Abstract: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is the most commonly injured knee ligament in sports-related activities, especially in pivoting sports. Considering that the knee is free to flex/extend but has much more limited motions about the off-axis (tibia rotation and valgus/varus), ACL injuries are often associated with excessive off-axis loadings. A pivoting/sliding mechanism combined with sagittal plane movement/exercise is described as a diagnostic tool to evaluate off-axis neuromechanical and anatomical risk factors of noncontact ACL injuries. The pivoting/sliding mechanism is also described as an intervention tool for off-axis training, possibly based on the diagnosis, to reduce the incidence of ACL injuries. Training outcome can also be evaluated using the pivoting/sliding mechanism. In general, the pivoting/sliding mechanism can be used with many sagittal plane exercise machines and used to improve off-axis control of the lower limbs and reduce lower limb injuries.

Abstract: An exercise device includes a frame, a pair of foot supports, and at least one four-bar linkage assembly coupled to the frame. The at least one linkage assembly is coupled to at least one of the foot supports. The four-bar linkage assembly directs the foot support in a generally elliptical motion while in use. The generally elliptical motion defines a major dimension extending at an angle from horizontal that is within the range of about thirty degrees (30°) to about seventy-five degrees (75°) and the major dimension having a length that is within the range of about ten inches to about eighteen inches.

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: 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: Isokinetic rehabilitation apparatus including a motor-driven pedal assembly having associated therewith a pair of foot pedals and at least one hand engagement element and a computerized motor controller operative to drive the motor-driven pedal assembly at a generally constant, selectable speed, generally irrespective of the extent to which forces are applied to the pedal assembly.

Abstract: A recumbent step exercise machine including a frame, a seat supported from the frame, and a drive mechanism supported from the frame. The drive mechanism includes a first and a second pedal, at least one axle shaft, at least one clutch, a speed increaser, and a brake. The first and the second pedal assemblies are each linked to at least one shaft by a linkage assembly. Each of the shafts are drivingly engaged to at least one clutch. The linkage assemblies act as levers that translate the reciprocating motion of the pedal assemblies into rotational motion of the shaft. Each linkage assembly extends downwardly from the shaft to which it is drivingly engaged and terminates with the pedal assembly. A first and a second arm mechanism may be linked through the linkage assembly to the first and second pedal assembly.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus may include a frame. A crank system may be coupled to the frame. A brake/inertia device may be coupled to the crank system. A pivotal linkage pendulum system may be coupled to the crank system. The pivotal linkage pendulum system may include one or more link members. An upper pivot point of at least one of the link members may be coupled to the crank system. In some embodiments, the upper pivot point of the at least one of the link members may be coupled to the crank system through a movable member. The upper pivot point may move in a back and forth path of motion or in a closed path motion. A foot member may be coupled to one or more of the link members. The foot member may include a footpad.

Abstract: A stationary exercise device with flexible support elements may include a frame with a base portion. A crank system with crank arms is coupled to and supported by the frame. Right and left pivotal linkage assemblies may each have an arcuate motion member and a foot support member. The arcuate motion member may be coupled to the frame. The foot support member may be coupled to the arcuate motion member. The arcuate motion member may be oriented in a generally vertical position and the foot support member may be oriented a generally horizontal position. Flexible element coupling systems couple the right and left foot support members to the crank system.

Abstract: A vertical exercise apparatus having a set of waist high support rails capable of supporting the users body weight for use in conditioning upper body and lower body muscle groups of person using the device.

Abstract: An exercise device is provided including a foot link having a rearward end and a forward end. An adjustable stride mechanism is provided. The adjustable stride mechanism includes a primary gear and a secondary gear. The primary gear is sized larger relative to the secondary gear. A primary crank connects the primary gear and the secondary gear. A timing belt connects the primary gear to the secondary gear. The primary crank and the timing belt enable the secondary gear to rotate around the primary gear. A secondary crank is pivotally attached to the secondary gear and to a foot link. The secondary crank creates an ellipse-shaped path for the foot link as the secondary gear rotates around the primary gear. Thus, the foot link motion combines an at least a dual ellipse motion. An automatic adjusting mechanism can be provided to adjust the adjustable stride mechanism.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus is disclosed herein, including a frame, a rotating assembly, two supporting rods, two swing arms, two links, and two pedals. The front ends of the supporting rods are connected respectively to two connecting points of the rotating assembly, and the rear end of each supporting rod moves back and forth along a corresponding track. The front ends of the links are connected respectively at two swing ends of the swing arms. Each pedal is mounted at the rear end of a corresponding link and pivotally coupled to a corresponding supporting member. The distance between the bottom of a circular path of the connecting points and the tracks is smaller than 10 cm. The length of the supporting rod is smaller than two times diameter of the circular path. The longitudinal horizontal distance between the front edge of the closed path and the rear edge of the circular path is smaller than 20 cm. The rear ends of the supporting rods are located between the front ends and rear ends of the pedals.

Abstract: A saddle-adjusting mechanism of a fitness apparatus having: a) a set of upper and lower parallel slide rails pivotally attached to a front and a rear connecting rod; and b) a saddle support with guide rollers and an engaging gear such that the upper and lower parallel slide rails may be adjusted at a certain angle. Meanwhile, a saddle can be moved forward and backward and maintained at a certain angle so that the operators have a comfortable sitting. Moreover, a back pad support is installed in such a way that a fine adjustment of the backing angle of a back pad is achieved by moving it upward and downward.

Abstract: Footwear including a support member having an upper surface attachable to a foot, and two bulbous protuberances, a forward bulbous protuberance and rearward bulbous protuberance, each having a curved outer contour, protruding from a lower surface of the support member on opposite sides of a latitudinal midline thereof, and wherein at least one of the protuberances is offset from the centerline of the support member.

Abstract: An exercise device can include a pair of pedal members, each of which can be rotatably connected on at least one end to a planet gear that is rotatable about a sun gear on each side of the device. The pedal members and the planet gears can be rotated to provide an elliptical exercise motion. The device can include a mechanism for simultaneously rotating each of the sun gears together to change the orientation of the elliptical exercise motion relative to a user. The orientation of an elliptical exercise motion can be changed dynamically from one orientation to another, for example, from horizontal to uphill or downhill, during a particular workout period. The exercise device can change the orientation of an elliptical exercise motion while maintaining a user's ankles at a substantially constant angle during the exercise cycle.

Abstract: A lower body exercise device for use with a seat. Other embodiments of the seat mountable lower body exercise device include a lower body exercise mechanism (20) for simultaneous use by a user while working, reading or doing other sedentary activities, and a simple installation mechanism (10) for various forms of seat. In addition, simple detachable function (11a), (11c), and multiple adjustment functions (21aa), (23), (30) for various user's circumstances is available, and one or more exercise alteration is also available by adjustment (30), (33a), (27c), (24b). Other embodiments include a magnetic cycle system which may reduce the exercise device body (21?) in size.

Abstract: An elliptical exercise machine includes a frame pivotally attached to a base, a pivotal coupling device pivotally coupling the base and the frame together, a retractable device having an outer tube pivotally coupled to the base, and an inner shaft slidably engaged in the outer tube and pivotally coupled to the pivotal coupling device for allowing the inner shaft to be moved into the outer tube or to be moved out of the outer tube when the frame is pivoted to the base, and a latching device for latching the inner shaft to the outer tube at any selected position and for allowing the elliptical exercise machine to be easily adjusted to different moving strokes and to be easily operated by the user.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for a targeted training of the human body as well as a corresponding training device for realizing said method. The training device is used for the training of the body region (vertebral column) between shoulder girdle and pelvic girdle (back region) by using the limbs, arms and legs, such that the body region of the shoulder girdle is turned (twisted) in the opposite direction as the body region of the pelvic girdle, thereby resulting in a relative turning movement between the respective vertebras of the vertebral column.

Abstract: An exercise simulator and a method of encouraging exercise are disclosed. The exercise simulator has a steering component including a user-movable element and a steering sensor. The sensor outputs a sensor signal indicative of the amount of movement of the user-movable element to provide steering input to a computer. The computer has a program and data for providing a visually displayable simulated environment. The visually displayable simulated environment is navigable by user input comprising movement of the user-movable element. The visually displayable simulated environment can be part of a computer animated game.

Abstract: A hinge apparatus to facilitate equipment position adjustment is disclosed. One embodiment of a system includes, a hinge apparatus having a through-hole, a rotate-able portion and a body portion. The system further includes, equipment having a first portion coupled to the rotate-able portion of the hinge apparatus, a second portion coupled to the body portion of the hinge apparatus, and an electrical wire that facilitates function of the equipment. The electrical wire is disposed in the hinge extending through the through-hole. The hinge apparatus is operatively configured such that the electrical wire remains intact during when the rotate-able portion of the hinge rotates.

Abstract: An exercise desk that may be attached to a piece of exercise equipment is disclosed that that has an adjustable desk top. By providing an adapter capable of independent adjustment of the desk top, horizontal position of the adapter and vertical position of the adapter, the exercise desk may be mounted to a variety of exercise devices. Furthermore, the desk top is selectively pivotable.

Abstract: Training apparatus for physical exercise, preventive exercise and rehabilitation of injuries and increased balance, the apparatus designed as a stationary exercise bicycle, similar to ergometer bikes or spinning bikes. The apparatus consist of a first lower stable frame configured to be supported on a floor and a second upper frame tiltable relative to the lower frame. The upper frame has an adjustable tilt movement relative the lower frame crosswise the flywheel's revolving motion. A steering gear is guided through the upper frame where a prolonged part of the steering gear is in contact with the floor, the part having a wheel suspension like design, consisting of barlinks, dampers, springs and wheels. Stabilizing of the upper frame is done by movement of the steering gear.

Abstract: A flywheel-type variable resistance generating device for an exercising apparatus includes two actuating arms disposed outboard of a flywheel, a pulling cord having two anchoring ends coupled with a tightening-force adjusting member and a lever, and two pull-activating members connected to the pulling cord so as to move the actuating arms. The actuating arms are movable among a starting position where they are disengaged from the flywheel, an adjusted position where they are partially engaged with the flywheel, and a braking position where they are fully engaged with the flywheel. When the lever is operated to move one anchoring end with a braking force, the other anchoring end of the pulling cord is pulled back to its initial locus to move the actuating arms to the starting position.