Abstract: The invention relates to a method for exercising muscles with the aid of an exercise apparatus and, where appropriate, for measuring exercise conditions, where the person exercising loads the relevant muscles by increasing or decreasing the rotational energy (E(kin)), kinetic energy, of at least one rotatably mounted flywheel, by means of a traction element which is wound up and designed for acting on the flywheel (1), the flywheel (1, 1a) being braked in a controlled manner by means of a brake element (40). The invention also relates to an exercise apparatus for exercising muscles.

Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a device for monitoring a movement of a user includes a sensor module, a processor, and a feedback module. The sensor module is capable of generating positional information describing a movement of a user. The processor is capable of determining based on the positional information that the user has performed a predetermined movement. The feedback module is capable of generating sensory feedback in response to determining that the user has performed the predetermined movement.

Abstract: An exercise assisting apparatus (1) comprises: a seat (13) on which buttocks of a user (2) is sit; a stationary support base (12) for supporting the seat (13); a burden regulator (14) provided between the support base (12) and the seat (13), and for regulating a ratio of self weight of the user which is supported by the seat (13) so that a load due to the self weight of the user acting on leg portion of the user; and a driving mechanism (16) for driving the burden regulator (14) so that the ratio of self weight of the user supported by the seat varies as time passes. The burden regulator (14) couples the support base (12) and the seat (13) in a manner so that a portion of the seat (13) to which the buttocks of the user is sit is tilted between a first state where the portion becomes horizontal and a second state where the portion is slanted downward toward the foot side in a plane including one of femoral regions and the buttocks of the user.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for evaluating a hypertonic condition in a movable extremity are described. The apparatus includes an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a force sensor and a data communication device for transmitting data signals to a data processor. The method includes moving a limb through a range of motion about an axis of rotation while measuring parameters such as acceleration, velocity, the force on the limb, and the time to move it through the range of motion. The measured parameters are transmitted to a data processor which generates and displays information that characterizes the hypertonic condition for immediate feedback to the examiner or storage in a database for monitoring of the patient's condition. An apparatus and a method for simulating movement of a limb that has a hypertonic condition based on characterizing information from a real limb are also described.

Abstract: An intra-repetition exercise system which allows comparison of actual performance of intra-repetition exercise characteristics (2) to pre-established target performance of intra-repetition exercise characteristics (3) by an exerciser (1).

Abstract: A system and method of hierarchical monitoring for subordinate assessment is described. Generally, the system receives remotely sensed data about a user's physiology and contextual state, and extracts features that are related to the workload currently being experienced by a single subordinate and/or group of subordinates. The system builds workload indices based on levels of these features. The system uses statistical process control techniques in conjunction with the workload indices to identify suboptimal user states. Information regarding a particular subordinate or the group of subordinates may be presented in a variety of different ways. As a result, a superior can easily determine the condition of the one or more subordinates and make task adjustments to influence workload levels.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved structure of a magnetic roller. The magnetic roller has a pull rope brake set, mainly including left and right drive gears, both of which are assembled onto the main disk nearby the swinging end of the left and right swinging magnetic disks. The left and right drive gears are engaged through the gear tooth. The pull rope's coupling portions are assembled onto left and right drive gears corresponding separately to swinging end of left and right swinging magnetic disks. The pull rope includes first and second pull ropes, the first pull rope being used to link the pull rope's coupling portion of the left drive gear and the swinging end of right swinging magnetic disk, while the second pull rope is used to link pull rope's coupling portion of right drive gear and the swinging end of left swinging magnetic disk.

Abstract: A device for the execution of cardiopulmonary tests under strain includes a device for measuring the respiratory activity of a user and physical exercise equipment to be used in combination with the measuring device. The physical exercise equipment is a portable training tool, to be used in combination with a normal bicycle in stationary position.

Abstract: An exercise machine has audio programs that provide explanation, coaching and encouragement to the user. The user is given a spoken description of the workout program or work mode, along with training and encouragement. The user may also be advised of any change in speed, resistance, incline, pedal position, etc. The voice can be turned on or off during a programmed exercise sequence and will automatically pick up where the user is in the exercise program. Controls allow the user to select among different voices and exercise levels.

Abstract: An exercise device includes pedals, a belt and a hydro-kinetic brake. A user applies muscular force to the pedals and the pedal belt transfers the motion of the pedals to a flywheel shaft of the fluid brake. The pedals may be configured to accept force from a hand, foot, arm, leg and/or neck of the user. The amount of work performed by the user is derived by measuring the relative rotational speeds of two radial-blade impellers of the fluid brake. The wattage exhibited by the fluid brake during the exercise session may be recorded and associated with an identified user, whereby records of the exercise performance of an individual may be updated.

Abstract: A method for determining the anatomic condition of components of the body of a human or of an animal is disclosed comprising producing a sound signal in a selected component of the body by at least one of passive and active movements of at least one joint. The method includes recording a sound signal at a point adjacent to the selected component of the body and evaluating the sound signal. An auxiliary device selected from the group consisting of a splint, an orthosis and an exercise machine is used which ensures a repeatable movement determined by the design of the auxiliary device. The sound signal caused by the movement is recorded and evaluated by a spectral analysis of frequencies and amplitudes contained in the sound signal. A comparison is made with reference patterns of the spectral analyses for the diagnosis of the anatomic condition.

Abstract: A treadmill assembly that includes a frame and a treadmill belt. In addition, a sensor produces a signal representative of an aspect of the user's position relative to at least one point on the frame. A belt rotation assembly turns the belt with a speed related to the signal. In one preferred embodiment the speed of the belt is inversely proportional to the distance between the user and the front of the treadmill. In another preferred embodiment the treadmill is sized to support a cycle.

Abstract: A free weight assistance and training device includes a base and a generally upright weight support structure mounted on and extending upwards from and over the base. A free weight support bar is connected to a computer-controlled weight tensioning device which is mounted on the base generally adjacent the upright weight support structure, the connection between the free weight support bar and the computer-controlled weight tensioning device consisting of at least two cables movably mounted on the upright weight support structure. The computer-controlled weight tensioning device, the at least two cables and the free weight support bar operatively cooperate with each other such that tensioning force applied by the computer-controlled weight tensioning device via the at least two cables to the free weight support bar controllably decreases the amount of downwards force exerted by the free weight support bar and weights thereon.

Abstract: A treadmill (10) includes a frame on which are mounted transverse forward and rearward roller assemblies (14, 16). An endless belt (18) is trained about the forward and rearward roller assemblies. A deck (20) is positioned between the upper run of the belt and the frame. The rearward portion of the deck (20) is mounted to the frame by a pivot connection (24) to allow pivoting of the deck about an axis transversely to the length of the deck. Elongate springs (26) of adjustable stiffness are mounted either along the sides of the frame to underlie the side margins of the deck, or transversely of the deck, to support the deck in conjunction with the pivot connection (24) and to absorb impact loads imparted on the deck by the user.

Abstract: A process for accommodating, improving or transmuting random static and dynamic human functions to an object is provided. A device is selected which includes a proximal member and a distal member which articulate relative to one another at an interface. Energy is transmitted through the interface with a predetermined and variable efficacy. The interface is configured to permit static force to have perpendicular and parallel components relative to a primary plane of the interface and to permit a dynamic force to have a parallel component relative to the primary plane.

Abstract: Exercise/therapy apparatus that allows a user to change one or more workout parameters without dismounting from the apparatus and without interrupting the workout. Several embodiments for inclined surface apparatus are disclosed, using vertical, tiltable and curvilinear surface support structures.

Abstract: A treadmill operation mode control system for use in a treadmill is disclosed include two ultrasonic transmitter receiver units respectively installed in the upright support of the base frame of the treadmill at two sides, and a microprocessor electrically connected between the ultrasonic transmitter receiver units and the instrument panel of the treadmill and adapted to accelerate the speed of the treadbase motor of the treadmill when the user moving a part of the body toward one ultrasonic transmitter receiver unit, or to reduce the speed of the treadbase motor when the user moving a part of the body toward the other ultrasonic transmitter receiver unit.

Abstract: In an exercise machine having a resistance, the improvement of means to impart an inertial quality to the resistance.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a control console automatically planning a personal exercise program in accordance with the measured value of the cardiopulmonary condition and comprising a cardiopulmonary condition sensor which is installed in a body-building device. Besides, the control console is fitted with a microprocessor which automatically plans an optimal exercise program for the operator after receiving the cardiopulmonary condition data measured by the cardiopulmonary condition sensor. After input of personal data of the body weight and height, the microprocessor will calculate the difference between the real body weight and the standard weight. Accordingly, an optimal exercise program for a certain operator can be automatically decided additionally in taking the measured value of the cardiopulmonary condition into account.

Abstract: The present invention is for arousing a sense of rivalry to the user so that the user can exhibit an active will to exercise.

Abstract: A treadmill (10) includes a frame on which are mounted transverse forward and rearward roller assemblies (14, 16). An endless belt (18) is trained about the forward and rearward roller assemblies. A deck (20) is positioned between the upper run of the belt and the frame. The rearward portion of the deck (20) is mounted to the frame by a pivot connection (24) to allow pivoting of the deck about an axis transversely to the length of the deck. Elongate springs (26) of adjustable stiffness are mounted either along the sides of the frame to underlie the side margins of the deck, or transversely of the deck, to support the deck in conjunction with the pivot connection (24) and to absorb impact loads imparted on the deck by the user.

Abstract: A supporting frame of a running exerciser made of a plasticizing material comprises two lateral frames, and a plurality of transversal frames. The two lateral frames is installed at the left and right sides and being made of plasticized material. The inner side of each lateral frame is integrally formed with a plurality of buckling seats and supporting seats. The supporting seats are located below the buckling seat The plurality of transversal frames are spaced and installed between the two lateral frames. The two ends of each transversal frame are buckled to the buckling seat, so that the two ends of each transversal frame being supported by the supporting seat. Therefore, a supporting frame of a running exerciser made of a plasticizing material is assembled.

Abstract: The exercise apparatus using magnetism to augment the gravitational field of the earth has a platform made of ferromagnetic material which is magnetized by an electromagnet. The exerciser wears a full-body chain mail suit and stands on the platform while performing exercise activity so that the magnetic field created by the electromagnet pulls on the chain mail suit, The electromagnet is connected to a variable current power source, and the circuitry may include either a trimmer potentiometer for continuously varying the strength of the magnetic field, or a computer with software for entering and controlling the strength of the magnetic field as a multiple of the strength of the gravitational field. The apparatus is installed in a permanent structure, or movably mounted for portable use in the home. Spacecraft utilization is also anticipated in shielded room.

Abstract: An exercise therapy device enables a physically handicapped or aged person to smoothly and continuously perform a pedaling exercise according to the level of his physical strength without overextending himself or herself when he or she undergoes an exercise therapy, to thereby recover his or her exercise function and maintain his or her physical strength. The device is simple in construction, compact in size, light in weight, and can be manufactured at low cost by using only a single actuator which acts as both a load device and an assisting force generating device. The device comprises a drive portion adapted to be manually moved by an exerciser, an actuator connected to the drive portion through a power transmission mechanism, and a control unit for causing the actuator to operate as a load device for providing a load to the drive portion and as an assisting device for providing an assisting force to the drive portion when the drive portion is manually moved by the exerciser.

Abstract: Resistance training apparatus comprising a carriage mounted for movement along a reciprocally linear path, a load borne by the carriage and programmable drive apparatus that engages the carriage for bearing at least part of the load when a speed of the carriage meets or exceeds a maximum speed limit and meets or falls below a minimum speed limit.

Abstract: A testing apparatus of a physical capacity assessment system has a support base, a column extending upwardly from the base and a workstation to which load is applied by an individual being tested on the apparatus. The workstation is supported by and adjustable in a number of different planes relative to the column. Also provided are an indicator which shows positioning of the workstation and a measuring device which measures the load placed on the workstation.

Abstract: An activity controlled audio-visual system is disclosed. A device for connecting exercise equipment such as a pedal exerciser to a user sensory interface, such as a television set or computer so that the user has to pedal at a rate above a preset rate or threshold rate in order to be able to view the user sensory interface signal. The act of pedaling above a preset rate turns on a switch box which controls the input to the user sensory interface. In this way a normally sedentary activity such as watching television or a video, playing a video game, or using a computer is converted to one that requires physical activity.

Abstract: A device for training and measuring the physical efforts of a user of a nonmotorized rolling vehicle arranged on a turning assembly capable of exerting a load moment imparts a cyclical braking moment which passes from a preestablished value to a zero value dependent on the speed of the vehicle. The braking moment is controlled by detection and measurement of the speed or acceleration of the vehicle in order to drive the vehicle at a constant or substantially constant speed.

Abstract: A strength and exercise apparatus that provides an opposing resistive force which in its total will always only equal the potential and varying exerted force created by the user. The apparatus will also have the ability to create an exerted force which in its total will always only equal the potential and varying resistive force provided by the user.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for maintaining the heart rate of a user of a fitness apparatus at a scheduled target rate by varying the resistance of a first resistance mechanism with respect to a second resistance mechanism. To increase the heart rate, the resistance of the first resistance mechanism is increased to a maximum level before an adjustment is made to the second resistance mechanism. To decrease the heart rate, the resistance of the second resistance mechanism is decreased to a minimum level before an adjustment is made to the first resistance mechanism. The invention may be incorporated into a treadmill having resistance mechanisms including a mechanism to vary the speed of the treadmill belt and a mechanism to vary the grade of the treadmill.

Abstract: An exercise machine having a user interface engaged by a user to perform exercises using the exercise machine is disclosed in which an electric, direct current (DC), servo control motor is used as the force producing element to which the user interface is mechanically connected and in which a digital data processor, operatively connected to the electric motor, is used for monitoring the position and direction of movement of the linkage relative to the electric DC servo motor and for controlling the electric DC servo motor to operate as one of a generator or a motor depending upon the determined position and direction of movement of the linkage is disclosed. The force exerted by the electric motor, whether it is operating as a motor or a generator, is dependant upon the position and direction of movement of the mechanical linkage as well as upon the force exerted by the user on the mechanical linkage, and other parameters, depending upon which one of three modes of operation is selected.

Abstract: An instructional, training, and assessment apparatus is provided for use in the activity of swimming. The apparatus includes a cable having a proximal end and a distal end, and a harness for coupling the distal end of the cable to a swimmer. The distal end of the cable is formed to include a short length of increased diameter. A motorized drum mechanism is coupled to the proximal end of the cable for winding and unwinding the cable to apply forces to the swimmer as the swimmer swims laps in a body of water. A pressure roller applies pressure to the cable as it is wound and unwound in single layer upon the drum. A bailer sheave and idler roller engaged with the sheave and mounted on shafts transverse to the drum guide the cable loops in even rows onto the drum. A cable diameter limit sensor coupled to the bailer sheave and the motorized drum senses the increased diameter of the distal end of the cable and produces a corresponding output signal.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling the torque of an exercise machine acting on a user is disclosed. The invention determines the torque which the user is able to exert at different positions and velocities, and develops a strength model of the user. Based on the strength model of the user, the invention determines a desired velocity profile for the user's exercise. The velocity profile may be chosen to maximize the amount of power output by the user or to provide whatever other type of exercise specified. The invention then controls the torque acting on the user so that the exercise is accomplished according to the desired velocity profile.

Abstract: A hand-held transceiver (48) remotely controls a device (24) that is electrically coupled to a receiver (44) capable of receiving an electromagnetic transmission (46) and generating a first electrical signal (52) in response thereto. The device is controlled by the first electrical signal received from the receiver. The transceiver includes a body (56) configured to be hand-held by the person and a housing (43) to house a switch (50) that generates a second electrical signal in response to actuation of the switch. A transmitter (49) is also contained in the housing and is electrically connected to the switch for receiving the second electrical signal. In response thereto, the transmitter generates an electromagnetic transmission for receipt by the receiver (44) to in turn control the device. A weight (62) is couplable to the body for weighting the transceiver.

Abstract: A training device is proposed having a crank for a training device for the physically disabled includes a crank, an electric motor which is connected to the crank, power electronics which are designed at least for driving the motor, and means for regulating and/or controlling the rotation speed at the crank. The training device for the physically disabled, makes it possible to use their residual movement capabilities and residual muscle power, in order to ensure a training sequence that is as effective as possible. The means for regulating and/or controlling the rotation speed are designed for a rotation speed change .DELTA.n as a function of the torque M.sub.K on the crank .DELTA.n=f(M.sub.K), a new rotation speed n.sub.new being obtained from the old rotation speed n.sub.old in accordance with the relationship n.sub.new =n.sub.old +.DELTA.n, and the function .DELTA.n=f(M.sub.K) being different for specific value ranges of M.sub.K defined in advance.

Abstract: An instructional, training, and assessment apparatus is provided for use in the activity of swimming. The apparatus includes a cable having a proximal end and a distal end, and a harness for coupling the distal end of the cable to a swimmer. A motorized drum mechanism is coupled to the proximal end of the cable for winding and unwinding the cable to apply forces to the swimmer as the swimmer swims laps in a pool. A pressure roller applies pressure to the cable as it is wound and unwound in multiple layers upon the drum. A bailer sheave and idler roller engaged with the sheave and mounted on shafts transverse to the drum guide the cable in even rows onto the drum. A cable diameter limit sensor coupled to the above described bailer sheave and the motorized drum senses the increased diameter of the distal end of the cable whereupon the motorized drum halts the winding action in response to the limit sensor signal.

Abstract: A single-station type total body exercise and rehabilitation weight-lifting machine and method of selectively recruiting, isolating, and maximally contracting a specific segment of a target muscle or task-specific synergistic segments of different muscles using the machine are presented. The exercise and rehabilitation machine is designed to provide resistance to variable force vectors in all directions. The machine comprises a weight support member mounted in a box-shaped main support frame. The rear end of the weight support member is multi-pivotally connected through a "sliding box" adjustment device to the rear of the main support frame while the front end of the weight support member is supported by a vertically adjustable roller bar support member of the main support frame. The weight support member can be oriented at many angles using the combined adjustments for the sliding box adjustment device and roller bar support member.

Abstract: An interactive exercise apparatus engages a user's mind and body. The apparatus comprises an exercise mechanism, a steering mechanism, and a control mechanism for manipulation by the user to achieve exercise, to indicate a direction of motion, and to interact with virtual objects in a simulated environment. The exercise mechanism can be, for example, the steps of a stair climbing simulator or the pedals of a bicycle, preferably a recumbent bicycle. A simulated environment (e.g., an interactive simulated three-dimensional environment or an interactive simulated three-dimensional fluid environment) is generated by a computer and displayed on a display system for the user. In one embodiment, the simulated environment comprises an enclosed space representing a game field. In this embodiment, an interactive competitive ball game is played using networked exercise apparatus.

Abstract: A remote controller mechanism for use with a piece of exercise equipment such as an exercise bicycle or apparatus and a remotely controllable electronic device wherein the piece of exercise equipment has an electronic sensor that outputs a train of electronic pulses as a function of the speed at which the piece of exercise equipment is operated and wherein the remotely controllable electronic device has a first and a second operational mode, the remote controller mechanism including an interface mechanism for receiving the train of electronic pulses; a speed determination mechanism coupled to the interface mechanism for receiving the train of electronic pulses and then determining a present speed based upon the train of electronic pulses; a speed selection mechanism for allowing a desired minimum speed to be set by the user; a comparator mechanism coupled to the speed determination mechanism and the speed selection mechanism for comparing the present speed to the minimum speed and then outputing a result of t

Abstract: A variable resistance exercise device provides a variable resisting force in response to a user applied force. The variable resistance exercise device includes at least one rotating force transmitting means for inputting a user applied force as a rotational force to be resisted, and at least one force transmission member for transmitting the user applied force. The user applied force is resisted by varying the viscosity of a viscosity variable fluid which surround plates rotated by the user applied force. Thus a braking force is applied to actively resist the user applied force. In accordance with the invention, a multi-configurable multi-programmable exercise device is provided which may be used in a variety of exercise modes to provide a resistive force to a user-applied force during a range of motion of a particular exercise. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a variable resistance means resists a user-supplied force in one rotational direction only.

Abstract: To improve tracking, an exercise treadmill is provided with a frame including molded plastic pulleys, having an integral gear belt sprocket, an endless belt extending around the pulleys and a motor operatively connected to the rear pulley to drive the belt. The pulleys are molded out of plastic and have a diameter of approximately nine inches. A mold and method for producing large diameter treadmill pulleys having an integrally molded sprocket are also disclosed. A deck underneath the running surface of the belt is supported by resilient members. A positive lateral belt tracking mechanism is used to correct the lateral position of the belt. A belt position sensor mechanism is used in combination with a front pulley pivoting mechanism to maintain the belt in the desired lateral position on the pulleys. The exercise treadmill also includes a lift mechanism with an internally threaded sleeve engaged to vertically aligned nonrotating screws. A user display of foot impact force on the belt is also provided.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus having a pair of speed control drums coaxial with a variable speed motor driven shaft is disclosed. A force control drum is mounted to a gear box via which the motor is linked to the shaft. A cable is wound about the force control drum, with one of the free ends of the cable being connected to a force spring. A user-controlled cable is wound about the speed control drums so that by pulling on the cable, the speed control drums rotate with respect to the shaft. Movement of the user controlled cable above a pre-set speed causes the force control drum to wind cable in a manner that extends the force spring. The apparatus permits the user to control both the magnitude of machine resistance encountered and the speed with which loads are obtained.

Abstract: A strength and exercise apparatus that provides an opposing resistive force which in its total will always only equal the potential and varying exerted force created by the user. The apparatus will also have the ability to create an exerted force which in its total will always only equal the potential and varying resistive force provided by the user.

Abstract: A system for isolating, evaluating and exercising the muscle groups of the human hand which includes apparatus for detecting the cardinal movements of the hand and translating the movements into rotational data for the system, the apparatus for detecting effectively isolating the movements of the hand so that the movements of other muscle groups of the body are not detected by the system. The system also generally includes a mechanism for providing a selective variable resistance to the apparatus for detecting and for ascertaining the force applied to the apparatus for detecting by the movements of the hand.

Abstract: A magnetic damping device including a belt removably and separably positioned around the peripheral groove of the metal flywheel of an indoor exercise bicycle, and a plurality of permanent magnets respectively fastened down the belt and spaced along its length and adapted to impart a magnetic damping resistance to the rotary motion of the metal flywheel.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for maintaining the heart rate of a user of a fitness apparatus at a scheduled target rate by varying the resistance of a first resistance mechanism with respect to a second resistance mechanism. To increase the heart rate, the resistance of the first resistance mechanism is increased to a maximum level before an adjustment is made to the second resistance mechanism. To decrease the heart rate, the resistance of the second resistance mechanism is decreased to a minimum level before an adjustment is made to the first resistance mechanism. The invention may be incorporated into a treadmill having resistance mechanisms including a mechanism to vary the speed of the treadmill belt and a mechanism to vary the grade of the treadmill.

Abstract: An exercise machine which can independently vary the force and the speed at the user end is developed. The exercise machine includes a constant torque, variable speed reversible motor, a temperature controlled magnetic particle clutch, a gear reducer, a controller, and a suitable lever mechanism. The motor, clutch and gear reducer are chosen in a combination in order to achieve a predetermined output so that any combination of isotonic, isokinetic, isometric, isotonic/isokinetic, constant, variable, active, passive, uni-directional or bi-directional exercise routines can be performed with the exercise machine. With suitable lever modifications, the resistance providing unit can be successfully modified to emulate a shoulder press, bench press, leg exercise machine, arm exercise machine, etc. The output parameters, user force and user speed, are controlled in real time to maintain accuracy. This is made possible by the use of a PC-based controller interfaced to off-the-shelf motor and clutch control boards.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus having a vertically movable weight, and a kayak paddle-like handle engaged by the user to input an input power with a unidirectional exercise force at a user-selected velocity for moving the weight upward. Also included is a brake applying a negative braking power with a unidirectional braking force opposing the exercise force. The braking power has a braking velocity for permitting downward movement of the weight. A brake controller controls the application of the brake to maintain the braking velocity at a selected velocity for at least a selected portion of the user's exercise time. A differential member is coupled to the weight and receives the input power and the braking power. The differential member determines a differential between the user-selected velocity and the selected braking velocity, and applies the resultant to movement of the weight.

Abstract: An apparatus for emitting pre-programmed songs at a pre-determined tempo or a selectable tempo of either one or two beats per rotation of the rope. The apparatus comprises a rope or like material, contained at each end by a handle. One handle includes an electrical circuit integrally contained within. The electrical circuit includes a storage means for storing ten or more songs, a sensing means for correlating the rotation of the rope with the emission of musical notes, an annunciator means to produce the notes, an external switch to select or deselect power to the circuit, a switch to select the desired tempo of the pre-programmed songs and a switch to select a particular song from the series of preprogrammed songs.

Abstract: A control console for exercise machines such as treadmills having a microprocessor to generate signals to control the exercise. The console is operable to control an exercise program comprising a series of time segments for which the difficulty levels are individually specified, and to provide a display of the program time segments. The console is further operable to display and store user-designed programs of the type described. Optionally, the console is operable to control two difficulty parameters of an exercise machine. The console may also include preset programs selectable by a user. The preset programs may include a fitness test comprising a series of exercise time segments of increasing difficulty, in which a user's fitness level is based on the user's inability to continue exercising beyond a particular time segment.