Abstract: A body weight support system for use with an exercise machine, the body weight support system comprising a frame assembly, a biasing cord connectable that is suspendable from the frame assembly, and a harness mechanism connectable to the biasing cord and wearable by a user to generate a lifting force that extends through a femoral head axis of motion of the user.

Abstract: A beverage holder is provided. The beverage holder may include a strap assembly connected to a beverage assembly. The beverage assembly is adapted to retain beverage containers therein. The strap assembly may include a first strap member and a second strap member. The first strap member may terminate in an arm loop and an opposing clasp end. The clasp end may form a clasp loop for securing a strap clasp. The second strap member may terminate in an arm loop and an opposing return end. The return end may provide both of one half of a mating hook-and-loop combination. The hook portion and the loop portion may be securely engaged to form a return loop, whereby the overall desired length of the entire resulting strap assembly may be varied by adjusting the portion of the hook portion that overlaps the loop portion. A user may place each arm loop over each of a pair of armrests, whereby both strap members are routed around the backrest so as to slide the return end through the strap clasp.

Abstract: An athletic training device, comprising a resilient member adapted to be worn behind a knee of a leg with at least one strap coupled to the resilient member so that the resilient member is located behind the knee. Two straps may be used where the first strap is coupled to the resilient member and securable to the leg above the knee; and the second strap coupled proximate to the first strap and securable to the leg below the knee. The strap or straps of the athletic training device are constructed of resilient flexible elastomeric material. Alternatively or additionally, the straps may be adjustable and held fast about the leg by one or more of the following: hook and loop fastener material, clips, snaps, buttons, and buckles.

Abstract: An athlete training device that includes a platform that includes a plurality of spaced apart attachment members disposed adjacent to the periphery of the platform. A pole extends upwardly from the platform and is affixed to the platform. A weight, defining a hole passing therethrough, is disposed on the platform so that the pole passes through the hole. A top plate is affixed to the top of the pole and includes attachment structures disposed about the top plate. An attachment device is coupled to one of the attachment structures. A redirecting device is coupled to one of the attachment members. An elastic cord is attached to the attachment device and is engaged with the redirecting device so that the cord extends radially away from the pole. An exercise device is affixed to the end of the cord.

Abstract: An exercise device comprising a foot carriage slideably mounted on tracks, the tracks are held together parallel to one another and resistance elements provide opposition against the relative motion of the foot carriage. The foot carriage can be a frame carrying wheels and a foot support.

Abstract: An exercise device includes a frame with a pair of longitudinal support rails arranged side by side in a spaced apart arrangement, a connector for connecting the rails and a first end adapted to accept a wheel. The frame is bent at its first end such that when the frame is laid level on a surface, the wheel is not in contact with the surface upon which the frame lies and when the second end of the frame is raised, the wheel engages the surface. The frame also has one or more weight support members for receiving weights such as weight plates.

Abstract: Trampolines are disclosed herein. An embodiment of a trampoline includes a first support member having a plurality of portions and a second support member having a plurality of portions. A first support member first portion is aligned with a second support member second portion wherein the area between the first support member first portion and the second member first portion is a first plane. A first support member second portion is aligned with a second support member second portion wherein the area between the first support member second portion and the second support member second portion is a second plane. A single piece of first material substantially covers the first plane and the second plane. The first plane intersects the second plane at an angle less than one hundred eighty degrees.

Abstract: A waist-mounted parachute deployment and retracting system for training runners and other athletes that provides a user a method for selectively deploying and retracting the parachute during training without stopping or breaking stride. The parachute provides drag to increase resistance to improve performance by overloading the muscles. The user selectively deploys the parachute by pressing a button to release and open the parachute. Air flow created by the user's forward motion flows through a pair of ports on the side of a case holding the parachute. The air flow expands the parachute, causing the cords attaching the parachute to the case to extend and wind a recoil mechanism. The user selectively retracts the parachute by pressing a button to close the parachute and the recoil mechanism rewinds the cords, pulling the parachute into the case, ready to be deployed again when desired.

Abstract: A folding treadmill includes a base frame, a running platform having a first end thereof pivotally connected to the base frame, a lifting mechanism mounted to one end of the base frame and to the first end of the running platform for lifting the associated first end of the running platform relative to the base frame A damping device is mounted to the base frame, and a folding mechanism having a lift cylinder is installed in the running platform and a link is pivotally connected between the lift cylinder and the damping device.

Abstract: A single-handed overspeed trainer system that detachably tethers an athlete to a trainer through a substantially quiet, non-hook and loop material, release structure is disclosed. In one embodiment, the athlete wears a belt with a substantially rigid loop extending therefrom. The trainer holds one end of a tether that contains a retractable pin toward its opposite end. The pin holds the rigid loop of the belt until the pin is retracted by the trainer, preferably when the tether's handle is released by the trainer.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus for providing multi-directional training of the body of a user is disclosed. The exercise apparatus allows the a user to exercise the mid-section, hips, legs, ankles and connective tissues joining all the muscles in these areas. the apparatus comprises a support structure, two elongate foot platforms and hanging members for attaching the foot platforms to the support in such a manner that they can move in a substantially horizontal X-Y plane with two degrees of freedom. The foot platforms can be hung so that they are either arranged in parallel or have one of their ends closer together than their opposite ends. At least one substantially horizontal connecting member may be provided to interconnect the two foot platforms, either in front, in the middle or in the rear. The support structure is designed to be free standing or to be mounted onto other supporting structures.

Abstract: An attachable weight assembly having separable sections for attachment to a pole used in exercising. The weight assembly includes a elongated main body having a first end and a second end and a bore running through the first end, second end and elongated main body. The bore is sized to fit over a shaft. The first and second ends each have a storage area for secure storage of a molded weight. The elongated main body is separable into at least two main body sections. The main body sections are attached together using an attachment mechanism. A user attaches the weight assembly to the shaft for use during exercise.

Abstract: Improvements in a foot exerciser are presented that provides variable resistance for foot extension and flexing. The improvements are presented with two varieties where a first variety is fit onto an existing shoe and a second variety that is a complete shoe with the resistance elements built into or on the shoe. The amount of resistance can be changed or varied based on the abilities of the athlete by changing the resistance material, length, number and or the attachment location of the resistance element on the shoe or foot exerciser. The Speed Doctor speed builder foot exerciser provide athletes with a simple and effective way to improve the strength, agility and jumping ability of their legs by wearing shoes that offer resistance and tension.

Abstract: A pushable exercise apparatus configured to be pushed along a surface by a user and to provide user-selected variation in resistance to rotation applied to wheels of the apparatus. The apparatus may comprise a frame, a handle, a wheel shaft rotatably supported by the frame, one or more wheels fixedly attached to the wheel shaft, and an electrical braking system, such as a generator braking system. The electrical braking system may have a motor driven by rotation of the wheel shaft and variable electrical resistance such that an amount of torque and/or effort required to rotate at least one of the wheels is dependant on the amount of electrical resistance provided to the motor.

Abstract: A foot, toe, and ankle exercise device provides variable resistance to movements of the foot, ankle and toes in multiple directions. Embodiments of the device comprise a flexible forefoot support to allow for full toe and foot range of motion. Resistance is provided by resistance members that may comprise elastic banding or tubing. The forefoot support may be suspended by the resistance members.

Abstract: Embodiments relate to a drag chute. An exemplary drag chute is comprised of a canopy from flexible material having a perimeter, a first surface, and a second surface. The drag chute is also comprised of a stiffening member coupled to the canopy along a portion of the canopy perimeter. The drag chute is also comprised of a veil attached to the canopy and a leash attached to the veil. The stiffening member may be maintained in a tunnel that extends along at least a portion of the canopy perimeter. In an additional embodiment, the stiffening member may be a foam material. An additional embodiment may include an integrated bag for storing one or more parts of the drag chute when not in use.

Abstract: A weighted vest includes a pair of mirror image front panels joined to a back panel to form a sleeveless weight supporting vest. A plurality of pliable easily conformed weight packets are secured within the vest interior by fabric attachment pads together with a combination of elastic bands and belts. The vest provides weight distribution particularly suited to activities of substantial acceleration such as sprint starting, American football or the like. A porous liner and mesh outer layer over certain areas of the vest allow heat to be vented from the vest interior. A pair of variable spring rate expansion joints are coupled between the front panels and the back panel passing over the shoulder, neck and collar bone region of the athlete's body to provide reduction of localized stress upon the athlete.

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: A parachute-like safety device for use with an exercise resistance band. The parachute-like device can attach to the ends of the band to act as handles, and furthermore, such a device can be used at the center portion of a typical exercise resistance band. The benefit of either use, is that in the event of the accidental release (snap back) of any part of the device, the parachute-like device will “catch-air” and function as an air-brake as it is forced to rapidly move through the air, so as to slow down movement of the resistance band and therefore diminish or prevent injury caused by the snap-back effect.

Abstract: A training device for an ambulatory user is disclosed. The training device includes a harness to attach to the ambulatory user, a pair of wheels extending from opposite sides of a crossbar, and a weight holder connected between the crossbar and the harness. The weight holder is adapted to hold one or more removable weights. The training device can further include an elongated shock absorber connected to the harness to absorb compressive and expansive forces exerted on the harness at least in part by the ambulatory user.

Abstract: Embodiments relate to a drag chute. An exemplary drag chute is comprised of a canopy from flexible material having a perimeter, a first surface, and a second surface. The drag chute is also comprised of a stiffening member coupled to the canopy along a portion of the canopy perimeter. The drag chute is also comprised of a veil attached to the canopy and a leash attached to the veil. The stiffening member may be maintained in a tunnel that extends along at least a portion of the canopy perimeter. In an additional embodiment, the stiffening member may be a foam material. An additional embodiment may include an integrated bag for storing one or more parts of the drag chute when not in use.

Abstract: An elastic resistance band for use in an exercise device. The resistance band comprising a center portion having opposed ends and having a shape and comprised of a material which presents a substantial friction against air, so to create a wind resistance effect which slows down movement of the center portion when the center portion is forced to move through air, and an elastic band portion attached to each of the opposed ends of the center portion. The elastic band portions having at their free ends means for attaching the elastic resistance band to an exercise device.

Abstract: A single-handed overspeed trainer system that detachably tethers an athlete to a trainer through a substantially quiet, non-hook and loop material, release structure is disclosed. In one embodiment, the athlete wears a belt with a substantially rigid loop extending therefrom. The trainer holds one end of a tether that contains a retractable pin toward its opposite end. The pin holds the rigid loop of the belt until the pin is retracted by the trainer, preferably when the tether's handle is released by the trainer.

Abstract: The runner arm training apparatus provides feedback to a user and help for a user in establishing a correct upper arm to lower arm, or elbow, angle. Typically, this angle is about 90 degrees. However, the apparatus may also be used to aid in preventing a 90-degree elbow bend, for perhaps a different athletic or rehabilitating pursuit.

Abstract: An exercise system for simulating the motions involved in boarding sports such as surfing or snowboarding in a repetitive manner which allows for a cardiovascular, aerobic exercise that builds and tones the same muscles and reflexes used in boarding sports. The exercise system generally includes a frame including a first track and a second track. The first track is positioned parallel with the second track. A carriage assembly is slidably mounted on the first track and the second track such that the carriage assembly may freely slide back and forth along the tracks. The carriage assembly is adapted to tilt about a horizontal axis of rotation and swivel about a vertical axis of rotation. By sliding the carriage assembly along the tracks and utilizing the swiveling and tilting motions, the operator may simulate the motions and exercises encountered while enjoying boarding sports such as wakeboarding, snowboarding, surfing and skateboarding.

Abstract: An apparatus suitable for imitating one or more muscle members of a human user during physical therapy, wherein the apparatus is configured to be used in conjunction with the human user having a waist and a leg having a knee. The apparatus includes an adjustable waist belt configured to be secured around the human user's waist and a lower leg support configured to encircle the human user's leg in a vicinity of the knee. The apparatus further includes an elastic member configured to provide an adjustable tensile resistance between the waist belt and the lower leg support.

Abstract: A pedestrian cycle, to which the invention provides substantial improvements. An illustrative embodiment of the pedestrian cycle is comprised of: a generally U-shaped, partible overhead cycle frame that provides an intrinsic suspension and spring-cushioned ride; front wheel and rear wheel assemblies with customary steerage and brakes; and an exemplary saddle assembly that completely averts pressure on the perinea of the rider while allowing unobstructed leg movement. The saddle assembly is suspended from the cycle frame by a plurality of flexible and adjustable straps which not only isolate the rider from vibration, but allow the rider to hold his or her body vertical while leaning the cycle into a turn as he or she walks or runs. Finally, the invention provides fun outdoor exercise, therapy, or training, with substantively enhanced ambulatory capacity and substantively reduced internal and external impact to the body in all human gaits and to all users able and, importantly, disabled.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for counting exercise repetitions are provided for counting exercise repetition even when an exerciser attaches the apparatus in different places and along different orientations of his or her body. The apparatus and method utilizes acceleration data along at least three axes and determines that a valid step is taken by the exerciser if at least one of acceleration profiles falls within at least one of pre-defined thresholds. Moreover, a method of identifying an optimal axis for exercise repetition measurement is disclosed by comparing the acceleration profiles of previous steps with amplitude, cycle and rhythm thresholds.

Abstract: A training aid includes a garment including multiple securements. The securements are located at areas corresponding to predetermined anatomical areas of the torso including but not limited to the chest and abdomen. The training aid also includes at least one pair of securements worn on opposite upper extremities, such as the left and right forearms, wrists, hands, fingers, and/or thumbs and are configured to releasably attach the upper extremities in close proximity to any of the anatomical areas of the torso as desired by the wearer. When attached, the wearer is trained to emulate efficient running styles of world class runners. The various securements can include fibers that interlock when they are brought into pressing contact with each other.

Abstract: A mobile physical training system and method, wherein a wheeled platform is secured to a user via a bodyworn harness and/or belt, wherein the user can easily and selectively manipulate the amount of resistant weight carried by the platform, and wherein consistent, hands-free delivery the resistant weight force is realized for both pushing and pulling actions, thereby enabling the physical training system of the present invention to target speed, strength, and endurance training for individuals of virtually any skill level during a variety of training activities, such as walking, jogging, forward, backward and lateral running, push training, mobility training, and wheelchair training.

Abstract: An exercise management function providing system and method is disclosed having a shoe with built-in sensors for sensing a user's exercise. User exercise information is measured using sensor values from each of the sensors and the measured user exercise information is transmitted to a mobile terminal. Then, the mobile terminal receives the user exercise information so as to grasp a user's exercise state and quantity of motion, and provides an exercise management function in accordance with the user's exercise state and quantity of motion. Accordingly, the present invention provides an exercise program suitable for a user in accordance with a user's quantity of motion so that the user can get exercise suitable for a specific user, and the user can be provided with an exercise program to attain their own desired weight, thereby assisting with health care.

Abstract: A single-handed overspeed trainer system that detachably tethers an athlete to a trainer through a substantially quiet, non-hook and loop material, release structure is disclosed. In one embodiment, the athlete wears a belt with a substantially rigid loop extending therefrom. The trainer holds one end of a tether that contains a retractable pin toward its opposite end. The pin holds the rigid loop of the belt until the pin is retracted by the trainer, preferably when the tether's handle is released by the trainer.

Abstract: A mobile physical training system and method, wherein a wheeled platform is secured to a user via a bodyworn harness and/or belt, wherein the user can easily and selectively manipulate the amount of resistant weight carried by the platform, and wherein consistent, hands-free delivery the resistant weight force is realized for both pushing and pulling actions, thereby enabling the physical training system of the present invention to target speed, strength, and endurance training for individuals of virtually any skill level during a variety of training activities, such as walking, jogging, forward, backward and lateral running, push training, mobility training, and wheelchair training.

Abstract: An exercising system has a frame defining a space in which a user is positioned for performing a large number of different exercises. Frame members have holes within which flexible bars are positioned, spanning across the machine, for low-impact exercising using the bars. In a preferred embodiment the bar-supporting frame members, or some of them, are adjustable in position so as to provide a nearly unlimited number of positions for different users and for different exercises. A few of the many exercises facilitated by the system are described.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a universal adapter for exercising sticks comprising a mounting means for stably and detachably securing at least an exercising stick in place, such that said adapter functions and forms as an extension of said stick when in use. The mounting means preferably comprises of an elongated member into which a stick-holding means is slidably, tensionally and adjustably mounted, such that said mounting means is capable of providing a varying resistive force against the pushing action of a user when in use, and an extension for increasing the stick's effective length, especially when used in combination and to complement a stationary exercising device such as, among others, a stepper, twister, treadmill, stationary bike, stair climber and combination thereof.

Abstract: The present invention is related to a cushioning device for treadmill, wherein the treadmill has a base with a side frame on each of its both sides, a deck disposed on the base to allow for the motions of running or walking by users, and a track surrounding and disposed on the deck. The deck is fastened to the base at least at its one end. At least one cushioning devices with adjustable cushion force are correspondingly disposed between the both sides of the deck and the side frames of the base. Each cushioning device has a plunger cylinder used to provide a cushion force in the reverse direction to cushion impact loads imparted on the deck while running or walking.

Abstract: An exercise machine includes a first elongated housing having an endcap at a first end and a hollow interior portion. A second elongated housing is slidably positionable within the first elongated housing. A spring having a progressive resistance force is positioned within an interior portion of the first elongated housing between the endcap and an end of the second elongated housing. The spring is compressible between the endcap and the end of the second elongated housing and provides a progressive in-line resistance to achieve a contractive motion from a semi contracted or hyper extended position from both push and pull positions.

Abstract: A kinesthetic Chi rope employs a pair of handles, each handle formed as a cylindrical rod with a resonating chamber attached to one end, the chamber having a first coil spring secured as by welding to the internal surface of the chamber and a ball bearing surrounded by the coils which causes an audible vibration when the handle is shaken. A magnet having cylindrical polarity is housed within the cylindrical rod and a second coil spring is compressed between the outer surface of the resonating chamber and the cylindrical magnet, serving as a conductor of the vibratory forces.

Abstract: A velcro athletic belt with velcro backed clips for securing a workout towel to the torso of a person. This “hands free” belt, clip and towel assembly allows the person to exercise, jog, run or lounge with the towel securely attached on his waist. A different embodiment utilizes clips which attach the towel directly to the person's clothes.

Abstract: A training device for an ambulatory user is disclosed. The training device includes a harness to attach to the ambulatory user, a pair of wheels extending from opposite sides of a crossbar, and a weight holder connected between the crossbar and the harness. The weight holder is adapted to hold one or more removable weights. The training device can further include an elongated shock absorber connected to the harness to absorb compressive and expansive forces exerted on the harness at least in part by the ambulatory user.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus that can be attached to any wheeled device that is pushed in which the wheel of the wheeled device is subjected to rolling resistance so that the person pushing it had to push harder thereby experiencing exercise.

Abstract: A device and method to detect force and provide feedback to a runner or jogger so that the person can judge whether to adjust his or her stride in order to lessen the impact on his or her body. The device includes a housing, a power supply, a piezo sensor, a controller, and an output generator. The piezo sensor is accommodated within a user's shoe and is connected to the controller, and the controller, output generator and power supply are accommodated within the housing. The controller is connected to the output generator so that it is set to generate a signal to the output generator when a threshold level of force signal is received from the piezo sensor. The sensor signals the controller when force from an impact is applied to the piezo sensor and the controller signals the output generator when one or more signals indicating threshold levels of force have been reached, and the output generator generates a perceivable signal in response to the controller's one or more signals.

Abstract: Fast Arm-Swing Tether supports lower arms and allows a runner or walker to maintain maximum stride frequency. Tethered thumbs/hands raise natural frequency of pendulum motion of arm swing to ensure that stride rate is not limited by slow arm movement. The tethers keep hands and arms up and reduce lower-arm moment of inertia, thus allowing the lower arms to swing essentially as point masses, resulting in a higher natural frequency of pendulum motion of arm swing to ensure stride frequency is not limited by slow arms. Supporting the hands also reduces effort required to swing arms or to keep elbows locked. This invention relieves arm fatigue for long distance running or walking in addition to allowing greater arm movement. Fast Arm-Swing Tether could be made in any fashion as long as a frontal extension can provide adequate support to hang pendulum tethers to keep hands elevated.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a universal adapter for exercising sticks comprising a mounting means for stably and detachably securing at least an exercising stick in place, such that said adapter functions and forms as an extension of said stick when in use. The mounting means preferably comprises of an elongated member into which a stick-holding means is slidably, tensionally and adjustably mounted, such that said mounting means is capable of providing a varying resistive force against the pushing action of a user when in use, and an extension for increasing the stick's effective length, especially when used in combination and to complement a stationary exercising device such as, among others, a stepper, twister, treadmill, stationary bike, stair climber and combination thereof.

Abstract: An apparatus for shifting the body weight of a runner from a runner's legs to a wheeled frame for enhancing the runner's performance and minimizing leg strain comprises a loop of elastic rod-shaped material stretchable during standing and during running movement. A base bend of the elastic is secured to a pelvic harness at the top of the back of each leg, and another bend of the elastic is secured to the wheeled frame. A third bend is supported on pulleys mounted on a height adjustable tee on the wheeled frame. This brings about a significant shift of the runner's weight from the runner's legs to the wheeled frame.

Abstract: A portable resilient action exercise platform 10 permits the user to jog in place when indoors and provides an increasing resistance to deformation as the amount of deformation of the platform increases. A support assembly including a spaced array of flexible user selectable and replaceable resilient supporting blocks 12 provides a variable amount of support for the exercise platform so that the rebounding action of exercise platform 10 can be varied. Platform 10 preferably includes a spaced array of flexible user-replaceable resilient supporting blocks 12 to absorb the impact of the user's footfalls or movements, and is preferably constructed of strong, flexible structural polymer supported, preferably, by eight or nine resilient flexible user-replaceable foam supporting blocks 12, each preferably comprising a closed cell foam support of selected durometer.

Abstract: An exercise machine is disclosed. Exemplary embodiments include an exercise machine with a safety brake mechanism to provide a braking force to the exercise machine to stop the exercise machine, an exercise machine with a variable resistance mechanism to variably adjust and provide resistance to the exercise machine, and an exercise machine with both mechanisms.

Abstract: An exercising system has a frame defining a space in which a user is positioned for performing a large number of different exercises. Frame members have holes within which flexible bars are positioned, spanning across the machine, for low-impact exercising using the bars. In a preferred embodiment the bar-supporting frame members, or some of them, are adjustable in position so as to provide a nearly unlimited number of positions for different users and for different exercises. A few of the many exercises facilitated by the system are described.

Abstract: A personal exercise device having a body mounted shaft housing for mounting a shaft at a position near the rear portion of a user's waist. A shaft is confined within the shaft housing. Two leg mounts are attached to each of two legs of the user near the user's knees. Each of two torque arms are attached pivotally at one end to one of the leg mounts and also attached pivotally at the other end to the shaft. A torque adjustment device is also included and is for adjusting the torque required to produce pivot motion of the torque arms about the shaft. Also, a preferred embodiment includes two handles are connected to the body mounted housing unit via two flexible cords. The user preferably gains cardiovascular training utilizing the device while walking or running and gains additional resistance training by appropriately adjusting the torque and pulling the handles.