Abstract: A robotic module which can be attached to an exercise apparatus provides enhanced physical therapy for victims of stoke or other maladies or accidents by simulating normal or arbitrarily modified profiles of angular position of an extremity such as a foot in accordance with a position of that extremity along a locus of repetitive motion.

Abstract: A real-time estimation of 3D moments of lower-limb joints using a robotic multi-axis training system with a 6-axis force/torque (F/T) sensors and a 6-DOF goniometer is described. A joint moment such as the knee abduction moment (KAM) can be determined in real-time without using sophisticated optoelectronic motion tracking system. The system also does not require computation of the COP location. The knee adduction moment or any other lower-limb 3D joint moments can be determined conveniently during stepping movement on the training system for real-time biofeedback training on controlling the targeted joint moment(s). The 6-DOF goniometer is convenient to use with other analog signals including the 6-axis F/T and locomotion variables.

Abstract: An exercise system includes a local system having an exercise apparatus and an associated local computer, where the local computer controls and monitors the operation and use, respectively, of the exercise apparatus. The system further includes a remote system having a remote computer, and a transmission medium including a telephone line that couples the local system to the remote system for data communication between the local system and the remote system. The remote system may receive local system data from the local system concerning the use of the exercise apparatus, and the local system may receive remote system data from the remote system concerning the operation of the exercise apparatus. The local computer preferably controls the operation of the exercise apparatus based upon a modifiable script stored in a read/write memory of the local computer, which can be updated by the remote system.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame, an arm supporting member, and a leg supporting member. A sensor is connected to at least one of the arm supporting member and the leg supporting member, and/or a resilient member is interconnected between the arm supporting member and either the leg supporting member or the frame. The sensor communicates with a user display and/or a resistance device to indicate the amounts of work performed by the arm supporting member and the leg supporting member, and/or to adjust resistance to movement of the leg supporting member as a function of user force applied against the arm supporting member. The resilient member encourages synchronization of the arm supporting member and the leg supporting member, while allowing some relative movement therebetween.

Abstract: A method and wristop (wrist worn) device for monitoring physical exercise. The wristop device includes a central unit, in which there is a display face and to which a wristband is, or can be attached, sensor means for collecting a hemodynamic signal from the wrist, and a data-processing unit functionally connected to the sensor means, for deriving at least one physiological parameter from the hemodynamic signal. The data-processing unit of the wristop device is arranged to derive from the hemodynamic signal at least one physiological parameter depicting respiration, and further, on the basis of this, to calculate at least one training-effect parameter depending on the person and the exercise. In addition, the device makes it possible to eliminate the use of pulse bands in monitoring the training effect of exercise.

Abstract: A universal athleticism rating system and related athletic performance measuring systems for accurately detecting and recording athletic performance are disclosed. The athleticism rating system evaluates individual athletes against a common, standardized, set of athletic performance tests. Each athlete performs the athletic tests and his or her scores in the individual tests are entered into a standardized calculation to produce a single athletic performance score. The related performance measuring system is preferably a timing system that ensures quick, easy, and accurate collection of athletic event timing related data without the need for the athlete to wear any special detection devices or the like. In a preferred embodiment, the performance measuring system integrates with the rating system to provide seamless athletic data collection and rating of athletes.

Abstract: An exercise device is configured to enable a user to interact with a trainer in real-time communication. The exercise device includes an exercise mechanism having a movable element for movement in performance of exercise by a user. Communicating with the exercise mechanism is an interface adapted for gathering a first real-time signal from the user. The interface communicates with a communication system for receiving a packetized second real-time signal including a synchronized control signal from the trainer. The exercise device includes an output device configured to reproduce the second real-time signal. The control signals carried by the second signal are used to control the operating parameters of the exercise mechanism in real-time.

Abstract: A universal athleticism rating system and related athletic performance measuring systems for accurately detecting and recording athletic performance are disclosed. The athleticism rating system evaluates individual athletes against a common, standardized, set of athletic performance tests. Each athlete performs the athletic tests and his or her scores in the individual tests are entered into a standardized calculation to produce a single athletic performance score. The related performance measuring system is preferably a timing system that ensures quick, easy, and accurate collection of athletic event timing related data without the need for the athlete to wear any special detection devices or the like. In a preferred embodiment, the performance measuring system integrates with the rating system to provide seamless athletic data collection and rating of athletes.

Abstract: A training script device is described that conveniently allows a user to create a training script defining one or more steps of a workout routine, where each step may include an activity, a duration for performing that activity, and an intensity at which the activity is to be performed. Further, one or more steps of the training script can be self-starting in response to performance data detected by sensors of training script device executing the training script. This conveniently frees the athlete from having to continuously monitor the status of his or her workout activities. Still further, the training script device conveniently allows a user to transfer training scripts to other training script devices, so that athletes can share successful training scripts.

Abstract: Strength training exercise is facilitated by a video gaming system (VGS). VGS communicates information about the exercise resistance force with an exercise device. Strength training machine coupled with the VGS and acts as a game controller. The machine provides resistance by an electrical motor. Resistance can be adjusted using data send from the VGS. Further, the resistance can pulsate during an exercise motion, providing internal muscle massage. The video gaming system uses a non-contact method to monitor a physiological parameter of the user. For example, a video camera is used to detect heart rate. Pose tracking information is used to detect the level of user exhaustion. Those and other monitored parameters are used to adjust the regime for either current or future exercises. The regime is optimized to increase workout efficiency. An activity not directly related to exercise, for example game, is unlocked if exercise performance is on track.

Abstract: An instrument is attached to a punching bag that accurately and consistently provides a strike impact feedback score to a user. The instrument is adaptable to existing punching bags, is simple for the user to install, simple to operate, and provides an intuitive user interface. The feedback score is a reliable and consistent interpretation of the intensity of the user's strike, providing meaningful feedback to the user and/or the martial arts instructor for use in improving the quality of the student's strikes.

Abstract: A system and method for use in moderating symptoms associated with vestibular disorders. The patient stands atop a balance platform and balances or performs other exercises on the platform. The exercises require the patient to work against the instability of an inflatable bladder positioned beneath the balance platform. Training difficult may be increased or decreased by changing the pressure of the inflatable bladder. Increased pressure makes the bladder firm, which is easier to balance upon and decreased pressure softens the bladder, making it more difficult to balance upon. Over time, the repeated performance of the exercise sessions improves the impairment the patient is experiencing due to the symptoms of the vestibular disorder.

Abstract: There is provided a machine for rehabilitation or exercise, comprising: a frame; a first arm movably secured to the frame via a first actuator; a first force sensor for measuring a force exerted by a user on the first arm; and a control unit adapted for controlling a displacement speed for the first arm via the first actuator as a function of the force and for increasing the displacement speed of the first arm via the first actuator when the force is superior to a target force. In one embodiment, there is further provided an electromyograph for location on the exercised muscle for measuring an electrical potential generated by the muscle and for lowering the target force when the electrical potential is superior to a predetermined maximum electrical potential. There is further provided a system for exercising a muscle.

Abstract: Systems and techniques for the collection and display of athletic information. Athletic data relating to a single person or group of people is collected at a central location, and subsequently displayed at a desired remote location so that the person or people can review and critique their performance. In addition, athletic data for multiple persons can be collected at a central location, and subsequently displayed to a user at a desired remote location, so that the user can compare his or her athletic activities to others.

Abstract: Systems and methods of organizing a massively multiplayer online game (MMOG) via mobile units are provided. Features of mobile units such as messaging and location based services are incorporated into the game to enhance the user experience. The MMOG provides social networking opportunities to players by associating players based on similarities such as shared interests and activities. These shared interests and activities can be determined based on associations of the players in other situations, such as disparate online games or websites. In addition, advertising content can be provided to players based on similar factors. In an example implementation, the MMOG comprises a game similar to the offline game of tag, wherein players can “tag” each other through in-game interactions via the mobile units. These interactions can be triggered based on players being a fixed predetermined distance from each other.

Abstract: Disclosed is a training management device which manages exercise by a user using a training machine including a moving body which moves according to exercise by the user, the training management device including: a detecting section which detects that (a) the moving body starts moving from a default position to reach a predetermined position and (b) the moving body moves from the predetermined position toward the default position; a measuring section which measures time from when the detecting section detects that the moving body reaches the predetermined position to when the detecting section detects that the moving body moves from the predetermined position toward the default position; and a determining section which determines whether the exercise by the user is isometric training based on the measurement time measured by the measuring section.

Abstract: A method is provided for exercising a human appendage that includes placing the appendage in contact with a user interface and placing a force on the user interface where the user interface based on a net user force becomes displace from an unbiased position to a biased position, where the user interface when moving from the unbiased position to the biased position moves about a path defined by a semispherical surface having defined by an origin, a radius and an angle of displacement.

Abstract: We have disclosed a modular personal network (MPN) that includes multiple devices that may be worn, carried, or used in close proximity to a user. The devices communicate wirelessly. Functions of the MPN may be modified by adding or removing components. The MPN may communicate with a personal computer. General purpose devices may include a control unit, a display, a user input, and an audio output. The MPN may provide a variety of functions, including time, communication, entertainment, organization, guidance, athletic, medical, travel, outdoors, identity, security, and military.

Abstract: A martial arts training device for use during training and/or sparring is disclosed. The device includes a chest protector for covering at least a portion of a user's torso. One or more shock sensors are disposed in the chest protector for detecting a contact made to the chest protector. A control unit is in communication with one or more of the shock sensors. The device may include a display unit for displaying a score representing quantity of contacts detected by one or more of the shock sensors. The device may include an output device, such as a sound emitter for emitting a sound to indicate the contact has been made to the chest protector. A power supply is provided in the martial arts training device for supplying power to one or more of the shock sensor(s), the control unit, the output device, and/or the display unit.

Abstract: A personal athletic device is worn by a runner during a race. A race course is provided with a plurality of mats along the race course. The mats have antennas and generate a magnetic field. The personal athletic device has a chip system having an RFID tag and a display. As the runner progress along the course, the RFID tag is triggered at each mat and race data is displayed on the device.

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

Abstract: The present invention provides a portable electronic device. The device includes a first controller, a second controller, a mode switch unit, and a main controller. The mode switch unit is for a user to operate thereby generating a mode switch instruction. The main controller is for switching a work mode according to the mode switch instruction from the mode switch unit. When the mode switch unit generates a first mode switch instruction, the device enters a common work mode whereby the main controller activates the first controller and the second controller to be on standby; and when the mode switch unit generates a second mode switch instruction, the device enters a single work mode whereby the main controller activates only one of the first controller and the second controller to be on standby.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and system for monitoring sport related fitness by estimating muscle power and joint force of limbs, in which the system comprises a sensing module and a force/track detection module, wherein sensor values from the sensing module are fed to the force/track detection module to be used as base for estimating feature parameters and classifying a motion series relating to muscle power and joint force of limbs so as to obtain skill-related fitness parameters corresponding to the sensing of the sensor module.

Abstract: Methods and computer program products for providing audio performance feedback to a user during an athletic activity are disclosed. In an embodiment, a method for providing audio performance feedback to a user during an athletic activity using a portable fitness monitoring device includes the steps of the portable fitness monitoring device receiving one or more audio feedback files, the portable fitness monitoring device generating audio performance feedback during the athletic activity by reference to an index, wherein the index is associated with the one or more audio feedback files, and the portable fitness monitoring device providing the audio performance feedback to the user during the athletic activity audibly through an audio output device.

Abstract: A therapeutic training device includes a shallow housing of a specific shape with a quadratic top surface, a quadratic bottom surface and four thin rectangular side surfaces. The housing includes an upwardly open cavity in the top surface and a flexible and transparent cover which encloses the cavity at least partially. The flexible and transparent cover has a size in the range between the size of a human fist and the size of a human foot, and defines a central part. The housing further includes a force sensor placed inside the cavity communicating with the central part. The force sensor measures the force applied on the flexible and transparent cover and generates a response signal.

Abstract: A playground system includes a playground appliance and a processing unit. The processing unit is adapted to receive a sensor signal from the sensor indicative of the detected movement, and to control the display to indicate a user-selection responsive to the received sensor signal.

Abstract: A method for controlling an exercise apparatus, including steps of controlling a touch screen to display an information field, and then monitoring the touch screen to detect whether a touch is located in an input zone which has a plurality of sensing areas in the information field. A user can use one of specific actions to move a first tag from a first sensing area to a second sensing area. And one of the steps of the method relocates the first tag proximate to the second sensing area to have a portion of the first tag to point at the second sensing area. The final step of the method operates the exercise apparatus from a first condition using a first value corresponding to the first sensing area to a second condition using a second value corresponding to the second sensing area.

Abstract: A system for monitoring performance of a physical exercise routine comprises a Pilates exercise device enabling a user to perform the physical exercise routine, a plurality of motion and position sensors for generating sensory information that includes at least position and movements of a user performing the physical exercise routine; a database containing routine information representing at least an optimal execution of the physical exercise routine; a training module configured to separate from sensory information at least appearance of the Pilates exercise device, compare the separated sensory information to the routine information to detect at least dissimilarities between the sensory information and the routine information, wherein the dissimilarities indicate an incorrect execution of the physical exercise routine, the training module is further configured to feedback the user with instructions related to correcting the execution of the physical exercise routine by the user; and a display for displaying

Abstract: A virtual reality system and method for exercise equipment are provided. The virtual reality system includes a configuration module, a processing module, a movement detection module, an electronic compass, and a display apparatus. The display apparatus displays the geographic information of the start point of the route, the current position of a user, and the visual angle corresponding to the orientation of the head of the user.

Abstract: Apparatus for both supporting an occupant as a task chair and exercising the lumbar extensors. The chair has two configurations. One configuration is as a task chair. A second configuration is as an exercise device in which the arm rests move to restrain the anterior pelvic region and the lumbar support becomes a posterior pelvic restraint. The seatback moves through a range of motion with a strength curve ratio of about 1.4:1 between flexion and extension. The chair has a resistance mechanism that includes a four-bar linkage connected to a selectable group of coil springs. The chair includes a range of motion monitor and detectors that communicate with a feedback system, which indicates if the occupant is performing the exercise correctly. The feedback system displays a screen showing the angular position of the seatback with a comparison of the ideal position for the exercise.

Abstract: A user status notification system and method indicate to non-users proximate the fitness equipment unit status information pertaining to the user while the user is using the fitness equipment unit.

Abstract: A sports electronic training system with electronic gaming features, and applications thereof, are disclosed. In an embodiment, the system comprises at least one monitor and a portable electronic processing device for receiving data from the at least one monitor and providing feedback to an individual based on the received data. The monitor can be a motion monitor that measures an individual's performance such as, for example, speed, pace and distance for a runner. Other monitors might include a heart rate monitor, a temperature monitor, an altimeter, et cetera. In an embodiment, an input is provided to an electronic game based on data obtained from the at least one monitor that effects, for example, an avatar, a digitally created character, an action within the game, or a game score of the electronic game.

Abstract: Athletic equipment is provided including sensors to monitor the effectiveness and health of the athlete. Contact sensors identify stresses or impacts in real time, and interactively, during the training or competition. Concurrently, a health sensor, obtaining and transmitting indicia corresponding to the physical condition of the athlete (such as heart rate, blood pressure, etc.) can be communicated simultaneously and synchronously with the monitored stress or impact date for use in optimizing athlete performance or monitoring athlete physiology. Such data can be transmitted to a remote location as well. In either case, such information can provide a system for optimizing athlete performance, rather merely tracking historical information. Real time analysis and physiological-performance correlations can be achieved, thereby minimizing the need, or extend of an iterative training regime.

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: This invention provides a lower-limb off-axis movement training apparatus, which is mounted on the movement part of a sagittal plane exercise machine and allows the user to perform off-axis movement training during sagittal plane functional movements. The said apparatus for the lower limb off-axis training consists of a base, an off-axis movement generating part mounted on the base, and a foot container supported by the off-axis movement generating part. The said off-axis movement generating part comprising at least one of the following two: (1) off-axis pivoting generating part, which generates the pivoting movement of the foot container; (2) off-axis sliding generating part, which generates the sliding movement of the foot container. A feedback training system including the said training apparatus is provided. While the user performs sagittal plane movements of the lower limbs, the said system provides off-axis movement training integrated with the sagittal plane movements.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system (10) for supporting a user to do a set of exercises, the system comprises a first subsystem (11) for providing audio/video content associated with said set of exercises and a second subsystem (12) for supporting the user's body when the user does said set of exercises. The invention proposes a device (100) for controlling the system and the method thereof. The device (100) comprises a first unit (101) for acquiring previously determined data (310) comprising at least one of information relating to said set of exercises and characteristics of said user, a second unit (102) for adjusting a parameter of said first subsystem (11) according to said data (310) and a third unit (103) for adjusting a parameter of said second subsystem (12) according to said data (310). With the help of the controlling device (100), parameters of the system (10) can be adjusted automatically without interaction with the user.

Abstract: A training method in which training coordinator device is in communication with a training transducer integrated in an exercise article. The training coordinator device receives training schedule data, for example, via an internet link, and uses this schedule to prompt and encourage a user in performing training activities in a real time and persistent manner defined in the training schedule by means of a user interface which may take the form of an LED array. The training coordinator device monitors training activities by signals from a suitably adapted training transducer, which may be integrated in an exercise article such as a bicycle etc. Information concerning the user's training activities may be published via an internet link for access by both the user and medical professionals, who may also be the source of the training schedule.

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

Abstract: A trampoline exercise system that is designed to show an avatar of a user, which is jumping on a trampoline. The exercise system includes a computer module, a trampoline configured to provide a platform for a user to perform exercises thereon, and a sensor module designed to sense movements of a user performed on the trampoline. The sensor module provides information that is received by the computer module that controls the display of a users' avatar on a video monitor in response to the users' motion on the trampoline. Several types of sensor may be used to sense the movement of the user, including body mounted sensors, trampoline mounted sensors, and remote viewing sensors.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for monitoring a body portion of a user during the use of a gymnastic machine provided with a video monitoring apparatus; this method comprising a phase of defining the body portion to be monitored, followed by a phase of visually and continuously monitoring this body portion through the video monitoring apparatus; this last phase comprising a sub-phase of synchronizing the trend over time of the value of at least one operating parameter of the video monitoring apparatus with a motion of the body portion described on the basis of given kinematic information acquired by a control unit of the gymnastic machine.

Abstract: An apparatus, a method, and a computer program are disclosed. The apparatus comprises a processor. The processor is configured to obtain exercise data of a user from a measurement sensor, to identify a present exercise phase of an exercise from among a plurality of exercise phases on the basis of the exercise data, and to select a relevant display mode from among a plurality of display modes on the basis of the present exercise phase and a mapping between the display modes and the exercise phases, wherein the relevant display mode defines a set of display elements associated with the present exercise phase to be displayed to the user.

Abstract: The invention is a stationary exercise scooter device and method of operation for improved physical fitness, physical therapy, strength, balance, mental fitness and entertainment, enabling a user to actualize balance and cardiopulmonary exercise benefits from side to side movement, and simulated forward movement of an unstable board or scooter, with the physical demands of riding the device within a proximate space of the device as a whole.

Abstract: Program products, methods, and systems for providing fitness monitoring services are disclosed. In an embodiment, a method for providing heart rate information to a user of a portable fitness monitoring service includes: (a) defining a plurality of heart rate zones as ranges of percentages of a maximum heart rate; (b) associating a color with each of said heart rate zones; (c) receiving heart rate information from the user; and (d) providing a graphical display of the heart rate information, wherein a color of a portion of the graphical display corresponds with the color associated with one of said heart rate zones, wherein steps (a)-(d) are executed using at least one processor.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for enabling an operator to exercise comprising a frame having a body, a base and a top. A load is positioned on the frame for providing a resistive force. A press is positioned on the frame for displacement by the operator. A linkage joins the load with the press for displacing the load upon displacement of the press by the operator. An arm extends between a support end and a user end. A support pivot secures the support end of the arm to the top of the frame for pivoting the arm about the frame. A user interface inputs and outputs data. A user pivot securing the user interface to the user end of the arm for pivoting the user interface about the arm.

Abstract: Exercise aiding apparatus includes a step 2 that a user puts a user's foot on, and a step drive means 5 that causes the step to perform movement including turning motion so that exercise is performed with respect to the foot put on the step. The apparatus includes a lock means 6 that fixes the step by engagement with the step except when the step drive means 5 drives the step. When the step is not driven, the step is fixed. The step is prevented from moving inadvertently at getting on and off, thereby ensuring safe getting on and off.

Abstract: A training script device is described that conveniently allows a user to create a training script defining one or more steps of a workout routine, where each step may include an activity, a duration for performing that activity, and an intensity at which the activity is to be performed. Further, one or more steps of the training script can be self-starting in response to performance data detected by sensors of training script device executing the training script. This conveniently frees the athlete from having to continuously monitor the status of his or her workout activities. Still further, the training script device conveniently allows a user to transfer training scripts to other training script devices, so that athletes can share successful training scripts.

Abstract: There is provided a machine for rehabilitation or exercise, comprising: a frame; a first arm movably secured to the frame via a first actuator; a first force sensor for measuring a force exerted by a user on the first arm; and a control unit adapted for controlling a displacement speed for the first arm via the first actuator as a function of the force and for increasing the displacement speed of the first arm via the first actuator when the force is superior to a target force. In one embodiment, there is further provided an electromyograph for location on the exercised muscle for measuring an electrical potential generated by the muscle and for lowering the target force when the electrical potential is superior to a predetermined maximum electrical potential. There is further provided a method for operating an exercise machine and a system for exercising a muscle.

Abstract: An exercising machine for exercising of a user's torso, arm, leg or other body part, including an exercising attachment for exercising of the user's torso, arm, leg or other body part, a computer-controlled resistance actuator operatively connected to the exercising attachment to impart a resistance for concentric exercising of the user's torso, arm, leg or other body part through a forward range of motion, a computer-controlled force actuator operatively connected to the exercising attachment to impart a force for eccentric exercising of the user's torso, arm, leg or other body part through a reverse range of motion, a computer for controlling the actuators and a method for exercising, including imparting a resistance for concentric exercising of a user's torso, arm, leg or other body part through a forward range of motion and imparting a force for eccentric exercising of the user's torso, arm, leg or other body part through a reverse range of motion.

Abstract: A mobile device monitors accelerations using one or more inertial sensors. A user activity is identified based on the accelerations. A first estimation is made of a user activity statistic associated with the user activity based on the accelerations. Location information is obtained by one or more location based sensors. A second estimation is made of the user activity statistic based on the location information. The user activity statistic is calculated based on the first estimation and the second estimation.

Abstract: A transportable apparatus for performing cardiovascular training, including: an exercise device that is adapted to enable a user to perform a specific motion pattern; an ergometer that provides an indication of the amount of work performed by the user of the exercise device; an alarm system that provides an indication to the user responsive to the readings of the ergometer; wherein the alarm system is preprogrammed to provide indications responsive to one or more readings of the ergometer based on the results of a cardiorespiratory exercise test performed on the user with the exercise device.