Abstract: There is provided a system capable of estimating biological data such as a pulse at the time of walking (exercise) with good reproducibility. Biological data at the time of walking is estimated indirectly by acquiring a relationship between biological data and exercise stress levels in body burden capacity acquiring means 21 prior to walking, acquiring an exercise stress level at the time of walking in means 22 for acquiring an exercise stress level at the time of walking, and relating the exercise stress level at the time of walking to the relationship between biological data and exercise stress levels in means 23 for estimating biological data at the time of walking. Further, a walking amount is also computed by use of the biological data at the time of walking in walking amount computing means 24.

Abstract: The objective of this invention is to provide an exercise aid device which can be used for various kinds of exercise and which enables the user to perform aerobic exercise safely and comfortably at the level best suited to that person, and a method which employs this device. In order to achieve this object, the level of intensity of aerobic exercise which is most suitable for the person is considered to be 80% of the AT (Anaerobic Threshold) value as determined by analyzing the pulse rate while that person is exercising. The pulse wave is detected by this headphone-type exercise aid device. The pulse rate is measured at the superficial temporal artery, which is near the right ear. The pulse wave is detected by a sensor of either an optical sensor or an ultrasonic blood velocity meter. Once the optimal exercise is calculated, it is transmitted to the exerciser as the corresponding rhythm through the fitness headphone for maintaining the optimal exercise.

Abstract: An apparatus having a data processing unit, a plurality of inputs, a plurality of outputs, a keyboard, a screen, a reading and saving unit, a saving unit, an indicator, a plurality of sensors and a plurality of controllers. The data processing unit provides a program that can be combined with the data sent by at least one sensor capturing the intensity of use of the equipment through an input and selects and derives to an output, one of a plurality of variables of response of at least one air flow and conditioning controller. The program also combines modifications of the responses of the controllers optionally entered from an input linked to the keyboard or from an input linked to a reading and saving unit and derives the resulting data to an output linked to a screen.

Abstract: An exercise repetitious motion counter includes a case containing a repetition counter display mounted within the case and visible through a first opening of the case, a proximity sensor mounted within the case and extending through a second opening of the case, the proximity sensor connected to the display to cause the display to show a repetition count when a portion of an exerciser's body comes into non-contact proximity to the proximity sensor, and a detection distance setting mounted within the case and extending through a third opening of the case, the detection distance setting being connected to the proximity sensor and variable to determine a proximity sensitivity range of the proximity sensor.

Abstract: A running machine 1 is provided with an exercise monitoring unit 40 for turning a running belt 14 on which a user runs by means of a motor 15 and monitoring a running state of the user based on a driven state of the running belt 14. The running machine a includes a monitor 31 for displaying images at its front side.

Abstract: An exercise monitoring system. The monitoring system is configured to acquire workout information from an exercise equipment device that includes a set of selectable resistive elements, such as a weight stack. The monitoring system includes a testing subsystem, sensing subsystem, and processor that cooperate to acquire the workout information by monitoring the set of selectable resistive elements.

Abstract: An exercise assisting apparatus including a cycling machine, a rotation sensor for detecting pedaling movement of the cycling machine, a pulse sensor for detecting the pulse rate of the user, an exercise monitoring unit for monitoring the pulse rate of the user based on the detection results of the rotation sensor and the pulse sensor and a monitor for displaying a background image and a role-playing character. The apparatus also includes an image processor for causing the role-playing character to make a simulated motion related to the pedaling movement within the background image on the monitor based on the detection result of the rotation sensor, a game executing unit for causing the roll-playing character to jump, and a game evaluating unit for giving a higher evaluation when a landing position after the jump is closer to the position reached when the jump is made at a preset target pulse rate.

Abstract: A communication interface is coupled to an exercise machine and the public communication network. The communication interface receives first exercise information from an exercise machine wherein the first exercise information indicates exercise performance. Some examples of exercise information are video and audio files for competitive tracking with voice and video interaction. The communication interface then generates first communication information based on the first exercise information. In one embodiment, the communication information is in Internet Protocol packets. The communication interface then transmits the first communication information over the public communication network. The communication interface then receives second communication information from the public communication network. The communication interface then generates second exercise information based on the second communication information wherein the second exercise information indicates a response to the exercise performance.

Abstract: Interlock apparatus for fitness equipment comprises a microprocessor 105 receiving grip signal inputs from grip sensors (101A, 101B) mounted on a load-bearing component of the fitness equipment. Signal conditioners (103A, 103B) provide noise filtering, signal debouncing and digital inputs for the microprocessor. Grips status monitors (106A, 106B) provide grip status signals used by microprocessor 105 to determine the validity of the grip signals. Microprocessor 105 provides validity criteria which changes depending on the grip status inputs. The apparatus detects sensor connection changes and abnormal sensor and circuit operation and modifies logic functions to improve the capability and reliability of safety locks and brakes on the equipment.

Abstract: An exercise monitoring system which includes an electronic positioning device; a physiological monitor; and a display unit configured for displaying data provided by the electronic positioning device and the physiological monitor.

Abstract: An apparatus for synchronizing the movement of a stationary bicycle with video effects produced on a video display of a computer, wherein the bicycle has a rear wheel, handlebars, and a pair of front wheel forks operatively engaged with the handlebars. The apparatus includes a motion sensor configured to produce a rear wheel rotation signal which corresponds to the rotation of the rear wheel. The apparatus also includes a handlebar rotation sensor assembly that is configured to produce a handlebar rotation signal which corresponds to the rotation of the handlebars about an axis. A digital signal processor is configured to receive the rear wheel rotation signal and the handlebar rotation signal and transmit output signals to the computer so that a user of the bicycle may interact with the video effects by rotating the rear wheel and the handlebars.

Abstract: An exercise and performance evaluation apparatus including a revolving belt or other engagement surface on which a subject can perform forward, backward, or sideways bipedal locomotion or other exercise movement, a means for securing the position of the subject relative to the frame of the apparatus, a means for measuring the force applied by the subject to the engagement surface, and a means for monitoring and/or controlling the velocity of the engagement surface. Securing the subject relative to the frame of the apparatus facilitates monitoring velocity as a function of time. Processing of velocity and force as a function of time allows for recording and analysis of data such as the maximal exertion force-velocity curve. Force-velocity-duration data for exertions is analyzed in terms of an intensity function. The apparatus allows exertions to be performed throughout, and outside, the first quadrant of a force-velocity-duration space.

Abstract: A cardiovascular exercise program that includes selectable virtual and real time directed and/or guided exercises particularly adapted for stationary exercise equipment. The program may be performed by individuals in virtual or actual groups. The program allows individual participants to ascertain their ongoing physical conditions such that the participants may customize the exercise program criteria to reflect recognition of such ongoing physical conditions. The program may be performed in a delayed or real-time mode, and includes a particular form of guidance that enables an individual to achieve objectives of self awareness and exercising at appropriate levels through a unique combination of verbal queues, guidance, motivation, entertainment, community, participation, and achievement monitoring. Thus, an individual can increase his or her level of fitness by controlling their perceived level of exertion and the performance of their heart during exercise through guidance and monitoring.

Abstract: An exercise system includes a plurality of exercise terminals, wherein a workout of an exerciser includes at least two exercises performed at one or more of the exercise terminals. Each exercise terminal includes a communication device for communicating to the exerciser information regarding an exercise of the workout subsequent to a current exercise in the workout.

Abstract: A training machine including a load unit (13) and a pedal (12) or the like for providing an exerciser with predetermined exercise and a display (17) for displaying an image, further including a storage unit (24) for storing a reference range of the heart rate of the exerciser being exercising, a storage unit (24) for storing a plurality of types of images, a heart rate sensor (21A) for sensing the heart rate of the exerciser, a sensor signal detection processing unit and display-audio output processing unit (27B, 27A) for judging whether the exercising state of the exerciser is proper, wherein the display-audio output processing unit (27A) retrieves the image corresponding to the exercising state from the storage unit (24) and displays it on a display unit (17).

Abstract: The present invention is directed to systems and methods for providing exercise devices with motivational programming. The programming includes motivational content and control signals, synchronized with the motivational content, for controlling operation of the exercise device. The motivational content preferably includes audio and/or video designed to simulate a group exercise setting and optionally instructional and educational content for the benefit of the user. The control signals can be carried in a carrier signals and can include bytes of data that define changes to the value of one or more operating parameters of an exercise device. The control signals can be audible to a listener and therefore act as an audible warning of upcoming changes in the one or more operating parameters of the exercise device.

Abstract: A computerized connection system between exercise stations, comprising an exercise machine or equipment item and interface means to allow the exchange of information between the user and the station itself, includes a telecommunication network operatively interposed between the exercise stations to allow the connection, information exchange and communication of the users of the individual stations.

Abstract: A method, computer program product, and system for monitoring and rewarding athletic performance and use of a product worn by a person, thereby motivating use of the product and promoting customer loyalty. The present invention includes and system and method for measuring, tracking, and recording use of the product, preferably related to the athletic performance of an athlete, using a portable, remote device; transferring that data from the remote device to a common location, such as an Internet web site service; calculating, assigning, and tracking rewards based on the level of use determined from the data; and allowing the user to redeem his or her rewards or compare his or her performance level with other athletes using other remote devices.

Abstract: A simulator for snowboarding, skateboarding, water skiing and the like includes a substantially flat board having a support which permits three degrees of freedom of motion. The support can include a convex body which, in combination with a thrust receiving surface, forms a thrust bearing permitting the three degrees of freedom. The support can also include a rotary or turntable type of bearing permitting rotary motion. The simulator is instrumented to measure rotational motion and to provide an output signal compatible with a personal computer (PC) game port or a video game console input/output (I/O) port representative of rotational position of the board.

Abstract: A personalized training system, and a method of fitness training, are disclosed. The personalized training system includes a fitness device, into which a user enters a first plurality of user information, including a choice of an automated interactive learned program mode or an automated fitness test mode, an automated control location that receives the first plurality of user information, and a second plurality of user information during each use of the fitness device by the user, a performance assessor that assesses a performance of the user during each use of a plurality of uses based on a comparison of the second plurality of user information to the first plurality, a performance database incrementally formed by at least the plurality of performance assessments, and a fitness comparator that adjusts the use based on a comparison of the performance database to the second plurality.

Abstract: An exercise machine is described which is entirely self-contained without any source of outside power. A rechargeable battery is used to maintain the exercise system operative for a time-out period. At all other times the machine is powered by the user. The machine is compact, light, rigid and sized to fit through a standard doorway. The entire exercise machine is provided with a wrap-around handrail into which a display input/output unit has been integrally provided. The exercise machine or stepper utilizes a dynamically controllable load or alternator which is controlled by a computer circuit to maintain the power input into the exercise machine or to maintain metabolically energy consumption rate within a user of the exercise machine at a predetermined, approximately constant level, regardless of the speed of stepping or the actual or effective weight of the user. The alternator is dynamically controlled by pulse width modulating its field coils.

Abstract: An electric rehabilitation treatment machine. The machine includes a casing, a reduction mechanism and a transmission mechanism, a control motor to drive the reduction mechanism, left and right transmission mechanisms at both sides thereof to drag connecting rods to let a foot-pedal at a front end to move upwards and downwards, so that such movement enables a hand-plate to perform an interlaced movement with the feet pedal, so as to provide a rehabilitant with a complete exercise of the feet and hands.

Abstract: The invention relates to a measuring unit for a weight-stack gym machine where a frame supports a load unit equipped with a plurality of substantially identical weights. The weights have a hole through them to form a vertical channel for a load selecting bar. A remote load measuring unit is envisaged to calculate static and dynamic training parameters.

Abstract: A bipedal locomotion exercise and performance evaluation apparatus including a revolving belt, a harness for securing the position of a subject on the belt, a harness-force measuring means, and a belt volocity monitoring and controlling means. The harness may be secured on various points of a subject and includes push/pull engagement means. An overhead harness may be used to reduce effective body mass. The velocity of the belt may be controlled by a unidirectional or bidirectional motor/brake system. Velocity of the belt may also be controlled by a brake only. A digital processor may be used to control the motor and/or brake as a function of the forces applied allowing multiple operating modes. Recording of velocity and force as functions of time facilitates analysis of exercise performance. The apparatus allows exertions throughout the first quadrant of a force-velocity-duration space, and outside that first quadrant.

Abstract: A display controller system for use with a selectively adjustable exercise apparatus is disclosed. The hiking display controller system comprises a display device, a controller, and a selectively adjustable exercise device. The controller enables adjustments in the exercise apparatus according to a mountain exercise profile having trail workout segments that are digitally coded to enable the selectively adjustable exercise device. The mountain exercise profile may use topographical maps, GPS coordinates, or portable hike monitors to design the actual exercise program. A mountain exercise profile may also be obtained through an external interface located in the controller. The user can develop a virtual trail. These preprogrammed trail workouts are created by a trail workout designer who identifies the density of the trails and digitally codes the necessary adjustments for a specific exercise device.

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: A passive/active hydraulic exercise device having a base portion, an upright support and a pivot bard is selectively placed in either a passive push and pull type resistance mode or an active velocity type mode. In the passive mode, a pump can be off or on during “idling”. A solenoid valve is energized to an open position, and a servo valve sets a resistance for the fluid flow in the system. A check valve compensates for the differential areas of the cylinder. The active mode is useful for physical therapy applications. In this mode, a constant cycling operation is provided at absolute minimum force levels. The load cell senses the actual force generated, and the position feedback senses actual movement of the exercise bar. As long as the subject is providing enough force to move the bar, the feedback device confirms movement to the computer which adjusts the resistance of the electronic pressure control valve to a value which will allow the subject to continue moving the bar.

Abstract: There is thus provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, an alignment apparatus (110) for use with an exercise machine (100) having an adjustable element (20). The alignment apparatus includes an operating device (114) coupled to the adjustable element for adjustably positioning the adjustable element, a beam emitter (116) connected to the exercise machine, a control device (118) coupled to the operating device, and the beam emitter. The beam emitter emits rays (124) to locate the optimum position of the adjustable element, and the control device actuates the operating device to move the adjustable element to the optimum position.

Abstract: A switching apparatus is disclosed for switching on a TV as a reward when a user is achieving a predetermined performance level on an exercise apparatus. The switching apparatus includes a pulse generator for generating pulses commensurate with the amount of work expended by the user on the exercise apparatus and a transmitter for transmitting the pulses.

Abstract: This invention discloses a method for measuring exercise, the method including providing a first light reflection of an exercise apparatus, detecting a second light reflection of the exercise apparatus, and determining at least one exercise measurement from a comparison of the light reflections.

Abstract: A feedforward-movement training apparatus, which is capable of restoring functions of fast and accurate movements in a relaxed state by training feedforward-movements includes a movement working portion where a patient causes a body part to do, within a time limit, a feedforward-movement between a start point and an end point arranged in advance, a movement measuring portion for measuring the feedforward-movement of the patient, and a movement feedback portion for giving the result of the measurement made by the movement measuring portion to the patient. A feedforward-movement evaluation system objectively and easily evaluates the degree of skillfulness of the patient's feedforward-movements in the aforementioned feedforward-movement training apparatus and thus restores functions to execute fast and accurate movement in a relaxed state more effectively.

Abstract: A sports footwork training device that immediately alerts players if their weight is not on the balls of the feet includes a switch removably attachable to a rearward portion of a lower surface of a sole of a shoe. The switch is closable by application of pressure to a heel of the shoe. An alarm, electrically coupled to the switch, is triggered when the switch is closed. A method for training a sports participant to maintain weight on a forward part of a foot is also described.

Abstract: A testing and training appliance and a method of testing and/or training with a testing and training appliance that includes a loading device (5), a stand (2, 3) adapted to accommodate the loading device (5), a maneuvering arrangement (11, 12, 13) connected to the loading device (5), a connecting element (6, 7) disposed between the loading device (5) and the maneuvering arrangement (11, 12, 13), and a controlling and regulating unit (14) adapted for testing and/or training purposes. The loading device (5) can be regulated between an upper position and a lower position with the aid of the maneuvering arrangement (11, 12, 13) and the connecting element (6; 7) of said loading device.

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 exercise machine is described which is entirely self-contained without any source of outside power. A rechargeable battery is used to maintain the exercise system operative for a time-out period. At all other times the machine is powered by the user. The machine is compact, light, rigid and sized to fit through a standard doorway. The entire exercise machine is provided with a wrap-around handrail into which a display input/output unit has been integrally provided. The exercise machine or stepper utilizes a dynamically controllable load or alternator which is controlled by a computer circuit to maintain the power input into the exercise machine or to maintain metabolically energy consumption rate within a user of the exercise machine at a predetermined, approximately constant level, regardless of the speed of stepping or the actual or effective weight of the user. The alternator is dynamically controlled by pulse width modulating its field coils.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes an exercise device, a memory including a first memory portion, and a receiver for receiving exercise programs transmitted over a first communication link. A control unit supplies received exercise programs to the first memory portion for storage in the first memory portion as first exercise programs and selectively controls the exercise device in accordance with the first exercise programs.

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: This invention discloses an interactive exercise monitoring system including a body mounted motion sensor, and a user sensible output indicator indicating to a user an exercise motion parameter derived from an output of the body mounted motion sensor as well as a desired exercise motion parameter for comparison therewith.A method for interactive exercise monitoring is also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring and displaying information related to pressure exerted at a point of interest during an isometric exercise includes a fabric base, adapted to receive a body part. A sensor is attached to the fabric base and disposed at the point of interest during the isometric exercise, and measures a pressure magnitude at the point of interest and provides a pressure signal corresponding to the pressure magnitude. A monitor, which receives the pressure signal, processes the pressure signal to derive information that is meaningful to a user, and generates a display signal corresponding to the information derived from the pressure signal. The monitor is coupled by a wireless link to a processing device, which receives the display signal. A display device receives the display signal from the processing device and provides a visual indication of the information to the user. The visual indication of the information may be a metaphorical representation of the pressure signal.

Abstract: A football training and evaluation apparatus has a frame, a contacting element, and a force transferring member connected to the frame and the contacting element. A measuring-signaling element is connected to the force transferring member and is adapted to measure the force subjected on the force transferring member in response to an impact force subjected onto the contacting element and deliver a signal "S" responsive to said measurement. A visual signaling apparatus is connected to the frame and adapted to be actuateable and moveable in response to actuation.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing stimuli to a user while sensing the performance and condition of the user may rely on a controller for programmably coordinating a tracking device and a sensory interface device. The tracking device may be equipped with sensors for sensing position, displacement, motion, deflection, velocity, speed, temperature, humidity, heart rate, internal or external images, and the like. The sensory interface device may produce outputs presented as stimuli to a user. The sensory interface device may include one or more actuators for providing aural, optical, tactile, and electromuscular stimulation to a user. The controller, tracking device, and sensory interface device may all be microprocessor controlled for providing coordinated sensory perceptions of complex events.

Abstract: An exercise machine is described which is entirely self-contained without any source of outside power. A rechargeable battery is used to maintain the exercise system operative for a time-out period. At all other times the machine is powered by the user. The machine is compact, light, rigid and sized to fit through a standard doorway. The entire exercise machine is provided with a wrap-around handrail into which a display input/output unit has been integrally provided. The exercise machine or stepper utilizes a dynamically controllable load or alternator which is controlled by a computer circuit to maintain the power input into the exercise machine or to maintain metabolically energy consumption rate within a user of the exercise machine at a predetermined, approximately constant level, regardless of the speed of stepping or the actual or effective weight of the user. The alternator is dynamically controlled by pulse width modulating its field coils.

Abstract: An exercise system includes a plurality of exercise terminals, wherein a workout of an exerciser includes at least two exercises performed at one or more of the exercise terminals. Each exercise terminal includes a communication device for communicating to the exerciser information regarding an exercise of the workout subsequent to a current exercise in the workout.

Abstract: A runaway protection mechanism is provided which is truly nondestructive in nature and which is highly advantageous for an electric motor used in, for example, an exercise treadmill for driving its moving treadmill belt. In use, the electric motor is connected to an electric power source, such as an alternating-current wall outlet. The runaway protection mechanism includes a disconnect mechanism for disconnecting the motor from the electric power source and thereby deenergizing the motor. The runaway protection mechanism further includes a safety mechanism for comparing the actual motor speed with a desired motor speed and activating the disconnect mechanism when the actual speed exceeds the desired speed by a predetermined amount. In this manner, an orderly and nondestructive shutdown of the motor is accomplished when a fault condition is recognized.

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: A Global Positioning System (GPS) based personal athletic performance monitor for providing an athlete with real-time athletic performance feedback data such as elapsed exercise time, distance covered, average pace, elevation difference, distance to go and/or advice for reaching pre-set targets. The monitor is integrated with an AM/FM/TV personal radio, and the athletic performance feedback is provided through a set of audio headphones using an audio module. The monitor can be connected to an external personal computer via a serial or infrared port for further data storage and long term trend analysis, or to a remote computer via modem, where historical performance data is collected and logically compiled from participating athletes worldwide.

Abstract: An exercise and game playing system combined, forming a method in which the user gets large muscle physical exercise while at the same time is challenged with game play. There is a torso and limb mounted electronic section incorporating accelerometers, strain gauges, and other instruments, and a microprocessor, and a short range radio or wire link to a stationary base station and a display station. Body activity and exercise produce a display icon responsive to the degree and vigor of body activity. The display is a TV type screen or a head band mounted assembly or goggles of a virtual reality system. The accelerometer signals are double integrated and manipulated to produce useful display on the screen. There is net cursor advancement activity on the screen even when the body returns to the same location, accomplished by introduction of a dead zone in the accelerometer integration paths.

Abstract: A maximum contraction unit (10) comprising a cabinet (12) having a front panel (14), a pair of side panels (16), a top panel (18), a bottom panel (20) and a rear panel (22) hinged at (24) to one of the side panels (16), to gain access to the interior of the cabinet (12). A structure (26) is for keeping the cabinet (12) in an upright position. A facility (28) in the cabinet (12) is for producing electronic impulses. A component (30) on the front panel (14) of the cabinet (12) is for activating the electronic impulses producing facility (28) by the insertion of paper money. An assembly (32) is for carrying the electronic impulses from the electronic impulses producing facility (28) to muscles in a body of a person (34), so as to stimulate the muscles to contract and exercise.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes an exercise device and a control unit having a port for receiving a portable memory module storing one or more exercise programs, selecting circuitry for selecting exercise programs stored on the portable memory module, and a processor for executing a selected one of the exercise programs to control the exercise device.

Abstract: A system for programming training on exercise apparatus, with a series of exercises defining a personalized program, includes a central unit with first processor and a bi-directional data transferor; a portable medium, with a portable memory for data storage; a plurality of stations, not connected to one another by a data transmission line, and located at the exercise apparatus, with a second processor and a bi-directional data transferor from and to the portable medium, so as to receive as input the data in the portable memory relative to the exercise to be performed on an individual apparatus, for programming the apparatus, and so as to transfer as output to the portable memory upon completion of the exercise, data relative to the performance of the exercise so as to allow such data to be controlled.