Abstract: In order to obtain an index which generally shows the work burden extent of various works carried out in an automobile assembling factory or the like, for each work content, the maximum muscle contraction ratio is measured after the work has been continued for 5 seconds, the work burden index (L) is calculated from the measured ratio value, and the equivalent work burden in a standard work is calculated from the calculated work burden index (L) for 5 seconds. The work burden index (TVAL) of actual work is calculated from the equivalent work burden and the actual work time. Suitably, a work routine plan is corrected such that the obtained TVAL is normalized with an apparatus comprising means for storing the equivalent work burden for each work content, means for displaying an image of the work content, and means for inputting work content parameter and so forth while watching the displayed image.

Abstract: An evaluation system is disclosed herein for analyzing, displaying and feedback of digital signals derived from a source of analog motion and analog force. The system includes sensors for detecting physical movement following a point-by-point measurement procedure and a digital signal generator for introducing the sensed motion and force signals to a Fourier measuring unit for analysis. Separate analysis circuits for motion characteristics and force or load characteristics from the derived signals are employed for discrete measurement. The resultant measurements and/or values are introduced to a comparator network where the measurements and/or values are compared with stored individual data and to stored universal standards. A display device such as a video monitor, visual or auditory device receives the result's of the compared motion and force measurements and values.

Abstract: Devices and methods for the assessment and biofeedback training of coordination skills of a subject critical to maximizing the power and accuracy of athletic ball-strike activities. In preferred embodiments, the invention provides for assessment and biofeedback training of weight bearing and center of gravity control under conditions requiring the athlete to strike a ball such that the distance and direction of flight trajectory of the ball are accurate relative to a performance goal. One embodiment of the invention includes a body movement sensor, a ball strike sensor, a display, and a computer. The body movement sensor provides an output indicative of the motion of the subject's body over a period of time including the moment of ball strike. The computer causes the display to show both a trajectory of the motion of the subject's body and the moment of ball strike in relation to a region of the trajectory.

Abstract: A computerized exercise game machine provides continuous and instantaneous feedback to the exerciser or user to maintain the user's exercise goal in real time. The exercise goal is updated by the computer system each time the user uses the exercise game machine. The machine includes a fixed frame and moveable component. A signal is generated in response to the speed of movement of the moveable component. The user or exerciser is prompted to maintain a video object representing the user within a shadow object or domain on the video screen. The shadow object represents the exercise goal, such as running at five miles per hour. Different video objects are utilized for users of different physical fitness levels. A shadow object (domain) or course environment is associated with each different video object. The game machine may also provide feedback to the exercise device to control the speed of movement or resistance to movement, slope, such as raising or lowering a treadmill or curve simulation.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus combined with a video game computer that allows the exerciser to interactively participate in the video game whereby the exerciser's advancement in the video game depends on his rate of exercise and hand-eye coordination. The exercise apparatus provides entertainment and a positive mental distraction from the boring physical exercising experience by enabling multi-sensor feedback between the user and video game simulation. This exercise apparatus has the ability to interface with any exercise device that the user prefers and it will also work with non-equipment exercising methods.

Abstract: A display apparatus for a bicycle has a display panel (3). The display panel (3) includes a plurality of rear speed stage display sections (21-28) for displaying a speed stage of a rear derailleur. The rear speed stage display sections are formed of a plurality of sets of display elements. The display panel further includes a plurality of front speed stage display sections (29a-29c) for displaying a speed stage of a front derailleur. Each of the front speed stage display sections includes one set of display elements. An indicating device is provided for controlling one of the display elements in one set, thereby to indicate the speed stages of the front derailleur and rear derailleur.

Abstract: A system for isolating, evaluating and exercising the muscle groups of the human hand, wrist, arm and shoulder including an adaptable detector for interpreting the cardinal movements of at least one muscle group of the hand during flexion, extension, or deviation of the wrist, or abduction, opposition, flexion or hyperextension of individual digits of the hand. The detector translates the movements of the muscle group into rotational data for the system and effectively isolates the movements of the muscle group so that the movements of other muscle groups of the body are not detected by the system. The system also includes a controlled resistance coupled to the detector which provides a variable resistance against the muscle group and ascertains the force applied to the detector by the movements of the one muscle group. The resistance can be varied to provide isotonic, isokinetic, or isometric modes of testing against said at least one muscle group.

Abstract: A physical exercise video system includes a physical exercise machine (22), a video system (24) and an interface module (26). The video system (24) has a computer (28) and a removable cartridge (34). The interface module (26) is interposed between the computer (28) and cartridge (34), and provides interactive communication between the computer (28) and exercise machine (22). A communication protocol governs this communication, and includes specifications for status and command data packets. The video system (24) and exercise machine (22) can be selectively operated as either stand-alone units, or in an interactive exercise mode, wherein the exercise data generated by the exercise machine (22) affects the output of the video system (24), and may also be stored in memory within the interface module (26). The video system (24) controls the operation of the exercise machine (22) generally, and specifically, controls the load resistance imposed in opposition to the movement of pedals (66).

Abstract: An exercise machine is used interactively with a video monitor and an audio loudspeaker to create a physical sensation through a 3-D environment. A recumbent exercise bicycle with an attached monitor is suspended from an outer supporting frame by utilizing a four-bar linkage. A rolling action is created by pulling individually the crank and lever of the four-bar linkage; turning action, by moving the crack and lever laterally. A pitching action is created by pushing or pulling on a handlebar mounted on the outer frame. The rate of motion through the scene is achieved by pedaling. These features provide a total full-body workout interactively with computer games.

Abstract: This invention relates to computer controlled exercise machines and provides the user with a wide variety of interactive exercise options controlled by software. A virtual reality hybrid of virtual and real environments is provided which permits the user to perform significant physical exertion by applying forces to the machine while viewing images on a head mounted display. The invention permits the user to view his own hands and body superimposed over a computer generated image of objects that are not actually present while maintaining parts of the exercise machine that the user physically contacts, such as a handle, superimposed over the computer generated image. As the user exerts forces against the machine (such as the handle) he perceives that he is exerting forces against the objects the images represent.

Abstract: A method and system for uniquely identifying indicia of traits of a participant in an event adapted for use in a boxing match. A plurality of predetermined characteristic corresponding to the traits of a participant to be identified is assigned. Each predetermined characteristic has a predefined format. The assigned characteristic is stored and displayed in a plurality of predefined display format allowing for identification of traits so as to facilitate interpretation and prediction of trends.

Abstract: A treadmill having a track assembly that allows a user to walk or run in any arbitrary direction. A movable user support has a plurality of rotatable members that rotate about axes normal to the direction of movement of the user support. Separate power driven mechanisms concurrently move the user support and rotate the members to omni-directional user movement.A control for the power driven mechanisms is responsive to the directional orientation of the user on the user support to cause the user support to operate in the direction of the orientation of the user.

Abstract: In an apparatus and method for teaching motor skills to a human subject, learning by a student is based upon imitation of a teacher's motion. The teacher's motion is sensed by a motion sensing device, is digitized by a computer, and is then recorded in non-volatile computer memory. The computer generates an image sequence of the teacher on the computer display for the student to view and imitate. The same motion sensing device used to record the teacher's movement records the student's movement and the computer creates an image sequence on the display corresponding to the student's movement, simultaneously providing an image sequence of the teacher's movement. The training of the student is based upon displaying the pre-stored teacher's motion on the screen. The student's task is to imitate the teacher's movement. This process is repeated until the teacher's and student's trajectories match well in space and time.

Abstract: An exercise system using a plurality of exercise cycles with the users applying user exercise force at user exercise speed. The exercise system includes a display displaying user indicators moving along respective paths of travel on the display simulating the movement of cycles therealong. The paths of travel are displayed to simulate the travel of a plurality of cycles racing against each other. The exercise system further includes a display control measuring the exercise speed of the plurality of users applied to their respective exercise cycles, and determining the applied cumulative exercise efforts of the users. The display control also determines a lead user based upon which of the users has the greatest cumulative exercise effort, and determines when the cumulative exercise effort of particular ones of the users are within a preselected range less than the cumulative exercise effort of the lead user.

Abstract: A pulse controlled exercise system is disclosed which incorporates an exercise device, a monitor capable of displaying images formed from television signals, a pulse rate sensor for sensing the pulse rate of a user of the pulse controlled exercise system, and a controller. The controller is coupled to the pulse rate sensor, to the exercise device, and to the monitor. The controller is used to control the exercise device's speed and other states and to cause the pulse rate of the user to be displayed on the monitor as the user progresses through his or her exercise regimen. Moreover, disclosed is an exercise device which has circuitry to generate a television type signal which may be displayed on a monitor which is capable of displaying images formed from such television type signals.

Abstract: An interactive exercise monitor which computes and displays time, distance, pace, and energy expended by a user performing a repetitive workout around a predetermined course employs a stationary transmitter located along the workout course and a receiver carried by the user. The stationary transmitter emits a limited range signal that is detected by the receiver each time the user passes the transmitter during the workout. The receiver includes a central processing unit into which the precise distance of the course may be preprogrammed and that is then capable of computing distance accumulated by the user, elapsed time, and other desired parameters. In addition, the user may enter information such as his or her weight and a desired time, distance, and pace of the workout into the receiver.

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

Abstract: A stair climbing exercise apparatus capable of playing with a video game machine including a body portion having a plurality of steps each of which is formed with a plurality of recesses, each of the recesses having a plurality of cavities, a pedal fitted in each of the recesses and having a plurality of protuberances adapted to be received in the cavities, a spring disposed within each of the cavities, and a micro-switch arranged in each of the recesses and under the pedal.

Abstract: In a home trainer, in particular in the form of a stationary bicycle, a microprocessor and a device for collecting the performance of a person exercising as well as a sensor for detecting the physical condition in dependence on the time during the exercise and after the exercise, provision is made, with a view to achieving an increased psychological stimulus of use even for prolonged periods of time, for sensors being used to measure the electrical resistance of the skin surface, which are connected with a microprocessor, the microprocessor on its part triggering acoustic and/or optical indicator instruments in dependence on the signal received from the sensors.

Abstract: A pace generating device which output a desirable pace signal automatically without stopping an exerciser from exercising and which can save consumption power. A walking detector outputs a walking signal. A walking pace calculator calculates a pace from a period of the detected walking signal and stores it. A pace comparing means compares a predetermined pace with a detected walking pace, and outputs a pace generating signal when the result of the above comparison between the detected walking pace and the predetermined pace is out of a predetermined range.

Abstract: A control console is associated with a video input device and an exercise machine that has a movable member such as an endless belt on a powered treadmill or the pedals of an exercise cycle. Adjustment structures receiving signals from a videotape are associated to regulate the speed of the belt of the treadmill and the resistance to the movement of the pedals of the exercise cycle, respectively. The control console receives variable input in selected time segments from the audio track of the videotape to regulate and control the adjustment structure such as the motor controller of the treadmill or a resistance strap associated with the inertia wheel of the exercise cycle. Input is received from the audio channel of the video tape to select, modify or create exercise programs in the control console for operation of the related exercise machine. Video scenes from the video tape are displayed on a television.

Abstract: A personal orthopedic restraining device for use to restrain flexibly connected body portions of an individual and a method of use are provided. The personal orthopedic restraining device includes a restraining mechanism which restrains movement of a first flexibly connected body portion relative to a second flexibly connected body portion. A stress sensor is operatively attached to the restraining mechanism to provide an output signal representative of a sensed stress in the restraining mechanism. A memory storage device is also included. A controller is operatively coupled to the stress sensor and the memory storage device to process the stress sensor output signal according to a previously programmed routine to obtain a routine result. The controller stores the routine result in the memory storage device such that the routine result can be used by the personal orthopedic restraining device to monitor movement of flexibly connected body portions.

Abstract: The invention interfaces a user-powered exercise machine to a personal computer, creating a dual-mode exercise and training system with new methods of pacing ones activity in order to achieve a goal. The user determines when the exercise period will end, and sets a goal. The computer constantly displays THE REQUIRED SPEED, which is the speed that will enable the user to achieve his goal. The CALCULATED FINAL OUTCOME predicts the outcome of the exercise period, assuming that the user will continue at his current speed for the remainder of the exercise period. The user always knows how fast he will have to go to reach his goal, and always knows what the outcome will be if he maintains his current speed. This allows the user to vary his speed and still maintain a regulated overall level of activity. In the STANDARD MODE, the exercise period is a period of time, and the goal is a TARGET DISTANCE. In the TRAINING MODE, the exercise period ends when the end of the course is reached, and the goal is a TARGET TIME.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for assessing and biofeedback training of movement coordination, strength, and speed skills critical to balance during a mobility task performed by a subject on a combination of surfaces, in particular stepping up and down, climbing and descending stairs, sitting and rising from a sitting position. The apparatus includes a force-sensing plate. The force-sensing plate measures the forces exerted on its sensing area, i.e., its top surface, and transmits output signals representative of the measured forces. A plurality of support surfaces is mounted in specified positions relative to the force-sensing plate's sensing area, in such a way that substantially all forces exerted by the subject onto the support surfaces is transmitted to the sensing area. The plurality of surfaces may form a step, stairs or a seat.

Abstract: A testing and training system for measuring and assessing leg reaction movement sequence of a subject includes a test field having a plurality of load sensing target positions defining vectored movement paths for the subject, the field and target positions being replicated on a video screen positioned frontally with respect to the subject with visual cues presented on the screen directing movement between positions with hardware and software processing the cues and signals from the target positions to determine time intervals associated with changes in loading during the movement and determining reaction movement sequence parameters based thereon.

Abstract: An interactive exercise apparatus engages a user's mind and body. The apparatus comprises a support structure for supporting a user. An exercise mechanism and a steering mechanism are proximal to the support structure. A simulated environment is generated by a computer and displayed on a display system. The user manipulates the exercise mechanism and the steering mechanism to freely navigate through the simulated environment. The computer monitors the exercise mechanism and the steering mechanism to determine user position in the simulated environment. The display is periodically updated by the computer to provide a continuous visual display of the user's position as the user travels through the simulated environment.

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 fitness device (22, 37, 41) is provided with a display type readout which can be viewed by a user, and a user's heart rate is determined to lie within a range so that the user could be required to work the equipment within that range. That range may vary with age of the user, and the "mode" of training which is itself determined by the user's general fitness. The device (22, 37, 41) comprises a movement resistance device (25), a digital encoder (28) attached to the device which provides digital pulses, and a microprocessor (30) which is programmed to readout (14) an output as a "distance" which is proportional to the number of pulses over the time taken to travel a "distance" which is preset into the machine.

Abstract: A stepper is incorporated with a sensor system and includes a frame assembly with a base frame and a center beam mounted securely on the base frame, and two foot-pedal arms located on two sides of the center beam. Each of the foot-pedal arms has an end mounted pivotally on the frame assembly. The sensor system is adapted to monitor exercise performance and generate exercise information and includes a photo-detecting unit mounted operatively on the frame assembly, a slotted wheel mounted axially on the end of a corresponding one of the foot-pedal arms, and an instrument control unit. The photo-detecting unit includes two photo emitters and two photo receivers. Each of the photo receivers is opposite to and aligned with a corresponding one of the photo emitters. The slotted wheel has a flange member extending toward the center beam and between the photo emitters and the photo receivers. The flange member has a plurality of angularly spaced-apart openings.

Abstract: An exercise device adapted for use by a person, comprising:a first ring having a predetermined diameter, an inner surface, and an outer surface;a second ring concentric to the first ring and rotatably retained by the first ring;and components for providing isokinetic resistance to rotation of the second ring andfor sensing predetermined characteristics of said second ring during rotation and providing sensor signals corresponding to said sensed characteristics;whereby a person applying a torque in a first direction of rotation causes rotation of the second ring in the first direction of rotation against the isokinetic resistance and the sensing components in response to said rotation sense said predetermined characteristics which are subsequently converted into sensor signals.

Abstract: The belt which normally interconnects the two foot supports of a cross-country ski exercising machine passes around at least one pulley so as to rotate the pulley in an oscillating manner as the foot supports move back and forth. A slotted wheel rotates with the pulley and a photo-detecting unit is mounted on the frame for the exercise machine so as to cooperate with the slotted wheel. The photo-detecting unit includes two photo emitters and two photo receivers. Light from the photo emitters is intermittently received by the photo receivers as the openings in the slotted wheel move between the photo emitters and the photo receivers. This sensor system is capable of determining the extent of movement of the foot supports which, when connected to an information control unit, can provide precise exercise information such as the amount of distance actually covered and the number of calories consumed.

Abstract: In method and apparatus for analyzing motion of an individual for a predetermined activity, such as during a golf swing, forces on weight pads supporting the individual's feet are converted to signals corresponding to relative weights and dynamic forces on the weight pads. These parameters are displayed numerically as well as graphically on a video image of the individual during performance of the activity, in order to enable the analysis of variation in weight distribution and dynamic forces during the activity.

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

Abstract: A climbing exercise apparatus is provided having a frame on which two pedals are pivotally mounted to provide a user with a vertically reciprocating exercise movement, and a control panel for user input and output. A dynamic break, alternator or the like applies a variable level of resistance (via a suitable transmission) against the user's movement. The resistance varies over time in accordance with a control signal generated by a computer. The value of the control signal is independent of the rate at which the user steps. A display successively displays images of hills. Each hill is associated with one of the series of values, and that value is graphically represented as part of or in visual association with the hill image.

Abstract: A patient positioning system for computer controlled muscle exercising machine allows for automatic positioning of large numbers of patients prior to exercises and evaluations. The patient positioning system simplifies the patient positioning process by allowing the seat and actuator to be moved, manually or automatically, in both the horizontal and vertical direction relative to each other. This is accomplished by indicating the direction in which the seat and actuator are to be moved based upon optimum exercise positions stored in a data storage means. The directions are indicated adjacent to a four way switch and on a display device for selecting the direction of movement. In response to this prompt, the direction of movement of the seat and/or actuator is selected by pressing the four way switch for the seat or the four way switch for the actuator in the direction indicated adjacent to the switch and on the display device.

Abstract: A running machine is provided. The machine includes a base consisting of a flat upper plate and flat lower plate, a plurality of roller shafts provided laterally and spaced above the upper plate. An endless belt moves around the roller shafts by means of a motor. Four lifts are provided between the upper plate and the lower plate at the respective four corners thereof, to incline the upper plate. A computer for controlling the motor and the lifts is also provided. The computer controls the motor and lifts according to a program provided on a disk recorded with a program of various conditions of a rod. A visual-acoustic mask is connected to the computer, and includes a screen and a speaker to present images and sounds according to the program to a user wearing the mask while running on the belt for exercise.

Abstract: An instrumented orthopedic restraining device is provided. The device includes an ambulatory housing, including first and second distal end portions, and restraining means for restraining movement of the first and second distal end portions relative to one another. The restraining device preferably includes an elongated restraining bar equipped with a stress sensing mechanism for sensing stress on the restraining bar. A control unit is provided for indicating sensed stress based upon outputs from the stress sensing mechanism. Preferred embodiments include a plurality of strain gauges attached to the elongated restraining bar and interconnected with the control unit which preferably includes a recording mechanism and a microprocessor mechanism. The elongated restraining bar alternately includes an adjustable hinge interconnecting distal end sections of the elongated restraining bar, wherein the angle between the respective distal end sections can be adjusted relative to one another.

Abstract: A person simultaneously plays a video game and operates an exercise device, such as an exercise bicycle. A first sensor generates an output level signal indicative of the output level (e.g., pedal speed) of the exercise device. A second sensor generates an aerobic activity level (e.g., heart rate) signal indicative of the aerobic activity level of the exerciser. The output level signal affects the play of the video game. If the aerobic activity level signal is too low, the exercise device is made more difficult to operate and the play of the video game is altered to encourage the exercise to increase the output level of the exercise device. The play of the video game is also affected by signals generated by joystick controls operated by the exerciser's hands.

Abstract: A simple heart rate calculation process is incorporated into an exercise machine. The user controls the process by counting his/her own pulse. With the exercise machine temporarily stopped, the user finds his/her pulse with one hand, and pushes a start/stop button with the other hand. The button is pushed to stop on a count of one, and then pushed to stop on a predetermined count, e.g., 10. An embedded device automatically calculates and displays the user's heart rate.

Abstract: An exercise management system is disclosed for maintaining a user's level of exercise intensity (such as measured by heart rate) at a target level while exercising. In one embodiment, the system includes a movement member (such as pedals) which is engaged by the user to provide an exercise movement. The movement member is selectively adjustable to varying the intensity of exercise performed by the user. A heart rate sensor indicates the user's heart rate, and a computer adjusts the movement member in accordance with the heart rate signal to establish and maintain the user's heart rate near the target level. The user may periodically disengage the heart rate sensor for a limited time, during which time the computer maintains the user's heart rate near the target level by adjusting load in accordance with the user's rate of exercise (such as measured by rpm).

Abstract: A golf swing training and muscle exercising device for a full-range of motion golf swing including a rotatable ring rotatable within a stationary ring; a golf club holder sub-assembly for providing hydraulic isokinetic resistance to rotation of the rotatable ring; and an electronic monitoring sub-assembly.

Abstract: An interactive video and exercise apparatus, to be used to perform physical conditioning exercises interactively with an action scenario displayed on a video monitor, the apparatus including a support frame having a number of exercise devices adjustably attached thereto so as to allow a complete range of exercise movements simulating various physical activities corresponding with the action scenario on the video monitor. A compact disc-interactive player, video monitor, and audio output are positioned on the support frame and are interconnected to one another and each of the exercise devices such that the resistance of movement of the exercise devices is varied in accordance with a corresponding scenario segment of a scenario program being played on the CD-I player, as data is continuously exchanged between the exercise devices and the compact disc-interactive player, enabling the scenario program to interactively proceed in accordance with the user's actions.

Abstract: An improved cross-country skiing simulating exercise machine for providing interactive aerobic conditioning has a base frame, a pair of foot skates movably mounted on the frame, and a pair of arm poles attached to the frame. The frame has two elongate parallel rails, suitably made of extruded aluminum, each having sidewalls with an elongate groove therein with recesses within the grooves thereby forming sidewall tracks. The skates are securely and movably mounted on the rails and have an inclined top surface sloping downwardly in a forwardly direction and a toe kick at their forward end. The arm poles are at the sides of the front end of the frame, and an electronic sensing, control and display assembly is mounted on the frame between the arm poles. An interactive video skate resistance mechanism for automatically adjusting the difficulty of moving the skates is provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a user force application device which will optimally be used with a computerized exercise, physical therapy, or rehabilitation apparatus, preferably, an apparatus which permits concentric and eccentric isokinetic exercise by a user. One embodiment of the user force application device comprises a hollow outer cylinder, an inner cylinder inserted into the hollow outer cylinder and in co-axial alignment therewith, the inner cylinder being freely rotatable around its axis and freely slidable within the hollow outer cylinder along its axis. Grips of different size and shape can be provided which can easily be attached to the inner cylinder. The movement of the inner cylinder inside the hollow outer cylinder can be restricted. By attaching a larger cylinder to the inner cylinder and in co-axial alignment with it, rotational resistance can be provided. The user force application device can be secured to the exercise, physical therapy, or rehabilitation apparatus.

Abstract: An exercise system and method for insuring that a user exercises at a level at or above a preset level. The user exercises in front of TV. Noise is mixed with the TV signal if the exercise level drops below the preset level. The result is instantaneous biofeedback and maintenance of the desired exercise level.

Abstract: A system for simulating bicycle riding which incorporates a conventionally-appearing bicycle physically maneuverable by a system user. Front and rear bicycle wheels are provided solely for visual authenticity. The simulating system provides electrical communication between mechanical maneuvering of the bicycle and a video display to visually reflect changes in speed and bicycle position on a variable-terrain track in response to pedaling, braking and steering changes by the user. Specifically, the system permits simultaneous lateral displacement and leaning of the bicycle away from the vertical plane to simulate travel about a curve. The system also permits rotation in a vertical plane about a pivot point proximate to the rear bicycle tire to simulate "wheelie" motion. These changes are monitored by sensors which transmit information to a computer which, in turn, correspondingly adjusts the position of an animated bicycle on the track using computer animation made possible by a unique bicycle model program.

Abstract: A computerized exercise, physical therapy, or rehabilitation apparatus with improved features. The computerized exercise apparatus permits concentric and eccentric isokinetic exercise by a user where apparatus calibration is accurately determined before exercise to compensate for the user selected force application device, the push assembly, if used, and environmental factors; where hydraulic flow can be accurately controlled by use of an alternating current dither circuit; where multiple user force application devices, a push assembly, and a detachably connectable operator support are available for a myriad of exercises; and where the instantaneous forces measured during user exercise are displayed to the user in such a novel way so as to motivate the user to maximize their exercise efforts and thereby obtain increased personal benefit.

Abstract: An exerciser in accordance with the present invention includes a load apparatus for applying load to pedaling of a user, pulse data detecting apparatus for detecting pulse data of the user, a card for storing optically readable individual data such as age and physical strength of the user, optical reading means for optically reading the individual data stored in the data card, and control means for controlling the magnitude of load applied by the load apparatus based on the read individual data and the detected pulse data.

Abstract: An information, communication and control system for use in a health club which accumulates data from various types of exercise equipment and permits a number of exercise machines to be raced against one another. The exercise machines are equipped with keyboards from which users can enter data including their handicap (ability level) and the desired length of race. A central controller includes memory for storing data accumulated from the exercise machines and programs. The controller, responsive to the programs and input data, conducts a race between two or more exercise machines and displays the progress of the race on a video monitor. The controller can also be used to set up exercise programs for users on the various machines based on user performance data accumulated from the machines over time.

Abstract: A stair climbing exercise machine comprises an upright frame and a pair of reciprocating left and right pedals pivotally mounted on the frame for independent movement between raised and lowered positions. A hydraulic control system is connected to the pedals to provide resistance to downward movement and to return each lowered pedal to a raised position independent of operation of the other pedal. In a preferred embodiment, a TV screen is mounted on the frame and is controlled by a computer to display certain information during an exercise routine, which may be overlaid on a TV program. The computer may also control the duration and difficulty of each exercise routine.