Abstract: A device comprises a support, and at least one flexible substantially cup-shaped element operatively connected to the support. The element includes a base, a rim and a first axis extending from the center of the base to the center of an area enclosed by the rim. It is reversible about an axis perpendicular to said first axis without being removed from the support. It is operable for a first function in a first position and a second function in a reversed position. The reversible cup-like shaped elements are selectively locatable with the support in multiple operational modes with the rim of the flexible and reversible elements directed differently relative to the element. This can be with the rim of the flexible and reversible elements directed substantially away from the support, or with the rim of some of the flexible and reversible elements directed substantially toward the support and the rim of other flexible and reversible elements directed substantially away from the support.

Abstract: An extension arm (11) can be fixed to a column (2) at any height and with different inclinations. A foot holder (15, 16) is displaceably mounted on the extension arm and can be moved against the force of a traction cable (8) over the extension arm (11). A loading unit (4) programmable by means of an operating device (21) for selecting the load characteristics acts upon the traction cable. Alternatively, another extension arm for arm training can be mounted. Thus, different training varieties can be selected without the need of adjusting any weights or mechanisms. Different extension arms (11) may be provided which allow the adaptation of the apparatus to different training modes, such as leg, arm or body training.

Abstract: First and second rigid bars may be connected together by a support to form an elongated bar assembly having a longitudinal axis. A pair of hand grips are spaced from one another, and each hand grip includes a mounting portion which is freely pivotally supported on a bar for pivotal movement about pivot axis extending substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bar assembly. A hand grip portion is supported on the mounting portion for swivel movement through 360 degrees about an axis of rotation disposed substantially perpendicular to and passing through the pivot axis at the point where the mounting portion is pivotally supported by the bar assembly. The swivel connection can be locked to prevent swiveling of the hand grip portion.

Abstract: A leg stretching apparatus is disclosed. The leg stretching apparatus includes a pair of leg assemblies, a handle assembly, and attachment means for securing each leg assembly to the handle assembly. Each leg assembly includes a first leg including a pivot end and an opposite end, and a second leg including a first end slidingly received within the opposite end of the first leg and an opposite end for engaging a user's legs. First means for securing the second leg within the first leg are included so that movement of the second leg is prohibited. The handle assembly includes a first handle having a first and second side and a first and second end, and a second handle having a first and second end. The first end of the second handle is slidingly received within the second end of the first handle. The second end of the second handle may be grasped by a user when the leg stretching apparatus is in use.

Abstract: An exercise device includes a housing having a hollow interior for receiving objects and having a rear wall and a front wall. Two tubes are secured in the walls. Two rods are engaged with the bottom portions of the tubes so as to form a stable base for the housing. Two bars are secured to the tubes and soft sleeves are engaged on the bars for engaging with the feet of the users. The exercise device may be used for conducting acrobatic dance, sit-up exercises and other exercises.

Abstract: A military press exercise machine for exercising the arms independently against a selected weight resistance includes a frame symmetric with respect to a midplane, a seat connected to the frame to define a declined exercise position for an exerciser, and a pair of levers with rearward ends pivotally connected to the frame on opposite sides of the midplane, above and behind the exercise position. Hubs located near the forward ends of the levers are adapted to hold weighted plates to resist upward movement of the forward ends of the levers with respect to the pivot connections. Handles located adjacent forward ends of the levers are adapted to be grasped by an exerciser in the exercise position and then raised upwardly in a military press motion against the weight of the plates. During upward movement, the handles move toward the midplane. When the arms are extended, the handles reside above the pivot connections of the levers.

Abstract: An upper body exercise apparatus to assist an exerciser to do chin-ups and dips. The apparatus includes a frame having a base, a platform parallel to the base for the exerciser to stand on, and chin-up handles and dip handles extending from the frame. A motive device oscillates the platform vertically between a lower position and an upper position while maintaining the platform parallel to the base. Angular displacement of the platform is prevented by attaching the platform to a guide member which permits the platform to travel vertically along the device frameposts but does not permit the platform to travel horizontally relative to the frameposts. The guide members can comprise a set of rollers or collars. The system further includes a control and monitor whereby the force is controlled and the oscillation of the platform is monitored.

Abstract: An exercise and stress-relief device is disclosed comprising a bending tube and a cover. The bending tube comprises a spring and a friction element. Application of an increasing bending force results in the reduction of the radius of curvature of the device. Removal of the bending force results in the device maintaining its shape if the radius of curvature is greater than or equal to the critical radius of curvature. A reversed bending force is required to straighten the device at a radius of curvature greater than or equal to the critical value. At a radius of curvature less than the critical value, the device acts in a conventional spring manner. The preferred embodiment of the device comprises a resilient foam cover and end caps. It can be used as a hand exerciser in short lengths or an arm/upper torso exercise device in longer lengths. The device provides a stress-reduction function from its novel bending mode.

Abstract: Applicant's invention is of an improved flywheel exerciser and of an improved handle for engaging the exerciser's cord. The cord segments on either side of the flywheel are securely engaged by pinch grip blades within the two handles' body. Because the cord is easily disengaged from the pinch grip structure, the spatial separation of the handles is easily adjusted for different users. A two-part grommet structure eases the assembly and cord replacement for the exerciser. Applicant's handle, particularly a modified version which can be used to grasp medial sections of a cord, can be used to engage cording in many contexts other than that of use for a flywheel exerciser.

Abstract: An athletic training device is described for improving the grip strength and exercising other muscle groups of the user, comprised of a single strap secured together at three separate junctions so as to form two large loops and a small loop, with a clasping mechanism attached to the small loop. A method for using the device is also described, in which a user secures a basketball within the device and attaches the clasping device to any of a number of existing resistance devices, such as wieght training machines with cable and pulley systems, free weights, elastic cords, springs and athletic training machines employing some form of these resistance devices.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus is disclosed having a pair of laterally spaced clamps adjustably secured to the upper edges of a door frame opening. A shaft depends downwardly from each clamp and the shafts are connected together by a horizontal bar. The shafts have extending sliding shaft portions with adjustable tension portions connected to each sliding shaft for resisting upward movement of the sliding shafts. The sliding shafts include lower ends having concavely curved shoulder engaging portions, wherein a user's upward movement is resisted by the tension portions of the sliding shafts.

Abstract: A physical fitness training apparatus which may be readily installed in a door frame. The apparatus includes an extendable screw threaded support bar assembly (22) having rubber feet (28) at either end which may engage the sides of a door frame in an elevated position. Mounted on the support bar assembly are two radially outwardly extending eyes (52). A first pulley block (14) may be secured to one of the eyes (52) by a quick connector (60). A second pulley block (16) is provided and intermediate portions (74, 76) of a primary line (18) engage the sheaves (58) of each of the pulley blocks. The ends of the line are formed into eyes and one end (80) may be connected to the other radially outwardly extending eye (52) by means of another quick connector (60). A weight holder (12) is connected to an eye (56) on the second pulley block (16) by means of another quick connector (60). An engagement device is connected to the eye (78) on the other end of the line by another quick connector (60).

Abstract: There is disclosed a method for use in enhancing explosive leg power. Included is a supporting device for supporting an object which is selected to maximally motivate the individual seeking explosive leg power. Included is a device for allowing the individual to displace the object and for retracting the object upon release of the object.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus provides support and coordination of exercise motions to the user. The exercise apparatus has two exercise bars, two short exercise bars, a stabilizing bar, and a device for coupling the two exercise bars or the two short exercise bars at one end. The exercise bars have removable hand grips for helping the user maintain a grip on the exercise bar, wrist straps to provide for a level of safety when exercising with others when the grip is lost on the exercise bar, and a shoe that mounts on the stabilizing bar. One or both of the exercise bars may include lights mounted along the length of the bar. The lights provide an apparatus to help the instructor and user determine the position of the bar in space and also provide aesthetic appeal. The stabilizing bar attaches securely to the floor, and includes recesses for mounting the exercise bar. The stabilizing bar attaches to the floor and provides a stable point of reference.

Abstract: Exercising device comprising a moving unit (1-6'), a motion-transferring mechanism (7, 10-11') connected to the moving unit, and a hydraulic system (8-9, 12-17) connected to said motion transferring mechanism for controlling the motions of the moving unit. The invention is characterized in that the moving unit comprises a substantially vertically movable, tubular rod (1) with an integrated mounting (2, 2') at each end, and two separate, flexible and elongate elements (4, 4'). Each element is fixedly attached to a stationary fastening means (5, 5', 6, 6') above and, respectively, below the rod (1). Moreover, each element is arranged to extend through the tubular rod between the associated upper and, respectively, lower fastening means. The motion-transferring mechanism comprises at least one flexible, elongate member (7, 7') which is fixedly attached to one mounting (2) of the movable rod and to the through piston rod (8) of a piston cylinder (9) included in the hydraulic system.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus for providing resistance to a motion of a user. The apparatus is provided with a bar having a pair of buoyancy chambers which causes the bar to float. A user may exercise by submersing the apparatus in a body of water against a buoyant force provided by the chambers. An anchoring system for both the user and the apparatus is provided to secure a position thereof in the body of water. In addition, the chambers may be inflated by a pressurized gas canister contained within the bar. The buoyancy chambers are retained between collars and circumferential journals on the bar. Pivotally openable clasps engage the journals. Cylindrical retainers are positioned over the clasps to prevent the clasps from opening, thus retaining the buoyancy chambers on the bar.

Abstract: Rope climbing apparatus comprises a support, a length of rope and a rope accumulator supported by the support for storing a variable length of rope. The accumulator includes a dancer trolley and means for force-loading the dancer trolley to a maximum storage position. A segment of rope is presented to a user of the apparatus so that he can draw rope from the accumulator. Variable drag mechanism supported by the support feeds rope pulled by the user back to the accumulator to replenish the accumulator. The drag mechanism inhibits the feeding of rope to the accumulator unless the rope is pulled with a force sufficient to overcome the force-loading on the accumulator dancer trolley and move the dancer from its maximum storage position. The drag mechanism also controls the rate at which rope is fed to the accumulator in accordance with the magnitude of the accumulator force-loading.

Abstract: An exercise system for one or more persons including a frame, at least one game element, at least one striking member operable by a person to engage the game element, and a resistance system connected to the striking member for resisting the movement of the striking member as it is operated by the person, whereby the person performs exercise while operating the striking member to engage the game element.

Abstract: The apparatus for maximizing push-ups comprises a base from which upwardly extend a foot rest, a torso support platform and a pair of laterally rotatable hand graspable arms. The foot rest is horizontally adjustable in relative distance to the torso support platform and the torso support platform is adjustable in vertical height. The hand graspable arms include a resistive assembly engaged thereto, with the assembly tending to maintain the arms separated while a user of the apparatus attempts to maintain the arms closely spaced against action of the resistive assembly, increasing the effect of exercise.

Abstract: Portable exercise apparatus adaptable to fit a chair is provided. The apparatus comprises, in combination: (1) a back support removeably attachable to the backrest of a conventional chair; (2) at least one elongate extension member removeably and adjustably affixed to the back support such that the extension member extends through a point of reference located at a desired height on an imaginary vertical line which essentially bisects the backrest of the chair, the extension member extending through the point of reference and outwardly therefrom within a substantially vertical plane containing the line, the plane being parallel to and adjacent to the backrest of the chairs the outward end of the extension member having attached thereto, (3) a resistance mechanism to create resistance against movement, the resistance mechanism being engageable by a limb of a person when sitting in the chair.

Abstract: A tilting universal gym having an angular pivoting base and support frame adapted to carry removable weights, and which allows the universal gym frame to be operated from a standing position as a hanging bar, and then tipped over to perform weight lifting exercises.

Abstract: An exercise device made from one or more lengths of metallic or a fiber reinforced plastic matrix material. A portion of the length of material adjacent opposite ends are attached to one another to form an annular spring in either a U-shaped, tear drop, elliptical, or circular shape. A hand grip and foot support are mounted to the annular spring. In one embodiment, the annular spring means is mounted in a metal housing of limited spring characteristics. The U-shaped, tear drop, and circularly configured annular spring has a stabilizing bar telescopically mounted to the annulus spring at diametrically opposite locations. The elliptical embodiment includes a pair of annular elliptical springs mounted one on top of the other at locations intersecting the minor axis. Other embodiments have a stabilizing bar offset from the annulus with one end of the bar fixedly clamped to the annulus and a portion of the bar adjacent the opposite end offset from the annulus and slidably clamped thereto.

Abstract: This invention relates to a portable, safe, easy, and effective device for exercising. The device includes a series of components usable together in numerous combinations so as to provide a total physical workout. The components are capable of being transported in a small attache case or gym bag. The exercise device may be used for exercising the upper portion of the body, including hands, arms and upper torso, with a stationary door frame or portable foot plate providing the anchor resistance. Alternately, the legs, ankles and lower torso may be exercised while seated on an ordinary chair or bench with an ordinary door providing the anchor resistance. Multiple elastic bands, cables or springs provide adjustable resistance to movement in all forms of the invention.

Abstract: A barbell consisting of two elongate vertical members extending substantially vertically from base supports. A substantially horizontal member is secured between the vertical members. Weights are removably secured to the vertical members adjacent to the base supports.

Abstract: Portable exercise apparatus adaptable to fit a chair is provided. The apparatus comprises, in combination: (1) a back support removeably attachable to the backrest of a conventional chair; (2) at least one elongate extension member removeably and adjustably affixed to the back support such that the extension member extends through a point of reference located at a desired height on an imaginary vertical line which essentially bisects the backrest of the chair, the extension member extending through the point of reference and outwardly therefrom within a substantially vertical plane containing the line, the plane being parallel to and adjacent to the backrest of the chair, the outward end of the extension member having attached thereto, (3) a resistance mechanism to create resistance against movement, the resistance mechanism being engageable by a limb of a person when sitting in the chair.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method and apparatus for use in enhancing explosive leg power. Included is a supporting device for supporting an object which is selected to maximally motivate the individual seeking explosive leg power. Included is a device for allowing the individual to displace the object and for retracting the object upon release of the object.

Abstract: An upper body exercising device for use while standing or sitting in water. The exercise device is a padded barbell comprised of a lightweight, water-impervious lift bar, a pliable hand grip, buoyant floats and lightweight, water-impervious float retaining collars and end caps for positioning and maintaining the floats on the lift bar. The buoyancy of the barbell provides the necessary resistance for stressing the exerciser's muscles. Because the hand grip and floats are made from a relatively soft and pliable material, i.e., closed cell expanded polymer material, any part of the barbell can be comfortably grasped and moved in the water by the exerciser to stress the upper body muscles.

Abstract: An abdominal exercising device having two identical structures, each comprised of a rigid member, pressure pad and handle, are connected by an adjustable strap adapted to partially encircle the users abdominal area. After the user obtains the standard sit-up crunch or leg lift position, the adjustable strap is placed under the lower back while the two structures are brought across the abdominal area with each structures pressure pad contacting the users abdominal muscles. The user holds both handles and applies pressure to the abdominal muscles by simultaneously pulling the handles in toward the torso while performing the exercise movement.

Abstract: An exerciser for exercising arms includes a frame assembly and an input mechanism which has a pull rope. The pull rope has a fixed end and a movable end connected to an arm exercising mechanism. A suspended pulley set includes a pulley seat on which an upper pulley and a lower pulley are mounted. The pull rope extends around the upper portion of the lower pulley, while a guide rope extends around the lower portion of the upper pulley. The guide rope is fixed on the frame assemby at an end thereof. When the pull rope is pulled, the suspended pulley set moves downward so as to rotate an intermediate drive wheel. An endless flexible driving element is trained between the intermediate drive wheel and a driven wheel so as to rotate the driven wheel. A resistance setting unit is disposed on the frame assembly and can be adjusted so that a generator unit creates a predetermined amount of electric current, thereby activating a magnetic controller to change magnetic resistance to the rotation of the driven wheel.

Abstract: A system utilizable by a patient engaged in strengthening, stretching or range of motion exercise therapy of the ankle which contains a number of interactive components combinable in any one of several different configurations to provide the patient with specific ankle exercise devices. One such device provides ankle dorsiflexion and inversion/eversion strengthening exercises performed by moving the patient's foot in various directions against the elastic resistance of an elastomeric tube while the device is anchored in a door jamb. Another device provides ankle dorsiflexion, plantarflexion and inversion/eversion strengthening by exerting the foot against resistance from the patient across a strap. Yet another device provides ankle supination/pronation, toe flexion/extension, and isometric eversion exercises by performing various movements with the toes or feet to deform a towel.

Abstract: A novel assembly for aquatic exercise utilizing a rod of various lengths upon which foam rubber discs can be mounted which are water absorbent so as to weigh a predetermined amount when fully saturated, which come in various sizes, and which are held onto the rod by end caps. The rods may also be interchanged with floats for aquatic exercise.

Abstract: A foot training machine having two pedal assemblies the topmost edge of each of which being constantly maintained at the horizontal position for smooth stepping. The pedal of each pedal assembly has two opposite ends pivoted to two rocker arms which are equal in length. The two opposite ends of the two rocker arms are respectively pivoted to two shaft tubes spaced on the base of the machine. The two rocker arms are freely rotated on the two shaft tubes permitting the pedal to be constantly maintained at the horizontal position while stepping.

Abstract: An exercise machine for performing an incline press includes a frame, a declined seat connected to the frame along a vertical midplane and two independently maneuverable levers with upper rearward ends pivotally connected to the frame above the seat, on opposite sides of the midplane. The lower, forward ends of the levers are adapted to hold removable weights. Handles also extend inwardly, rearwardly and upwardly from the lower ends of the levers. Each handle is adapted to be grasped by a person supported on the seat and upwardly extended and adducted in an incline press motion against the held weights to move the respective lever along a vertical plane that converges inwardly with respect to the vertical midplane. This incline press exercise machine accommodates the natural musculoskeletal movements of the arms and shoulders of a person, thereby maximizing muscular benefit while minimizing joint stress.

Abstract: Muscular development of an athlete is achieved for increasing the starting acceleration and stroke speed when an athlete initiates a movement stroke such as a punch from a boxer's arm, throwing a baseball pitch or kicking a football, etc. by the means and method of this invention. Thus, the initial movement of the athlete is restrained with an external force of predetermined magnitude which is released in response to the athlete's movement overcoming the restraining force. Thus, those muscles are developed which are used in initiating motion so that they deliver greater initial acceleration to attain higher stroking speed which is converted to an impact blow of greater force. An exercise machine for such muscular training provides the initial but releasable restraining force by means of two separable magnetically attracted members having the predetermined initial force adjustably varied by introducing a variable air gap distance between the magnetically attracted members.

Abstract: A lateral raise exercise machine includes a frame, a seat and backrest supported by the frame along a vertical midplane and two levers pivotally connected to the frame on opposite sides of the midplane behind the seat and backrest. Each lever includes a hub adapted to hold at least one removable weight, a counterweight mounted opposite the pivot point from the hub, a connector that extends forwardly alongside the backrest and seat, and an actuating pad mounted at a forward end of the connector. The levers pivot about axes that converge forwardly toward the vertical midplane. With the forearms engaging inner surfaces of the actuating pads, an exerciser supported on the seat and backrest may pivotally raise the levers upwardly against the weight supported on the hubs via a lateral shoulder abductive motion, thereby to exercise the deltoid muscles.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an upper body exercising device for use while jogging, comprising a non-continuous collar for positioning around a user's neck attached by a strap to a lightweight tossing object.

Abstract: An aquatic exercising device/apparatus (10) comprising a bed (11) mounted on a frame (12) supported by hollowed columns (13), and lines (17) extending through such columns (13), their one ends attached to floats (16) and their other ends attached to members (30) for or applied to the hands (31) and feet (32) of its user (26). As the user (26) pushes members (30) away, the buoyancy for floats (16) resist their submergence into the water (60) in which apparatus (10) is disposed. Tension thereby is produced for the user's muscles thus exercising them or particular ones. Neck muscles likewise are exercised in another embodiment or assembly (65) which includes a line (67) to which a head harness (66) is fastened, the line extending back to a pulley (71) dependingly mounted on a cross-beam which in turn is mounted to a hollowed standard (68), such line extending through standard (68) to be fastened to a float (16).