User Manipulated Force Resisting Apparatus, Component Thereof, Or Accessory Therefor Patents (Class 482/92)
  • Patent number: 7214170
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus in which movement of a weight by the user generates a vibration which acts on the muscles being exercised.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: South Bank University Enterprises Ltd.
    Inventors: David Paul Sumners, Roger Leslie Brown
  • Patent number: 7211032
    Abstract: Exercise device and method in which one or more generally planar blades with major surfaces are attached to the ends of an exercise bar. The bar is gripped with the hands and moved in a direction generally perpendicular to the major surfaces, with movement of the bar being resisted by air resistance encountered by the blades.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Inventor: Tessema Dosho Shifferaw
  • Patent number: 7195584
    Abstract: Exercise apparatus for resistance training includes a first disk rotational about an axis, a second disk axially aligned with the first disk and resisting rotation about the axis, and a resiliently deformable coupling coupled between the first and second disks and tensionable in a spiral about the axis upon rotation of the first disk about the axis, such that rotation of the first disk about the axis tensions and stretches the coupling along a spiral and is resisted by the second disk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventors: Zhi Lu, Mark C. Termion, Eric C. White
  • Patent number: 7169096
    Abstract: An abdominal exercise machine includes a bench assembly having a frame and a user support supported by the frame and configured for having a user lie thereupon, a weight assembly adjacent the bench assembly and having a weight carriage movably positionable thereon, a bar for engaging the legs of the user adjacent thigh and shin areas of the legs; and a cable passing through a plurality of pulleys and having a first end connected to the weight assembly and operably associated with the weight carriage for urging the weight carriage in a desired direction and a second end connectable to the bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Vitex, LLC
    Inventors: Suzanne R. Vittone, Larry W. Vittone, William M. Vittone
  • Patent number: 7163498
    Abstract: An exercise device that includes an upper frame with a user support that cantilevers over a lower frame provides for reduced storage and the potential for shipping in a pre-assembled state. The upper frame is supported by the lower frame with a rolling element there between. The rolling element can be in the form of rollers that are rotatably mounted to the foot portion of the upper frame and the head portion of the lower frame. The rolling element can also take the form of one of more rollers, which constantly articulate with each of the upper and lower frames. A spring bias is included to provide a resistance to movement of the upper frame with respect to the lower frame. The lower frame, and therefore the supported upper frame, can also be pivotally mounted to a base frame, thereby enabling the upper frame to be positioned in an inclined state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: Abelbeck Partners, Ltd.
    Inventor: Kevin G. Abelbeck
  • Patent number: 7156781
    Abstract: A device in particular for use in the field of sport practice and body-building, for a person's muscular exercise. The device enables the development of quadriceps and of the gluteal muscles and comprises a support surface for the feet and elements for applying a force of resistance to the movements of the person's legs to shift from a bent position to an extending position by unfolding the knees. The force applying elements comprise a harness pressing on the upper side of the thighs. The invention is applicable to the manufacture of body-building machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Inventor: Jean-Louis Talo
  • Patent number: 7156780
    Abstract: An electric drive system (1) operated by muscle power for a vehicle (2) includes a foot pedal (5) and a mechanical generator (6) mechanically connected to the foot pedal. The drive system also includes an electric transmission (4) and an electric control system (20) with a control program (21) of the generator, which is able to generate a counter or load moment (GM). The drive system also includes a starting control system (22) for the generator, by means of which a standstill pedal resistance (TW) and a high starting moment (MA) is produced at the foot pedal. When used in a stationary training apparatus (3), the drive system includes a motor operation control system (23) with a bi-directional converter (31), by means of which the generator is also able to be operated as a motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: SwissMove AG
    Inventors: Andreas Fuchs, Jürg Blatter
  • Patent number: 7147594
    Abstract: A system for positioning a user support of an exercise device, including a user support having a user support surface; a pair of positioning members connected to the user support, each positioning member extending outwardly from opposite sides of the user support and being substantially aligned along a common axis; a frame configured for supporting exercise weights and including a pair of spaced apart portions, the spacing between the spaced apart portions of the frame defining a space configured for receiving the user support; and a guide located on each of the spaced apart portions of the frame, each guide defining a plurality of receivers each of which is configured for receiving a portion of one of the positioning members, with the guides each located such that the receivers of each guide are in substantial registry with one another, wherein the user support is adjustably and incrementally positionable relative to the frame by selectively positioning the positioning members so that they are received by th
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Inventor: William M. Vittone
  • Patent number: 7147591
    Abstract: A universal fitness apparatus for force resistance, postural, and balance exercises. A flange assembly is coupled to a longitudinal shaft. The flange assembly can comprise receptacles for receiving handles or it can itself comprise handles. A user can support herself with the handles while performing a variety of exercises that target multiple muscle groups. The height of the handles can be adjusted by sliding the flange assembly along the shaft. Alternatively, the flange assembly and shaft can be mounted to a height adjustable runner coupled to a longitudinal track. A pin and/or lock to hold the flange assembly and/or runner at a particular height can be provided. The flange assembly can be rotationally coupled to the shaft so that the user can move the handles while performing oblique muscle movements. The receptacles and/or the handles can be pivotally movable such that the handles can be stored in an upright position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Pentagon South Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin J. McAvoy
  • Patent number: 7137936
    Abstract: An exercise device is easily adjusted in resistance by changing a first cassette therein to a second cassette having a different resistance or in exercise type by changing the support mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Inventors: Tracy K. Shaw, Gordon J. Waligorski
  • Patent number: 7128698
    Abstract: Exercise device and method in which one or more generally planar blades with major surfaces are attached to the ends of an exercise bar. The bar is gripped with the hands and moved in a direction generally perpendicular to the major surfaces, with movement of the bar being resisted by air resistance encountered by the blades.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Inventor: Tessema Dosho Shifferaw
  • Patent number: 7121987
    Abstract: Disclosed is a golf exercise weight machine for anaerobically strengthening the large rotary muscles of the body—including the upper thigh, trunk and abdomen, and shoulders—most used in performing a golf swing. Preferably, the device includes a floor mounted base to which a yoke is rotatably attached to fit around the shoulders and arms of a user, so that during operation the user's body remains oriented in the proper swing position so as to mimic and improve the golf swing by strengthening the appropriate muscles. A weight stack provides variable resistance during the simulated golf swing, and the device offers adjustment over multiple degrees of freedom and it can accommodate both right-and left-handed swings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Inventor: Chester H. Sharps
  • Patent number: 7118516
    Abstract: The present devices apply resistance force to a user's body in close simulation of the impact and resistive forces experienced in martial arts techniques and interactions to provides more effective muscle and neurological training of the user. The devices include a conformable grip that accepts a user's fist for directing resistive force in a distributed manner to the outside surface of the user's fist. Flexible straps extend from the side of the grip to be positioned, in use, on the sides of a user's arm. The straps are connected by additional cross-straps to allow for transfer of force to the user's forearm. The configuration of straps allows transfer of varying proportions of the resistive force to the fist, and separately, the forearm. A system for physical training includes a resistance device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Inventor: William Ashley Gouthro
  • Patent number: 7108641
    Abstract: A handle for an exercise device, the handle attached to an actuating arm of the exercise device and including a connection structure that allows the handle to rotate with respect to the arm, as well as pivot in at least two directions orthogonal to the rotation axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.
    Inventor: Victor Pertegaz-Esteban
  • Patent number: 7104938
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus including a frame of four vertical legs secured together by horizontal rails on two opposing sides and an H frame telescoping into top ends of respective legs on one end of the frame. A floor platform has one end hingeably attached to bottom ends of two adjacent legs and extends between and beyond the two other legs. A barbell is clamped at a selectable location on the horizontal rails for providing resistance to performing deadlifts and leg presses by standing on the platform and lifting one end of the platform. Handles are detachably attachable to various locations on the frame. Uprights are provided for dips and pullups. A speed controller is provided for super slow repetitions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Inventor: Robert Samuel Smith
  • Patent number: 7090622
    Abstract: An exercise device having many advantageous features is described, including the ability to provide a variety of different accessory grips to the user, and the ability to easily mount the device to a wall. One exercise device described is an inelastic resistance device having integral hand grips. The accessory grips are removably attachable to the integral grip of an exercising device, and provide for gripping by the hands, foot or other body parts. The selection of a specific accessory grip allows the user to exercise by specific body parts and provides for a greater number of possible exercises. Accessory grips are attachable to the integral grips, greatly adding to the flexibility of the device. In addition, a novel hand grip is described having a plurality of cords that can be selected for gripping, and a bracket for mounting a door jamb mountable exercise device to a wall is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Fitness Anywhere, Inc.
    Inventor: Randal A. Hetrick
  • Patent number: 7060003
    Abstract: A portable, stable rope-pulling exercise machine. The machine has a stable support frame, a number of rope pulleys and rope guides mounted on the frame, an endless rope extending around the pulleys and guides to form a path which includes a horizontally extending rope pulling portion, and hydraulic braking assembly coupled to the pulley system for controlling the rate of movement of the rope based upon the strength of the user when said user is pulling the rope. The machine allows a user to pull a rope continuously as in a simulated tug-of-war. The short frame allows the device to be installed anywhere. A seat with a footrest allows a user to gain leverage when exercising with the rope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Inventors: Lynn Reynolds, Joseph F. Maestas
  • Patent number: 7060010
    Abstract: Control means for controlling the activation of exercising loads are disclosed. According an embodiment of the invention the control means comprising at least one linking channel connectable to a control system, and at least one link terminal in active communication with the linking channel, wherein said at least one link terminal is associatable with said exercising load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Yifat Gurion Ofer
    Inventor: Nir Daniel
  • Patent number: 7029425
    Abstract: A dumbbell stand includes first and second dumbbell supports that pivot about a common pivot axis between a first, relatively compact configuration and a second, spread apart configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Inventor: Mark A. Krull
  • Patent number: 7022046
    Abstract: A device for exercising and the associated method of using the device to exercise. The exercise device has a first handheld element on which is located a first surface. A second handheld element is also provided. A second opposing surface is located on the second handheld element. The first surface on the first handheld element can be aligned with the second opposing surface on the second handheld element when both the first handheld element and the second handheld element are positioned in a predetermined orientation. A biasing mechanism is provided between the first handheld element and the second handheld element. The biasing mechanism applies a force that opposes the positioning of the first handheld element and the second handheld element into the predetermined orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Inventor: C. Eli Kim
  • Patent number: 7022053
    Abstract: A barbell/dumbbell training support device includes a base with distal ends, a cross support laterally extending equidistantly from each distal end of the base for a predetermined distance, the cross supports being configured to prevent tipping of the support device, an elongated tray configured to support barbells and dumbbells, and connection elements configured to interconnect the base with the elongated tray. Ends of each cross support may have attached thereto pads, covers, or elevated attachments made from flexible and resilient material. The elongated tray is a generally elongated rectangle having a surface and lengthwise sides with ends and widthwise sides with ends. Raised edges extend from each of the corresponding lengthwise and widthwise sides of the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Inventor: Donnie R. Whetstone
  • Patent number: 7014600
    Abstract: An overhead exercise system for a complete, low impact, upper body workout emphasizes strengthening and toning the abdominal and oblique muscle groups of the human body. The system simulates an Olympic hammer throw by using adjustable resistance, such as adjustable hydraulic pressure. The system can be used in a number of positions including standing and sitting positions. A rotatably mounted arm having a handle grip is moveable in clockwise and counterclockwise directions. Handle pressure is independently adjustable for clockwise and counterclockwise motion. A seat is adjustable both vertically and horizontally to accommodate the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Inventor: David O. Johnson
  • Patent number: 7004889
    Abstract: The grasping and lifting aid, according to the present invention, comprises a flexible strap having a first and second end portion. Doubling back and fixedly securing the first end portion to a remainder of the flexible strap, a first loop is formed. The first loop has an opening commensurate with a width of the flexible strap, so that the second end portion can freely pass through. Thus, a second loop adaptable for attaching about a user's wrist is formed. The flexible strap includes a wrist securing portion formed by the second loop, followed by a palm grasping portion having a length adaptable to be spirally wrapped around a weight bar or the like by using several coils in close proximity to each other, without overlapping. The flexible strap also has anti-slip proprieties on a side adaptable for confronting a palm, fingers and thumb of a user. A material for providing anti-slip proprieties is used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Inventor: James McBride
  • Patent number: 7001312
    Abstract: In an exercise apparatus comprising a fixed support member (3) and a moving part (2) which can perform movements correlated to the exchange of forces between a user and the apparatus, a support device (1) comprises: elastic supporting means (4); means (6) for damping the movements of the moving part (2) and adjusting means (7). The damping means (6) are arranged parallel with the supporting means (4) and comprise a magnetic actuator (8), in which a first, moving component (9) has an electroconductive element (11), and a second, fixed component (10) comprises a permanent magnet (12) and a non-permanent magnet (13) connected to one another to form at least one air gap (14) which houses the electroconductive element (11). Electrical energizing of the electroconductive element (11), whether generated or induced, applies to the first component (9) of the actuator (8) a reactive magnetic force which opposes the translational movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: Technogym S.p.A.
    Inventors: Nerio Alessandri, Gianmatteo Fabbri
  • Patent number: 6994659
    Abstract: Described is an apparatus for performing power exercises with one or more weights, wherein a weight consists of a reservoir for filling with liquid and/or air. This reservoir, referred to below as weight reservoir, serves as weight resistance for a power exercise and is connected by means of a flexible liquid conduit to a liquid displacing device. This liquid displacing device can carry liquid into the weight reservoir and remove it from the weight reservoir, whereby the weight of the weight reservoir, and thus the resistance of the power exercise, becomes greater or smaller. The operation of this liquid displacing device can be carried out by the user while performing the exercise in order to adjust the weight to his or her wishes without having to interrupt the power exercise for this purpose. The invention can be applied to power exercises with free weights and power exercises wherein the weight reservoir is provided with a conducting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Inventor: Ralf Edgar Kras
  • Patent number: 6981934
    Abstract: Exercise machine having a platform for receiving an exerciser, a post extending from the platform, a carriage which can be moved along the post by the exerciser, and a plurality of elastic elements which can be selectively connected to the carriage to assist or resist movement of the carriage along the post. The machine is highly portable and can be folded for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Inventor: Tessema Dosho Shifferaw
  • Patent number: 6974039
    Abstract: A implement for storing weight lifting plates whereby the plates cannot be placed incorrectly. The invention comprises plural foundation members adapted to create a base of support or to attach the implement to existing structures. Mainframe members connect upwardly therefrom to form the structure of the implement. Each plate station is comprised of two horizontal-extender members mounted perpendicular to the mainframe member at a predetermined height and protruding laterally by various distances. Attached to the outermost end of each horizontal-extender member is a forwardly protruding plate-support member, adapted to support the plates with maximal surface contact. A height-limiting member is centrally mounted to the mainframe member and protruding forwardly, superior to the plate-support members at a predetermined distance depending on the plate size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Inventors: Chad Gordon Comartin, Mark Kurt Vockentanz
  • Patent number: 6962553
    Abstract: An aquatic exercise device provides uniform omni-directional and uniform omni-rotational resistance to movement in water. The device includes a plurality of fins arranged on an outer surface of a dome-shaped or semi-spherical bell. The fins include lateral resistance members such as flanges for additional rotational resistance or a resistance plate that creates a resistance during a punching motion. The bell includes an opening and a handle coupled to an interior of the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Assignee: Aqualogix, Inc.
    Inventors: Tadlington A. Stout, James P. Cleary
  • Patent number: 6939272
    Abstract: An exercise machine includes a bench and board section including a stationary bench having first and second opposite ends, and a board having first and second opposite ends, with the first end of the board pivotally mounted adjacent the second end of the stationary bench, each of the bench and board being formed substantially from a single piece which can selectively support a torso of a person and legs of the person, and a resistance device in contact with the single piece board and which applies a resistance to pivotal movement of the board, while permitting the board to swing up and down against a resistance applied by the resistance device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Inventor: Qingping Wu
  • Patent number: 6876883
    Abstract: A method for applying variable electro-muscle stimulation (EMS) to an exercising person includes a belt having a plurality of electrodes placed around the abdomen at the rectus abdominis and obliques. The person then gets into an exercise apparatus which has a rotatable component. Attached to the rotatable component is a transducer that senses the position of the component. An EMS generator is connected to the belt through the transducer. As the user exercises in a first direction, increasing stimulation is applied to the subject muscles. As the user moves the rotatable component in the opposite direction, decreasing stimulation is applied to the user. In an alternative embodiment, the belt has at least one pair of electrodes connected to a common adjustment control so that as the voltage increases to one of the electrodes, it decreases to the other electrode of the pair, and vice versa. A toggle switch makes possible the selection of a particular pair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Inventor: Arthur F. Hurtado
  • Patent number: 6857993
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a magnetic tension control weight training machine containing a base, large revolver wheel, belt disc, shaft set, bearing assembly, pulley assembly, magnetic resistance flywheel, pulling rope and a reposition device. A wheel spacer is welded to the center of the large revolver wheel within which there is a bearing assembly, on one side fixed with a small revolver wheel for reposition. The shaft set fits through the bearing assembly, one end welded with a shaft disc to fasten the belt disc that is connected with the magnetic resistance flywheel and the large revolver wheel by means of the belt. The size of the small revolver wheel and the active pulley makes the extension length of the flexible components quite short. The reposition device adjusts the reposition course through the active pulley and the adjustment bolt, allowing for the control of the force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Inventor: Yong-Song Yeh
  • Patent number: 6843759
    Abstract: An exercise device is provided which is used in exercising of the abdominal muscles as well as in exercising the muscles of the upper torso, shoulders and arms while the back of the user is supported, elongated and stretched. The device includes a platform which is elevated at one end from a supporting surface for the device. A seat is located at the one end of the platform and a bowed back support member is disposed on the platform adjacent to the seat. The support member presents a convex curved surface of a longitudinal extent such that the back and head of the user can rest thereon with the user in a backwardly reclining posture. A resilient belt fits around the waist of the user while a restraining arrangement preferably in the form of flexible restraining members is adapted to engage the arms of the user during movement of the user from the backwardly reclining posture wherein the back of the user rests against the convex curved surface to a sitting position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Inventor: Robert S. Wallerstein
  • Patent number: 6827697
    Abstract: The present invention is for a controlled therapeutic traction device utilizing a warmed hypertonic solution or other fluid of sufficient specific gravity to float the patient in a relaxing, relatively weightless environment. Traction is applied to a portion of the patient's body using various means to apply tension to that portion of the body, while the remainder of the patient's body continues to be suspended in the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Inventor: Dennis Lynn Liepman
  • Patent number: 6824504
    Abstract: A sled exerciser used, for example, in tackling or blocking practice in football training, comprises a sled, slidably attached to a frame, where the sled includes padding on one side. An adjustable weight mechanism is attached to the sled and provides continuous resistance against an individual as the sled is pushed, as in tackle/blocking practice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Inventor: Wayne G. Ott
  • Patent number: 6824505
    Abstract: An exercise machine includes at least one body-building structure, and at least one damping structure serving to bring about a damping effect. The body-building structure is provided with an actuating pulley serving to actuate one or more weighted pulleys of the damping structure in conjunction with a cable. The actuating pulley adds a buffer to the damping effect, thereby preventing a sharp impact from inflicting an injury on a body part of an exerciser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Inventor: Fu-Chen Chang
  • Patent number: 6811520
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a magnetic control multifunctional exercise apparatus with double cable sheave. The exercise apparatus includes a base frame having a seat pad and an adjustable back pad. Two upright bars and one support frame are disposed at rear and front ends of the base frame. The base frame further has a magnetic control retarding mechanism provided with two cable sheaves and disposed at the bottom of the rear end of the base frame. Two pull cables are connected with two drive cables of the magnetic control retarding mechanism by means of a plurality of guide pulleys. Furthermore, a flywheel of the magnetic control retarding mechanism is coupled for unidirectional rotation, thereby reaching the expected effect of the magnetic control retarding mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Inventors: Peter Wu, Leao Wang
  • Patent number: 6811522
    Abstract: An exercise with traction device comprising a frame holding a seat above the floor that has a resistance loaded backrest for the purpose of rehabilitating atrophied spinal support muscle through progressive resistance exercise while the spine is under pain alleviating traction. The backrest is resistance loaded for both traction, and extension resistance or flexion resistance. This makes needed exercise for those who are hindered from such therapy by spinal compressive related pain. The exercise resistance is transmitted to the patient via a horizontal axis backrest, and can be weighted either positively for back resistance, or negatively for abdominal resistance, at the same time traction is applied from the backrest suspension system applying resistance to the user attached to it in the direction that decompresses the spine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Inventor: Andrew James McQuinn
  • Publication number: 20040192518
    Abstract: Disclosed herewith is a load controller and waist strengthening and rehabilitating apparatus using the same. In the apparatus, a support unit is constructed by assembling all or some of a footrest, a backrest, a pedestal, a handle and related frames. The waist exercises are conducted utilizing a backrest frame operated in conjunction with a load controller with the lower part of his body being fixed to the support unit. The apparatus further comprises lower body holding means mounted on said support unit, said lower body holding means being comprised of a front thigh holder for tightly holding the front portion of the thigh and a rear thigh holder for tightly holding the rear portion of the thigh.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2004
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Inventor: Young Baeg Hur
  • Publication number: 20040157711
    Abstract: Exercising apparatus capable of enabling a user to select any one of a plurality of different exercises to be performed by the user for exercising different muscles or muscle groups of the user's body. The apparatus includes a body supporting member for supporting the body of the user in a predetermined position according to the exercise selected to be performed; a body-engageable member engageable by a selected part of the user's body, when supported on the body supporting member, and displaceable in a predetermined direction by a force applied by the selected body part to the body-engageable member, according to the exercise selected to be performed; and a resistance member coupled to the body-engageable member for imposing a resistance to the displacement of the body-engageable member when the selected part of the user's body applies the force to the body-engageable member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2003
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Inventor: Yuval Regev
  • Patent number: 6770014
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a resistance type exercise device that uses frictional forces between members to provide resistance for a variety of different exercises. In operation, when a pull cord is withdrawn from the exercise device, a cord wheel converts the translational movement to rotational motion. A brake lever contacting a brake drum fixedly attached to the cord wheel provides a friction resistive force to the rotational motion. A recoil cord causes the recoil cord 900 to stretch and wrap around a bearing lug, placing the recoil cord in tension. The potential energy stored in the tensioned recoil cord is used to rewind the cord wheel and restore the pull cord back to its at rest position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2004
    Inventor: Robert W. Amore
  • Patent number: 6740013
    Abstract: A dynamic energy converter is provided as an exercise and amusement apparatus. The physics of a torsion pendulum and button and string child's toy are employed in to provide a novel mode of exercise. An inertial component of significant mass and diameter has a flexible strand or cord of significant strength threaded through holes in the inertial component and formed into a closed loop. A means for gripping the ends of the loop of cord so that the inertial element is midway between the gripping means is attached to the loop. The user of the apparatus twirls the inertial element to create twists in the cord and then applies opposed tension to the cord to cause the inertial component to rotate as the twists in the cord unwind. The inertia of the inertial element under controlled tension causes the cord to unwind and then wind in the opposite direction until increased tension in the cord causes the inertial component to rotate and accelerate in the opposite direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Inventor: Gary V. Werner
  • Patent number: 6726607
    Abstract: A portable personal training and exercise device having a base assembly, a pole assembly and cable and pulley assembly. The base assembly has a tilt mechanism for holding the pole assembly in different orientations. The cable and pulley assembly is attached to the pole assembly and has two coaxial pulleys rotatably mounted on a common single stationary shaft. Each pulley is spring biased for rewinding a cord onto the pulley. The cable and pulley assembly also has a tension adjustment unit for adjusting the resistance of the pulleys, and two multi-direction guide units mounted on the housing of the cable and pulley assembly for allowing the pulley cords to be pulled in multiple directions with reduced friction. A user may pull the cords of the pulleys for exercising various muscles of the user and adjust the resistance force of the cords at an appropriate level suitable to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Inventor: Stephen P. Ihli
  • Patent number: 6716143
    Abstract: An exercising system for use by wheelchair bound users, uses a platform that has a pair of rollers on which the user can stationarily roll the wheelchair. A first pulley allows the user to perform reciprocating up and down rope and pulley exercises, while a pair of foot pedals allow for lower body exercising. The foot pedals can be attached to the platform and can have a rope over a pulley assist mechanism or the foot pedals can be attached directly to the wheelchair and can operate independently of the platform. A punching bag or other similar item can be attached to the exercising system in order to increase the range of physical activities that can be performed by a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Inventor: Wallace Kent Martin
  • Publication number: 20040009853
    Abstract: The present invention is a device supported on a floor for use by a person to perform leg stretching exercises for the person's leg and foot. In one embodiment, the device comprises upper and lower bracket members. The device further comprises first, second, and third support members each having a lower end portion, a median portion, and an upper end portion. Each of the upper end portions and each of the lower end portions are moveably engaged with the upper bracket member and the lower bracket member, respectively, between a closed position where the first, second, and third support members are substantially folded and an open position where the first, second, and third support members are spaced from each other for placement in stable engagement with the floor. The device further comprises a plurality of mounting portions disposed upon the median portion of one or all of the first, second, and third support members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2003
    Publication date: January 15, 2004
    Inventor: Duane E. Smith
  • Patent number: 6676577
    Abstract: An exercise machine includes a frame designed to rest upon a floor surface; a back rest mounted on the frame; and a foot platform mounted on the frame. At least one of the foot platform and the back rest is pivotally mounted on the frame in such a manner that a person may rest his back against the back rest and exercise his quadriceps muscles in isolated, closed chain fashion. A resistance device is preferably provided to resist movement of the back rest and/or the foot platform in a manner that opposes the user's efforts to straighten his legs at the knees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Inventor: Kenneth W. Stearns
  • Publication number: 20030232701
    Abstract: A method of swing training for a sport requiring swinging of a sports implement, the method comprising repeated performance by a trainee of at least one swing drill, the at least one swing drill including execution of the following steps gripping a first spacer between the hands and parallel to the floor, swinging the first spacer in a backswing motion and an opposed downswing motion to bring the first spacer parallel to the floor, and swinging the first spacer in a follow-through motion to an opposite side and an opposed downswing motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Publication date: December 18, 2003
    Inventor: Frank A. Latella
  • Patent number: 6659918
    Abstract: A device and method is shown for invoking a muscle's natural involuntary, reflexive response or stretch reflex by imparting a sudden increase in load on the muscle over a defined period of time from a predetermined base load at which the muscle has assumed a baseline tonus, and over a predetermined amplitude of motion. The muscle is stimulated by cycling the load with a frequency of between 1 and 60 Hz, or more preferably between 10 and 30 Hz, and an amplitude of displacement of the muscle between 2 and 50 mm, or more preferably between 5 and 10 mm. The force input to the muscle can be provided by either the mass of the body to which the muscle is connected or by an external mass or resistance to motion. A seesaw platform can be oscillated in a vertical direction at the correct frequency and amplitude.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Inventor: Hans Schiessl
  • Patent number: 6659919
    Abstract: An exercising apparatus is disclosed which allows a user to perform a variety of leg exercises including leg extensions and leg presses. The exercise apparatus has a front and a back and includes a frame having an upper frame member and a lower base frame member. A seat is mounted to the upper frame member. The lower base frame member extends forwardly of the seat and the lower end of a press arm is pivotally secured to the forward end thereof. The press arm extends upwardly to the area in front of the seat and the upper end thereof is pivotable toward and away from the seat. A first resistance, biases the press arm toward the seat. A curl bar has an upper end pivotally secured to the upper end of said press arm such that the lower end of the curl bar is pivotable toward and away from the press arm and a curl pad is adjustably mounted adjacent the lower end of the curl bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Inventor: James A. Deola
  • Publication number: 20030224916
    Abstract: A physical interaction means comprising a wall including an outwardly presented surface of one of a hook component and loop component of a hook and loop fastening system. Also provided is at least one glove with an outer surface including the other one of the hook component and loop component of the hook and loop fastening system to be selectively and releasably attachable by a person who may wear the glove to the surface of the wall to thereby immobilise the hand and allow the person to apply an action force which is countered by the wall in a reactionary manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Christopher Charles Toal
  • Patent number: 6651497
    Abstract: The present invention provides a pitching training tool, comprising a rod-shaped body portion, which has a hollow, cylindrical shaft portion that is lighter than a regulation ball, and a gripping portion, which is integrally formed to one end of this shaft portion; an acceleration sensor or other such detector, which is incorporated in the gripping portion side of this rod-shaped body portion, and which detects a state of motion when the rod-shaped body portion is swung around; an arithmetic processing portion for performing computations based on motion state data from this detector; and a display for displaying the results of computations by the arithmetic processing portion, and is constituted so as to compute in the computing portion at least the rotational speed of the rod-shaped body portion based on the detection results by this detector and to display same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Inventor: Yasuyuki Imatoh