Abstract: Systems and methods presented herein generally provide for portable personalized training programs. More specifically, a mobile device (e.g., MP3 players, iPods, video game players, PDAs, cell phones, etc.) may provide to a user of the device a personalized physical fitness training program that enables the user to maintain physical fitness. In this regard, a physical fitness training program may be configured as one or more software modules wherein associated audio and video segments allow a user to view various physical fitness related training routines on the mobile device. The physical fitness training program may operably control these audio and video segments in a manner that allows the user to personalize a physical fitness routine. Such systems and methods may also have advantages and other types of personalized instruction.

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

Abstract: A wearable device has a carrier having an aperture. A device has a USB connection and a protrusion wherein the protrusion is received in the aperture to connect the device to a wristband. The device is a USB type device having athletic functionality. The device may further be configured to receive calibration data such that a measured distance may be converted to a known distance based on athletic activity performed by a user.

Abstract: Systems and methods for generating a quick start workout template and calibrating an electronic device using the workout template are provided. The electronic device may create and store a workout template to be used in conjunction with a workout. The workout template may be selected in a quick start fashion to restart the same workout. The workout template may be defined at least in part by a selection of any suitable workout goal and/or any suitable associated media. If the media associated with the workout goal is changed or is removed, a new workout template may be created. The electronic device may be calibrated or recalibrated using the workout template. If the electronic device is calibrated or re-calibrated with respect to a particular sensor, the electronic device may use the calibration in conjunction with any suitable workout template and the sensor to more accurately monitor the user's workout.

Abstract: In an embodiment, the invention provides an exercise mat, which may be of flexible polymer foam material and which includes one or more speakers integrated thereinto. An audio interface is further integrated into the material of the mat and is configured to receive an audio signal from at least one audio source, and to output an amplified audio signal to the speakers.

Abstract: In a first aspect, a method is provided that includes the steps of (1) providing a monitor for determining a level of exercise performance performed by an exerciser and for outputting a signal representative of the performance level; (2) using the monitor to measure a level of exercise performance performed by an exerciser; (3) outputting from the monitor a signal representative of the performance level; (4) providing a video game having a character, the video game inputting and being responsive to the performance level signal output by the monitor, the video game using the performance level signal to control a performance level of the video game character; and (5) while the exerciser is not exercising, controlling a performance level of the video game character based on a performance level signal output by the monitor.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method to generate a customized workout routine based on a physical fitness goal of a user is described. Data relating to an exercise apparatus is retrieved. Profile information for a user of the exercise apparatus is analyzed. A customized workout routine is generated for the user to implement with the exercise apparatus. The routine is based on the analyzed profile information of the user and the retrieved data relating to the exercise apparatus.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method to monitor an exercise routine is described. An activity of a user relating to the use of an exercise apparatus is captured. Data relating to the captured activity is received. The received data is output to the user of the exercise apparatus.

Abstract: An apparatus is configured with one or more sensors arranged to detect a first shape-related parameter, one or more control elements arranged to provide a force, and circuitry operably connected to the one or more sensors and the one or more control elements to determine the force provided to the one or more control elements.

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

Abstract: An exercise support apparatus comprising acquiring unit for acquiring first information representative of at least one of an exercise experience and physical fitness of a user, storing unit for storing a plurality of kinds of exercises, exercise selecting unit configured to select at least one of the exercises stored in the storing unit, and at least one break; and exercise menu generating unit configured to generate an exercise menu including the selected exercises and the at least one break based on the acquired first information by the acquiring unit.

Abstract: An exemplary exercise device includes a handheld force sensor with complementary male and female connectors extending from opposite sides thereof. The force sensor senses pulling and/or pushing forces exerted between the opposing sides. The male connector may be resistant to travel through the female connector except in limited orientations. The connectors allow the exercise device to interface with any mobile or immobile device having complementary connectors. Non-complementary connectors can connect with the exercise device through a body passage. Depending on devices interfaced with the exercise device, force readings can be taken during a vast variety of motions using different muscle groups during training, exercise, and rehabilitation/physical therapy in homes, schools, healthcare facilities, health clubs, etc.

Abstract: In general, the present invention relates to exercise devices and systems that can receive and run workout programs that include control command subsets that control the moveable members of a plurality of different exercise devices. Exercise devices of the present invention are able to ignore the control command subset(s) that do not control their moveable member(s) and recognize the control command subset(s) that control their moveable member(s). Exercise devices of the present invention are further able to, if necessary, perform a sizing restriction to the relevant control command subset(s). Motivational content may also be modified in connection with or independently from a sizing restriction made to the control commands. The present invention also relates to a method for controlling one or more exercise device with a workout file that includes control command subsets that control the moveable members of a plurality of different exercise devices.

Abstract: Exercise machines and linear motor systems for use in exercise machines are provided herein, where the linear motor provides a resistance force in response to a force generated by a user performing an exercise. The linear motor systems include a programmable logic and force generation control system, which is programmable to control the resistance provided by the linear motor.

Abstract: A method for correcting life patterns for providing feedback for an exercise program periodically or in real time is disclosed. The method of the present invention detects a starting point of a dynamic activity interval periodically or in real time by sensing movement of a user in daily life, and provides an exercise program for filling a deficient amount of activity compared to a target value in the detected activity interval when the starting point is detected. Therefore, the method of the present invention may simply provide feedback for an amount of activity of a pertinent interval at an actual starting point of the dynamic activity interval, and thus the user may effectively follow the provided exercise program for correcting life patterns.

Abstract: Methods for profiling exercise sessions are described. An example method of determining cadence of a user disclosed herein includes receiving output signals from a sensor generated in response to consecutive footfalls of the user impacting a deck of a treadmill during an exercise session and processing the output signals from the sensor to determine respective magnitude values of a peak or a trough value of each of the output signals. The method includes detecting whether a first output signal has a first peak or trough value and detecting whether a second output signal has a second peak or trough value, determining a time interval between the first peak or trough value detected and the second peak or trough value detected, and calculating a cadence value of the user based on the time intervals.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for guiding a person to a physiological cumulative state in physical exercise, in which the exercise has a physiological target in the form of a physiological state at the end of the exercise, a duration, and a performance parameter. At the start of the exercise the physiological target is set, as is the value of the performance parameter, and during the exercise at regular intervals: at least one quantity proportional to the momentary intensity is measured. The present physiological state and an estimate of the physiological state at the end of the exercise are calculated with the aid of momentary intensity and the exercise performed. A guidance range for the momentary intensity is defined, in order to reach the target state and the performance parameter. The user is guided by feedback to remain within the guidance intensity range.

Abstract: Disclosed is An exercise guide apparatus comprising: a sensing unit configured to obtain a heart rate of a subject; a strength determining unit configured to determine a maximal oxygen uptake of the subject; an exercise intensity measurement unit configured to determine a current exercise intensity of the subject based on the heart rate obtained by the sensing unit; and an exercise guide unit configured to estimate a fat oxidation rate of the subject, determine whether or not fat oxidation of the subject occurs, generate guide information according to a result of the determination of the occurrence of fat oxidation, and display the guide information generated, wherein the fat oxidation rate is estimated based on a ratio of fat being oxidized at the current exercise intensity to the maximal oxygen uptake, and wherein the occurrence of fat oxidation is determined by checking whether or not the fat oxidation rate estimated is greater than a threshold.

Abstract: General health and wellness management techniques and devices are configured for use with a data-capable personal worn or carried device. In one embodiment, a method receiving data representing a profile upon which a target score is established based on one or more health-related activities, and acquiring data representing one or more subsets of acquired parameters based on, for example, one or more sensors disposed in a wearable computing device. The method can include determining data representing values for the one or more subsets of the acquired parameters based on reference values for the parameters set forth in the profile and calculating at a first processor a score based on data representing the values. The score represents an attained portion of the one or more health-related activities. In some cases, the method includes causing presentation of a representation of the score relative to the target score.

Abstract: A method, a computer program product, and a computer system initiate an exercise sequence on an exercise-integrated workstation. A set of active monitored activities is identified. A set of preferences and goals for the exercise sequence is identified. A set of accumulated details regarding any user modifications to previous exercise sequences is identified. A set of scheduled events is identified. Responsive to identifying the set of active monitored activities, the set of preferences and goals, the set of accumulated details, and the set of scheduled events, the method determines whether to initiate an exercise sequence. Responsive to determining to initiate the exercise sequence, the method initiates the exercise sequence.

Abstract: A system and method for developing an individual's physical abilities includes measuring one or more physical ability of an individual and establishing control parameters of a game such that operation of the game at a beginning level is within the individual's measured physical ability. The degree of physical ability shown by the individual over time of game play is monitored, and the control parameters are gradually modified to require a progressively greater physical ability of the individual than required at the beginning level. The system includes an input device, e.g., a joystick, that is operated by the individual to play the game. The system records aspects related to game play, such as frequency and duration of play, specific actions or motions, and changes in physical ability. A therapist is then able to review the record and modify system settings to optimize improvement by the individual.

Abstract: An electronic method of obtaining exercise equipment information. The method including using a first control server associated with a first fitness facility to gather first usage information from a first fitness equipment unit, sending the first usage information from the control server to an accumulated data storage unit, and using the first control server associated with the first fitness facility to gather second usage information from a second fitness equipment unit. The method further including sending the second usage information from the control server to the accumulated data storage unit, and sending the first usage information from the accumulated data storage unit information to a requester.

Abstract: An athletic instruction apparatus including a head positioner adapted to be disposed under a user's chin, a strap adapted to secure the head positioner to the user, and a fastener to removably fasten the strap to the head positioner, and a system and method of use thereof.

Abstract: A system and method for providing visual feedback to a user of an exercise machine for gauging fitness progress of the user. The system provides a user of an exercise machine with a virtual competition in which the user competes against virtual competitors based on his past performances or those of other users, either as an individual or as a member of a team. The team may also be part of a league. For an individual competing against his own past performance(s), the system may raise the level of performance required to win the virtual competition, and may also lower the level of performance required if the user is not performing well on a particular day. For an individual competing against others in either real-time or against designated results, either as part of a team or a league, the system may reduce the isolation, disconnection, and tedium often experienced by users of cardiovascular exercise equipment and provide a social outlet.

Abstract: An activity device including an activity sensor for generating an activity interaction signal responsive to a sustained large-muscle physical activity of a user operating the activity device; a controller, coupled to the activity monitor, generating a virtual environment supporting a virtual user frame-of-reference in the virtual environment, the controller generating a set of virtual education elements in the environment and a goal for the set virtual representation with respect to the virtual education elements wherein the controller is responsive to the activity interaction signal to produce an affected interaction of the virtual representation with the virtual education elements with the controller measuring a conformation of the goal by the affected interaction; and a feedback system, coupled to the controller, for presenting the virtual environment with the frame-of-reference in relation to the virtual education elements for providing the user with feedback.

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

Abstract: Methods and systems for use in connection with a fitness routine and/or an exercise apparatus. In one such method, fitness information is stored in a fitness analysis system and operative communication is established with an exercise apparatus and/or a wireless communication device. A fitness information request is received at the fitness analysis system, and the system sends a setting associated with the exercise apparatus to facilitate a workout using an exercise apparatus. The system receives exercise information corresponding to the workout, and updates fitness information during the workout. The updated fitness information is analyzed to generate associated with the exercise apparatus to facilitate a subsequent workout.

Abstract: A dual compound and isolated exercise machine includes a frame including a first portion and a second portion positioned in a plane generally perpendicular to the first portion. The spool line may be relocated to any leverage point on or near the frame. The spool assembly can be wirelessly controlled. Wireless signal sent to a wireless receiver activates a motor, gear reduction box, and variable speed drive to join the spool assembly, causing the release or retraction of the spool line. Tension along the spool line is measured by a force transducer and converted to readable real time measurements for display on a data monitor. The device is capable of producing and measuring maximum (0 to 100%) potential muscle concentric, isometric and concentric muscle contractions. The device is collapsible, portable and wheel chair and paraplegic accessible.

Abstract: There is provided an audio interval training device, including a sensing unit to obtain a parameter of a user in physical exercise, a memory to store a plurality of audio signals having predetermined tempos; and a processing unit configured to (1) receive a first and second target parameter value, (2) select from the plurality of audio signals a first and second audio signal having respective tempos, (3) alternatively rendering the first and second audio signals, wherein a respective audio signal is rendered to the user corresponding to the first and second target parameter value, as determined by the processing unit using the parameter from the sensing unit.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed herein for providing resistance to movement of a wearer. The system includes a plurality of wearable actuators, a plurality of wearable sensors, and a processor. Each of the wearable sensors measures an indication of an orientation of a corresponding one of the wearable actuators with respect to a vertical direction. Each of the sensors also measures an indication of a motion experienced by the corresponding one of the wearable actuators. The processor receives data from each sensor indicating the orientation and the motion of the sensor. The processor determines an amount of resistance to apply using each of the actuators based on the vertical direction and sends instructions to the actuators. The instructions cause the actuators to apply a resistance to the wearer.

Abstract: An example exercise system includes an exercise apparatus including a processor, a movable element and an output device and a device including a processor and coupled to the exercise apparatus and to a communication network. The device is configured to receive an exercise program information and mental activity data and to output the exercise program information and the mental activity data to the exercise apparatus. The processor of the exercise apparatus is configured to use the exercise program information to control a parameter associated with the movable element and to control the output device to output the mental activity data during use of the exercise apparatus.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a user-participating type fitness lecture system and a fitness training method using the same. More specifically, the present invention relates to a user-participating type fitness lecture system that provides direction for correcting a user's posture or motion by comparing the user's motions with user created contents (UCC). When the contents are played back for the user to emulate, correctness of the user's motion is grasped by detecting and comparing motions in the contents with the user's motion photographed through a camera, and providing the user with posture correction information in image or voice formats.

Abstract: Methods and systems for providing a lifestyle companion system are provided. The lifestyle companion system can provide a platform to conduct a user interview. Based on the user interview responses, the system can suggest activities, references, and/or plug-in modules. During performance of activities, the system can provide audio and/or visual cues related to the activities and collect data indicative of the user's performance. Based on the collected data, the system can dynamically adapt the user's goals and/or activities the user is performing or will perform. In some embodiments of the present invention, the lifestyle companion system of the present invention can be applied to fitness, nutrition, and/or medical modules. The system also can be used to facilitate synchronous group activities.

Abstract: Portable fitness monitoring systems with displays, and applications thereof, are disclosed. In an embodiment, a method of providing training feedback to an individual using a heart rate sensor and a display module supported by the individual during a physical activity includes the steps of determining a maximum heart rate value for the individual, defining a heart rate zone as a range of heart rate values that correspond to a range of percentages of the maximum heart rate value, associating a color with the heart rate zone, wirelessly transmitting heart rate data from the heart rate sensor to the display module during the physical activity, and displaying the color associated with the heart rate zone to the individual on the display module during the physical activity in response to the heart rate data.

Abstract: An exerciser includes a mechanical unit having a first mechanical member and a second mechanical member operable by one part of the body of a human being, a speed-controllable power drive having a first connection end and a second connection end respectively connected to the first mechanical member and the second mechanical member and being drivable by a power source to move the second mechanical member in making a first action and a second action relative to the first mechanical member, and an induction control unit having a first sensor set installed in the mechanical unit and a second sensor set installed in the speed-controllable power drive for controlling the operation of the speed-controllable power drive.

Abstract: System for training optimisation, the system comprising: at least one sensor for measuring a mechanical load parameter which is indicative for a mechanical load of the training a storage module for storing data which are dispatched by the least one sensor in a log file; a training advice module which is arranged for determining a personal training advice related to a load assessment of the user based on at least the data stored in the log file, the data comprising a cumulative load parameter or a training load history determined on the basis of historical sensor data stored in the log file, the training advice comprising the frequency of next training sessions and/or a type of training to be performed in the next training session; at least one output device such as a display, a sound signal, audio output, voice output or a vibrating element for outputting said training advice to said user.

Abstract: Provided is a novel physical therapy system and device that can be manually operated by a post-operative patient without the need of professional on site assistance, wherein the degree of movement of the limb or joint of interest is measured and recorded so as to provide a record of the progress of the prescribed post-operative therapy for immediate feedback to the patient as well as for long term data recordation for the therapist or physician.

Abstract: A training method and device. Signals are received from a training transducer. Training schedule data of exercises for a user is received from a remote correspondent. The training schedule data is stored in a first memory. A human perceptible signal, which is outputted in accordance with a feedback template, includes data content relating to performance of exercise by the user, said feedback template specifying a manner in which the data content is to be conveyed to the user. Output status data from which the human perceptible signal is generated is stored in a second memory. A determination of whether the received signals satisfy criteria of conforming to the training schedule data is continuously carried out in real time as the user is performing the exercises. The training schedule data is updated as a function of a result of the determination. The training device includes the first and second memory.

Abstract: An exercise system may include an exercise device, which may be configured to facilitate personal exercise and quantification thereof. The exercise device may include a housing body configured to receive compressive force during personal exercise. Personal exercise may include an exercise performed by a user involving one or more body parts of the user. The exercise device may include a force sensor carried by the housing body. The forces sensor may be configured to generate an output signal responsive to compressive force being exerted on the housing body. The exercise device may include one or more processors carried by the housing body. The one or more processors may be configured to execute one or more computer program modules to, among other things determine one or more exercise parameters based on the output signal of the force sensor.

Abstract: An exercise computer monitors the exercises of a user, especially a child, and provides rewards for exercises done well and regularly, thereby motivating the user. Rewards take the form of video games, cartoons, music, and merchant coupons. The exercise computer also provides encouragement and advice as the user progresses in skill level. Exercises may be prescribed. A record of exercise performance can be produced, to track the user's progress over time. The system and method can readily utilize the current install base of handheld computers and video games pre-existing in the marketplace.

Abstract: A training support system (S) allows an exerciser to practice training exercises safely and effectively with high motivation. The training support system (S) comprises a display means (4) which conducts display relating to training for the exerciser who uses a training machine (1) for muscle training, and a controller (3). The controller (3) allows dynamic display of reference motion and training motion on the display means (4) and variation of the display on the display means (4) according to the difference between the reference motion and the training motion.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for receiving, recording, and/or displaying information related to physical exercise are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, an instrumented weight pin for use with a stacked weight exercise machine includes a shaft portion extending outwardly from a handle portion. In this embodiment, the shaft portion is configured to be removably positioned adjacent to one or more weights of the exercise machine to selectively engage the one or more weights during use of the exercise machine. The weight pin can further include a load sensor and/or an accelerometer. The load sensor and/or the accelerometer can provide information associated with an exercise set to a data storage device carried by the weight pin. The data storage device can be operably coupled to a user computer or other display device so that information relating to the exercise set can be displayed for viewing by the user.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a computer-implemented method is performed at a portable electronic device with a touch screen display while the portable electronic device is in a user-interface locked mode of a workout monitoring application with the touch screen display turned off. The method includes: monitoring a workout by a user with the workout monitoring application; detecting an interaction by the user with a first physical button on the portable electronic device; and determining whether the detected interaction by the user with the first physical button corresponds to a first predefined action. The method further includes, in response to determining that the interaction by the user with the first physical button corresponds to the first predefined action; turning on the touch screen display; providing an audio status report of the workout by the user; displaying a workout pause icon; and displaying an unlock image.

Abstract: To increase effects of KAATSU training and improve safety thereof. A training system includes a tight fitting device 100 having an inflatable tube which is intended to be wrapped around a compression target range of an arm or a leg, a pressure regulating segment 200 that controls an applied pressure applied by the tight fitting device 100 to the compression target range by means of supplying air into the inflatable tube of the tight fitting device 100 or removing the air from the inflatable tube, a measuring segment 300, and a control segment 400. The measuring segment 300 measures a measurement target value which is one of a heart beat rate, a pulse wave value, and an oxygen saturation value, of a user who is receiving KAATSU training. When the measurement target value measured by the measuring segment 300 indicates that the KAATSU training should not be continued, then the control segment 400 notifies it to the pressure regulating segment 200 and terminates the KAATSU training.

Abstract: A feedback device for guiding and supervising physical exercises includes a compuputer devide having a CPU and a memory, a mirror display device includes a display device having a reflective surface, and position-sensing device for a person disposed before the device.

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

Abstract: A system for encouraging a user to perform substantial physical activity. The system may include sensors that may be worn by the user while the user is performing a substantial physical activity, such as running or playing basketball. The sensors may detect the magnitude of the physical activity and may transmit data regarding the physical activity to a processing system. The processing system may display a reward to encourage the user for participating in physical activity and the reward provided may be based on the physical activity of the user.

Abstract: Circuits, methods, and apparatus that allow sports or other equipment, such as gym or other cardio equipment, to write data to a media player. Examples further provide the uploading of this data to a computer and third-party website. To monitor progress, the third-party website can be used to track workout data over time. The third party-website can also collect data from other users, which is particularly useful for providing a competitive environment. This data can then be graphically displayed in various ways to provide encouragement.

Abstract: An exercise system presents display programming at a rate that is commensurate to a user's exercise rate. The user's exercise rate is monitored and compared to a default exercise rate. When the user's exercise rate is above or below the default exercise rate, the presentation of the display programming is adjusted to maintain a temporal relationship between the user's exercise rate and the display programming. The presentation of the display programming can be adjusted by periodically skipping or pausing frames of the display programming to increase or decrease the duration of the display programming.

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