Abstract: A content reproducing apparatus is disclosed which includes: a sensor; a discrimination circuit configured to discriminate whether a movement of a user is a first movement or a second movement based on a detection output from the sensor; a storage configured to store contents; a reproduction circuit configured to reproduce the contents; and a control circuit configured to supply the reproduction circuit with contents retrieved from the storage in accordance with a discrimination output from the discrimination circuit.

Abstract: An exercise system includes a local system having an exercise apparatus and an associated local computer, where the local computer controls and monitors the operation and use, respectively, of the exercise apparatus. The system further includes a remote system having a remote computer, and a transmission medium including a telephone line that couples the local system to the remote system for data communication between the local system and the remote system. The remote system may receive local system data from the local system concerning the use of the exercise apparatus, and the local system may receive remote system data from the remote system concerning the operation of the exercise apparatus. The local computer preferably controls the operation of the exercise apparatus based upon a modifiable script stored in a read/write memory of the local computer, which can be updated by the remote system.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame, an arm supporting member, and a leg supporting member. A sensor is connected to at least one of the arm supporting member and the leg supporting member, and/or a resilient member is interconnected between the arm supporting member and either the leg supporting member or the frame. The sensor communicates with a user display and/or a resistance device to indicate the amounts of work performed by the arm supporting member and the leg supporting member, and/or to adjust resistance to movement of the leg supporting member as a function of user force applied against the arm supporting member. The resilient member encourages synchronization of the arm supporting member and the leg supporting member, while allowing some relative movement therebetween.

Abstract: Methods and program products for building a workout are disclosed. In an embodiment, a method for generating a workout includes the steps of receiving user input indicating features of a desired workout, generating a workout, wherein the workout comprises a plurality of intervals, and wherein a first interval comprises an interval intensity and an interval duration, and initiating a graphical display that conveys the number of intervals making up the workout and the interval intensity and the interval duration of the first interval.

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: There is provided a machine for rehabilitation or exercise, comprising: a frame; a first arm movably secured to the frame via a first actuator; a first force sensor for measuring a force exerted by a user on the first arm; and a control unit adapted for controlling a displacement speed for the first arm via the first actuator as a function of the force and for increasing the displacement speed of the first arm via the first actuator when the force is superior to a target force. In one embodiment, there is further provided an electromyograph for location on the exercised muscle for measuring an electrical potential generated by the muscle and for lowering the target force when the electrical potential is superior to a predetermined maximum electrical potential. There is further provided a system for exercising a muscle.

Abstract: In at least one embodiment, a data processing system receives from a user device a query regarding a dining decision, where the query includes a location. At least one menu item at a restaurant proximate to the location is determined based upon at least one user-specific criterion, and the at least one menu item is transmitted to the user device.

Abstract: Systems and techniques for the collection and display of athletic information. Athletic data relating to a single person or group of people is collected at a central location, and subsequently displayed at a desired remote location so that the person or people can review and critique their performance. In addition, athletic data for multiple persons can be collected at a central location, and subsequently displayed to a user at a desired remote location, so that the user can compare his or her athletic activities to others.

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.

Abstract: In general, a computing device disposed in a cardio exercise machine receives data related to a fitness level of a user. The computing device selects a workout program based at least in part on the data. The operations of the cardio exercise machine are controlled based at least in part on the workout program. The computing device generates audio feedback based on at least one of the user's operation of the cardio exercise machine and the selected workout program. The processed data is stored on a removable computer storage medium that is insertable into a port of the cardio exercise machine.

Abstract: A training script device is described that conveniently allows a user to create a training script defining one or more steps of a workout routine, where each step may include an activity, a duration for performing that activity, and an intensity at which the activity is to be performed. Further, one or more steps of the training script can be self-starting in response to performance data detected by sensors of training script device executing the training script. This conveniently frees the athlete from having to continuously monitor the status of his or her workout activities. Still further, the training script device conveniently allows a user to transfer training scripts to other training script devices, so that athletes can share successful training scripts.

Abstract: Methods and computer program products for providing audio performance feedback to a user during an athletic activity are disclosed. In an embodiment, a method for providing audio performance feedback to a user during an athletic activity using a portable fitness monitoring device includes the steps of the portable fitness monitoring device receiving one or more audio feedback files, the portable fitness monitoring device generating audio performance feedback during the athletic activity by reference to an index, wherein the index is associated with the one or more audio feedback files, and the portable fitness monitoring device providing the audio performance feedback to the user during the athletic activity audibly through an audio output device.

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: An integrated health and entertainment management system for a smart handheld device contains a game controlling unit, an external operating signal receiving module, a data analyzing module, a feedback signal generating module, an external apparatus controlling unit; and a controlling signal transmitting module. The system interfaces the smart handheld device with an external exercise apparatus so as to allow a user who uses the smart handheld device when operating the exercise apparatus to perform personal health and entertainment management.

Abstract: A sports electronic training system with electronic gaming features, and applications thereof, are disclosed. In an embodiment, the system comprises at least one monitor and a portable electronic processing device for receiving data from the at least one monitor and providing feedback to an individual based on the received data. The monitor can be a motion monitor that measures an individual's performance such as, for example, speed, pace and distance for a runner. Other monitors might include a heart rate monitor, a temperature monitor, an altimeter, et cetera. In an embodiment, an input is provided to an electronic game based on data obtained from the at least one monitor that effects, for example, an avatar, a digitally created character, an action within the game, or a game score of the electronic game.

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: 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: A smartphone capable of replacing a meter of an electronic exercise machine includes a main body, a communication interface, a central processing unit (CPU), and a storage unit. A second man-machine interface and the communication interface are disposed on the main body, in which the communication interface is corresponding to an output terminal of a first man-machine interface of an electronic exercise machine. The CPU is disposed in the main body and is electrically connected to the communication interface. Being driven by an interface application software of the electronic exercise machine, the CPU may correspondingly control the electronic exercise machine, and an operation panel is formed on the second man-machine interface. The storage unit is disposed in the main body and is electrically connected to the CPU. The interface application software corresponding to at least one model of the electronic exercise machine is stored in the storage unit.

Abstract: An athletic training system is described herein. The training system is accessed by a computer system enabled for accessing the internet through a known web browser. The computer system accesses the athletic training system that accepts user input including at least past performance in a race or time trial, generates a pace chart based on that performance which pace chart defines the user's current fitness status and appropriate training intensity, and generates a training program that considers at least the fitness level of the user as indicated by the pace chart and the races the user plans to run. The training program is populated from a database containing many different classes of workouts, a different mix of the stored workouts providing optimum training for races of different distances. In an embodiment of the present invention, the system may provide access to a coach who can answer user questions or change the automatically generated workout schedule to accommodate particular concerns.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for enabling an operator to exercise comprising a frame having a body, a base and a top. A load is positioned on the frame for providing a resistive force. A press is positioned on the frame for displacement by the operator. A linkage joins the load with the press for displacing the load upon displacement of the press by the operator. An arm extends between a support end and a user end. A support pivot secures the support end of the arm to the top of the frame for pivoting the arm about the frame. A user interface inputs and outputs data. A user pivot securing the user interface to the user end of the arm for pivoting the user interface about the arm.

Abstract: A mobile device monitors accelerations using one or more inertial sensors. A user activity is identified based on the accelerations. A first estimation is made of a user activity statistic associated with the user activity based on the accelerations. Location information is obtained by one or more location based sensors. A second estimation is made of the user activity statistic based on the location information. The user activity statistic is calculated based on the first estimation and the second estimation.

Abstract: A training script device is described that conveniently allows a user to create a training script defining one or more steps of a workout routine, where each step may include an activity, a duration for performing that activity, and an intensity at which the activity is to be performed. Further, one or more steps of the training script can be self-starting in response to performance data detected by sensors of training script device executing the training script. This conveniently frees the athlete from having to continuously monitor the status of his or her workout activities. Still further, the training script device conveniently allows a user to transfer training scripts to other training script devices, so that athletes can share successful training scripts.

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: The invention provides a system for organizing, integrating, coordinating and customizing an individual physical fitness program by employing a set of database management systems, computer platforms and differentiated physical fitness devices and components.

Abstract: An exercise system may include an exercise device. The exercise device 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 such as an arm, hand, leg, foot, torso, neck, and/or other body part. 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: Systems and methods for sensing and monitoring various athletic performance metrics, e.g., during the course of a game, a practice, a training session, training drills, and the like, are described. These systems and methods can provide useful metrics for players and coaches relating to athletic performances in various sports, including various team sports.

Abstract: In general, a computing device disposed in a cardio exercise machine receives data related to a fitness level of a user. The computing device selects a workout program based at least in part on the data. The operations of the cardio exercise machine are controlled based at least in part on the workout program. The computing device generates audio feedback based on at least one of the user's operation of the cardio exercise machine and the selected workout program. The processed data is stored on a removable computer storage medium that is insertable into a port of the cardio exercise machine.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to a system and method for providing to patients a medical treatment program, such as a program for physical therapy, and for tracking whether the patient has performed the program correctly. In one aspect, the system and method determines whether the patient has performed the program correctly by comparing feedback from the patient for various parameters associated with an exercise to anticipated values for those parameters. In another aspect, the invention assists medical treatment providers in selecting exercises and tutorials to include in the medical treatment program.

Abstract: One system embodiment includes providing a number of sensors for monitoring an individual in performing a number of tasks from a list of tasks to be completed, the number of tasks each including, an associated number of steps to be completed by the individual, monitoring the performance of a task from the list by using at least one of the number of sensors, providing the individual with a number of step instruction prompts associated with the steps of the task, and obtaining task performance information corresponding to the performance of the task by the individual. The task performance information includes step prompt information including the number of step instruction prompts provided during performance of the task, sensor data from the at least one of the number of sensors, and adjusting the list of tasks to be completed based on the task performance information of the task.

Abstract: A magnetic resistance trainer includes an electrically conductive disk configured to rotate in response to power provided by a user of the trainer. The trainer further includes a magnet creating a magnetic field. The magnet is configured to be positioned proximate the disk such that the magnetic field induces eddy currents in the disk when the disk is rotating. Also, the trainer includes a sensor system configured to detect the change in the magnetic field caused by the eddy currents induced within the disk. The trainer additionally includes a processor configured to receive input from the sensor system reflecting the detected change in the magnetic field. The processor determines the power provided by a user of the trainer based on the input from the sensor system.

Abstract: Sensing applications for exercise machines are described. An example sensing application for profiling a workout session of an exercise machine comprises a user interface to input physical characteristics or workout parameters. A sensor is operatively coupled to the exercise machine to generate an output signal in proportion to a magnitude of a force imparted on the exercise machine in response to an impact to the exercise machine. A control system processes the output signal to determine a magnitude of a peak or trough value of the output signal, where the control system is to process the peak or trough value of the output signal to profile the exercise session.

Abstract: A system and method control usage of exercise equipment by: using a control server remote from a first fitness equipment unit to gather usage information at a fitness facility including the first fitness equipment unit; using the control server to communicate a maximum available individual workout time setting to the first fitness equipment unit based on the gathered usage information; and applying the maximum available individual workout time setting to the first fitness equipment unit.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus including a video display. In certain embodiments the apparatus includes an integrated platform. Memory within the apparatus contains a library of instructional exercise programs, such as yoga, Pilates, body toning and stretching routines. The apparatus may also connect to a network, such as the Internet to stream and/or download additional exercise programs. A user interface enables the user to select from available programs, which are shown on the video display. Audio for the programs may be provided via speakers or though headphones, which may be rechargeable and/or wireless.

Abstract: Athletic performance sensing and/or tracking systems include components for measuring or sensing athletic performance data and/or for storing and/or displaying desired information associated with the athletic performance to the user (or others). Such systems can allow users a wide variety of options in creating workouts, selecting and presenting media content during the athletic performance, etc., e.g., to help keep users entertained and motivated. In some instances, user feedback may be used, optionally in combination with objective data relating to a workout, to control features of the workout routine, to control the music or other media content selected and/or presented, and/or to control features of future workout routines and/or the presented media content.

Abstract: There is provided a physical fitness workout processing methodology and system for enabling remote scheduling and set-up of workout sessions for individual gym members or groups. In an exemplary embodiment, an individual or member is enabled to schedule a workout session in advance by using a wireless device or a personal computer from a location remote from the gymnasium where the workout session is to occur. The individual or user is enabled to schedule the use of various kinds of workout stations and equipment to insure that the proper equipment is available for use by the individual at the time during a workout session when it is needed. When the member enters the gym, his or her presence is detected and the member is tracked throughout the workout session. Messages are displayed on display devices by workout stations to announce that the equipment has been reserved for the member at the appropriate time.

Abstract: An activity device including an activity sensor 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, presenting the virtual environment with the frame-of-reference in relation to the virtual education elements providing the user with feedback regarding the goal and the conformation of the goal by the

Abstract: An exercise machine includes loading contact surfaces. An actuator is configured to adjust a position of the loading contact surface. A user controls the actuator through a user interface to adjust the loading contact surface's position in a first exercise session. A processor is configured to automatically monitor the loading contact surface's position as adjusted by the user in the first exercise session, and to automatically control the actuator to move the loading contact surface in a subsequent session to the same or a different position as in the previous session.

Abstract: A system and method of providing an interactive training program by monitoring a user's actions is disclosed. A user is prompted through the interactive training program to perform certain movements, the user's movements are monitored relative to the prompted movements, and feedback is provided to the user through the program.

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: 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: Methods and computer program products for providing audio performance feedback to a user during an athletic activity are disclosed. In an embodiment, a method for providing audio performance feedback to a user during an athletic activity using a portable fitness monitoring device includes the steps of the portable fitness monitoring device receiving one or more audio feedback files, the portable fitness monitoring device generating audio performance feedback during the athletic activity by reference to an index, wherein the index is associated with the one or more audio feedback files, and the portable fitness monitoring device providing the audio performance feedback to the user during the athletic activity audibly through an audio output device.

Abstract: A process is disclosed for enabling an operator to exercise on an exercise device. The process includes measuring a range of movement of the operator during exercising on the exercise device for generating an electronic range of movement data. A strength is measured of the operator during exercising on the exercise device for generating an electronic strength data. An electronic program is designed based on the electronic range of movement data and the electronic strength data. The electronic program is stored in an electronic media. The electronic program is displayed as a moving scale on a screen for instructing the operator to exercise at the same rate as the moving scale to complete the exercise in a timely and controlled matter.

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, the method including the steps of: (a) determining a maximum heart rate value for the individual; (b) 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; (c) associating a color with the heart rate zone; (d) wirelessly transmitting heart rate data from the heart rate sensor to the display module during the physical activity; and (e) visually 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 exercise machine includes a frame including a first portion and a second portion positioned in a plane generally perpendicular to the first portion. A carriage assembly moves along a linear path parallel to the first portion. A drive unit is joined to the frame for movement the carriage assembly in a first direction and a second direction. The drive unit includes a motor, a ball screw joined to the motor, and at least one support bearing rotatably joined to the ball screw and joined to the carriage assembly for enabling the carriage to move along the linear path in response to the ball screw rotating. A first sensor activates the motor in a first mode to move the carriage in the first direction. A second sensor activates the motor in a second mode to move the carriage in the second direction.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed for enabling an operator to exercise comprising a frame with a load positioned on the frame to provide a resistive force. A press is positioned on the frame for displacement by the operator. A linkage joins the load with the press for displacing the load upon displacement of the press by the operator. A display is provided for inputting and outputting data. A sensor is positioned on the frame for measuring a displacement and a speed of the linkage. A memory storage is provided for storing data. A processor communicates with the display and the sensor and the memory storage for processing data. The processor transfers data to the display for providing an exercising instruction to the operator. The processor receives data from the sensor for processing the performance of the exercising instruction by the operator. The processor transfers data to the memory storage for saving the performance of the exercising instruction by the operator.

Abstract: Arrangement for training the gait, comprising an endless belt guided over at least two rollers and serving as a treadmill, the one surface of which serves as a walking surface, a sensor system for determining a pressure/force distribution on a force measurement plate located underneath the walking surface, which is provided with a plurality of pressure/force sensors on the side facing the endless belt, an analyzing unit connected, on the input side, to the pressure/force sensors, which detects pressure distributions generated by a walking or running subject on the walking surface, a processing unit connected, on the input side, to the analyzing unit, which generates from the pressure distributions values or signals, respectively, that characterize the gait of the subject, optical display means for displaying images in the area of the walking surface, which are connected to image signal generating means and a display process controller for the generation and the position control in terms of time and space of i

Abstract: A method for creating a personalized exercise routine with at least one user interface used in connection with forming machine-readable instructions protected as private to a user subsequently carrying out the exercise routine on an exercise machine, the method including the steps of: providing the user with at least one user interface to define the personalized exercise routine; forming machine-readable instructions to control the exercise machine to carry out the exercise routine on the exercise machine, said machine instructions protected as private to the user; storing the personalized exercise routine formed in the machine-readable instructions in a memory device; and user-triggered engaging of the machine-readable instructions to control the exercise machine in carrying out the personalized exercise routine.

Abstract: Fitness monitoring methods, systems, and program products are disclosed. In an embodiment, a computer-implemented method for providing a new workout for an athlete utilizing a fitness monitoring service includes the steps of granting an athlete access to an account of the fitness monitoring service, maintaining a schedule of workouts for the athlete to complete in association with the account, receiving the new workout from a coach, adding the new workout to the schedule of workouts, and exchanging information related to the new workout with a portable fitness monitoring device.

Abstract: An example exercise system includes an exercise apparatus having a processor and a movable element and a device coupled to the exercise apparatus and to a communication network. The device is configured to receive an exercise program and to output the exercise program to the exercise apparatus.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus in this disclosure includes a doorway mountable runner restraint device. The device has a generally rigid, preferably padded, belly pad that is placed against and in front of a user's pelvis and abdominal area. A pair of cords are attached to the belly pad, each having an opposite end attached to an elastic member. Each of the elastic members is, in turn, attached to an anchor which is removably fastened to a door, a doorway frame, or sandwiched between a closed door and the doorway frame. A user fastens the apparatus in place in a doorway, faces away from the doorway, and places the belly pad against his or her torso directly over the pelvis area, and then runs in a direction away from the doorway. The elastic members resist and restrain the user from substantial movement away from the doorway but stretch to allow forward running movement.