This invention is embodied by a controlled, variable tension line, payout reel machine. A system of sensors detect line tension and line distance paid out, location, and transmit through wired and unwired communication to a microprocessor. The microprocessor is co-located with the reel structure, which in turn applies, via a brake feature, resistance to the reel which is paying out the line being pulled by the user. This invention pertains to all applications where it is desirable to control the tension in a line paid out from a reel or reel. As stated, the payout motive force is supplied by the person, animal or apparatus attached to the end of the line, opposite the reel. The invention applies to the field of precise and measured control of line tension for sport, sport training, performance testing.

This invention is embodied by a controlled, variable tension line, payout reel machine. A system of sensors detect line tension and line distance paid out, location, and transmit through wired and unwired communication to a microprocessor. The microprocessor is co-located with the reel structure, which in turn applies, via a brake feature, resistance to the reel which is paying out the line being pulled by the user. This invention pertains to all applications where it is desirable to control the tension in a line paid out from a reel or reel. As stated, the payout motive force is supplied by the person, animal or apparatus attached to the end of the line, opposite the reel. The invention applies to the field of precise and measured control of line tension for sport, sport training, performance testing.

The present invention concerns a support frame for a gymnastic apparatus, particularly for a cycling simulation device, comprising a base, and a first arm hinged with said base and a second arm hinged with said base, so that said first and second arm can assume a closed position and an open position, rotating with respect to said base, characterized in that said support frame comprises an articulation member articulated with said base and said first and second arm such that the rotation of one of said first or second arm relatively to said base causes a rotational translation of said articulation member and the rotation of the other arm with respect to said base, causing the passage from said closed position to said open position or vice versa.

The present invention concerns a support frame for a gymnastic apparatus, particularly for a cycling simulation device, comprising a base, and a first arm hinged with said base and a second arm hinged with said base, so that said first and second arm can assume a closed position and an open position, rotating with respect to said base, characterized in that said support frame comprises an articulation member articulated with said base and said first and second arm such that the rotation of one of said first or second arm relatively to said base causes a rotational translation of said articulation member and the rotation of the other arm with respect to said base, causing the passage from said closed position to said open position or vice versa.

An exercise device of the type including a frame with a first crank assembly rotatably coupled to the frame about a first axis and a second crank assembly rotatably coupled to the frame about a second axis. A control system may be used in communication with the first crank assembly and the second crank assembly, which may provide a synchronous movement of the first crank assembly relative to the second crank assembly. A pedal arm may be provided with a first end pivotally coupled to the first crank assembly and a pedal positioned on a second end. A crank link may be used with one end coupled to the second crank assembly and a second end coupled to the pedal arm. The crank link may be movable on the pedal arm which may provide varying paths of motion of the pedals.

A stationary exercise device includes a support structure and one or more input members such as pedals, handles, or other feature movably connected to the support structure. A movable output member such as a wheel is movably mounted to the support structure, and operably connected to the one or more input members such that movement of the one or more input members causes the output member to move. A resistance member interacts with the output member when the output member is moving to generate a variable resistance force tending to prevent movement of the output member. The variable resistance force may at least partially simulate the effects of inertia and/or momentum.

A stationary exercise device includes a support structure and one or more input members such as pedals, handles, or other feature movably connected to the support structure. A movable output member such as a wheel is movably mounted to the support structure, and operably connected to the one or more input members such that movement of the one or more input members causes the output member to move. A resistance member interacts with the output member when the output member is moving to generate a variable resistance force tending to prevent movement of the output member. The variable resistance force may at least partially simulate the effects of inertia and/or momentum.

A fitness tool for a user to use in performing stretching or other fitness activities may include a first member including (i) a first elongated shaft, the first elongated shaft including a first interface feature on a first end of the first elongated shaft, and (ii) a handle disposed at the second end. A second member may include a second elongated shaft, where the second elongated shaft may include a second interface feature at a first end of the second elongated shaft. The first and second interface features, when longitudinally engaged with one another, may enable the first and second shafts to rotate relative to one another. The second elongated shaft may include a hand or foot engagement mechanism.

A fitness tool for a user to use in performing stretching or other fitness activities may include a first member including (i) a first elongated shaft, the first elongated shaft including a first interface feature on a first end of the first elongated shaft, and (ii) a handle disposed at the second end. A second member may include a second elongated shaft, where the second elongated shaft may include a second interface feature at a first end of the second elongated shaft. The first and second interface features, when longitudinally engaged with one another, may enable the first and second shafts to rotate relative to one another. The second elongated shaft may include a hand or foot engagement mechanism.

An exercise machine is disclosed. The exercise machine comprises a pancake motor. The exercise machine comprises a torque controller coupled to the pancake motor. The exercise machine comprises a high resolution encoder coupled to the pancake motor.