Exercise apparatus
10232211 ยท 2019-03-19
Inventors
Cpc classification
A63B23/03525
HUMAN NECESSITIES
A63B23/1209
HUMAN NECESSITIES
A63B21/0442
HUMAN NECESSITIES
A63B22/04
HUMAN NECESSITIES
A63B22/0605
HUMAN NECESSITIES
International classification
A63B21/00
HUMAN NECESSITIES
A63B22/04
HUMAN NECESSITIES
A63B22/06
HUMAN NECESSITIES
A63B23/035
HUMAN NECESSITIES
Abstract
An exercise system comprising one or more resilient members and a secondary exercise device. The secondary exercise device can be in exercise bike, elliptical machine, stepper, treadmill, or any other suitable cardiovascular or exercise device. One or more resilient member support elements can be supported by a base member which can be separate from or integral with the frame or support members of the secondary exercise device. In this configuration, a user can exercise his or her muscles using the resilient members while simultaneously operating the secondary exercise device. Additional exercise stations comprising the resilient members can be formed around the secondary exercise device.
Claims
1. An exercise device, comprising: a first resilient member support element, a second resilient member support element, and a third resilient member support element supported by a base member; a first set of connection interfaces supported by the first resilient member support element, the first set of connection interfaces comprising a first connection interface having a first axial centerline and positioned at a first angular orientation and a second connection interface having a second axial centerline and positioned at a second angular orientation that is different than the first angular orientation; first and second independently deflectable resilient members respectively supported by the first resilient member support element and the second resilient member support element, each configured to produce a resistance force when a user exerts a force thereon so as to deflect at least a portion of each resilient member from a longitudinal axis of a relaxed position of each resilient member; and a secondary exercise device configured to provide an additional mode of exercise separate and independent from the resilient members, the secondary exercise device being usable independent of and/or simultaneously with the resilient members; wherein: the first resilient member support element is positioned adjacent to the ground level to a lateral side of the secondary exercise device; the second resilient member support element is positioned adjacent to the ground level to an opposite side of the secondary exercise device, the second resilient member support element being approximately symmetrically positioned about a plane passing through a longitudinal center of the secondary exercise device relative to the first resilient member support element; the first and second resilient member support elements are laterally positioned relative to the secondary exercise device at a width sufficient to ensure that the use of the secondary exercise device is not obstructed by the use of the first or second resilient members; the third resilient member support element is positioned forward of a front end portion of the secondary exercise device adjacent to the ground level; each resilient member support element is configured to provide an angularly adjustable support for each resilient member so as to support each resilient member in a cantilever disposition; and the secondary exercise device is an exercise bike, an exercise stepping machine, or an elliptical machine.
2. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the base member is formed integrally with a support structure of the secondary exercise device.
3. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the secondary exercise device is an exercise bike.
4. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein adjacent to the ground level means within approximately 3 inches of the ground surface.
5. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein adjacent to the ground level means within approximately 5 inches of the ground surface.
6. A method of exercising using the exercise device of claim 1, comprising exercising a portion of a user's body by deflecting the first resilient member and/or the second resilient member while simultaneously engaging in a secondary exercise mode on the secondary exercise device.
7. The method of claim 6, further comprising exercising a portion of a user's body by deflecting a resilient member supported by the third resilient member support element while standing adjacent to the secondary exercise device.
8. The method of claim 6, wherein the secondary exercise device is an exercise bicycle and the secondary exercise mode comprises pedaling.
9. The method of claim 6, further comprising terminating the secondary exercise mode, moving out of contact with secondary exercise device and engaging one or more of the first and second resilient members.
10. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising a third set of connection interfaces supported by the third resilient member support element, wherein each of the first, second, and third sets of connection interfaces comprises a plurality of holes, wherein an end portion of each of the resilient members is removably supportable in each of the plurality of holes, and wherein each hole in a respective set of connection interfaces is at a different angular orientation so as to support the resilient members at a plurality of different angular orientations.
11. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the base member is either attached to or is part of a support structure of the secondary exercise device.
12. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first, second, and third resilient member support elements is movably adjustable, wherein changing an angular orientation of the adjustable resilient member support element relative to the base member will change an angular orientation of a resilient member supported by the adjustable resilient member support element.
13. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising one or more wheels supported at a front portion of the exercise device for moving the exercise device and the secondary exercise device.
14. An exercise device, comprising: a base member attached to a lower portion of a frame of a secondary exercise device such that the base member lies against or adjacent to a ground surface; a first resilient member support element and a second resilient member support element supported by a base member, with the first resilient member support element being on one side of the secondary exercise device and the second resilient member support element being on a second side of the secondary exercise, the second side being opposite the first side; a third resilient member support element supported by the base member, the third resilient member support element being positioned adjacent to a front end portion of the secondary exercise device adjacent to the ground level; a first set of connection interfaces supported by the first resilient member support element, the first set of connection interfaces comprising a first connection interface having a first axial centerline and positioned at a first angular orientation and a second connection interface having a second axial centerline and positioned at a second angular orientation that is different than the first angular orientation; and first and second independently deflectable resilient members respectively supported by the first resilient member support element and the second resilient member support element, each configured to produce a resistance force when a user exerts a force thereon so as to deflect at least a portion of each resilient member from a longitudinal axis of a relaxed position of each resilient member; wherein: the first and second resilient member support elements are laterally positioned relative to the secondary exercise device at a width sufficient to ensure that the use of the secondary exercise device is not obstructed by the use of the first resilient member or second resilient member; each resilient member support element is configured to provide an angularly adjustable support for each resilient member so as to support each resilient member in a cantilever disposition; and the secondary exercise device is configured to provide an additional mode of exercise separate and independent from the resilient members, the secondary exercise device being usable independent of and/or simultaneously with the resilient members.
15. The exercise device of claim 14, wherein the exercise device is configured to be attachable to the frame of the secondary exercise device without requiring any modification to the frame of the secondary exercise device, so as to retrofit the secondary exercise device.
16. The exercise device of claim 14, wherein the secondary exercise device is an exercise stepping machine or an elliptical machine.
17. The exercise device of claim 14, wherein the base member extends over a portion of the frame of the secondary exercise device.
18. A method of exercising using the exercise device of claim 14, comprising: exercising a portion of a user's body by deflecting the first and/or the second resilient member supported by the first and/or the second resilient member support element while simultaneously engaging in a secondary exercise mode on the secondary exercise device; wherein: the secondary exercise mode comprises one or more of walking, jogging, running, pedaling, and exercising on an elliptical machine or step machine; and the base member is positioned approximately adjacent to a ground level.
19. An exercise device, comprising: a base member attached to a lower portion of a frame of a secondary exercise device such that the base member lies against or adjacent to a ground surface; a first resilient member support element and a second resilient member support element supported by the base member, with the first resilient member support element being on one side of the secondary exercise device and the second resilient member support element being on a second side of the secondary exercise, the second side being opposite the first side; a third resilient member support element supported by the base member, the third resilient member support element being positioned adjacent to a front end portion of the secondary exercise device adjacent to the ground level; a first set of connection interfaces supported by the first resilient member support element, the first set of connection interfaces comprising a first connection interface having a first axial centerline and positioned at a first angular orientation and a second connection interface having a second axial centerline and positioned at a second angular orientation that is different than the first angular orientation; and first and second independently deflectable resilient members respectively supported by the first resilient member support element and the second resilient member support element, each configured to produce a resistance force when a user exerts a force thereon so as to deflect at least a portion of each resilient member from a longitudinal axis of a relaxed position of each resilient member; wherein: the first and second resilient member support elements are laterally positioned relative to the secondary exercise device at a width sufficient to ensure that the use of the secondary exercise device is not obstructed by the use of the first resilient member or second resilient member; each resilient member support element is configured to provide an angularly adjustable support for each resilient member so as to support each resilient member in a cantilever disposition; the secondary exercise device is configured to provide an additional mode of exercise separate and independent from the resilient members, the secondary exercise device being usable independent of and/or simultaneously with the resilient members; and the secondary exercise device is an exercise bike.
20. The exercise device of claim 19, wherein the base member is either attached to or is part of a support structure of the exercise bike.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
(1) These and other features, aspects and advantages of this disclosure will now be described in connection with some embodiments of the present disclosure, in reference to the accompanying drawings. The illustrated embodiments, however, are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. The following are brief descriptions of the drawings.
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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SOME EMBODIMENTS
(35) An exercise apparatus of the present disclosure comprising one or more resilient members for exercising is described herein. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth by way of exemplary embodiments in order to provide a more thorough description of the present disclosure. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. Unless specifically noted, it is intended that the words and phrases in the specification and claims be given the ordinary and accustomed meaning as understood by those of ordinary skill in the applicable art or arts. If any other meaning is intended, that special meaning will be disclosed herein. Furthermore, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited by the specific details of the embodiments described below. As an example, the number, location, and orientation of the connection interfaces or openings of each of the embodiment of the exercise apparatus of the present disclosure are not limited to the number, location, and orientation of the connection interfaces or openings specifically disclosed herein.
(36) Any of the embodiments or the features, components, details, or otherwise thereof disclosed or incorporated by reference herein, including without limitation the resilient member embodiments, resilient member support embodiments, base components or supports, or otherwise, can be used in combination with an additional exercise device or components thereof or additional exercise method including, without limitation, recumbent exercise bicycles, upright exercise bicycles, recumbent or upright steppers or stepping devices, indoor cycling bikes, recumbent elliptical machines, upright elliptical machines, treadmills, vibration platforms, or other cardiovascular or strength based exercise devices. For example, without limitation, any of the embodiments of the resilient members and/or resilient member supports (i.e., the components that support an end portion of one or more resilient members) disclosed or incorporated by reference herein can also be used with one or more of a rotating platform, a vibration platform or device, a spinning platform, a treadmill, set of pedals, crank, and resistance mechanism configured to provide resistance to the pedals and crank, a set of pedals or foot supports configured to move in a circular, elliptical, or lateral pathway, an upright or recumbent exercise bike, indoor cycling bike, a recumbent or upright elliptical fitness device, a slide board, step climber, stair climber, abdominal exercise device, recumbent exercise device, recumbent stepper or stepping device, upright stepper or stepping device, walking machines, treadmills or any other recumbent, supine, or upright fitness or exercise device (collectively referred to as a secondary exercise device or element) that a user can use while simultaneously strengthening one's muscles using one or more of the resilient members supported by a resilient member support or a pair of resilient member supports. The secondary exercise device can include any suitable cardiovascular or aerobic exercise device or other desired strength training device, including recumbent, upright, or cycling bikes, elliptical machines, or otherwise manufactured by SCIFIT, LIFE FITNESS, PRECOR, or other exercise device manufacturers. The secondary exercise device can also be referred as a supplemental exercise device herein.
(37) One benefit of using the resilient member support elements and resilient members with the secondary exercise element is that the resilient members are independently and freely bendable in any direction away from the resting position of the resilient members. This results in the user being able to freely move the resilient members independent of the motion involved in the secondary exercise device. For example, a user can move the resilient members independent of a pedaling motion (if on any of a variety of bicycling devices), or running motion (if on a treadmill), or elliptical or arcuate movement of the lower body, or stepping movement of the lower body, or even lateral movement of the lower body. Other devices on the market that allow a user to move his or her upper body while moving the lower body typically require the movement to be performed simultaneously and dependently. Here, with the arrangements disclosed herein, a user can perform movements with the resilient members in any direction, with one arm being moved independently and differently relative to the other arm, and out of sync with the lower body movement or movement of the secondary exercise device. Additionally, the resilient members allow resistance force in a multi-planar fashion, thereby resulting in a much more functional workout than with traditional exercise devices.
(38) As mentioned, in any embodiments disclosed herein, the exercise system can have any of the components, features, configurations, or any of the details of any of the embodiments of the resistance member platforms or systems disclosed herein.
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(40) With reference to
(41) In the illustrated embodiment, the platform 2102 can support one or more resilient member support elements 2104, two being shown. In any resilient member fitness system embodiments disclosed herein, including resilient member fitness system 2100, the platform can support three or more resilient member support elements. In any embodiments disclosed herein, an additional resilient member support element can be positioned on the platform off of the front and of the cardio device so that a user standing on the ground can exercise using the resilient members by standing on the ground surface in front of the bike. In this arrangement, the platform, such as platform 2102, can be extended further to accommodate and structurally support the additional resilient member support element.
(42) Any embodiments of the resilient member support elements can have an arcuate shape and one or a plurality of openings 2105 therein. Any embodiments of the resilient member support elements can also have a generally planar surface through which the openings can pass. The openings can also be referred to herein as connection interfaces. Each of the openings can be configured to support a resilient member 2106 therein. For example and without limitation, in the illustrated embodiment or in any embodiments herein, the resilient member support elements can have 10 or more openings, each of the openings being position and angled different from one another. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the resilient member support element can have two rows of openings formed therein, each of the two rows of openings having five openings. In any embodiments disclosed herein, the openings in each of the rows can be separated by an angle between approximately 15 or less and approximately 25 or more, or an angle that is approximately 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the innermost row of openings can have an angle of approximately 44, approximately 22, approximately 0, approximately 22, and approximately 44, respectively, relative to the vertical orientation. The negative sign is to indicate that the opening is angled away from the user. In any embodiments, the resilient member support elements can support the resilient members at greater angles relative to the vertical orientation, such as approximately 66, or approximately 90 relative to vertical, or any desired angle between approximately 0 and approximately 90.
(43) Any embodiments of the resilient member support elements disclosed herein can also have an outer or outermost row of openings. The outermost row of openings (i.e. the row of openings that is closest to the side or outside edge of the platform) can be angled away from the midline of the platform at any desired angle. For example and without limitation, the outermost row of openings can be angled away from a vertical plane by approximately 15, or approximately 17, or from approximately 12 to approximately 20 or more. In the illustrated embodiment, the outermost row of openings can have an angle of approximately 44, approximately 22, approximately 0, approximately 22, and approximately 44, respectively, relative to the vertical orientation, while also being tilted away from the vertical plane by approximately 15, or approximately 17, or from approximately 12 to approximately 20 or more. The negative sign is to indicate that the opening is angled away from the user. Any embodiments of the resilient member support elements can also have a third row of openings. The third openings can have an angle of approximately 44, approximately 22, approximately 0, approximately 22, and approximately 44, respectively, relative to the vertical orientation, while also being tilted inwardly by approximately 15, or approximately 17, or from approximately 12 to approximately 20 or more. In any embodiments disclosed herein, the resilient members can be supported by the resilient member support elements in any range of angular orientations and/or locations. In any embodiments of the resilient member support elements disclosed herein, the outer row of openings or connections interfaces can be removed to simplify the resilient member support element.
(44) In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the resilient member support elements can be supported by a base member that is independently moveable with respect to the secondary exercise device or components, or which is coupled with or part of the secondary exercise device or components. Alternatively, the resilient member support elements can be supported by the secondary exercise device or a portion thereof so as to be integral with the secondary exercise device and not require the need for a base member or platform.
(45) For example, in any embodiments disclosed herein, the base member can be configured to be positioned under the secondary exercise device or portion thereof and can be configured such that the weight of the secondary exercise device or portion thereof that is positioned on top of the base member can be used to stabilize the base member when the resilient members are being used. In this configuration, the base member and resilient members can be used with any existing secondary exercise device without modification of the secondary device or components thereof. In any embodiments disclosed herein, the resilient member supports can be positioned on the base member such that, when the secondary exercise device is resting (removably) on top of the base member, the resilient member supports can be positioned laterally outside of the structure of the secondary exercise device so that the movement (or, at least, a substantial range of movement) of the resilient members will not be significantly obstructed by the secondary exercise device.
(46) Alternatively, in any embodiments disclosed herein, the resilient member supports can be attached to a portion of the secondary exercise device, or to a frame or support element of the secondary exercise device so as to have a more integrated design. With reference to
(47) Any of the exercise device embodiments disclosed herein can be configured to support one or more resilient members when not being used. For example, with reference to
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(50) In some embodiments, the base member can be configured so that the base member can be easily attached to the secondary exercise device using standard fasteners. For example, the base member can be coupled with the secondary exercise device using bolts, screws, or other common fasteners. The base member can be configured such that the base member can be attached to the secondary exercise device without modification, or, in some embodiments, without substantial modification, of the secondary exercise device. For example, the threaded bosses used for rubber feet on the secondary exercise device can be used to receive bolts to attach or secure the base member to the secondary exercise device. Additionally, the frame or support structure of the secondary exercise device can be designed to support the resilient member support elements to provide the most refined and simplified design.
(51) In some embodiments, as shown in
(52) For example and without limitation, in any embodiments disclosed herein, the resilient member support elements can be laterally spaced such that the two resilient member support elements to the sides of the secondary exercise device are spaced apart by approximately 24 inches, or between approximately 23 inches and approximately 26 inches, or between 23 inches and approximately 25 inches. Additionally, the resilient member support elements can be laterally spaced such that the openings of the resilient member support elements in each of the two laterally spaced resilient member support elements to spaced apart by approximately 25.5 inches, from center to center, or from approximately 23 inches to approximately 28 inches, or from approximately 25 inches to approximately 26 inches.
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(54) When the frame is designed to support the resilient member support elements, it may be important to increase the strength of the frame to accommodate the additional forces exerted on the frame, and also to position the resilient member support elements in an ideal position so that the movement of the resilient member will not be hindered or substantially hindered by the components of the secondary exercise device. For example, as shown, the frame can be configured such that the resilient member support elements are positioned laterally of the pedals of the recumbent bike so that neither the pedals nor the user's feet or legs strike the resilient members when the secondary exercise device and the resilient members are being used simultaneously, or at least such that the risk of that occurring is reduced. Additionally, the resilient member support element can each be positioned at a forward end of the frame structure so that a user can perform pushing exercises with the resilient members or pulling exercises with the resilient members.
(55) As shown, the exercise system 2250 can have a pair of resilient member support elements 2254a that are positioned laterally of the secondary exercise device. Additionally, with reference to
(56) The resilient member support elements can have any of the same features, details, or other configurations of any of the resilient member support elements disclosed or incorporated by reference herein. The arcuate shaped resilient member support elements of system 2250 can each have two rows of holes, with angles varying by approximately 22 within each row. Each of the holes in the outermost row of holes also varies by 22, and the entire outermost row of holes can each be positioned at a 17 angle relative to the adjacent hole of the innermost row of holes so that, when the resilient member is placed in the outermost holes, the resilient member will have approximately a 17 angle relative to resilient member placed in the adjacent hole of the innermost row of holes.
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(58) The exercise system 2300 has a secondary exercise device S and base member 2302 that can be bolted to the frame or support structure of the secondary exercise device S, or can be formed integrally with the support structure of the secondary exercise device. The base member 2302 can have any of the same features, components, materials, or other details of any of the other exercise system or base member embodiments disclosed herein. In any embodiments, such as in the illustrated embodiment, the base member 2302 can support two or more resilient member support elements that can each have a plurality of openings configured to removably support an end portion of any of a variety of resilient members. Additionally, in any embodiments disclosed herein, the exercise system can have a third resilient member support element (not shown) positioned near a middle portion of the base member 2302, which can be positioned forward of the secondary exercise device. In the illustrated embodiment, the secondary exercise device S is a recumbent exercise bicycle. However, as with any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the secondary exercise device can be any of a wide range of the exercise device is disclosed or described above, including recumbent stepper devices, upright exercise bikes, upright stepping devices, lateral trainers, elliptical devices, or otherwise.
(59) The resilient member support elements 2304 can be supported by the base member 2302 in a position such that a user using the secondary exercise device can also operate and use the resilient members in any of a range of positions. The resilient member support elements can have any number of openings therein, such as between five or six openings in each of the two rows of openings formed in the resilient member support elements. The base member 2302 can be configured to bolt onto the existing frame or support structure of the secondary exercise device, or can be integrated into the design of the frame or support structure of the secondary exercise device such that the structure needed for the resilient member support elements can be formed or manufactured at the same time that the rest of the support elements of the frame or support structure for the secondary exercise device are formed.
(60) The base member of the exercise system 2300 can be designed to fit around the existing structure or frame F or other components or features of the secondary exercise device. In any embodiments disclosed herein, the exercise system can be configured such that a user can use the resilient members while simultaneously using the secondary exercise device. Additionally, any embodiments of the exercise systems disclosed herein can also be configured such that a user can use the resilient members from a standing position adjacent or away from the secondary exercise device. For example, with reference to
(61) In any embodiments disclosed herein, the base member 2302 can have a substantially planar top surface 2350 that can also be used to conceal or cover the components of the frame of the base member 2302. The planar surface 2350 can also be used to support instructional and/or branding graphics, such as indexing letters and numerals to help identify hole positions for the resilient members, as desired.
(62) As mentioned, the exercise system 2300 can have any of the features, shapes, components, materials, or other details of any of the embodiments of the exercise systems or resilient member supports in this disclosure or incorporated by reference herein. Similarly, the resilient members can have any of the features, shapes, components, materials, or other details of any of the embodiments of the resilient members disclosed in this disclosure or incorporated by reference herein.
(63) Any exercise system embodiment disclosed herein can be configured to be positioned under and bolted or otherwise fastened to the secondary exercise device or a portion thereof and can be configured such that the weight of the secondary exercise device or portion thereof that is positioned on top of the base member can be used to stabilize the base member when the resilient members are being used, in addition to the fastening elements used to couple the base member to the secondary exercise element. In this configuration, the base member and resilient members can be used with any existing secondary exercise device without modification of the secondary device or components thereof. In any embodiments disclosed herein, the resilient member supports can be positioned on the base member such that, when a secondary exercise element is positioned on top of the base member, the resilient member support elements can be positioned laterally outside of the structure of the secondary exercise device.
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(65) The resistance based exercise system 2400 can have a base member 2402 that can be coupled with or attached to (such as with bolts or other fasteners) to an existing frame structure F of a secondary exercise device S. In the illustrated embodiment, the secondary exercise device is a recumbent bicycle. However, the secondary exercise device can be any one of the examples of a secondary exercise device listed above. The base member 2402 can have any of the same features, components, materials, or other details of any of the other exercise system or base member embodiments disclosed herein. In any embodiments, such as in the illustrated embodiment, the base member 2402 can support two or more resilient member support elements that can each have a plurality of openings configured to removably support an end portion of any of a variety of resilient members. Additionally, in any embodiments disclosed herein, the exercise system can have a third resilient member support element 2404b positioned near a middle portion of the base member 2402 and, as shown, can be positioned forward of the secondary exercise device to enable a user standing in front a front edge 2400a of the base member 2400 to exercise using one or more resilient members, as shown in
(66) In the illustrated embodiment, the secondary exercise device S is a recumbent exercise bicycle. However, as with any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the secondary exercise device can be any of a wide range of the exercise device is disclosed or described above, including recumbent stepper devices, upright exercise bikes, upright stepping devices, lateral trainers, elliptical devices, or otherwise.
(67) As mentioned, the resilient member support elements 2404a positioned laterally of the secondary exercise device S can be supported by the base member 2402 in a position such that a user using the secondary exercise device can also operate and use the resilient members in any of a range of positions. The resilient member support elements can have any number of openings therein, such as between five or six openings in each of the two rows of openings formed in the resilient member support elements. The base member 2402 can be configured to bolt onto the existing frame or support structure of the secondary exercise device, or can be integrated into the design of the frame or support structure of the secondary exercise device such that the structure needed for the resilient member support elements can be formed or manufactured at the same time that the rest of the support elements of the frame or support structure for the secondary exercise device are formed.
(68) The base member of the exercise system 2400 can be designed to fit around the existing structure or frame F of the frame of the secondary exercise device. For example, one or more openings 2410 can be formed in the base member 2402 to fit over or around the existing support structure F of the secondary exercise device S.
(69) In any embodiments disclosed herein, the base member can have a first support member 2412 having two side portions 2412a of the front portion 2412b. Each of the side and middle portions of the first support member 2412 can support a resilient member support element thereon or therewith. For example, in any embodiments disclosed herein, the resilient member support element can be attached to the side portions and the front portion of the first support member 2412 using bolts. Four or six bolts can be used to secure each of the resilient member support elements to the base member 2402.
(70) The base member can be configured to couple with the existing frame structure S2 using the existing bolt holes, bosses, and other attachment elements. In some embodiments, the base member 2402 can have one or more support or frame members configured to engage with one or more portions of the frame structure F to provide additional support and securement of the base member 2402 to the frame or support structure S2. For example, the base member 2402 can have a first and a second support member that can engage with the wheel housings 2428 of the frame structure F of the secondary exercise device to provide additional strength and support to the exercise system 2400 during use of the resilient members, particularly during use of the resilient members supported by the resilient member support element positioned at a forward end of the base member 2402.
(71) The base member 2402 can also have first and second lateral support members 2434 to provide additional support to make the base member 2402 more rigid and robust to counteract any forces exerted on the base member and prevent deflection of the base member 2402 one forces are exerted on the laterally positioned resilient member support elements during use of the resilient members. The lateral support members 2434 also provide an additional connection point between the existing support structure F and the first support member 2412. The lateral support members 2434 can be coupled with bolt support members 2436, which can be bolted directly to a frame portion of the secondary exercise device.
(72) Wheel support housings 2440 can also be coupled with, affixed to, or supported by the first support member 2412. The wheel support housings can support wheels 2442 therein to permit the exercise system 2400 to be easily move rolled or moved for relocation and/or storage purposes, even with the base member 2402 attached to the secondary exercise device S. The base member 2402 can have a substantially planar top surface 2450 that can also be used to conceal or cover the components of the frame of the base member 2402. The planar surface 2450 can also be used to support instructional and/or branding graphics, such as the indexing letters and numbers used to identify the various holes in the resilient member support elements 2404.
(73) Additionally, the base member 2402 can be configured to have a recess or openings 2420 positioned adjacent to where user's foot may travel or move during operation of the secondary exercise device. The recesses 2420 can be sized and configured such that the base member 2402 does not inhibit or obstruct the free movement of the user using the secondary exercise device. For example, when a secondary exercise device is a recumbent bicycle, the recesses or openings 2420 can provide a clear space for the pedals or a user's feet to travel during operation of the pedal or crank assembly of the exercise bike. Additionally, positioning the resilient member support elements near the lateral sides of the base member 2402 can reduce the likelihood that the resilient members may obstruct the free movement and operation of the pedals, foot beds, or other components of the secondary exercise device. For example, when the resilient member support elements are positioned laterally outside the furthest width of the pedals of the secondary exercise device, resilient members positioned or supported by the resilient member support elements will be less likely to obstruct or come into contact with the pedals during operation of the exercise system 2400.
(74) As mentioned, the exercise system 2400 can have any of the features, shapes, components, materials, or other details of any of the embodiments of the exercise systems or resilient member supports in this disclosure or incorporated by reference herein. Similarly, the resilient members can have any of the features, shapes, components, materials, or other details of any of the embodiments of the resilient members disclosed in this disclosure or incorporated by reference herein.
(75) Any exercise system embodiment disclosed herein can be configured to be positioned bolted or otherwise fastened to the secondary exercise device or a portion thereof and can be configured such that the weight of the secondary exercise device or portion thereof that is coupled with the base member of the resistance based exercise system can be used to stabilize the base member when the resilient members are being used by a user standing, sitting, kneeling, lying, or otherwise positioned off of the secondary exercise device. In this configuration, the base member and resilient members can be used with any existing secondary exercise device with little to no modification of the secondary device or components thereof. In any embodiments disclosed herein, the resilient member supports can be positioned on the base member such that, when a secondary exercise element is positioned on top of the base member, the resilient member support elements can be positioned laterally outside of the structure or movement path of the secondary exercise device or components thereof.
(76)
(77) Any resistance based exercise system embodiment disclosed herein, including without limitation resistance based exercise system 2500, can be configured to be positioned under and bolted or otherwise fastened to the secondary exercise device or a portion thereof and can be configured such that the weight of the secondary exercise device or portion thereof that is position on top of the base member or attached to the base member of the resistance based exercise system can be used to stabilize the base member when the resilient members are being used. In this configuration, the base member and resilient members can be used with any existing secondary exercise device with little to no modification of the secondary device or components thereof. Alternatively, the resistance based exercise system embodiments disclosed herein can be configured such that the base member is integrally formed with the frame or other support elements of the secondary exercise device, for a more streamlined and uniform overall device.
(78) In any embodiments disclosed herein, the exercise system can be configured such that a user can use the resilient members while simultaneously using the secondary exercise device. Additionally, any embodiments of the exercise systems disclosed herein can also be configured such that a user can use the resilient members from a standing position adjacent or away from the secondary exercise device. For example, a user can stand on a ground surface adjacent to a forward end 2500a of the exercise system can perform exercises by bending the resilient member is positioned in any one of the resilient member support elements of the exercise system. For example, a user can then the resilient member 2506 removably supported by a middle resilient member support element 2504b that is positioned forward of the secondary exercise device and near or at a middle portion of the base member 2502. This can increase the versatility and usability of the device, and also allow multiple people to use the exercise system simultaneously.
(79) In any embodiments disclosed herein, the resilient member supports can be positioned on the base member such that, when a secondary exercise element is positioned on top of the base member or is attached to the base member, the resilient member support elements can be positioned laterally outside of the structure of the secondary exercise device so that the secondary exercise device can be used without obstruction by the resilient members and so that the resilient members can be used without obstruction by the components of the secondary exercise device or by the user of the secondary exercise device. In the illustrated embodiment, the secondary exercise device S is a recumbent exercise stepper. However, as with any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the secondary exercise device can be any of a wide range of the exercise device is disclosed or described above, including recumbent exercise devices, upright exercise bikes, lateral trainers, elliptical devices, or otherwise.
(80) In any embodiments disclosed herein, the base member 2502 can have any of the same features, components, materials, or other details of any of the other exercise system or base member embodiments disclosed herein. In any embodiments, such as in the illustrated embodiment, the base member 2502 can support two or more that can each have a plurality of openings configured to removably support an end portion of any of a variety of resilient members 2506. Additionally, in any embodiments disclosed herein, the exercise system can have a third resilient member support element 2504b positioned near a middle portion of the base member 2502 and, as shown, can be positioned forward of the secondary exercise device S to increase the versatility of the system, and permit multiple user stations and even multiple simultaneous users on the system.
(81) The resilient member support elements 2504 can be supported by the base member 2502 in a position such that a user using the secondary exercise device can also operate and use the resilient members in any of a range of positions. The resilient member support elements can have any number of openings therein, such as between five or six openings in each of the two rows of openings formed in the resilient member support elements. The base member 2502 can be configured to bolt onto the existing frame or support structure of the secondary exercise device (as illustrated). Some benefits of this design approach are that the base member can be added retroactively to existing secondary exercise devices (i.e., existing secondary exercise devices can be retrofitted with the base member to convert a secondary exercise device into a res). This approach also can be implemented without making changes to the secondary exercise device to accommodate the base member. Alternatively, the base member 2502 can be integrated into the design of the frame or support structure of the secondary exercise device such that the structure needed for the resilient member support elements can be formed or manufactured at the same time that the rest of the support elements of the frame or support structure for the secondary exercise device are formed.
(82) The base member of the exercise system 2500 can be designed to bolt directly to the existing structure or frame F of the secondary exercise device with little to no modification of the structure or frame F of the secondary exercise device. Additionally, to limit the width of the base member 2502 and the resistance based exercise system device overall, the base member can be sized and configured such that the width of the base member can be equal to or less than a width of the secondary exercise device. This will ensure that the width of the overall device will not be greater than a width of the secondary exercise device by itself, which will ensure that the portability and mobility of the device will be preserved as well as it can be (so as to continue to fit through doors, not increase the floor space of the device, etc.). For example and without limitation, in the illustrated embodiment, the base member 2502 can be configured to pass over the lateral frame member LF of the frame F of the secondary exercise device so as to provide support for one or more resilient member support elements positioned at the forward end of the secondary exercise device. The structural support members of the base member 2502 can be configured to extend over any frame members of the secondary exercise device in order extend to or past a forward end of the secondary exercise device to support the one or more resilient member support elements positioned at the forward end of the base member 2502. This will provide one or more additional exercise stations at the forward end of the secondary exercise device for users standing, sitting, kneeling, lying, or otherwise positioned on the ground surface forward of the secondary exercise device.
(83) With reference to
(84) As shown, the base member 2502 can have one or more first frame members 2510 configured to provide a main attachment point with one or more portions of the frame structure F of the secondary exercise device to secure the base member 2502 to the frame or support structure F. The first frame members 2510 can be sufficiently rigid to provide structural support to the base member and provide a secure and rigid connection point between the base member and the frame F of the secondary exercise device. The first frame members 2510 can have one or more openings 2512 (which can be, but are not required to be, slotted for lengthwise adjustability of the base member) positioned and a first portion 2510a of the first frame members 2510 through which a bolts 2514 can extend to engage with the frame member F of the secondary exercise device. In the illustrated embodiment, there are two first frame members 2510 each having to slotted openings 2512 through which bolts can extend to couple the base member 2502 to the frame F of the secondary exercise device. However, any desired number of openings and fasteners can be used to secure the first frame members and the base member to the secondary exercise device.
(85) As illustrated, the first frame members 2510 can also extend in a forward direction to provide structural support to a forward portion 2502b of the base member 2502 and a resilient member support element 2504b supported by the forward portion 2502b of the base member, forward of the secondary exercise device S. Because the frame structure F of the secondary device has a lateral frame member LF, and because in this embodiments it may be desired to not extend laterally outwardly around the lateral frame member LF (which would increase a width of the overall device), the first frame members 2510 can be designed to extend over the lateral frame member LF to provide structural rigidity and support to the forward portion 2502b of the base member 2502. To satisfy this design objective, the first frame members 2510 can have a middle portion 2510c that has an overall height that is greater than a height of the lateral frame member LF of the secondary exercise device. This greater height of the middle portion 2510c can increase the rigidity and provide a connection between the first portion 2510a and the forward portion 2510b of the first frame members 2510.
(86) An opening or recess 2518 can be formed in the middle portion 2510c of the first frame members 2510 at a size and shape configured to receive or extend over and around the lateral frame member LF of the secondary exercise device. Additionally, the recess 2518 can be sized such that the base member 2502 can be moved into forward or aft direction relative to the structure or frame F of the secondary exercise device to permit adjustability of the position of the resilient member support elements 2504 relative to the secondary exercise device or relative to a user using the secondary exercise device. The recess 2518 formed in any of the frame members can be sized to provide space in the forward and aft direction relative to the lateral frame member LF of the secondary exercise device so that there is a gap between the lateral frame member LF and the recess 2518 sufficiently large enough to provide for the desired amount of adjustability of the base member 2502 in the forward and aft directions relative to the frame F of the secondary exercise device S.
(87) The base member 2502 can also have a pair of first lateral support members 2530 and a pair of second lateral support members 2532. The rear portion of the first lateral support members 2530 can be used to support and provide additional structural rigidity to the base member 2502 to provide structural rigidity and support to the resilient member support elements 2504. The first and second lateral support members 2530 and 2532 can also have an increased height in a middle portion 2530c, 2532c, respectively, thereof for additional rigidity and strength between the forward and rearward sections of the lateral support members 2530, 2532. A recess 2518 can be formed in a middle portion 2530c, 2532c, respectively, of the first and second lateral support members 2530, 2532 to enable the first and second lateral support members 2530, 2532 two extend beyond the lateral frame member LF of the secondary exercise device.
(88) A forward portion 2530b of the first lateral support member 2530 and a forward portion 2532b of the second lateral support member 2532 can support a wheel housing cover member 2536 to provide wheel housings 2540 at a forward and 2502b of the base member 2502. Wheels 2542 can be supported within the wheel housings 2540 to provide increased portability and maneuverability of the exercise device. The wheels can be positioned at a forward end of the base member 2502 such that, when a user lifts the rear end of the entire exercise device, the wheels 2542 will contact the ground surface or engage the ground surface and support the weight of the front end of the exercise device and allow the user to move in maneuver the exercise device by rolling the exercise device on the wheels 2542.
(89) Additionally, the first and second lateral support members 2530, 2532 can be used to secure a forward portion 2502b of the base member 2502 to the frame F of the secondary exercise device. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the frame of the secondary exercise device has a wheel housing WH (shown most clearly in
(90) The base member 2502 can also have additional support members or frame members 2560 and 2564 to provide additional support to make the base member 2502 more rigid and robust to counteract any forces exerted on the base member and prevent deflection of the base member 2502 when forces are exerted on the laterally positioned resilient member support elements during use of the resilient members. The support members 2560 can increase the rigidity of the base member 2502 in bending and also in torsion to ensure that the resilient member support elements are firmly and rigidly supported during use of the resilient members 2506. The support members 2560 and all other frame members disclosed herein can be formed by laser cutting from sheet metal, and can be bent using standard metal forming techniques or sheet metal bending techniques to the desired or shape.
(91) The frame members 2564 can have a bent portion to increase the overall stiffness of the frame member and can be welded to the frame members 2560 to provide a rigid and torsionally stiff box structure to increase the overall stiffness of the base member 2502. Additionally, the frame member 2566 can be positioned in the forward portion of the base member 2502 to provide additional lateral stiffness and interconnectivity between the various frame members in the forward portion of the base member. The frame member 2566 can also be bent to provide additional strength and rigidity to the base member. Slots 2568 can be formed in one or more of the members, such as is shown in the figures, to enable the assembly and interconnectivity of the various frame members and also increase the structural rigidity of the overall frame structure by increasing the connection point between the various frame members.
(92) A cover member 2570 can be formed to fit over a top of the structure comprised of the frame members to further increase the rigidity of the overall base member 2502 and to provide a surface against which the resilient member support elements 2504 can be positioned. Bolts can extend through the holes 2572 formed in the cover member 2570 and into the threaded openings of the resilient member support elements 2504 to securely couple the resilient member support elements to the cover member 2570. In any embodiments disclosed herein, the resilient member support elements can be attached to the cover member using four to six or any suitable number of bolts per resilient member support element, six being shown. Locking washers, locking nuts, threadlock, or regular nuts can be used in any of the attachments described in this disclosure.
(93) The cover member can have a contour that matches the desired arrangement of the frame members of the base member 2502. As such, the frame member can have one or more bends 2574 formed therein to follow a profile or contour of the top portion of the frame members 2510, 2530, 2532, of the base member 2502.
(94) All of the frame members can be joined to one another using any suitable techniques, including welding, bolting, brazing, or by using any other suitable fastening techniques. Welds can also be positioned adjacent to the slots to provide for secure connection between the various freight frame members at the slotted connections.
(95) In any embodiments disclosed herein, the height of the base member can be similar to the height of the frame of the secondary exercise device. In the illustrated embodiment, the height of the base member 2502 is approximately 2 inches, not taking into consideration the height of the resilient member support elements 2504 or the height of the base member above the lateral frame member LF of the secondary exercise device.
(96) The base member 2502 can be configured to have a recess or openings 2520 positioned adjacent to where our users the may travel or move during operation of the secondary exercise device, such that the base member 2502 does not inhibit or obstruct the free movement of the user using the secondary exercise device. For example, when a secondary exercise device is a recumbent bicycle, the recesses or openings 2520 can provide a clear space for the pedals or a user's feet to travel during operation of the pedal or crank assembly of the exercise bike.
(97) Additionally, positioning the resilient member support elements near the lateral sides of the base member 2502 can reduce the likelihood that the resilient members may obstruct the free movement and operation of the secondary exercise device. For example, when the resilient member support elements are positioned laterally outside the furthest width of the pedals or foot beds of the secondary exercise device, resilient members positioned or supported by the resilient member support elements will be less likely to obstruct or come into contact with the pedals during operation of the exercise system 2500.
(98) For example and without limitation, in any embodiments disclosed herein, the resilient member support elements can be laterally spaced such that the two resilient member support elements to the sides of the secondary exercise device are spaced apart by approximately 24 inches, or between approximately 23 inches and approximately 26 inches, or between 23 inches and approximately 25 inches. Additionally, the resilient member support elements can be laterally spaced such that the openings of the resilient member support elements in each of the two laterally spaced resilient member support elements to spaced apart by approximately 25.5 inches, from center to center, or from approximately 23 inches to approximately 28 inches, or from approximately 25 inches to approximately 26 inches.
(99) As mentioned, the exercise system 2500 can have any of the features, shapes, components, materials, or other details of any of the embodiments of the exercise systems or resilient member supports in this disclosure or incorporated by reference herein. Similarly, the resilient members can have any of the features, shapes, components, materials, or other details of any of the embodiments of the resilient members disclosed in this disclosure or incorporated by reference herein.
(100)
(101) Additionally, though not shown, one, two, or even three or more resilient member exercise elements can be positioned around any of the embodiments of the secondary exercise device is disclosed herein, including the elliptical machine shown in
(102) The resistance based exercise system can be used to form multiple exercise stations for one or more users, with each of the exercise stations providing exercise modalities to the user or users. This can be used to support small group training or circuit based workouts.
(103)
(104) As shown in the figures, the resilient member support elements 2904 are preferably positioned laterally away from the lateral edges 2910a of the treadmill belt 2910. In this configuration, the resilient member support elements 2904 and at least a bottom portion of the resilient members 2906 will be constrained to a position that will be outside of the space envelope of the treadmill belt so that the resilient member support elements 2904 and at least the free movement of the treadmill belt or substantially obstruct the free movement of a user exercising on the treadmill.
(105) Additionally, though not shown, one, two, or even three or more resilient member exercise elements can be positioned around any of the embodiments of the secondary exercise device is disclosed herein, including the elliptical machine shown in
(106) Additionally, in any embodiments disclosed herein, including embodiments where the supplemental exercise device is an exercise bike, a treadmill, an elliptical machine, a stepper, or otherwise (whether upright, recumbent, or otherwise), the arcs can be positioned adjacent to a ground surface that supports the exercise device or adjacent to a top surface of a frame member that is supported on the ground or supported on top of footpads or other supports on the ground, as shown for example in
(107) As used herein, in some embodiments, the term adjacent to a ground surface can be used to indicate that a bottom portion of the resilient member support element is within approximately 2 inches of the ground surface. In some embodiments, the term adjacent to a ground surface can be used to indicate that a bottom portion of the resilient member support element is within approximately 2.5 inches, or within approximately 3 inches of the ground surface, or between 2 inches and 4 inches or more of the ground surface.
(108) In other words, to accommodate resilient members that are approximately four feet or five feet long or within this range or any desired length for the user, the resilient member support elements can be positioned near the foot level of the user. For example, in some embodiments, the arcs can be positioned at a location relative to the user that is in proximity to the furthest extension of the user's foot when the user is using the supplemental exercise device. The spatial arrangement and configuration of the resilient member support elements described herein can apply to any of the resistance based exercise devices disclosed herein.
(109) In the illustrated embodiments, the treadmill has a console portion 2920 that can be configured to permit a user to control and operation of the treadmill consistent with the control and operation of current treadmills. One or more handle member's 2922 can extend from the console to provide support to the user on the treadmill. Alternatively, in any embodiments disclosed herein, the handle members can be either reduced in size or removed completely since the resilient members can be used to provide support to the user. Additionally, reducing the size of the console and the handles, or limiting the handles completely, can have the benefit of providing additional range of motion to a user using the treadmill and resilient members so that the resilient members can be bent in any desired direction and to any desired range without being inhibited by the console, handles, or other structure of the secondary exercise device.
(110) Alternatively, in any embodiments disclosed herein, the base member can be configured to be positioned under the secondary exercise device or portion thereof and can be configured such that the weight of the secondary exercise device or portion thereof that is position on top of the base member can be used to stabilize the base member when the resilient members are being used. In this configuration, the base member and resilient members can be used with any existing secondary exercise device without modification of the secondary device or components thereof. In these arrangements, the resilient member support elements can be positioned so as to be laterally outside of the space envelope of the secondary exercise device such that the movement of the resilient members will not be obstructed by the secondary exercise device. For example, if the secondary exercise device is a treadmill, which can have a motor or be motorless (i.e., manually operated), the resilient member supports can be supported by the frame or support structure inherent in the treadmill and can be positioned laterally just to the left and right of the rotating belt.
(111) Additionally, with any of the embodiments of the resistance based exercise devices, the resilient member support elements can be positioned at any desired location around the secondary exercise device or modality, including in front of a front end portion of the secondary exercise device, along the sides any desired location of the secondary exercise device, or even asked of the aft portion of the secondary exercise device. As shown in
(112) Additionally, the exercise system 3000 can also have additional laterally spaced resistance member support elements 3004c positioned to the rear of a space that would be occupied by a user on the supplemental exercise device to provide additional work out or exercise stations around the device. The exercise system 3000 can also have one or more resilient member support elements 3004d positioned to the aft of the space that would be occupied by the user of the supplemental exercise device, thereby providing an additional exercise station for any user to use.
(113)
(114) The adjustable resilient member support elements 3110 can be structurally supported by the base member 3102 in any desired position. For example, without limitation, the adjustable resilient member support elements 3110 can be positioned laterally from the secondary exercise device S so as to position the resilient members in a position that is outside of the users workspace or movement pattern when using the secondary exercise device. The support body 3114 can be supported about an axle or shaft 3115 supported by a shelf support body 3118. The chef support body 3118 can be coupled with an supported by the base member 3102. Additionally, the pin member 3112 can have a body portion 3113 by the base member 3102 and permit the shaft portion 3123 of the pin member 3112 to advance in an axial direction relative to the body portion 3113 into the openings 3117 of the support body 3114. The body portion 3113 can be coupled with a rigidly supported by the base member such that the handle portion 3121 of the pin member can be accessed by the user to easily to make the adjustment of the angular orientation of the resilient members.
(115) In the illustrated embodiment, the base member 3102 can support a first adjustable resilient member support element 3110 and a second adjustable resilient member support element 3110 in a position that is laterally opposite the first adjustable resilient member support element 3110. Additionally, the base member 3102 can support any desired number of resilient member support elements 3104 and the lateral sides of the device 3100 or forward of the secondary exercise device S, thereby providing multiple workout stations for multiple users and/or for circuit training.
(116) Both of the adjustable resilient member support elements 3110 can be independently adjustable by a user so that a first resilient member can be in a first orientation and the second resilient member can be in a second orientation, the second orientation being the same as or different than the first orientation. A benefit of using the adjustable resilient member support elements 3110 is that a user can easily adjust the angular orientation of the resilient members to suit their needs. To adjust the angular orientation of the resilient members, a user can pull the pin member 3112 to disengage the locking pin from the support body 3114, rotate the support body 3114 about the shaft 3115 until the desired orientation is achieved, and then release the pen member 3112 so that the pin member advances into the opening 3117 corresponding with the desired angular orientation of the support body 3114. The pin member 3112 can be biased toward a second position, the second position being when the pen member is fully inserted into the opening 3117 in the support body 3114. An opening 3119 in the top of the support body can be configured to receive an end portion of a resilient member 3106. A cover member 3116 can be positioned on either or both sides of the body portion 3114 (also referred to as a support body) to seal off access to the openings 3117 thereby preventing potential injury.
(117) By inserting or engaging the engagement pin 3112 into the support body 3114 (which is referred to the second position or second state of the engagement pin), the adjustable resilient member support element 3110 will be in a locked state or configuration (also referred to as the second state). In the locked or second state, the user can exert a force on the resilient members 3106, thereby bending the resilient members and getting resistance for exercise. When the engagement pin 3112 is disengaged from the body portion 3114 (i.e., when the engagement pin 3112 is in a first position), the adjustable resilient member support element 3110 will be in an adjustable or movable state (also referred to as a first state), wherein the user can adjust the angular orientation of the adjustable resilient member support element 3110 and, accordingly, the resilient member.
(118) Some embodiments of the exercise device can be configured such that a resilient member is non-removably coupled with or inserted into the opening 3119 in the support body so that a user cannot remove the resilient member from the support body or from the exercise device. This could prevent loss or theft of the resilient members, and make it easier for a user to use the device. However, it may be more challenging to adjust the resistance level of the resilient member if the resilient member cannot be removed. However, increasing the angle can result in preloading the resilient member such that an additional force is achieved due to the progressively increasing resistance of the resilient members.
(119) With reference to
(120) Any embodiments disclosed herein can have one or more adjustable resilient member support elements 3110 in place of or in addition to any of the resilient member support elements disclosed herein. Additionally, any of the embodiments disclosed herein can have any desired form of engagement pen in place of the 10 member 3112. For example and without limitation, with reference to
(121) When the adjustable resilient member support element 3214 and, therefore, the resilient member 3206, are in the desired location, the user can simply release the pedal member 32202 cause the engagement pin member to reengage one of the openings or other features formed in the body portion 3214, thereby securing the adjustable resilient member support element 3210 in the desired angular orientation. When the adjustable resilient member support element 3210 is in the locked state or configuration, a user can bend the resilient members and perform the exercises on the device 3200.
(122) In any embodiments disclosed herein, the adjustable resilient member support elements can have recesses, channels, teeth, or other features alternative to or in addition to the openings for engagement with an engagement pen or engagement member. For example, a gear system or channels formed on a peripheral arcuate surface of the body portion of the adjustable resilient member support elements can be used to engage and disengage or change from a first day to a second state the adjustable resilient member support elements. For example and without limitation, in some embodiments, engagement and disengagement of the adjustable resilient member support element can be achieved by sandwiching or compressing plates having engagement elements or mechanisms, such as teeth, recesses, channels, protrusions, or other features, about a planar surface of the support body of the adjustable resilient member support element.
(123) Additionally, in any embodiments disclosed herein, the adjustable resilient member support element can be configured such that a user can disengage the engagement mechanism or pin of the adjustable resilient member support element by pushing axially downward on a resilient member supported by the adjustable resilient member support element. For example, in any embodiments disclosed herein, the engagement mechanism or locking mechanism of the adjustable resilient member support element can have teeth or can have an engagement pin that can be biased toward an engaged position when the resilient member is relaxed. A spring mechanism can be used to bias the engagement pin toward the relaxed position. Pushing down on the resilient member can overcome the bias and cause the engagement mechanism to disengage, thereby allowing the adjustable resilient member support element to be freely rotated about a predefined range of motion. When a user positions the resilient member in the desired angular orientation, the resilient member can be relaxed, thereby allowing the biasing member or spring member to return the engagement pen to the locked or engaged position, thereby fixing the angular orientation of the adjustable resilient member support element.
(124) In some embodiments, this can also be achieved by depressing the body portion or body member of the adjustable resilient member support element such that tabs, teeth, and engagement pin, or other locking mechanisms (i.e., engagement elements) are no longer engaged with the body portion or body member. For example, body portion or body member can have a narrowed portion thereof that, when the body portion or body member is depressed, the narrow portion is permitted to rotate or advance past the engagement pin or engagement teeth of the adjustable resilient member support element. The body member can then be rotated to the desired position with the body portion depressed by the downward force of the resilient member, and then the body portion can reengage with the engagement element of the adjustable resilient member support element to fix or lock the location or angular orientation of the resilient member.
(125) Additionally, in any embodiments disclosed herein, and electrically powered actuator (which can be, but is not required to be a linear actuator) can be used to move the engagement pin from a first state or position in which the pin is disengaged from the body portion to a second state or position in which the engagement pin is engaged with the body portion of the adjustable resilient member support element. The linear actuator can be controlled either by an interface on the base member of the exercise device, or by buttons or controls on a user interface for monitor of the secondary exercise device. In this configuration, it will be much easier for a user to adjust the angular orientation of the resilient members. A user can simply deactivate the engagement pin by pressing a button, adjusting the angular orientation of the resilient members, and then re-engaging the engagement pin by pressing either the same or different button. The buttons can control the actuator to engage and disengage the body portion or support portion of the adjustable resilient member support element. In any embodiments disclosed herein, the actuator can be wirelessly or connected by wires to the controller.
(126) Furthermore, in any embodiments disclosed herein, a screw drive or other adjustable system can be used to adjust and angular orientation of the adjustable resilient member support element. In this configuration, with a screw drive or other actuator coupled with the support body, such as support body 3114, a user can adjust and angular orientation of the adjustable resilient member support elements automatically and without physically moving the adjustable resilient member support elements to the desired angular orientation. For example, the user can turn a dial or activate a button or other feature to activate the linear actuator or screw drive to adjust the adjustable resilient member support element to the desired angular orientation relative to the user. This can greatly simplify and streamline the setup of the resilient members for any user, particularly for users who may have difficulty physically engaging and disengaging the engagement pin or other components of the adjustable resilient member support elements.
(127) Additionally, in some embodiments, a gear drive system can be used to adjust and angular orientation of the adjustable resilient member support elements wherein a motor having a drive gear thereon engages with teeth on the support body, such as support body 3114, or a gear coupled with the support body to turn and therefore adjust the orientation of the support body
(128) Again, any of the two or more adjustable resilient member support elements can be independently adjustable so that the angular orientation of the resilient members can be individually adjusted.
(129) With any of the embodiments disclosed herein, one or more sensors can be added to one or more of the resilient members to allow the system to track one or more parameters related to the movement of the resilient members. For example, sensors can be attached to or integrated into the resilient members to provide measurement data and/or feedback regarding the position, speed, acceleration, direction and other parameters related to the movement of the resilient members (collectively referred to herein as measurement information). The sensors can be positioned and configured such that the measurement information can be gathered for the handle portion of the resilient members.
(130) In some embodiments, the sensors can be positioned and configured such that the measurement information is gathered for the end portion of the resilient member. The sensors can be based on or comprise the technology and components of currently available sensors, including the 3 axis motion processing solutions, 6 axis motion tracking solutions, 9 axis motion tracking solutions and any combination of accelerometer and/or gyroscopic motion sensors available from Invensense and/or other developers or manufacturers of motion or position sensing equipment.
(131) A three axis accelerometer plus gyroscope can be used to gather the motion data. For example, a SparkFun MPU-6050 3-axis accelerometer with a MEMS 3-axis gyroscope with an onboard digital motion processor can be used. A microcontroller, such as the Arduino Pro Mini 328, can be connected to the SparkFun accelerometer/gyroscope, and then to a wireless communicator (which can be based on current wireless or Bluetooth technology) to feed the data to an external source, such as a laptop, smartphone, tablet, personal computer, or otherwise. A power supply, such as a lithium ion battery pack, can be used to provide power to these components. These components can be mounted together in a removable carrier that can be removably attached or coupled with a resilient member to track the movement of a user's hands and arms when bending the resilient members. A software program can be developed to process the data gathered by the sensor assembly such that a user can have real-time information about the positioned of his or her hands during the exercise.
(132) This information can be particularly helpful when instructing a user to move the resilient members in his or her hands through a particular movement pattern. For example, in skills training used for improving cognitive capabilities in executive function, as well as having other neurological benefits, a user performs a challenging program of movements with his or her hands. Being able to follow targets on a computer screen for example which trace out and represent hand movements, a user can determine how accurately they are following such targets if they can see the position of their own hands on the computer screen relative to the target movement. For example, if a right hand is doing up pressing and pulling motion forward and tore the body in a reciprocating fashion, a target movement icon on the screen can move up and down in a linear fashion. A second dot or icon on the computer screen representing the actual position of the user's hand based on the data and information provided by the sensor assembly, can provide visual feedback to the user so that the user can determine how closely they are tracking the target movement icon.
(133) A user can have a pair of sensors, one on each arm or hand or, located on each of the two resilient members that are being used, so that data and information regarding the movement of the left and the right hands can be gathered while the user is performing the exercises and even compared with left and right appendage targets on the computer screen. This can be a very beneficial tool for the user performing different exercises.
(134) The movements can comprise asymmetric movements between the left and right appendages of the body, to create additional cognitive challenges. The cognitive and neurological benefits of goal-based skill training can be enhanced if such skill training exercises are performed during aerobic exercise. Again, the sensors can be attached to the resilient members at any desired position on the resilient members, or can be attached to a user's wrist or hands.
(135) The resilient member supports can have any of the features, shapes, components, materials, or other details of any of the embodiments of the resilient member supports in this disclosure or incorporated by reference herein. Similarly, the resilient members can have any of the features, shapes, components, materials, or other details of any of the embodiments of the resilient members disclosed in this disclosure or incorporated by reference herein.
(136) The resilient member supports which can be, but are not required to be, arc shaped supports, can either be supported by the second exercise device or a portion thereof, or can be supported independently of the second exercise device on a structure that can support or be coupled with the second exercise device. In any embodiments disclosed herein, the support members used to support the end portion of one or more resilient members can be supported by a base member that is independently moveable with respect to the secondary exercise device or components, or which is coupled with or part of the secondary exercise device or components.
(137) In any embodiments disclosed herein, the resilient member support elements can be made from high-strength aluminum, including 6061-T6 aluminum with a Type III hard anodize for additional strength and durability. Additionally, any of the resilient members can comprise poultry did fiberglass, including polyester, polyvinyl, or epoxy based pultruded fiberglass having a large number of continuous strands of fiberglass extending along the length or a substantial portion of the length of the resilient members.
(138) Other sizes, shapes, and configurations of the base, resilient members, base interface members, connection interfaces, or any other components or combination of components described herein or known in the art or to one of ordinary skill in the art can be used with the exercise device of this disclosure. For example, the components and assemblies described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,500,612 and U.S. Pat. No. 7,704,199 can be used to practice the exercise device of this disclosure. The entirety of the foregoing patents are hereby incorporated by reference herein and made a part of the present specification as if fully set forth herein.
(139) Although the embodiments in this disclosure have been disclosed in the context of a certain preferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments of the present disclosure extend beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the embodiments of the present disclosure and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. In addition, while a number of variations of the embodiments of the present disclosure have been shown and described in detail, other modifications, which are within the scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure, will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art based upon this disclosure. It is also contemplated that various combinations or subcombinations of the specific features and aspects of the embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of the disclosed embodiments of the present disclosure. Thus, it is intended that the scope of this disclosure herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above.