WEIGHT SYSTEMS FOR EXERCISE EQUIPMENT

Abstract

A weight system can be used with exercise equipment to perform workout routines. The weight system can include dumbbell head covers configured to be removably coupled to the heads of the dumbbell. The head covers can be installed on different sets of dumbbells in a workout routine to provide a customized workout. The head covers can have self-cinching end portions and a tubular central portion for extending over the head of the dumbbell. The self-cinching end portions can cooperate to hold the dumbbell head while performing lifts.

Claims

1. A universal weighted head cover installable on a head of a dumbbell, comprising: a first self-cinching end portion; a second self-cinching end portion; and a flexible tubular portion extending between the first and second self-cinching end portions and including at least one weight with sufficient mass for altering weight lifting exercises performed using the dumbbell, wherein at least one of the first and second self-cinching end portions is expandable for installing the universal weighted head cover on the head of the dumbbell and for removing the universal weighted head cover from the head of the dumbbell, and wherein the first and second self-cinching end portions are configured to cooperate to captively hold the head of the dumbbell.

2. The universal weighted head cover of claim 1, wherein the flexible tubular portion is sufficiently compliant to snugly hold the head of the dumbbell when the first self-cinching end portion is positioned along a first face of the head and the second self-cinching end portion is positioned along a second face of the head.

3. The universal weighted head cover of claim 1, wherein the flexible tubular portion includes spaced apart weighted sections positionable about the head of the dumbbell.

4. The universal weighted head cover of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first and second self-cinching end portions has an expanded configuration and a contracted configuration, the at least one of the first and second self-cinching end portions in the expanded configuration defines an opening with an expanded diameter larger than a diameter of the head of the dumbbell and in the contracted configuration the opening has a contracted diameter smaller than the diameter of the head of the dumbbell.

5. The universal weighted head cover of claim 1, wherein the flexible tubular portion is configured to extend across a length of the head of the dumbbell when the first and second self-cinching end portions are cinched on opposite sides of the head.

6. The universal weighted head cover of claim 1, wherein the flexible tubular portion further includes a plurality of weights configured to be positioned about a periphery of the head of the dumbbell when the universal weighted head cover covers the head.

7. The universal weighted head cover of claim 1, wherein the flexible tubular portion is sufficiently compliant to conform to a shape of the head of the dumbbell.

8. The universal weighted head cover of claim 1, wherein the at least one weight includes a plurality of compliant weights configured to withstand an impact when the dumbbell is placed on a support surface.

9. The universal weighted head cover of claim 1, wherein the first self-cinching end portion includes a plurality of elastic segments each coupled to respective adjacent sections of the tubular portion.

10. The universal weighted head cover of claim 1, wherein the first self-cinching end portion includes an elastic band.

11. A weighted head cover for a dumbbell, comprising: a plurality of weighted sections configured to extend along a head of a dumbbell; and at least one expandable member that interconnects the weighted sections such that the weighted head cover is capable of being expanded for placement on the head of the dumbbell and for pulling the weighted sections against an outside of the head.

12. The weighted head cover of claim 11, wherein the at least one expandable member includes a first expandable member and a second expandable member, wherein the first and second expandable members are positionable at opposite sides of the head such that the weighted sections are spaced apart from one another about a circumference of the head.

13. The weighted head cover of claim 11, wherein the weighted sections extend between ends of the head of the dumbbell and are substantially evenly spaced apart from one another.

14. The weighted head cover of claim 11, wherein the mass of the weighted head cover is less than 5 lb.sub.m.

15. The weighted head cover of claim 11, wherein the at least one expandable member includes a plurality of expandable members that cooperate to cinch opposing ends of the weighted head cover about ends of the head.

16. The weighted head cover of claim 11, wherein the at least one expandable member includes a first elastic band and a second elastic band.

17. The weighted head cover of claim 16, wherein each of the first elastic band and the second elastic band is positioned closer to a nearest end of head cover than a middle of the weighted head cover.

18. The weighted head cover of claim 11, wherein the weighted sections are spaced apart from one another about the head of the dumbbell when the weighted head cover is installed.

19. The weighted head cover of claim 11, wherein the weighted sections are sufficiently compliant to conform to a periphery of the head of the dumbbell.

20. The weighted head cover of claim 11, wherein each of the weighted sections has a longitudinal axis generally aligned with a longitudinal axis of a dumbbell when the weighted head cover is installed.

21. A tubular dumbbell head cover, comprising: a first expandable end movable between an expanded configuration for passing over a head of a dumbbell and a contracted configuration for holding the head of the dumbbell; a second expandable end; and a main body configured to extend across the head of the dumbbell when the first and second expandable ends cooperate to hold the head of the dumbbell.

22. The tubular dumbbell head cover of claim 21, wherein a ratio of a diameter of the first expandable end in the expanded configuration to a diameter of the first expandable end in the contracted configuration is equal to or greater than 1.1.

23. The tubular dumbbell head cover of claim 21, wherein the main body includes a plurality of weighted sections configured to be circumferentially spaced apart from one another about a circumference of the head of the dumbbell.

24. The tubular dumbbell head cover of claim 21, wherein the mass of the tubular dumbbell head cover is less than 5 lb.sub.m.

25. The tubular dumbbell head cover of claim 21, wherein portions of the first and second expandable ends are positionable at opposite sides of the head to draw ends of the tubular dumbbell head cover inwardly past an outer periphery of the head.

26. The tubular dumbbell head cover of claim 21, wherein the main body is segmented.

27. The tubular dumbbell head cover of claim 21, wherein the first and second expandable ends can be positioned radially inwardly of an outer periphery of the head of the dumbbell when the tubular dumbbell head cover is installed.

28. The tubular dumbbell head cover of claim 21, wherein the main body includes a plurality of weighted sections spaced apart from one another circumferentially about the dumbbell head when the tubular dumbbell head cover is installed.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a weight system installed on heads of a dumbbell in accordance with an embodiment of the technology.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a front view of the weight system and dumbbell of FIG. 1.

[0016] FIG. 3 shows a dumbbell head cover in accordance with an embodiment of the technology.

[0017] FIG. 4 is a detailed view of a portion of the dumbbell head cover of FIG. 2.

[0018] FIG. 5 is a top view of the dumbbell head cover ready to be installed on the head of the dumbbell.

[0019] FIG. 6 is a detailed view of a dumbbell head cover in accordance with another embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 7 is a side view of a dumbbell head cover in an expanded configuration for placement on a head of a dumbbell in accordance with one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 8 is a side view of the dumbbell head cover in a contracted configuration for holding a head of a dumbbell in accordance with one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 9 is an isometric view of a weight system installed on ends of a dumbbell in accordance with an embodiment of the technology.

[0023] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the weight system and dumbbell of FIG. 9.

[0024] FIG. 11 is a detailed view of the weight system and dumbbell head.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The present disclosure describes weight training equipment. Several embodiments are directed universal weighted head covers installable on heads of dumbbells. The head covers can be temporarily installed on dumbbell heads with different sizes to customize workout routines. Each head cover can be cinched to ensure that the head cover remains secured to the dumbbell head without affecting use of the dumbbell. Several of the details set forth below are provided to describe the following examples and methods in a manner sufficient to enable a person skilled in the relevant art to practice, make, and use them. Several of the details and advantages described below, however, may not be necessary to practice certain examples and methods of the technology. Additionally, the technology may include other examples and methods that are within the scope of the technology but are not described in detail.

[0026] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a dumbbell 100 and a weight system including a pair of weight devices in the form of universal weighted head covers 102a, 102b (collectively, “head covers 102”). The dumbbell 100 includes a handle 121 extending between heads 110a, 110b. The head covers 102a, 102b are temporarily mounted on the dumbbell heads 110a, 110b, respectively, and the combined mass of the head covers 102 can be sufficient to alter weightlifting exercises performed using the dumbbell 100. After performing an exercise, the head covers 102 can be removed and installed on another dumbbell. This allows a pair of head covers to be used to modify the weight of dumbbells to provide the customized workout routine. In some embodiments, the combined weight of the head covers 102a, 102b can be less than the weight of the next heavier dumbbell to allow microloading in which small increments in weight are used to make strength progression.

[0027] FIG. 2 is a front view of the head covers 102 and dumbbell 100. The head covers 102a, 102b can be approximately the same weight to balance the dumbbell. Each head cover 102 can weigh about 1 lb. (0.45 kg), about 1. 25 lbs. (0.6 kg), about 2.5 lbs. (1.1 kg), about 3 lbs. (1.4 kg), about 4 lbs. (1.8 kg), about 5 lbs. (2.3 kg), about 10 lbs. (4.5 kg), or the like. For example, the combined mass of head covers 102 can be equal to or less than about 2.5 lb.sub.m for use with pairs of dumbbells in 5 lb.sub.m increments, about 5 lb.sub.m for use with pairs of dumbbells in 10 lb.sub.m increments, and so forth. The head covers 102a, 102b can encircle and constrict inwardly to inhibit, limit, and substantially prevent movement of the head covers 102a, 102b with respect to the respective heads 110a, 110b. This snug fit allows the dumbbell 100 to be used in normal workout routines. The head covers 102a can be expanded outwardly (e.g., manually pulled outward) to remove the head cover 102a from the head 110a. The head covers 102a, 102b can be installed on other dumbbells with different size heads. The description of one of the head covers 102a, 102b applies equally to each other, unless indicated otherwise.

[0028] Each head cover 102 can include self-cinching end portions 112, 114 and a flexible tubular body 116. The end portions 112, 114 can cooperate for captively hold a respective head 110 while the tubular body 116 covers the side of the head 110. One or both end portions 112, 114 can be expanded to remove, install, and/or reposition the head cover 102. When installed, the end portions 112, 114 can be biased radially inwardly (e.g., toward a longitudinal axis 115 of the dumbbell 100) to help center the head cover 102 with respect to the dumbbell head 110.

[0029] The tubular body 116 can be sufficiently compliant to snugly hold the head 110 while the self-cinching end portions 112, 114 extend along end faces of the head 110. The tubular body 116 can be made of a drapable material that can conform closely to the head shape and can include a plurality of weighted or weight-carrying sections 130 (four identified in FIG. 2) that are interconnected by expandable members 132 (two identified in FIG. 2 and one identified in FIG. 1). The weight-carrying sections 130 can be evenly or unevenly spaced apart from one another about the circumference of the respective head 110. The expandable members 132 can pull the weighted sections 130 toward one another and can be adjacent to or extend along the flat ends of the heads 110a, 110b such that end portions of the weighted sections 130 extend inwardly along the ends of the heads.

[0030] FIG. 3 shows the head cover 102a in a generally flat configuration. FIG. 4 shows a section of the head cover 102a. The sections 130 can carry, contain, or otherwise have one or more weights and can be sufficiently compliant to avoid breaking if a dumbbell is dropped or impacts a surface. In some embodiments, each weighted section 130 includes a pouch made, in whole or in part, of fabric, leather, neoprene, rubber, or other suitable compliant material. Each pouch can contain one or more weights. Each weight can be a sealed bag or container containing a relatively heavy material, such as sand, iron particles, etc. Other types of elements or containers can be used to hold an impact resistance material (e.g., sand, iron particles, lead balls, etc.). The configuration, mass, and mechanical properties of the sections 130 can be selected based on the workout routines to be performed, configuration of the dumbbells, and auxiliary mass provided by the head covers 102.

[0031] FIG. 4 shows the inside of the end portions 112, 114. The end portions 112, 114 can include threading that provides stretchability to hold the pouches and connectors. For example, nylon threads can provide sufficient stretching to avoid damage to the sections 130. The arrangement of connectors and pouches can create a circular band or covering that is biased inwardly to return to its original position. In some embodiments, elastic elements can provide expansion capabilities and can include, without limitation, elastic strips, elastic bands, or other elongatable components.

[0032] FIG. 5 shows the head cover 102a ready to be installed on the head of a dumbbell. The dumbbell head can be inserted into an open end of the head cover 102a, and then the head cover 102a can be allowed to contract onto the dumbbell head. In other embodiments, the head cover 102a can be slid over the dumbbell head such that the dumbbell head causes expansion of the head cover 102a. Other types of techniques can be used to manually install the head covers.

[0033] FIG. 6 is a detailed view of a weight device in accordance with another embodiment. The weight-carrying sections 130 can have curved sides 160, 170. The sections 130 can also include internal weights 172 (illustrated in dashed line) between the curved sides 160, 170. The size, configuration, and spacing of the weight-carrying sections 130 can be selected based on the desired number of weight carrying sections, total weight of the weight device, and/or other design parameters.

[0034] FIG. 7 is a side view of the weight device in an expanded configuration (e.g., a fully expanded configuration) for being placed on a head of a dumbbell in accordance with one embodiment. The head cover 102 can be pulled outwardly to allow the head 110 to pass through an opening 173. Although FIG. 7 shows the head cover 102 in a fully expanded configuration (i.e., radially expanded), the head cover 102 can be installed by pulling one side or opposite sides outwardly past the periphery 169 of the head 110.

[0035] FIG. 8 is a side view of the weight device in a contracted or installed configuration in accordance with one embodiment. Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, a ratio of a diameter D.sub.E (FIG. 7) of opening 173 of the head cover 102 in the fully expandable configuration to a diameter D.sub.C (FIG. 8) of the head cover 102 (e.g., the section along the side of the head 110) in the contracted configuration can be equal to or greater than 1.1, 1.2, 1.25, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, or another suitable ratio. In some embodiments, a ratio of the diameter D.sub.E when the head cover 102 is fully expanded to the diameter D.sub.C when the head cover 102 is fully contracted or in an unrestrained configuration (e.g., when removed from the head 110) can be in a range of about 1.2, 1.25, 1.3, 1.35, 1.4, 1.45, 1.5, 1.55, 1.6, 2, 3, or other suitable ratio. The unrestrained fully contracted configuration can be significantly smaller than the dumbbell head to ensure that sufficient compressive forces are applied by the head cover 102 to the dumbbell.

[0036] FIG. 9 is an isometric view of a weight system installed on ends of a dumbbell 200 in accordance with an embodiment of the technology. The weight system includes universal weighted head covers 202a, 202a removably coupled to heads 210a, 210b, respectively. The head covers 202a, 202b (collectively “head covers 202”) can each include a first self-cinching end portion 212, a second self-cinching end portion 214, and a flexible tubular portion 230. The relevant description of the weight systems of FIGS. 1-8 applies equally to the weight system of FIGS. 9-11. The description of the first and second self-cinching end portions 212, 214 applies equally to one another.

[0037] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the dumbbell 200 and the head covers 202. The end portion 212 can include a cinching or expanding element 217 (“element 217”), and the end portion 214 can include a cinching or expansion element 219 (“element 219”). In some embodiments, the elements 217, 219 can be positioned within the cover to avoid catching on workout equipment. In other embodiments, the elements 217, 219 can be woven through openings in the covering body such that sections of the elements 217, 219 are exposed.

[0038] FIG. 11 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the head cover 202. The cinching elements 117, 119 can be mono or multiplayer bands, straps, ties, laces, or other elements capable of providing cinching or contraction. In other embodiments, the cinching elements 117, 119 can be a bundle of elastic threads, elastic bands, or other elements that can withstand relatively high tensile forces. The user can pull on the elements 217, 219 to draw the head cover 202 about the dumbbell head and against faces 239, 237. The number and position of the cinching elements can be selected based on the desired holding capabilities.

[0039] The head cover 202 can include a weighted section 225 that includes a flexible material with a relatively large mass. For example, the weighted section 225 can be an encapsulated weight or embedded pouch of sand, iron particles, or other mass capable of withstanding forces experienced during workouts. If the user drops the dumbbell from a distance of 1 foot, 2 feet, 3 feet, 4 feet, or higher, the covering and its components, including the weighted section 225, can remain intact. The compliant weighted section 225 and covering 102 can help absorb impact to reduce noise, inhibit damage to the dumbbell, or otherwise enhance the usage of the dumbbell.

[0040] In use, auxiliary weight systems can be used to progressively increase the weight of dumbbells to avoid plateauing, injuries, and so forth. A set of weight devices can be used to increase the weight of dumbbells for a highly customized workout. For example, a gym can provide enough weight devices to avoid large gaps in dumbbell weights. Because the weight devices are portable, the user can easily transport four head covers throughout the gym and can install them on pairs of dumbbells to provide customized weights. The head covers can be removed before placing dumbbells back on racks. In some embodiments, the tubular portions of the head covers disclosed herein can stretch to enhance fit. For example, head covers can be made of a continuous material capable of radially expanding and contracting. In segmented embodiments, the tubular portion can be made of a less compliant material because gaps between sections can radially expand to accommodate different size dumbbell heads. The gaps or slits can be dimensioned to allow desired accommodation by the head cover. Straps, belts, or other elements can be used to draw sections of portions of head covers inwardly. Fasteners, buckles, or other elements can be used to hold features (e.g., straps, belts, cinching features, etc.) at desired positions.

[0041] While particular aspects of the present subject matter described herein have been shown and described, it will be apparent to the reader that, based upon the teachings herein, changes and modifications can be made without departing from the subject matter described herein and its broader aspects, and, therefore, the appended claims are to encompass within their scope all such changes and modifications as are within the true spirit and scope of the subject matter described herein. While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments are contemplated. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.