US20140080687A1 - Resistance-based exercise device - Google Patents

Abstract

A resistance-based exercise device is disclosed. The device may include a bar with one or more grips; a first connector at a first end of the bar; a second connector at a second end of the bar; an adjustable elongated member attached at one end to the first connector and at a second end to the second connector, the adjustable elongated member configured to be adjusted to change its length; a third connector slidably connected to the adjustable elongated member; and an anchor connected to the third connector and attachable to an immobile object.

Description

BACKGROUND
• This application is directed toward an exercise device. More specifically, it is directed toward an exercise device that provides resistance based on a user's own body weight.
• Numerous different types of exercise equipment are used today for weight training and cardiovascular workouts. Some of these exercise devices include heavy machinery and/or fixed large equipment. Other of these devices use one or more attached weights. Still other exercise devices allow a user to use his/her own body weight to serve as the load for training. These weight-free devices, generally referred to as resistance training equipment, often include elastic type bands or cords that provide resistance. Elastic devices, however, typically fail to provide a consistent amount of resistance when stretched to different lengths. These elastic devices also often cause users to perform unnatural movements in order to work on particular muscle groups.
• At least one resistance-based exercise device is described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,044,896. This patent describes an anchor connected to two arms, each arm made of an inelastic, flexible material, and including handles at the end of each arm. The device described in the U.S. Pat. No. 7,044,896 patent has been commercialized and used for the TRX® training system. This type of device allows a user's hands or feet, when attached to the handles, to move freely in relation to each other and to move freely in any direction. As such, location of the individual handles of this type of device tends to be unstable. As a result, the amount of strength needed to use this type of equipment is substantial, and people who are not already physically fit or in top physical shape may struggle to perform the suggested exercises for this equipment and/or sustain injuries in performing exercises incorrectly.
• Therefore, a resistance-based exercise device that provides greater stability and ease of use is desirable. A resistance-based exercise device that is easily portable is also desirable.
SUMMARY
• The disclosed embodiments describe an exercise device that provides resistance based on a user's own body weight. The exercise device may be a portable device. The device provides stability that allows people having different abilities, from the novice to the expert, to benefit from a number of resistance-based exercises.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary portable resistance-based exercise device, according to one embodiment.
• FIG. 2 shows an exemplary depiction of the device ofFIG. 1, when connected to a fixed anchor and when stretched taut.
• FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary connector used in a portable resistance-based exercise device, according to one embodiment.
• FIGS. 4A-4C depict connectors of a resistance-based exercise device, according to different embodiments.
• FIGS. 5A-5C depict exemplary anchor portions of a resistance-based exercise device, according to certain embodiments.
• FIG. 6 depicts an exemplary type of upper-body exercise that can be performed using a resistance-based exercise device, according to certain embodiments.
• FIG. 7 depicts another exemplary type of upper-body exercise that can be performed using a resistance-based exercise device, according to certain embodiments.
• FIG. 8 depicts different exemplary exercises that can be performed using a resistance-based exercise device disclosed herein.
• FIG. 9 depicts an additional exemplary portable resistance-based exercise device, according to one embodiment.
• FIG. 10 depicts different exemplary exercises that can be performed using a resistance-based exercise device such as described inFIGS. 1 and 2 orFIG. 9.
• FIGS. 11A and 11B depict an exemplary collapsible bar for a resistance-based exercise device, according to certain embodiments.
• FIGS. 12A-12C depict another example of a collapsible bar for a resistance-based exercise device, according to certain embodiments.
• FIG. 13 depicts an additional exemplary portable resistance-based exercise device, according to one embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
• The present disclosure now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which various embodiments are shown. The invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. In the drawings, the size and relative sizes of different elements may be exaggerated for clarity. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.
• FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary portable resistance-basedexercise device100, according to one embodiment.FIG. 2 shows an exemplary depiction of the device ofFIG. 1, when connected to a fixed anchor and when stretched taut. As shown inFIGS. 1 and 2,exercise device100 includes afirst portion110, asecond portion120, and athird portion130, and also includes connectors, such as connectors140aand140bconnecting thefirst portion110 to thesecond portion120, and connector150 connecting thesecond portion120 to thethird portion130.
• Thefirst portion110 may include a rigid member, such as a bar, for example. In one embodiment, thefirst portion110 may be held or engaged by a user when performing exercises.First portion110 is also referred to herein as a rigid portion or member, engagement portion member, or holding portion or member. In one embodiment, thefirst portion110 includes a bar112 and includes grips114.
• The bar112 may be a rigid bar, having a strength to support a person's full body weight. The bar112 may be formed, for example, of one or more materials, including a lightweight metal, fiberglass, wood, and/or other strong and relatively lightweight material. The bar112 may have a thickness sufficient to allow people having different sized hands to grip the bar (for example, approximately 1-inch diameter). The bar may have a length L₁sufficient to allow people having different heights and different length arms to grip the bar in a variety of positions from less than to greater than shoulder-width apart. For example, a bar112 in an exercise device for children may have a length L₁of between about 2 feet and about 3 feet. A bar112 in an exercise device for adults may have a length L₁of between about 3 feet and about 4 feet. In one embodiment, the bar is about 36 inches long. In another embodiment, a shorter bar is used that is about 24 inches long. A shorter bar may be more easily portable.
• The grips114 may be positioned along the bar to serve, for example, as hand grips. The grips114 may be formed, for example, of a malleable, compressible material, such as foam, or rubber. The grips114 may provide additional cushioning and comfort to a user gripping the bar to perform exercises. In one embodiment, the grips114 are permanently affixed to the bar using an adhesive. Alternatively, the grips114 can be integrally formed as part of the bar112. In one embodiment, the grips114 may be formed by the surface of bar112 having a rough texture, such as by sandblasting, being painted with a paint/sand mixture, and/or being etched or grooved, to increase friction between a user's hands and the bar112. A similar process may be performed on the outer surface of grips that are adhered to the surface of the bar112. The grips114 may be spaced at different locations along the bar to allow a user to use different holds on the bar for different types of exercise. For example, three grips114 for each hand are shown inFIGS. 1 and 2. These are described herein as three sets of grips. In one embodiment, one set of grips may be positioned so that when held by an adult user of average height, the user's hands are shoulder-width apart. A second set of grips may be positioned so that when held by an adult user of average height, the user's hands are greater than shoulder-width apart. A third set of grips may be touching or may be positioned only a few inches apart, so that when held by a user, they are less than shoulder-width apart. As an example, an inner set of grips may have ends facing each other that are touching or are spaced apart about 2-3 inches (e.g., less than 5 inches apart). A middle set of grips may have ends facing each other that are spaced apart about 14-16 inches (e.g., less than 20 inches apart). An outer set of grips may have ends facing each other that are spaced apart about 25-27 inches (e.g., less than 30 inches apart).
• In one embodiment, each grip114 may entirely surround a lengthwise portion the bar112. However, these grips114 need not entirely surround the bar, but may only cover a part of the bar that a user will hold. The grips114 can have a length sufficient to accommodate a person's hands. For example, in one embodiment, each grip is between about 4 inches and about 6 inches long.
• In one embodiment, the sets of grips114 are positioned to guide a user where to hold the bar when performing different types of exercises. For example, the inner grips can be used to exercise a particular muscle group, and middle and outer grips each to exercise other respective muscle groups. Although separate grips114 are shown, in certain embodiments, other types of hand position indicators may be used to instruct a user where to place his/her hands for different exercises (e.g., a single grip having markings to indicate where to hold the bar for different exercises). The plurality of hand position indicators allow users to easily change between different types of exercises during a workout routine, and to perform the correct exercises based on the locations of the indicators. For example, a continuous length or the entire surface of bar112 may be suitable for gripping. The bar112 may have indicators to denote different gripping locations (which may correspond in location to grips114), such as use of a particular color to denote a gripping location, alphanumeric indicia to denote different gripping locations, and/or pictures to denote gripping locations associated with different exercises.
• Although the bar112 is shown as a straight bar, it may be bent or curved in a way that still allows a user to perform various exercises, such as those discussed below. In addition, although the bar112 is shown inFIGS. 1 and 2 as having a fixed length having a plurality of grips114 for each hand, in one embodiment, the bar112 may be an extendable and contractible bar (e.g., a telescoping bar, foldable bar with locking hinges, etc.), and may have fewer grips for each hand. For example, rather than having three separate grips for each hand to hold, the bar112 according to one embodiment can have only one grip for each hand, and the positioning of the grip can be adjusted by extending or contracting the bar112.
• FIG. 11A shows an exemplary telescoping bar112′ example. In this example, telescoping bar112′ may include a central tube112a, two opposite end tubes112cconstituting ends of the telescoping bar when extended, and two intermediate tubes112beach being located between the central tube112aand the opposite end tubes112c(when the telescoping bar112′ is extended). The central tube112amay provide locations and/or indicators (not shown) corresponding to the inner pair of grips114, the end tubes112ccorresponding to the outer pair of grips114, and intermediate tubes112bfor the intermediate pair of grips. Alternatively in one embodiment, the tubes can be locked in different positions, so that the bar112′ can be fully extended, fully contracted, or intermediately positioned. In one embodiment, only the two opposite end tubes112binclude grips, and the location of the grips can be adjusted by expanding or contracting the bar112′.
• FIG. 11B shows the telescoping bar112′ in a collapsed position, where intermediate tubes112bhave been collapsed around central tube112a, and end tubes112chave been collapsed around intermediate tubes112band central tube112a. In this example, the telescoping bar112′ has the central tube112awith a smaller diameter than the outer tube112c. However, depending on the arrangement of grips114 included in the bar112′ the central tube112amay have a larger diameter than the outer tubes112csuch that the outer tube112cand intermediate tubes112bcollapse within the central tube112a.
• FIGS. 12A,12B and12C show another example of a collapsible bar. Bar112″ may include a central portion112dand may allow insertion of ends of two outer portions112einto corresponding ends of central portion112d(or vice versa) to create a substantially rigid elongated bar112″. Grips114 or indicators may also be elements of bar112″ as described elsewhere herein. The outer portions112emay be fully detached from the central portion112das shown inFIG. 12B to allow the bar112″ to collapse as shown inFIG. 12c. An elastic cord112fmay be inserted through the middle of central portion112dand ends of the elastic cord112fmay be connected to an interior of outer portions112eto keep the portions112dand112etogether and facilitate assembly. By making bar112 collapsible, theexercise device100 can be easily transported in a carrying case, such as a backpack, small suitcase, or gym bag, for example.
• Referring again toFIGS. 1 and 2, thesecond portion120 may include a flexible member, such as a strap, chain, or cord, for example. In one embodiment, thesecond portion120 is an adjustable, elongated member and serves to support the weight of the user and to stabilize theexercise device100 when used. As such, thesecond portion120 may be referred to herein as a flexible portion or member, elongated member or portion, support portion or member, adjustable member or portion, and/or stabilizing portion or member. For the below discussion,second portion120 is referred to as an adjustableelongated member120.
• In one embodiment, adjustableelongated member120 is formed of an inelastic material. This provides additional stabilization. For example, in one embodiment, adjustableelongated member120 is formed of an inelastic,flexible strap122 made of a synthetic or natural fiber (e.g., nylon, polypropylene, or other polymeric fibers). Thestrap122 may use a material and webbing or other construction to give it sufficient strength to support the weight of a person. Other materials or constructions may be used, however, such as a rope, chain, wire, etc.
• In one embodiment, adjustableelongated member120 includes asingle strap122. The use of a single strap allows for a simple design and manufacturing process and greater ease of adjustment. However, multiple straps connected to each other can be used. In one embodiment, whether single or plural straps are used, the adjustableelongated member120 can be adjusted in length to provide different sized configurations of theexercise device100. In one embodiment, a first end121aof the adjustableelongated member120 is attached to a first connector (e.g.,140a, described in greater detail below), and a second end121bof the adjustableelongated member120 is attached to a second connector (e.g.,141b, described in greater detail below). The first end121amay be, for example, stitched to form a loop that connects around part of a connector140a. Alternatively, the first end121amay be attached in other ways (e.g., via an adhesive, a snap, clasp, or other connector). In one embodiment, the first end121ais fixedly attached to the connector140a.
• The second end121bof the adjustableelongated member120 may pass through the second connector140b. In one embodiment, a device (e.g., strap122) that forms the adjustableelongated member120 may be slidably engaged with the connector to allow the length of the adjustable elongated member120 (e.g., L₂+L₃) to be changed.
• For example, in one embodiment, astrap122 forms an adjustableelongated member120 extending from a first end121aconnected to a first connector140ato a second end121bconnected to a second connector140b. A first end of thestrap122 may substantially coincide with a first end121aof the adjustable elongated member120 (e.g.,strap122 may be sewn into a loop at its first end to loop through a slot of first connector140a). A second end123 of thestrap122 may be attached to anadjustment mechanism124. Theadjustment mechanism124 may be, for example, a buckle, such as a cam buckle, that in one position may slide along the length of an intermediate portion ofstrap122, and in another position, may be locked to hold theadjustment mechanism124 to a user selected position along the intermediate portion ofstrap122. Thestrap122 may form a loop between the second end123 of the strap and the location of theadjustment mechanism124 attached to the intermediate portion of strap122 (e.g., the user selected position along the intermediate portion ofstrap122 to which theadjustment mechanism124 may be locked). This loop ofstrap122 may slide through a slot of second connector140bat a point which corresponds to the second end121bof the adjustableelongated member120. Although theadjustment mechanism124 is shown inFIGS. 1 and 2 as being attached at a terminal end of thestrap122, theadjustment mechanism124 may be attached to a portion of thestrap122 that is not the terminal end. To adjust the length of the adjustableelongated member120, in one embodiment, a user may simply slide theadjustment mechanism124 along thestrap122 and then lock it into place. Alternatively, a user may pull thestrap122 through theadjustment mechanism124. By using such a strap and adjustment mechanism, the length of the adjustable elongated member can be easily adjusted. In this example, if a user wants to change exercises or change a resistance amount, the user can do so by adjusting only the length of the adjustableelongated member120, which may be done by operation of only theadjustment mechanism124 without the need to remove, disassemble, or replace any other parts of theexercise device100.
• Connectors140aand140bmay include one or more different mechanisms that connect the first portion110 (e.g., the rigid member) to the second portion120 (e.g., the adjustable elongated member). For example, as shown inFIG. 3, in one embodiment, a connector140 includes a ball and socket joint142 and a loop144 enclosed around a strap (or other device that forms the adjustable elongated member). For example, a connector140 may be formed of a rigid, strong structure that includes a socket142bat one end and a loop144 (e.g., a slot) at the other. The socket and loop may be integrally formed. Alternatively, they may be separately formed and permanently or removably attached to each other. The socket may be connected to a ball142a, which in one embodiment is permanently affixed to thebar122. The connection between the ball142aand socket142bmay be arranged to allow for some range of flexibility and movement of the ball and socket joint142. For example, in one embodiment, the socket can be rotated about a central axis of thebar122, and can also be tilted toward or away from the central axis of thebar122. As an example, in one embodiment, thebar122 can be rotated, relative to connectors140, around its central axis an entire 360 degrees, and the connectors140 can be tilted approximately 20° toward or 20° away from the central axis of thebar122.
• The joint that forms the connector140 may also be arranged to provide for a desired amount of friction. Different known materials and constructions may be used to allow for a particular desired range of motion. For example, the ball and socket joint142 may be formed of one or more materials including metal, plastic, and/or other natural or synthetic materials. Different mechanisms and materials, such as for example a Delrin® seal, may be used to reduce and/or control the friction in the connector140.
• The use of a ball joint or other joint allowing rotation around a central axis of thebar122, combined with a friction that permits rotating of the bar freely but with some resistance, allows the bar to be rotated about its axis when performing exercises in a controlled manner. This allows the user to maintain the same wrist position during a particular exercise, even though the angle of theexercise device100 with respect to the user's body may be changing. As a result, injuries or joint pain due to improper gripping or improper wrist or elbow positioning can be reduced.
• The loop144 may be formed of a single part, for example, an opening in a metal structure, that surrounds the device (e.g., strap122) that forms the adjustableelongated member120. However, the loop144 may also be formed of two or more moveable parts that together surround the adjustableelongated member120 or otherwise hold it in place.
• One or both of the connectors140aand140bcan have a construction such as depicted inFIG. 3. One or both of the connectors140aand140bcan also have other constructions. In one embodiment, both connectors140aand140bhave identical constructions. In another embodiment, they have different constructions. In addition, in one embodiment, both connectors140aand140bare permanently affixed to thebar122.
• In one embodiment, as discussed previously, one of the connectors (e.g.,140a) is fixedly attached to an end of the adjustableelongated member120. The end of the adjustableelongated member120 may include a terminal end of astrap122 placed through the loop144 of the first connector140a, which may be stitched, adhered, bolted, or otherwise closed on itself to attach to first connector140a. The second connector140bmay be slidably engaged with thestrap122, to allow thestrap122 to freely adjust to change the length of the adjustableelongated member120.
• However, theexercise device100 may have other configurations. For example, both connections between thestrap122 and the loop144 (e.g., on each of connectors140aand140bat ends121aand121bof the adjustable elongated member120) can be slidably engaged, so that both ends of the adjustableelongated member120 may be adjusted. Alternatively, thestrap122 can be fixedly attached to the loops144 at both connectors140aand140b(e.g., by a stitched loop of the strap). In such a case, if an adjustablesecond portion120 is to be used, it can include other mechanisms for adjusting its length (for example, other than a slidably engaged strap).
• Third portion130 may be an anchor configured to attach to an immobile object. In one embodiment, the anchor may include, for example, one or moreflexible members132, and one ormore connection mechanisms133. The one or moreflexible members132 may include, for example, a strap, cord, or other strong and flexible material. The one ormore connection mechanisms133 may include one or more snaps, clasps, carabiners, or other connectors that can lock in order to fasten theexercise device100 to an immobile object. Theanchor130 may, for example, include a strap fixedly attached at one end to connector150 (described in more detail below), and including at another end a connector that can connect to and lock with connector150. For example, in one embodiment, connector150 is a D-ring, and the other end connector includes a snap or carabiner that can hook onto the D-ring to securedly attach theanchor130 to an immobile object. As such, theanchor130 can be used to attach theexercise device100 to any sturdy object capable of holding the weight and stress exerted by a user (e.g., part of heavy exercise equipment, a ceiling hook or beam, a tree branch, etc.). Because theexercise device100 is lightweight and includes aflexible anchor130, it can be transported easily to and from the gym, within the house, outside to a park, or to other locations so that it can be attached and used virtually anywhere that there is a sturdy object to which it can be affixed.
• Exemplary connectors150 for connecting the adjustableelongated member120 to theanchor130 are depicted inFIGS. 4A,4B, and4C. In one embodiment, as shown inFIG. 4A, a connector150asimply includes a D-ring151a. The D-ring may be slidable along the length of the adjustableelongated member120, and may be permanently attached to an end of theanchor130, such as astrap132 looped around the D-ring. In another embodiment, as shown inFIG. 4B, a connector150bincludes a D-ring151athat connects to another D-ring151battached to astrap132 that forms theanchor130.
• In another embodiment, as shown inFIG. 4C, a connector150cincludes aloop152, a swivel154, and a snap or clasp156. In one embodiment, theloop152 is slidably engaged with the adjustableelongated member120, such as astrap122. As described further below, this allows the length of the arms of thesecond portion120, when used, to be easily adjusted and to be balanced without any additional manipulation from a user during performing exercises. The swivel154 permits thestrap122 to be rotatably connected to the anchor, so that the placement of the anchor does not restrict the angle at which theexercise device100 can be used. The connectors150a-150cdescribed above may be formed, for example, of one or more metals.
• Additional examples of anchors are depicted inFIGS. 5A-5C. As shown inFIG. 5A, in one embodiment,anchor130 may include aflexible member132, that attaches to connector150, and attaches to another connector, such asconnector133. As such, one end of an anchor may be permanently connected to a first connector150, such as a D-ring, and a second end of an anchor may be permanently connected to asecond connector133, such as a carabiner. In one embodiment, thesecond connector133 is attachable to and detachable from the first connector.Flexible member132 may be, for example, a strap. The strap may be formed of the same material and/or same type of webbing as astrap122 used for the adjustableelongated member120. However, other constructions, or other types of devices, such as a rope, chain, or wire may be used to form theflexible member132. In one embodiment,flexible member132 is formed of an inelastic material.
• Connector133 may be, for example, a carabiner, snap clip, or other device.Connector133 may attach in a locked manner around connector150, in order to anchor theexercise device100 to an immobile object. Although not shown,flexible member132 may include an additional D-ring or other connector fixedly attached toflexible member132 between connector150 andconnector133. As such, to attach around immobile objects having different sizes,flexible member132 can be wrapped around the immobile object and can attach to one of the additional D-ring or the connector150 for a closer fit. In another embodiment,flexible member132 can be adjustable to have different lengths, to allow it to wrap around and attach to different-sized objects. In certain embodiments,anchor130 may have a length betweenconnector133 and connector150 sufficient to permit theanchor130 to surround an immobile object having a thickness between, for example about 1 inch to about 6 inches. For example, the length betweenconnector133 and150 may be between 1 and 2 feet (e.g., so that it can surround, for example, a bar or post having a thickness of about 1 inch, a piece of exercise equipment having a thickness of about 2-4 inches, or a tree branch or post having a thickness up to about 6 inches). Alternatively, to connect theanchor130 to an immobile object,connector133 can be directly attached to a hook or other connection mechanism on the immobile object. In one embodiment, though not shown, anchor may consist only of aconnector133, such that theconnector133 connects to connector150 and to a hook or other connection mechanism on the immobile object, and does not include aflexible member132.
• FIG. 5B depicts an alternateexemplary anchor130′, according to one embodiment. As shown inFIG. 5B,anchor130′ may include aflexible member132′, aconnector133′, and a securing member134′. In one embodiment,flexible member132′ is a flat thin strap. For example, it may be between about 1 mm and about 4 mm thick. In one embodiment,flexible member132′ has a thickness that permits it to fit between a door and a door frame.Connector133′ may be lockable clip, carabiner, or clasp, that is attachable and detachable from a connector, such as connector151ashown inFIG. 4B or connector156 shown inFIG. 4C. Securing member134′ may be a block, formed, for example, of rubber, urethane, plastic, or other material that is fixedly secured toflexible member132′.
• Anchor130′ may be removably attachable to an adjustable elongated member, such as discussed above. One end of theanchor130′ is configured to attach to the adjustable elongated member, and the other end of theanchor130′ is configured to be placed in a doorway to secure the anchor to the doorway. For example, to anchor the exercisedevice using anchor130′, a user places the securing member134′ on the outside of a doorway near where the door meets the top door frame when closed. Then, theflexible member132′ is positioned over the door and under the door frame, so that it remains between the door and the door frame. Theflexible member132′ is extended to the inside of the doorway, so that theconnector133′ is on the inside of the doorway. The connection point between theflexible member132′ and the securing member134′ may be in the middle of the securing member134′, so that when anchored to a doorway, part of the securing member134′ rests against the door, and another pert of the securing member134′ rests against the door frame.
• Theanchor130′ may attach to a doorway in the manner described above, thus functioning as a door hook. Theconnector133′ can then be attached to a connector on the adjustable elongated member, and exercises can be performed with the exercise device securely supported in the doorway.
• FIG. 5C depicts an alternateexemplary anchor130″, according to one embodiment. As shown inFIG. 5C,anchor130″ may include aflexible member132″, afirst connector133″, and a second connector134″.Flexible member132″ andfirst connector133″ may be the same as or similar toflexible member132′ andconnector133′ shown inFIG. 5B, so a detailed discussion ofconnector133″ andflexible member132″ is omitted here. Second connector134″ may include a connector configured to connect tofirst connector133″. For example, second connector may be a ring, such as a D-ring, to whichfirst connector133″ can be removably attached. As such,anchor130″ can be removably attached to an immobile device, and can also be removably attached to itself in order to anchor to the immobile device.
• Although the connectors140a,140b, and150 are described separately in relation tofirst portion110,second portion120, andthird portion130, the connectors may be considered to be part of the first, second, orthird portions110,120, or130. For example, connector150 may permanently affixed tosecond portion120 to make it part ofsecond portion120, or may be permanently affixed tothird portion130 to make it part of third portion130 (e.g., it can be considered to be part of an anchor, or part of a flexible support portion). As another example, connectors140aand140bmay be permanently affixed to thefirst portion110 and thesecond portion120, or part of each connector (e.g., part of a joint or connection device) can be permanently affixed to thefirst portion110 and another part of each connector (e.g., the other part of the joint or connection device) can be permanently affixed to thesecond portion120.
• Referring back toFIG. 2, when used for certain exercises, theexercise device100 can be extended to a taut position, such that thesupport portion120 includes two arms122aand122bthat are substantially straight. In one embodiment, when a user uses theexercise device100, the two arms122a,122b, and the handling portion110 (e.g., a bar) form a triangle shape. One arm122ahas a length L₂, a second arm122bhas a length L₃, and the handlingportion110 has a length L₁. In one embodiment, where a connector150 is used that is slidingly engaged with thesupport portion120, a user can easily grasp two grips equidistant from the center of the handlingportion110, and can adjust and balance theexercise device100 so that the arms122aand122bare substantially the same length (i.e., L₂=L₃), thereby forming an isosceles triangle shape with the handlingportion110. This provides additional stability.
• Because a rigid member, such as bar112, is connected between a user's hands when the user grips the bar, theexercise device100 has a greater stability than devices that have separate freely moving handles for each hand. As a result, theexercise device100 allows users to perform a range of exercises from easier to more difficult.
• As discussed earlier, theexercise device100 may include anadjustment mechanism124, such as a buckle. As a result, the lengths L₂and L₃, as well as the angles a₁and a₂can be easily adjusted using a single adjustment mechanism. As will be discussed below, the ease at which the length of thesupport portion120 can be adjusted, the stability the handlingportion110 provides, the versatility theanchor130 provides, and the portability of theexercise device100, each allow theexercise device100 to be used in a variety of locations and for a variety of exercises. In addition, because of its construction and lack of the need for weights, theentire exercise device100 can be easily transported (e.g., an exemplary weight of the device is between about 5 and 10 pounds).
• Examples of setups for two types of exercises that can be performed with theexercise device100 are shown inFIGS. 6 and 7.FIG. 6 shows a setup for an upper body pull-type exercise using anexercise device100 with a bar, andFIG. 7 shows a setup for an upper body push-type exercise using anexercise device100 with a bar.
• As shown inFIG. 6, in certain embodiments, a user can set up theexercise device100 by connecting it to an immobile object (e.g., heavy exercise equipment, a sturdy hook, a tree branch, etc.). The connection point where the anchor connects to the object (anchor point A) may be, for example, from about head height to about 2 feet above head height. For example, in one embodiment, the anchor point A is at a height H about 5-7 feet high, depending on the height of the user. The user may adjust the length of asupport member120 so that a distance between the bar112 and the anchor has a desired length L₄. The length L₄may be selected to be, for example, between about 3 feet and about 6 feet. The length of thesupport member120 may be adjusted to be, for example, between about 8 feet and about 12 feet. The user then stands on the opposite side of the bar112 from the anchor point A, positions his or her body at an angle a₄with respect to the ground, and exerts a pulling force on the bar112. The angle between thetaut exercise device100 and the ground is shown as a₃. The user selects a desired grip set to grip, and can use an overhand or underhand grip on the bar112. The user can perform a number of different exercises for a number of different muscle groups simply by adjusting the length L₄, the angles a₃and a₄, the grips used, and even the height H (by using a different object for anchoring).
• As shown inFIG. 7, similar toFIG. 6, the connection point where the anchor connects to the object (anchor point A) may be, for example, from about head height to about 2 feet above head height. For example, in one embodiment, the anchor point A is at a height H about 5-7 feet high, depending on the height of the user. The user may adjust the length of asupport member120 so that a distance between the bar112 and the anchor has a desired length L₅. The length L₅may be greater than the length associated withFIG. 6 of L₄, because the user needs to stand between the bar112 and the anchor point A. For example, L₅may be selected to be, for example, between about 5 feet and about 7 feet. Similarly, the length of thesupport member120 may be selected to be greater than the length associated withFIG. 6, such as between about 10 feet and about 14 feet. The user then stands between the bar112 and the anchor point A, positions his or her body at an angle a₆with respect to the ground, and exerts a pushing force on the bar112. The angle between thetaut exercise device100 and the ground is shown as a₅. The user selects a desired grip set to grip, and can use an overhand or underhand grip on the bar112. The user can perform a number of different exercises for a number of different muscle groups simply by adjusting the length L₅, the angles a₅and a₆, the grips used, and even the height H (by using a different object for anchoring).
• As discussed above, by using, for example, a single cam buckle and a slidable connector between thesupport portion120 and theanchor130, adjusting theexercise device100 needs only a single adjustment, which allows a user to perform a range of exercises for all different body parts and muscle groups in an exercise session.
• FIG. 8 depicts different exemplary exercises that can be performed using a portable resistance-based exercise device disclosed herein. The exercises shown inFIG. 8 primarily work the upper body, including chest, arms, shoulders, and back.
• As shown in example (a), a user performs a pull-type exercise holding the bar about chest height. An underhand grip is shown. This stance can be used, for example, to focus on exercising muscles of the back and shoulders. For example, row-type exercises can be performed. The bar can be raised or lowered (e.g., by changing the angle between the extended exercise device and the ground) for each exercise set to exercise different muscle groups and to change the amount of resistance. For example, a ground-to-extended device angle may range from about 30° to about 45°. The user's body angle can also be adjusted to change the amount of resistance or the muscle groups exercised. The grips used can additionally affect the muscle groups exercised.
• As shown in example (b), a user performs a pull-type exercise holding the bar about chest height. An overhand grip is shown, as opposed to the underhand grip depicted in example (a). This stance can be used, for example, to vary the muscle groups exercised in example (a) while performing similar exercises.
• As shown in example (c), a user performs a pull-type exercise holding the bar about head height or slightly higher. An underhand grip is shown, though an overhand grip can also be used to exercise a different muscle group. This stance can be used, for example, to focus on exercising muscles of the arms, such as the biceps. In one embodiment, the length of the elongation member may be increased compared to exercises (a) and (b) to allow for a ground-to-extended device angle to be more appropriate for this exercise. For example, a ground-to-extended device angle may range from about 10° to about 20°. The user's body angle can also be adjusted to change the amount of resistance or the muscle groups exercised. The grips used can additionally affect the muscle groups exercised.
• As shown in example (d), a user performs a more difficult pull-type exercise by placing the user's feet on a vertical support (e.g., a wall, tree), and holding the exercise device at an angle that is closer to 90° with respect to the ground. For example, a ground-to-extended device angle for these exercises may range from about 60° to about 80°. The length of the elongation member may be increased compared to exercises (a)-(b) and/or (c) to allow the bar to reach closer to the ground for this exercise. An overhand or underhand grip can be used, and the bar can be held near a chest level. A user in this position can perform exercises that are more like pull-ups than in the embodiments shown in examples (a)-(c).
• In the examples (a)-(d) described above, for certain exercises, the user holds the bar of the exercise device to remain in substantially the same location while the user performs an exercise set. This is made more easy through the use of theexercise device100 described herein. For example, because both hands hold a single rigid member and do not move in relation to each other, the user's hands need not exert transverse force toward or away from each other or up and down in relation to each other in order to maintain balance. The user therefore does not need to independently balance each hand when performing exercises using theexercise device100 described herein.
• As shown in example (e), a user performs a push-type exercise holding the bar about chest height. An overhand grip is shown. This stance can be used, for example, to focus on exercising muscles of the chest, arms, and shoulders. For example, push-type exercises can be performed that exercise pectoral muscles. The bar can be raised or lowered (e.g., by changing the angle between the extended exercise device and the ground) for each exercise set to exercise different muscle groups and to change the amount of resistance. For example, a ground-to-extended device angle may range from about 30° to about 45°. The user's body angle can also be adjusted to change the amount of resistance or the muscle groups exercised. The hand grips used can additionally affect the muscle groups exercised.
• As shown in example (f), a user performs a push-type exercise holding the bar about head height, or just above head height. An overhand grip is shown, though an underhand grip can also be used to exercise a different muscle group. This stance can be used, for example, to focus on exercising muscles of the arms, such as triceps muscles. It also may be used to exercise the abdominal muscles. The bar can be raised or lowered (e.g., by changing the angle between the extended exercise device and the ground) for each exercise set to exercise different muscle groups and to change the amount of resistance. In these exercises, for example, a ground-to-extended device angle may range from about 0° to about 20°. The user's body angle can also be adjusted to change the amount of resistance or the muscle groups exercised. The hand grips used can additionally affect the muscle groups exercised.
• As can be seen from the discussion above, by simply adjusting the length of an elongation member connected between ends of a bar, and adjusting a user's body position, an entire exercise routine can be performed including a number of different exercises, and using different amounts of resistance. By including a bar or other rigid member that allows a user's hands to remain in the same position in relation to each other, the types of exercises that can be performed are generally easier to perform, while still providing for a large range of resistance values. In addition, because the exercise device is easily portable and attachable to different objects, a user can perform an exercise routine at any convenient location.
• FIG. 9 depicts an additional exemplary portable resistance-basedexercise device100′, according to one embodiment. As shown inFIG. 9, the first through third portions of the exercise device can be the same as the first through third portions described in connection withFIGS. 1 and 2. Therefore a repetitive discussion of first through third portions is not needed. Theexercise device100′ ofFIG. 9 includes a fourth portion160. Fourth portion160 may be used as a holding mechanism, for holding one or more parts of a user's body. As such, fourth portion160 is also referred to herein as a holding member160.
• Holding member160 may include one or more holding devices, such as afoot strap162, and/or a handle164. In addition, holding member may include a plurality of connectors (e.g.,166aand166b) that connect the holding device(s) to a rigid member (e.g., a bar) of theexercise device100′.
• In one embodiment,foot strap162 is formed of a strap and a padding attached to the strap. Thefoot strap162 may have a size sufficient to hold two feet of a user, either at the back heel or ankle, or at the front ankle. Thefoot strap162 may hang from two connection points on the rigid member, and may form a curved shape when hung. Thefoot strap162 may have a rectangular or oval shape. For example, in one embodiment, when flat,foot strap162 is between 12 and 16 inches long, and between 4-5 inches wide. Foot strap may be formed of materials such as polymers, cotton, or other fabrics, and may include padding to better cushion the heel or ankle when used.
• Each connector166aand166bmay include one or more parts to secure thefoot strap162 to the bar. For example, each connector166aand166bmay include ascrew eye167 affixed to the bar, and a snap168 connected to the screw eye and to the foot strap162 (e.g., the snap can be a swivel snap having a loop on one end that connects to thefoot strap162 and a spring snap on the other end that connects to the screw eye). In one embodiment, connectors166aand166bare symmetrical about the center of the bar, to allow for precision balancing when using thefoot strap162 and/or the handle164.
• The handle164 may be formed of similar material as thefoot strap162, and may also include padding for cushioning. Handle164 may be in the form of a strap. Handle164 may have a size sufficient to allow a user to hold the handle164 with one hand, or to place one foot in the handle. For example, it may have a length of about 5-8 inches. The handle164 may be connected to thefoot strap162 using, for example, stitching, and may be reinforced with additional straps169a,169b, that are attached to the foot strap (e.g., via stitching). The handle164 may also be symmetrical about the center of the foot strap164 and the bar to allow for balanced exercises.
• FIG. 10 depicts three different exemplary exercises that can be performed using a portable resistance-based exercise device such as described inFIG. 9, and one additional exercise that can be performed using either the device ofFIG. 9 or the device ofFIGS. 1 and 2. In addition, it should be noted that the exercises described above in connection withFIGS. 6-8 can also be performed using the device ofFIG. 9.
• As shown in example (a) ofFIG. 10, a user may use the handle164 to perform exercises using only one arm. For example, a number of different pull-type exercises using the right and left arms separately may be performed. Because of the balanced design of theexercise device100′ and because of the use of inelastic materials, stability is increased. As a result, exercises can be more easily performed than when resistance exercise devices having a handle attached to a single length of rope or strap is used. Adjustments to the length and angle of theexercise device100′, as well as the angle of the user's body, allow the user to perform different types of one-armed exercises in example (a). In certain embodiments, a ground-to-extended device angle may range from about 30° to about 45° when performing one-armed exercises.
• As shown in examples (b) and (d) ofFIG. 10, a user may place both feet in thefoothold162 to perform certain exercises that work the body core, such as abdominal muscles and back muscles. In example (b), a user lies with her back facing the floor, and may rest on both forearms. The user then places her feet in thefoothold162 by resting her heels or back of ankles on thefoothold162. The user may then start in a plank position, and may pull her legs toward her chest. For these exercises, the bar may not remain in about the same place throughout the exercise, but may move with the user's feet. A ground-to-extended device angle used for this exercise may begin at about 90°, and may change to about 60° when the user's legs are maximally bent.
• In example (d), a user lies with her front facing the floor, and supports her body with her outstretched hands, or optionally with her forearms. The user then places her feet in thefoothold162 by resting the front of her ankles on the foothold. The user may start in a plank position, and may pull her legs toward her chest. For these exercises, the bar may not remain in about the same place throughout the exercise, but may move with the user's feet. A ground-to-extended device angle used for this exercise may begin at about 90°, and may change to about 60° when the user's legs are maximally bent. Although not shown, handle164 may be used for additional single-leg exercises by a user placing one foot in the handle and performing exercises in that position.
• In example (c), a user performs squats while holding onto a bar of the exercise device100 (or100′). By using theexercise device100 for assistance while performing squats, a user can relieve pressure on the knees, and can also maintain the correct squat position. Therefore,exercise device100 may be used to assist users in particular exercises that require balancing. Thedevice100 may both serve as a balance, and also serve to reduce the amount of weight or pressure on a user's joints, such as the knees.
• The exercises described above inFIGS. 8 and 10 are exemplary only. A number of additional exercises can also be performed using the exercise device described herein. By using the exercise device of the present disclosure, which includes a number of advantageous features, users can perform entire resistance-based exercise routines with a single portable device that can be easily adjusted for the different exercises of the routine. The exercise device provides a balanced, stable, and evenly distributed amount of resistance that can be easily adjusted by the user to perform a variety of exercises having different resistance amounts.
• FIG. 13 depicts an additional exemplary portable resistance-based exercise device, according to one embodiment. As shown inFIG. 13, different devices can be connected to the bar112 to allow for different exercises to be performed. For example, in one embodiment, triceps ropes oradaptors162′ including a rope attached to a ball at one end can be connected to anattachment mechanism167 on the bar112. These additional devices can include a connector168 such as a clip, snap, or clasp to connect to theattachment mechanism167 on the bar112.
• It will be understood in this specification that when an element is referred to as being “connected” or “coupled” to or “on” another element, it can be directly connected or coupled to or on the other element or intervening elements may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly connected” or “directly coupled” to another element, there are no intervening elements present.
• As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items and may be abbreviated as “/”.
• It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. Unless indicated otherwise, these terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first connector could be termed a second connector, and, similarly, a second connector could be termed a first connector without departing from the teachings of the disclosure.
• As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” or “includes” and/or “including” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.
• Embodiments described herein will be described referring to different views by way of ideal schematic views. Accordingly, the exemplary views may be modified depending on manufacturing technologies and/or tolerances. Therefore, the disclosed embodiments are not limited to those shown in the views, but include modifications in configuration formed on the basis of manufacturing processes. Therefore, regions exemplified in figures have schematic properties, and shapes of regions shown in figures exemplify specific shapes of regions of elements, and the specific properties and shapes do not limit aspects of the invention.
• Spatially relative terms, such as “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element's or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the term “below” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.
• Terms such as “same,” “planar,” or “coplanar,” as used herein when referring to orientation, layout, location, shapes, sizes, amounts, or other measures do not necessarily mean an exactly identical orientation, layout, location, shape, size, amount, or other measure, but are intended to encompass nearly identical orientation, layout, location, shapes, sizes, amounts, or other measures within acceptable variations that may occur, for example, due to manufacturing processes.
• The term “permanently” as used herein is intended to convey a permanence within the context of the device's typical use. Therefore, an attachment may be described as a permanent attachment, even though it can, technically speaking, be detached by breaking a solid structure or cutting a stitched or webbed fabric.
• The term “inelastic” as used herein is intended to convey either no elasticity, or an amount of elasticity that is negligible in the context of the objects, materials, and actions being described. For example, a member, such as a strap, described as inelastic and including a webbing made of a polymer may have some amount of minimal elasticity to prevent the strap from breaking when stress is applied, but does not allow for significant stretching when used that would affect the nature of the exercises performed.
• Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and/or the present application, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

Claims (26)

1. A resistance-based exercise device, comprising:

a bar including one or more grips;

a first connector at a first end of the bar;

a second connector at a second end of the bar;

an adjustable elongated member attached at one end to the first connector and at a second end to the second connector, the adjustable elongated member configured to be adjusted to change its length;

a third connector slidably attached to the adjustable elongated member; and

an anchor connected to the third connector and attachable to an immobile object.

2. The device ofclaim 1, wherein:

the adjustable elongated member is formed of a strap that can be adjusted using a single adjustment mechanism.

3. (canceled)

4. The device ofclaim 1, wherein the adjustable elongated member is a flexible, inelastic strap.

5. The device ofclaim 1, wherein:

the bar is rotatable about its central axis in relation to the adjustable elongated member.

6. The device ofclaim 1, wherein:

the bar includes a plurality of grip sets, each grip set including two grips symmetrically disposed about the center of the bar.

7. The device ofclaim 6, wherein:

a first grip set of the plurality of grip sets includes grips having facing ends less than 30 inches apart; and

a second grip set of the plurality of grip sets includes grips having facing ends less than 20 inches apart.

8. The device ofclaim 1, wherein:

the adjustable elongated member is adjustable to have a length between about 8 feet and about 14 feet.

9. The device ofclaim 8, wherein:

the bar has a length between about 3 feet and about 4 feet.

10. The device ofclaim 1, further comprising:

one or more holding devices attached to the bar and symmetrically arranged about the center of the bar.

11. The device ofclaim 10, wherein:

the one or more holding devices includes a foothold configured to allow two feet of a user to rest in the foothold.

12. The device ofclaim 1, wherein the anchor includes a flexible portion configured to surround an object having a thickness between about 1 and about 6 inches.

13. A resistance-based exercise device, comprising:

a rigid member;

a first connector at a first end of the rigid member;

a second connector at a second end of the rigid member;

an adjustable elongated member attached at one end to the first connector and at a second end to the second connector, the adjustable elongated member configured to be adjusted to change its length;

an anchor for connecting the adjustable elongated member to an immobile object.

14. The device ofclaim 13, wherein:

the rigid member is a bar.

15. The device ofclaim 13, further comprising:

a third connector slidably attached to the adjustable elongated member.

16. The device ofclaim 15, wherein:

the anchor includes a fourth connector connected to a strap, the strap connected to the third connector; and

the fourth connector is configured to be attached and detached to the third connector to anchor the device to an immobile object.

17. (canceled)

18. The device ofclaim 13, wherein:

the anchor is removably attachable to the to the adjustable elongated member.

19-20. (canceled)

21. The device ofclaim 13, wherein:

the adjustable elongated member is formed of a flexible, inelastic strap that can be adjusted using a single adjustment mechanism.

22-23. (canceled)

24. The device ofclaim 13, wherein:

the rigid member is a bar rotatable about its central axis in relation to the adjustable elongated member.

25. The device ofclaim 24, wherein:

the bar includes a plurality of hand location indicator sets, each hand location indicator set including two hand location indicators symmetrically disposed about the center of the bar.

26. The device ofclaim 25, wherein:

a first hand location indicator set of the plurality of hand location indicator sets includes grips having facing ends less than 30 inches apart; and

a second hand location indicator set of the plurality of hand location indicator sets includes grips having facing ends less than 20 inches apart.

27. The device ofclaim 13, wherein:

the device is portable.

28-33. (canceled)

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