U.S. patent application number 11/067454 was filed with the patent office on 2005-06-30 for conformable resistance training device.
Invention is credited to Massey, Michael Alan.
Application Number | 20050143234 11/067454 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46304038 |
Filed Date | 2005-06-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050143234 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Massey, Michael Alan |
June 30, 2005 |
Conformable resistance training device
Abstract
A resistance training device including a conformable base and
one or more resistance arms affixed to the conformable base. The
conformable base is malleable such that it may conform to the
contour of a user's body as the user gets into position and
executes an exercise. The conformable base may support the weight
of a user. A plurality of resistance training exercises are
executable. One or more resistance arms may provide multiple levels
of resistance for each resistance training exercise. Multiple
levels of resistance may be achieved by employing multiple
resistance arms of varying strengths.
Inventors: |
Massey, Michael Alan; (Fort
Worth, TX) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MICHAEL MASSEY
4925 BOLERO Ct.
FORT WORTH
TX
76135
US
|
Family ID: |
46304038 |
Appl. No.: |
11/067454 |
Filed: |
February 28, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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11067454 |
Feb 28, 2005 |
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10713801 |
Nov 13, 2003 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/140 ;
482/121; 482/130 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/04 20130101;
A63B 2210/50 20130101; A63B 2071/027 20130101; A63B 21/0442
20130101; A63B 2208/0228 20130101; A63B 21/00065 20130101; A63B
21/0552 20130101; A63B 21/02 20130101; A63B 2225/62 20130101; A63B
23/0355 20130101; A63B 21/0555 20130101; A63B 23/0211 20130101;
A63B 23/0233 20130101; A63B 2214/00 20200801 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/140 ;
482/130; 482/121 |
International
Class: |
A63B 071/00; A63B
021/02; A63B 021/04 |
Claims
I claim:
1. A resistance training device comprising: a casing; and at least
one resistance arm affixed to said casing.
2. The device of claim 1 wherein said casing surrounds a bladder to
form a conformable base.
3. The device of claim 1 wherein said casing comprises at least one
of the group of nylon, vinyl, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), latex,
natural or synthetic or butyl rubber, elastomer, fabric, foam,
neoprene, solid foam rubber, plastic, and foam PVC.
4. The device of claim 2 wherein said bladder is inflatable.
5. The device of claim 2 wherein said bladder is
non-inflatable.
6. The device of claim 2 wherein said bladder is removable.
7. The device of claim 2 wherein said bladder is non-removable.
8. The device of claim 2 wherein said bladder comprises at least
one of polyvinyl chloride, latex, natural rubber, synthetic rubber,
butyl rubber, elastomer, vinyl, nylon, fabric, foam, neoprene,
solid foam rubber, plastic, and foam PVC.
9. A method of exercise, the method comprising the steps of:
positioning a resistance training device on a stable platform,
wherein the resistance training device includes: a casing
surrounding a bladder; and at least one resistance arm affixed to
said casing; and manipulating at least one resistance arm, wherein
said manipulation is performed by a user.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein the resistance training device
comprises: a casing; and at least one resistance arm affixed to
said casing.
11. The method of claim 9, wherein said casing surrounds a bladder
to form a conformable base.
12. The method of claim 9, wherein said casing comprises at least
one of the group of nylon, vinyl, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), latex,
natural or synthetic or butyl rubber, elastomer, fabric, foam,
neoprene, solid foam rubber, plastic, and foam PVC.
13. The method of claim 9, wherein said bladder is inflatable.
14. The method of claim 9, wherein said bladder is
non-inflatable.
15. The method of claim 9, wherein said bladder is removable.
16. The method of claim 9, wherein said bladder is
non-removable.
17. The method of claim 9, wherein said bladder comprises at least
one of polyvinyl chloride, latex, natural rubber, synthetic rubber,
butyl rubber, elastomer, vinyl, nylon, fabric, foam, neoprene,
solid foam rubber, plastic, and foam PVC.
18. The method of claim 9, wherein said manipulation of at least
one resistance arm by a user, allows a user to perform resistance
training exercises to strengthen at least one muscle of the legs,
torso, arms, and head.
19. A resistance training device comprising: a casing; and wherein
said casing surrounds a bladder to form a conformable base; and
wherein said conformable base supports the weight of a user; and
wherein at least one resistance arm is affixed to said casing; and
wherein said resistance arm is removable; and wherein said
resistance arm comprises at least one of the following natural
rubber, synthetic rubber, rubber latex, plastic, elastomer, nylon,
foam, and Velcro; and wherein said resistance arm is elastic; and
wherein multiple levels of resistance are achieved by employing
multiple resistance arms of varying strengths; and wherein multiple
levels of resistance are achieved by employing multiple resistance
arms of similar strength; and wherein multiple resistance arms are
affixed to said casing at multiple locations; and wherein at least
one handle is affixed to at least one resistance arm; and wherein
said handle is removable; and wherein at least one fixture is
attachable to at least one resistance arm to permit the user to
manipulate said resistance arm with at least one of the user's
feet; and wherein said fixture is removable; and wherein said
bladder is removable; and wherein said bladder is inflatable; and
wherein said casing assumes the shape of said bladder; and wherein
said bladder is a spherical; and wherein said casing comprises at
least one of the group of nylon, vinyl, polyvinyl chloride (PVC),
latex, natural or synthetic or butyl rubber, elastomer, fabric,
foam, neoprene, solid foam rubber, plastic, and foam PVC; and
wherein said bladder comprises at least one of polyvinyl chloride
(PVC), latex, natural rubber, synthetic rubber, butyl rubber,
elastomer, vinyl, nylon, fabric, foam, neoprene, solid foam rubber,
plastic, and foam PVC.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a CONTINUATION-IN-PART of prior
application Ser. No. 10/713,801 filed Nov. 13, 2003.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable.
REFERENCE TO A MICROFICHE APPENDIX
[0003] Not applicable.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0004] This invention relates generally to exercise equipment, and,
more particularly, to a conformable device for performing a broad
range of resistance training exercises.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0005] People engaging in fitness activities have many options. One
of the challenges in staying fit is finding the time and, depending
on the type of activity desired, necessary resources to fulfill
one's fitness goals. In particular, if training with weights or
other resistance training is desirable, access to proper equipment
is often a challenge. A gymnasium providing the proper equipment
may or may not be available. Plus, membership at such a gym is
often cost prohibitive. Space and cost may also be prohibitive to
investing in exercise equipment for the home. Another impediment to
a regular exercise routine may be travel, particularly for frequent
business travelers.
[0006] Of those interested in resistance training, many are not
interested in training with stationary weight equipment that
requires an enormous amount of space. Examples include those
rehabilitating injuries or handicaps, or those interested in
minimizing overall stress to joints, such as older adults. For this
group as well, availability of the appropriate equipment may be
prohibitive to proper exercise. They may be even less inclined to
invest in a membership at a gymnasium requiring transportation
where the emphasis is generally on higher impact exercise. In
addition, smaller rehabilitation facilities and exercise centers
often do not have the equipment necessary to provide a full range
of lower impact exercise options and strength training.
[0007] Thus, a need exists for a resistance training device that is
inexpensive, convenient, portable, provides low stress to joints,
and provides a full range of strength training exercises.
PRIOR ART & OTHER ART
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 6,837,836 Jan. 4, 2005 "Exercise ball device"
(published after the filing of this application) consists of a
cable running through a hole in a ball from which a user holds both
ends of one cable. U.S. Pat. No. 6,837,835 Jan. 4, 2005 "Exercise
ball device" (published after the filing of this application)
consists of two cables attached at only two locations on a ball.
Both devices only allow for a minimal number of exercises due to
only two locations of resistance. The amount of resistance is also
minimal, secondary to only one cable in U.S. Pat. No. 6,837,836 and
only two cables in U.S. Pat. No. 6,837,835.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 5,833,587 Nov. 10, 1998 "Apparatus and method
for exercising" and application 20030195098 Oct. 16, 2003
"Exercising ball holder", consist of a base that holds a ball with
cords/bands attaching directly to the base. Because the cords/bands
are attached to the base, and the ball and the base are separate,
both devices have a minimal number of exercises due to limited
locations of resistance.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 5,810,700 Sep. 22, 1998 "Exercise ball with
stretchable straps" consists of attaching one resistance member to
a ball via a flexible net, straps, shell or the resistance member
integrally formed from the ball. This device only allows for one
location of resistance and only one resistance member, therefore
limiting the number of possible exercises to a minimum and limiting
the amount of resistance to a minimum. Application 20030224914 Dec.
4, 2003 "Flexible multiple-positional net-like strap
assembly/resilient shape configurations" (published after the
filing of this application) is another flexible net-like assembly.
Both of these flexible net devices have an enormous amount of
surface area of their base exposed and could shift and change
positions when force is applied, and change the position of the
resistance. These net-like devices also have a small surface area
for resistance; therefore the amount of resistance is limited.
[0011] "Omni resistance ball" (published on the internet after the
filing of this application) consists of a 14 pound medicine ball
with four locations for resistance. This device is only able to
achieve 25 exercises secondary to just 4 locations of resistance (4
of these exercises require two users and 12 are variations of the
same exercise). The portability of the device is also limited
secondary to the weight of the ball.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] Provided is a resistance training device including a
conformable base and one or more resistance arms that are affixed
to the conformable base. The conformable base is malleable such
that it may conform to the contour of a user's body as the user
gets into position and executes an exercise. The conformable base
may support the weight of a user. A plurality of resistance
training exercises are executable. In an embodiment, one or more
resistance arms may provide multiple levels of resistance for each
resistance training exercise. In another embodiment multiple levels
of resistance may be achieved by employing multiple resistance arms
of varying strengths. In another embodiment, multiple levels of
resistance may be achieved by employing multiple resistance arms of
similar strengths.
[0013] A method is provided including positioning a conformable
base having one or more affixed resistance arms and exercising one
or more body parts via manipulation of the one or more affixed
resistance arms. In embodiments, the one or more body parts may
include one or more muscle groups, connective tissues, or any body
part needing rehabilitation. In another embodiment, the method
further includes executing a plurality of resistance training
exercises with the conformable base having one or more affixed
resistance arms. In another embodiment, the method further includes
providing multiple levels of resistance with the one or more
affixed resistance arms for each resistance training exercise.
[0014] A method of rehabilitation is provided including positioning
a conformable base having one or more affixed resistance arms and
exercising one or more body parts in a manner that promotes
wellness. In an embodiment, the method of rehabilitation further
includes providing multiple levels of resistance with the one or
more affixed resistance arms.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a
resistance training device including resistance arms affixed to a
conformable base.
[0016] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a
resistance training device including a conformable base and
resistance arms affixed to a conformable base where the resistance
arms may possess different strengths.
[0017] FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an embodiment
of a resistance training device including resistance arms attached
to a conformable base within a concavity.
[0018] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a
resistance training device including resistance arms attached to a
conformable base via sewing or stitching.
[0019] FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an embodiment
of a resistance training device including a casing surrounding a
bladder to form a conformable base with resistance arms attached to
the casing.
[0020] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a
resistance training device including a deflated bladder removed
from its casing.
[0021] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a
resistance training device including an inflatable bladder inside a
casing being inflated via an air pump.
[0022] FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a
resistance training device including a user lying supine on a
conformable base performing an upper body resistance exercise.
[0023] FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a
resistance training device including a user sitting on a
conformable base performing an upper body resistance exercise.
[0024] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a
resistance training device including a user sitting on a
conformable base performing a lower body resistance exercise.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0025] The resistance training device provided includes a
conformable base and one or more resistance arms that are affixed
to the conformable base. The conformable base (or "base") provided
herein is malleable such that it may conform to the contour of a
user's body as the user gets into position and executes an
exercise. In an embodiment, the conformable base supports the
weight of a user. The conforming or fitting nature of the
conformable base may maximize support, reduce stress on joints and
connective tissues directly and indirectly involved in an exercise,
and strengthen supportive lower back and abdominal muscles.
[0026] The conformable base may be constructed of any malleable
material that is suitable for construction of the resistance
training device described herein. Typically, flexible plastics,
foams, and rubbers are appropriate. In embodiments, the conformable
base may be made up of materials including polyvinyl chloride
(PVC), latex, natural or synthetic or butyl rubber, elastomer,
vinyl, nylon, fabric, foam, neoprene, solid foam rubber, plastic,
foam PVC, or combinations thereof.
[0027] The base may take any shape that is suitable for permitting
a user to perform resistance training exercises as provided herein.
In an embodiment, the conformable base is spherical. In another
embodiment, the conformable base is inflatable. The malleable and
possibly inflatable nature of the base, allow it to conform as
necessary during use or for storage purposes. In another
embodiment, the conformable base is an exercise ball, such as may
be available from many common sporting goods and retail stores,
e.g., Wal-Mart or Target.
[0028] One or more resistance arms are affixed to the conformable
base. In an embodiment, resistance arms provide the resistance that
allows a user to perform resistance training exercises. In another
embodiment, the resistance arms are elastic. In another embodiment,
elasticity allows the resistance arms to be lengthened or
stretched. In another embodiment, the one or more resistance arms
may include one or more degrees of elasticity. In another
embodiment, the exertion of strength by a user in order to stretch
or lengthen one or more resistance arms is the mode of resistance
training provided herein. In another embodiment, the one or more
resistance arms are removable. In another embodiment, the one or
more resistance arms may include one or more lengths. In another
embodiment, the one or more resistance arms provide more than one
range of motion.
[0029] Resistance arms may be constructed of one or more materials
suitable for assembling the resistance training device provided. In
embodiments, the resistance arms may be made up of materials
including natural rubber, synthetic rubber, rubber latex, plastic,
elastomer, nylon, foam, Velcro, and combinations thereof.
[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates a view of an embodiment of a conformable
resistance training device where resistance arms 100 are affixed to
a conformable base 110. In an embodiment, the one or more
resistance arms 100 provide multiple levels of resistance for each
resistance training exercise. A user may position the conformable
base 110 and his or her body relative to the base 110 such that the
resistance arms 100 may be gripped by or attached to the user and
appropriate movements for resistance training may be executed.
[0031] The ability to achieve multiple levels of resistance may be
desirable in order for a user to more thoroughly perform resistance
training. A reason multiple levels of resistance may provide for a
more thorough exercise routine is because larger muscle groups,
such as pectorals, in order to achieve similar results, typically
require greater resistance than smaller muscle groups, such as
triceps. Another reason multiple levels of resistance may provide
for a more thorough exercise routine is because employing varying
levels of resistance when training the same muscle group may
stimulate/encourage greater strength, overall wellness, and/or
rehabilitation than perpetually employing the same level of
resistance. For example, if performing resistance training for
pectorals including multiple sets of the same exercise, employing
more than one level of resistance may provide for more thorough
exertion and greater resulting strength, wellness, and/or
rehabilitation in the pectorals.
[0032] In an embodiment, multiple levels of resistance are achieved
by employing one or more resistance arms of varying strengths. An
example of an exercise routine where resistance arms of different
strengths are employed may be illustrated by referring to FIG. 2.
Assume the resistance arms marked "X," "Y," and "Z" each possess a
different strength or level of resistance. Such strength/resistance
may be expressed in units of force. Assume X is a 5 unit of force
arm, Y is a 10 unit of force arm, and Z is a 20 unit of force arm.
As used herein, a unit of force may be a weight unit, such as, for
example, pounds, kilograms, or stones. If a user desires to
exercise the bicep muscle of the arm, he/she may first perform
curling exercises for biceps using X for 20 repetitions. In a
subsequent set, the user may switch to curling with Y for 20
repetitions, an increase of 5 units of force (e.g., pounds); in
order to further exert the bicep. The user may then switch to
curling with Z for 20 repetitions, an increase of 10 units of force
over Y, in order to still further exert the bicep.
[0033] In another example of achieving multiple levels of
resistance by employing one or more resistance arms of varying
strengths, a user may perform curling exercises for biceps
employing both resistance arms X and Y at the same time to achieve
a resistance of 15 units of force. If increasing the amount of
resistance in subsequent sets, the user may employ resistance arms
X and Z at the same time to achieve a resistance of 25 units of
force. Any number of resistance arms of differing resistances may
be employed, thus making it possible to achieve any number of
resistance levels.
[0034] In another embodiment of the resistance training device,
multiple levels of resistance are achieved by employing one or more
resistance arms of similar strength. For example, referring again
to FIG. 2, resistance arms X, Y, and Z may be assumed to possess
similar strength. A user may perform biceps curls using X for 20
repetitions. Then, the user may employ all of X, Y, and Z while
performing bicep curls in order to increase resistance and further
exert the bicep muscle. Any number of resistance arms of similar
resistance may be employed, thus making it possible to achieve any
number of resistance levels.
[0035] The resistance arms may be affixed to the conformable base
any number of ways. In an embodiment, the one or more resistance
arms are affixed to the conformable base in one or more positions.
In another embodiment, the one or more resistance arms are affixed
within a concavity. FIG. 2 illustrates a view of an embodiment
where multiple resistance arms X, Y, and Z are affixed to a
conformable base 300 within a concavity 320. In an embodiment, the
resistance arms are affixed to the conformable base at a point
within the concavity. FIG. 3 is another illustration of an
embodiment where multiple resistance arms 400 are affixed to a
conformable base 410. The illustration of FIG. 3 includes a
cross-sectional view of a concavity 420 where the resistance arms
400 are affixed at a point 430. In the embodiment illustrated by
FIG. 3, the point 430 is a bar.
[0036] In an embodiment, the one or more resistance arms are
affixed to the surface of the conformable base. The resistance arms
may be affixed to the conformable base in any manner known in the
art. In an embodiment, the one or more resistance arms are affixed
to the surface of the conformable base via sewing or stitching.
FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a resistance training device
including a conformable base 200 and one or more resistance arms
220, 230. The one or more resistance arms 220, 230 are attached at
one or more positions 215, 225, and 235 on the conformable base
200. In this embodiment, the resistance arms 220, 230 are affixed
to the surface of the conformable base via sewing or stitching.
[0037] In order to execute resistance training exercises, a user
may grip the one or more resistance arms, or the user may otherwise
attach the one or more resistance arms to the user's body. In the
embodiment illustrated by FIG. 2, each of the one or more
resistance arms forms a loop that may be gripped by a user. In
another embodiment, the one or more resistance arms include one or
more handles, which may be detachable. In another embodiment, the
one or more detachable handles are designed such that one or more
resistance arms may be attached to one handle, which allows the
level of resistance to be varied. In another embodiment, a fixture,
such as a strap, concavity, or other attachment, permits use of one
or both of a user's feet in execution of resistance training. In
another embodiment, the fixture is removable. In another
embodiment, a loop or loops formed by the one or more resistance
arms, or some other form of handle or fixture, is fitted over,
around, or otherwise secured to a user's body, such as, for
example, the wrist, ankle, neck, or foot.
[0038] The conformable base and one or more resistance arms allow a
user to perform a plurality of resistance training exercises. In an
example illustrated by referring to FIG. 4, the conformable base
200 is a soft, inflatable ball, the one or more resistance arms 230
are attached at one position 235, and a user desires to exercise
her pectoral muscles with a pressing movement. The user may
position the base 200 on a floor such that the attachment position
235 is against the floor. The user may get into a position such
that the bulk of their weight is on the base 200, with her back
against the base and her feet flat on the ground, so that she is
lying on the base 200. She may then grasp the one or more
resistance arms 230 and perform pressing movements that exert the
pectoral muscles. In this example, the one or more resistance arms
230 are attached at the position 235, which is on the bottom side
of the base 200 in contact with the floor. The pushing movements
would stretch the one or more resistance arms 230 from the position
235 in contact with the floor, around the sides of the base 200 in
a vertical direction. The soft, malleable nature of the base 200
causes it to conform to the weight and shape of the user's back,
providing a safe and comfortable exercise surface. The user's feet
on the floor balance the user on the base.
[0039] In another example illustrated by referring to FIG. 4 where
the conformable base 200 is again a soft, inflatable ball, and the
one or more resistance arms 230 are attached at one position 235, a
user may desire to exercise her latissimus dorsi muscles with a
pulling movement. The user may position the base 200 against a wall
such that the attachment position 235 is against the wall. The user
may then sit on the floor and position her feet against the base
200 so that her feet are pressing the base 200 against the wall.
The user may then grasp the one or more resistance arms 230 and
perform pulling movements that exert the latissimus dorsi. In this
example, the pulling movements would stretch the one or more
resistance arms 230 around the sides of the base 200 in a
horizontal direction.
[0040] The resistance training device described herein may be small
enough and light-weight enough that it may be conveniently stored
and transported. In an embodiment, the resistance training device
is portable. The ability to be inflated and deflated may allow the
conformable base and resistance training device as a whole to be
light and easily moved. In its deflated state the device may be
small enough and malleable enough to be folded and/or squeezed into
a small space for storage, such as, for example, a closet or even a
suitcase or other carrying case. When use is desired, the
inflatable device may be removed from its storage space and
inflated, such as by blowing air from a user's mouth. As an
example, a business traveler may store the device among luggage and
thereby have access to a full range of resistance exercises and
multiple levels of resistance in a hotel room. If it makes sense
for storage and/or transportation purposes, the one or more
resistance arms may be detached while the device is stored and
reattached as needed for exercise. In another example, a user
desiring a flexible home gym but lacking the space or desire for
the decorative look associated with typical gym equipment may
inflate the device when exercise is desired and deflate the device
for convenient and inconspicuous household storage, such as in a
closet, or under a bed.
[0041] In embodiments, the conformable base may be positioned such
that a plurality of resistance training exercises may be executed.
Various positions of the conformable base provide for appropriate
manipulation of the resistance arms in order to exercise a
particular body part. The plurality of resistance training
exercises includes movements common in the areas of resistance
training and rehabilitation, and because of the versatility of the
resistance training device a user is only limited by his or her
imagination. Typically, the particular positioning of the
conformable base and particular resistance training exercises are
selected according to the one or more body parts that a user
desires to exert. In an embodiment, the one or more body parts
include one or more muscle groups. In another embodiment, the one
or more body parts include one or more connective tissues, such as,
for example, tendons and ligaments. In another embodiment, the one
or more body parts include body parts needing rehabilitation, such
as after an injury, after surgery, or for a handicap.
[0042] In an embodiment, a method of rehabilitation is provided by
the present application. Rehabilitation may be accomplished by
positioning a conformable base having one or more affixed
resistance arms such that exercises promoting wellness may be
performed for one or more body parts. Such rehabilitation may
include treatment of an injury or improving the wellness of any
particular body part that is less than healthy. Body parts needing
rehabilitation may include one or more muscle groups, connective
tissues, and/or joints.
[0043] The resistance training device provided provides many
advantages. The device is relatively inexpensive, safe, light
weight, minimizes impact on bodily joints, does not occupy much
space, and provides a method of performing a broad spectrum of
resistance training exercises with the ability to achieve multiple
levels of resistance to strengthen at least one muscle of the legs,
torso, arms and head.
[0044] In an embodiment, the conformable resistance training device
is a casing and one or more resistance arms are affixed to the
casing. In another embodiment, the casing surrounds a bladder. The
casing surrounds a bladder and forms a conformable base that may
take any shape that is suitable for permitting a user to perform
resistance training exercises as provided herein. In another
embodiment, the bladder may be removable or non-removable. A
removable bladder may be inserted and removed through an opening by
separating flaps that are opened and closed via Velcro, a zipper,
snaps or any manner known in the art. In embodiments, the casing
may be made up of materials including nylon, vinyl, polyvinyl
chloride (PVC), latex, natural or synthetic or butyl rubber,
elastomer, fabric, foam, neoprene, solid foam rubber, plastic, foam
PVC, or combinations thereof. In an embodiment, the bladder may be
spherical or non-spherical. In another embodiment, the bladder may
be inflatable or non-inflatable. In another embodiment, the bladder
is an exercise ball, such as may be available from many common
sporting goods and retail stores, e.g., Wal-Mart or Target.
[0045] In an embodiment, one or more resistance arms may be
attached and detached easily to and from the casing via couplings
at one or more positions on the casing to allow for the optimal
range of exercises. The casing, with the bladder inside and
resistance arms attached, forms a conformable base and allows a
user to perform more than 75 strength training exercises with more
than 400 lbs of resistance by changing body position on or around
the conformable base and the location, strength and number of
resistance arms. In an embodiment, a fixture, such as a strap or
other attachment, may serve as a handle to allow a user to easily
carry the device.
[0046] FIG. 5 illustrates a view of an embodiment of a conformable
resistance training device where a casing 510 contains a bladder
500 that may be inserted and removed through an opening under a
flap 530. In this example, resistance arms 540 may be attached and
detached easily to and from the casing 510 via couplings at one or
more positions 515, 525, 535, 545, 555, 565, 575 and 585 to allow
for the optimal range of exercises. In this embodiment, the
couplings are metal rings permanently affixed to the casing 510 via
sewing or stitching and receive the resistance arms via a clip at
the end of each resistance arm. In an embodiment, a handle 520 is
affixed to the casing 510 to allow a user to easily carry the
conformable resistance training device.
[0047] FIG. 6 illustrates a casing 610 with a bladder 600 removed.
In this example, the bladder 600 is inflatable. A user may remove
the bladder 600 after deflation, via the opening 620 by separating
flaps 630. A user may remove the bladder for compact storage,
repair or replacement.
[0048] In another example illustrated by referring to FIG. 7, a
user may insert a deflated bladder 700 into the casing 710 through
the opening created by separating flaps 730. The user may inflate
the bladder 700 inside the casing 710 via a pump 720.
[0049] FIG. 8 illustrates a user 800 performing an upper body
strengthening exercise by lying supine on the conformable base 810
while grasping and moving handles 820. Resistance is achieved via
resistance arms 830 attached to handles 820 and to conformable base
810.
[0050] In another example illustrated by referring to FIG. 9, a
user 900 is performing an upper body strengthening exercise by
sitting on a conformable base 910 and moving handles 930.
Resistance arms 920 attached at points 915 and 925 on the
conformable base 910 provide resistance for the exercise in this
example. In this example, resistance arms 940 attached at points
935 and 945 on the conformable base 910 are not being used in this
exercise. A user may attach and leave resistance arms at one or
more points on the conformable base to be utilized at a later
time.
[0051] FIG. 10 illustrates a user 1000 sitting on a conformable
base 1010 performing a lower body strengthening exercise.
Resistance is provided via resistance arms 1030 attached at a
location 1015 to conformable base 1010 and to ankle cuff 1020
attached to the leg of user 1000.
[0052] The particular embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative
only, as the invention may be modified and practiced in different
but equivalent manners apparent to those skilled in the art having
the benefit of the teachings herein. Furthermore, no limitations
are intended to the details of construction or design herein shown,
other than as described in the claims below. It is therefore
evident that the particular embodiments disclosed above may be
altered or modified and all such variations are considered within
the scope and spirit of the invention. Accordingly, the protection
sought herein is as set forth in the claims below.
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