U.S. patent application number 11/036969 was filed with the patent office on 2005-09-01 for composite yoga mats.
Invention is credited to Edwards, Richard.
Application Number | 20050192158 11/036969 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34889681 |
Filed Date | 2005-09-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050192158 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Edwards, Richard |
September 1, 2005 |
Composite yoga mats
Abstract
This invention provides composite yoga mats comprising a fabric
sheet with a frictional material and/or loop holes to provide
support, a stable surface, and moisture absorption for the practice
of yoga.
Inventors: |
Edwards, Richard; (Oakland,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
QUINE INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LAW GROUP, P.C.
P O BOX 458
ALAMEDA
CA
94501
US
|
Family ID: |
34889681 |
Appl. No.: |
11/036969 |
Filed: |
January 14, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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60536857 |
Jan 15, 2004 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/23 ;
482/148 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 6/00 20130101; A63B
21/4037 20151001 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/023 ;
482/148 |
International
Class: |
A63B 026/00; A63B
001/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A composite yoga mat comprising: a moisture absorbent fabric
sheet comprising a first side presenting a moisture absorbent
surface, and a second side; and, a frictional material disposed on
the fabric sheet second side; whereby the yoga mat provides
moisture absorption and a stable surface for practice of yoga.
2. The yoga mat of claim 1, wherein the fabric sheet comprises:
terry cloth, chamois, synthetic chamois, hydrophilic fibers, fibers
with a hydrophilic coating, a combination of absorbent and
nonabsorbent fibers, microfibers, nanofibers, plant fibers,
cellulose, polyester, hemp, cotton or paper.
3. The yoga mat of claim 1, wherein the fabric sheet comprises a
width less than about 3 feet and a length less than about 6
feet.
4. The yoga mat of claim 1, wherein the fabric sheet further
comprises a reinforced peripheral edge.
5. The yoga mat of claim 4, wherein the fabric sheet further
comprises two or more opposing loop holes adjacent to the
peripheral edge, the loop holes comprising internal circumferences
of more than about 6 inches.
6. The yoga mat of claim 1, wherein the frictional material
comprises: a rubber, a foam rubber, a resilient polymer, a
polyvinyl foam, a sponge, cork, or silicone rubber.
7. The yoga mat of claim 1, wherein the frictional material
comprises: a continuous surface, a textured surface, indicia, or a
pattern.
8. The yoga mat of claim 1, further comprising frictional material
disposed on the first side of the fabric sheet.
9. The yoga mat of claim 8, wherein the frictional material
comprises a pattern or indicia.
10. The yoga mat of claim 8, wherein the frictional material
comprises about 20% to about 60% of the first side.
11. The yoga mat of claim 1, further comprising one or more
connectors functionally mounted to: maintain a rolled
configuration, bind two or more mats together, or to fix a
constrictable loop in a desired position.
12. A yoga mat comprising: a fabric sheet comprising a first side,
a second side, and a peripheral edge; and, two or more opposing
loop holes adjacent to the peripheral edge, the loop holes
comprising an internal circumference of more than about 6 inches;
whereby the yoga positions can be learned or practiced by insertion
of body appendages into the loop holes or constrictable loops
formed therefrom.
13. The yoga mat of claim 12, wherein the fabric sheet comprises a
moisture absorbent material selected from the group consisting of:
terry cloth, chamois, synthetic chamois, hydrophilic fibers, fibers
with a hydrophilic coating, microfibers, nanofibers, a combination
of absorbent and nonabsorbent fibers, plant fibers, cellulose,
polyester, hemp, or cotton.
14. The yoga mat of claim 12, wherein the comprising a length more
than about 3 feet and a width about 18 inches or less.
15. The yoga mat of claim 12, further comprising a frictional
material disposed on the fabric sheet first side or second
side.
16. The yoga mat of claim 15, wherein the frictional material
comprises: a rubber, a foam rubber, a resilient polymer, a
polyvinyl foam, a sponge, cork, or silicone rubber.
17. The yoga mat of claim 12, wherein the peripheral edge or loop
hole internal circumferences comprise reinforcing material.
18. The yoga mat of claim 12, further comprising one or more
connectors functionally mounted to: maintain rolled configuration,
bind two or more mats together, or to fix a constrictable loop in a
desired position.
19. The yoga mat of claim 12, further comprising one or more
intermediate loop holes between the opposing perforations.
20. A method of practicing yoga using the yoga mat of claim 12.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO PRIOR APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to and benefit of a prior
U.S. provisional application No. 60/536,857, Composite Yoga Mats by
Richard Edwards, filed Jan. 15, 2004. The full disclosure of this
prior application is incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention is in the field of accessories for the
practice of yoga. In particular, the invention provides, e.g.,
multifunctional composite yoga mats that provide support, comfort,
stability, and functional indicia that facilitate practice of
yoga.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Many yoga positions and forms of yoga practice can be
performed on a floor without any special implements. Yoga has been
traditionally practiced with the practitioner changing positions on
a mat, such as a tatami mat. However, traditional mats are not
portable and many modern mats are uncomfortable and slippery when
wet. In addition, current yoga mats and accessories fail to provide
multiple benefits, such as personal surfaces, cushioning, sweat
absorption, aid in attaining positions, compactness, a stable
foundation, and/or positional reference frames.
[0004] Yoga practitioners typically arrive at group practice with
personal yoga mats. These mats can stake out a location on the
floor for the individual, provide some cushioning, and provide a
personal contact surface for each practitioner. However, these mats
can be unstable, slippery, unhygienic, and provide few functional
benefits beyond presentation of a homogenous padded surface.
[0005] One common type of yoga mat is a sheet of polyvinyl foam.
The sheet is unrolled on the floor to serve as a yoga mat. However,
as yoga can be strenuous the mat can become contaminated with
sweat. This can be particularly troublesome for practitioners of
bikram yoga, wherein the exercises are practiced in hot
environments. Sweat can accumulate on the hydrophobic mats making
them slippery, uncomfortable, and unhygienic.
[0006] Another problem with typical yoga mats is their lack of
stability. During dynamic transitions between yoga positions,
supporting body parts can slip on the mat or the mat can slip
across the floor. This problem can make practice of some positions
difficult of hazardous.
[0007] During the learning process, or in the practice of difficult
positions, there can be a need for an extended reach or additional
support. Yoga practitioners can use looped cords, such as those
described in international publication number WO 03/018139, Method
and Apparatus for Performing Stretching Exercises, by Flynn; or,
U.S. Pat. No. 6,368,255, Device for Stretching and Yoga, to
Chan-Rouse. However, these yoga straps provide only the support
function. There are only so many yoga implements practitioners can
carry. A clutter of devices in the practice room can disturb the
serenity of the traditional yoga environment.
[0008] In view of the above, a need exists for a yoga mat that
provides a combination of moisture absorbance, comfort, and
stability. It would be desirable to have yoga mats that contribute
multiple benefits beyond cushioning the surface. Benefits could be
derived from yoga mats tailored to unique combinations of yoga
practitioner needs. The present invention provides these and other
features that will be apparent upon review of the following.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] Composite yoga mats of the invention can provide unique
combinations of practical functions not available from traditional
yoga mats. Yoga mats of the invention can absorb moisture, control
transfer of moisture, provide cushioning, insulate, provide
stability, present functional information, be lightweight and
portable, and/or the like. Yoga mats of the invention generally
comprise, e.g., a moisture absorbent fabric sheet having a moisture
absorbent first side surface, and a frictional material disposed on
the fabric sheet second side to provide-cushioning and a stable
yoga practice surface.
[0010] The moisture absorbent fabric sheet of the yoga mats can
include shapes and materials suitable for particular intended uses
within the field of yoga practice. The strength and absorbency of
yoga mats can be influenced by the choice of materials. The yoga
mats can be manufactured from, e.g., terry cloth, chamois,
synthetic chamois, hydrophilic fibers, fibers with a hydrophilic
coating, a combination of absorbent and nonabsorbent fibers,
microfibers, nanofibers, fibers embedded with a rubber, plant
fibers, cellulose, polyester, hemp, cotton, paper, and/or the like.
More absorbent materials can be preferred in high moister yoga
environments, while stronger or more cushioned materials can be
preferred for more dynamic aerobic forms of yoga. Yoga mats of the
invention can have a fabric sheet width, e.g., less than about 3 or
4 feet and a length less than about 6 or 7 feet; larger sizes can
provide bigger practice surfaces, or narrower dimensions can be
well suited for yoga mats focusing on strap/loop support utilities.
The yoga mat fabric sheet can have a reinforced peripheral edge to
provide strength and wear resistance. Yoga mats of the invention
can have, e.g., fabric sheets with two or more opposing loop holes
adjacent to the peripheral edge with holes large enough to make a
loop by insertion of the other end of the mat, or large enough to
insert fingers, hands, feet, etc., for support in particular yoga
positions. The loop holes often have an internal circumference more
than about 6 inches.
[0011] In one embodiment, yoga mats of the invention are configured
to support yoga practitioners in strenuous or difficult positions.
For example, a yoga mat can be provided with dimensions and loop
holes well adapted for use in a functional yoga strap
configuration. The fabric sheet can have, e.g., two or more
opposing loop holes with an internal circumference of more than
about 6 inches adjacent to a reinforced peripheral edge so that
yoga positions can be learned or practiced by insertion of body
appendages into the loop holes or constrictable loops formed with
the mat. Loop holes can be made more strong and wear resistant by
reinforcing the internal circumference. Yoga mats configured for
use as yoga straps typically have narrow dimensions with loop holes
on the ends. For example, the yoga mats can have a length more than
about 3 feet while the width is about 18 inches, 12 inches, 6
inches, or less. Intermediate loop holes can be included to provide
a range of possible support locations on a mat or choice of
constrictable loop sizes.
[0012] The frictional material of the yoga mats can be disposed on
the absorbent fabric to provide, e.g., slippage prevention,
blockage of moisture transfer, cushioning, ornamental designs,
instructional indicia, etc. The frictional material can comprises
rubber, foam rubber, resilient polymers, polyvinyl foam, sponge,
cork, silicone rubber, and/or the like. Frictional material can be
disposed on the fabric in a continuous surface, a textured surface,
as informative indicia, as a pattern, as a layer, interwoven with
the fabric, and/or the like. Frictional material can be disposed on
both sides of the fabric sheet, e.g., to provide a non-slip or
decorative function on both sides of the met. Frictional material
ornamental patterns or indicia are preferred on the first side,
facing the yoga practitioner. Frictional material can be absent
from the first side or comprise, e.g., about 20% to about 60% of
the first side.
[0013] Yoga mats of the invention can include connectors to
stabilize desired configurations or to connect two or more yoga
mats. For example, connectors can be provided to maintain a rolled
configuration, bind two or more mats together, or to fix a
constrictable loop in a desired position.
[0014] The present invention includes methods of practicing yoga
using the composite yoga mats of the invention. The unique
combination of features provided by the yoga mats of the invention
allows, e.g., practice of yoga in an environment unavailable with
traditional mats. Composite yoga mats provide a stable, dry
location for yoga exercises, loop supports for difficult positions,
and the ability to expand or thicken the practice surface.
DEFINITIONS
[0015] Before describing the present invention in detail, it is to
be understood that this invention is not limited to particular
devices or combinations of materials, which can, of course, vary.
It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for
the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not
intended to be limiting. As used in this specification and the
appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" can include
plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.
Thus, for example, reference to "a frictional material" can include
a combination of two or more frictional materials; reference to
"fabric" can include mixtures of fabrics, and the like.
[0016] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms
used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although
many methods and materials similar, modified, or equivalent to
those described herein can be used in the practice of the present
invention without undue experimentation, the preferred materials
and methods are described herein. In describing and claiming the
present invention, the following terminology will be used in
accordance with the definitions set out below.
[0017] The term "Composite yoga mat" or yoga mat of the invention,
as used herein, refers to a yoga mat fabricated from two or more
materials, or two or more structural elements, to provide functions
adapted to the practice of yoga. For example, composite yoga mats
can be fabricated with a combination of a moisture absorbent
material and a frictional material. A composite yoga mat can be
fabricated to include various structural elements including
combinations of loop holes for gripping and supporting, frictional
surfaces to prevent slipping, reinforced edges to add strength and
comfort, patterns and/or indicia to provide positioning references
and an attractive appearance, connectors to maintain a compact roll
or bind multiple mats together, long thin mats to function as pads
and straps, large wide mats to provide an adequate defined yoga
practice surface, and/or the like.
[0018] The term "moisture absorbent", as used herein, refers to
material that has an affinity for water (hydrophilic). Moisture
absorbent fabric sheets can include, e.g., materials that draw
moisture away from yoga practitioners and/or frictional materials
of the invention.
[0019] The term "frictional material", as used herein, refers to
materials disposed on fabric sheets of the invention to provide
reduced slippage between the yoga mat and the yoga practitioner or
the floor. Frictional materials can include, e.g., materials with a
coefficient of friction greater than that of the fabric sheet.
Frictional materials can include, e.g., materials with a
coefficient of static or kinetic friction greater than about 0.6 in
contact with typical surfaces encountered in yoga practice. Typical
frictional materials of the invention include, e.g., rubber, foam
rubber, resilient polymers, polyvinyl foam, sponge, cork, silicone
rubber, and the like. Frictional materials can also contribute
other characteristics to the composite mats of the invention, such
as, e.g., cushioning, absorbency, ornamental designs, toughness,
and the like.
[0020] The term "loop holes", as used herein, refers to holes
running through a yoga mat of the invention with a location and
size appropriate for formation of constrictable loops, gripping
with hands or feet, and/or for insertion of appendages for support
during yoga exercises.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] FIGS. 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams of an exemplary
composite yoga mat having loop holes and frictional material
disposed on both sides of the mat.
[0022] FIG. 2A is a schematic diagram of an exemplary composite
yoga mat having loop holes and FIG. 2B is a schematic diagram of
the mat configured to provide a constrictable loop.
[0023] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of two yoga mats bound
together with a connector to form a larger mat.
[0024] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section
through an exemplary composite yoga mat.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0025] Composite yoga mats of the invention are fabricated from two
or more materials, e.g., adapted to provide two or more
characteristics particularly tailored to the needs of yoga
practitioners. The environment for practice of yoga can require,
e.g., a well defined space, maintenance of dry surfaces, provision
of reach and support for some positions, stable surfaces for
dynamic motions, and comfortable contact surfaces. Yoga mats of the
invention provide a unique combination of features, such as, e.g.,
a moisture absorbent base fabric for contact with the practitioner,
a friction material to provide a stable yoga platform, informative
indicia, and/or perforations to support body appendages in new or
difficult positions.
[0026] In one embodiment, for example, the yoga mat of the
invention can be an absorbent terrycloth sheet embedded on one side
with a flexible foam rubber coating of frictional material, and
having loop-hole perforations at opposite ends useful in looping
support for arms and legs. The yoga mat can be placed on the floor
with the absorbent fabric facing up and the frictional material
facing down so that a yoga practitioner can have a comfortable dry
contact with the mat, and which will not slip as her body shifts in
dynamic yoga transitional motions. Hands and feet can be inserted
into the loop holes to provide support when certain difficult
positions are required in a yoga exercise sequence.
[0027] Moisture Absorbent Fabric Sheets
[0028] Moisture absorbent fabric sheets of the invention can
provide, e.g., the base fabric of the yoga mats. The sheets can
provide, e.g., strength, moisture absorbency, cushioning, a
comfortable texture, positioning indicia, a defined yoga practice
floor space, and/or loop holes for positional support.
[0029] Fabric sheets of the invention can be fabricated from any
suitable moisture absorbent material. Exemplary fabrics can include
materials such as terry cloth, chamois, synthetic chamois,
hydrophilic fibers, fibers with a hydrophilic coating, microfibers,
nanofibers, a combination of absorbent and nonabsorbent fibers,
plant fibers, cellulose, polyester, hemp, cotton, and/or the like.
Base fabrics for the yoga mats of the invention can include, e.g.,
terry cloth, wool, flannel, microfiber fabric, paper, and/or the
like. The fabric can be, e.g., continuous, non-porous, finely
woven, coarsely woven, a network of fibers, matted fibers, or
directed strands.
[0030] In one embodiment, the fabric sheets include microfibers
(having a dimension in the range from about 1000 .mu.m to 0.1
.mu.m) or nanofibers (having a dimension in the range from about
1000 nm to about 1 nm). The nanofibers or microfibers can have a
large surface to volume ratio for an increased ability to adsorb or
absorb water. The nanofibers or microfibers can have a rough or
porous surface to increase water absorbency. The nanofibers or
microfibers can have a hydrophilic surface to increase water
absorbency. The nanofibers or microfibers can interact with
frictional material, e.g., by covalent linkage chemistries,
hydrophobic bonding, and the like, so that the frictional material
can be disposed on the fabric sheet with bonding at a molecular
level. Optionally, the frictional material can be in the form of a
fiber disposed on the fabric sheet interwoven with the absorbent
fibers.
[0031] The fabric sheets can have dimensions appropriate to the
particular yoga practice use. For example, a fabric sheet can have
a width ranging, e.g., from less than about 6 inches to more than
about 4 feet, from about 12 inches to about 3 feet, or 18 inches to
about 2 feet. A fabric sheet can have a length ranging, e.g., from
more than about 8 feet to less than about 2 feet, from about 6 feet
to about 3 feet, or from about 5 feet to about 4 feet. In one
preferred embodiment, the yoga mat is about 30 inches wide by about
6 feet long. In another preferred embodiment, the yoga mat is about
12 inches wide and about 3 feet long. Yoga mats of the invention
are typically based on fabric sheets rectangular in shape but can
be, e.g., square, round, oblong, oval, trapezoid, diamond shaped,
or the like. The dimensions of yoga mats in the invention can be
varied, e.g., by folding or by binding or unbinding two or more
individual yoga mats from each other.
[0032] Fabric sheets of the yoga mats can have peripheral edges
with specialized structures and functions. For example, the edges
can be reinforced for strength and resistance to tearing. The
reinforcement can be provided, e.g., by stitching, hemming,
application of polymers, heat fusion of fibers, and/or the like.
The edge can incorporate frictional materials to reduces slippage.
The edge can be stiffer than the main body of the sheet to help
provide a well defined and unwrinkled conformation to the yoga
mat.
[0033] Fabric sheets can be woven or perforated to provide loop
holes useful in the practice of certain yoga positions. The loop
holes can have an inner circumference the size of a finger hole, or
preferably about 6 inches or more. The loop holes can have
reinforcement, similar to that described above for reinforcement of
edges, e.g., to provide a three dimensional contact surface, and/or
to prevent tearing of the fabric sheet.
[0034] Frictional Material
[0035] Frictional materials of the invention can be disposed on one
side, both sides, and/or on edges of the moisture absorbent fabric
sheet. The frictional materials can add toughness to the fabric
sheet, prevent slipping between the yoga mat and the floor, prevent
slipping between the yoga practitioner and the yoga mat, provide an
ornamental design matrix, provide cushioning, provide absorption of
moisture, and/or prevent transfer of moisture through the yoga
mat.
[0036] Frictional materials can include, e.g., natural rubber,
synthetic rubbers, composite materials, silicone rubber, plastics,
cork, resilient polymers, and/or the like. Frictional materials
typically provide higher levels of friction between the yoga mat
and contact surfaces than the moisture absorbent fabric sheet. For
example, preferred frictional materials can have a coefficient of
static friction or kinetic friction greater than about 0.5, 0.6,
about 0.7, about 0.8, or more, in contact with typical surfaces
experienced in yoga practice, such as, e.g., wood, tile, plastic,
or fabric flooring.
[0037] The frictional materials can have, e.g., an open or closed
matrix. For example, the frictional material can be a closed
impermeable layer or a porous network. The frictional material can
be, e.g., an open cell or closed cell foam. The characteristics of
the frictional material can be selected to complement the fabric
sheet onto which it is disposed. In one embodiment, the frictional
material is a continuous closed sheet that can seal off the yoga
practioner from the practice floor. This embodiment can be well
suited to situations, e.g., where it is desirable to protect the
flooring material from sweat or to prevent moisture from moving up
out of the ground when the practitioner exercises outdoors. In
another embodiment, the frictional material is an open cell
hydrophilic polymer foam. This embodiment can be desirable, e.g.,
to aid in the collection of sweat and to provide cushioning when
practicing on a hard floor. The frictional material can be
hydrophilic (water absorbent or water attractive), e.g., to absorb
fluids, or hydrophobic (water repellent), e.g., to seal or redirect
fluids from a surface.
[0038] Frictional materials can be disposed on (into and/or onto)
moisture absorbent fabric sheets by a variety of methods known in
the art. For example, the frictional material can be a layer bonded
to the fabric sheet by stitching, adhesion, polymerization, heat
bonding, and the like. The frictional material can be, e.g., a
fibrous material and/or network woven among fibers of the moisture
absorbent fabric sheet. The frictional material can be applied as a
liquid or semisolid composition that hardens to bond after
application. For example, the frictional material can be a molten
or polymerizing material for application and binding to a fabric
sheet side by spreading, spraying, brushing, dipping, and/or the
like.
[0039] Frictional materials can be disposed on a first (e.g., top)
side, a second (e.g., bottom) side, or on both sides of the fabric
sheet. In one embodiment, the frictional material is disposed
substantially onto the entire bottom side to the yoga mat fabric
sheet. A substantially continuous covering of frictional material
over the bottom side can provide, e.g., stiffness to the mat, a
full friction (non-slip) surface, a full cushion surface, a sealing
surface, an insulating surface, and/or the like. Optionally, the
frictional material can be disposed discontinuously on a side of
the fabric sheet. In one embodiment, the frictional material is
disposed on the bottom side in a discontinuous layer that can
provide, e.g., a coarse non-slip surface, allowance for fabric
sheet breathing, a desirable texture that can be felt by the
practitioner through the sheet, a functional or ornamental pattern,
and/or the like. In another embodiment, frictional material is
disposed on the top side (e.g., the side of the mat normally facing
up when in use) of the fabric sheet. For example, a soft,
hydrophilic frictional material composition can be disposed in a
pattern on the top side, e.g., to provide cushioning, absorb sweat,
provide an ornamental pattern, provide an instructional pattern,
provide a frictional surface or texture, and/or the like. In still
another embodiment, frictional material is disposed on both sides
of the fabric sheet. For example, the bottom side can be
substantially covered with a tough high friction frictional
material, and the top side can be discontinuously covered with a
softer absorbent frictional material in a geometric or
instructional pattern. The bottom (second) side can have frictional
material disposed over about 10% to about 100% of the surface,
about 20% to about 80% of the surface, about 30% to about 70%, or
about 60% of the surface; with a preferred coverage of from about
60% to about 100% of the bottom side surface. The top (first) side
of the fabric sheet can have frictional material disposed over
about 100% to about 0% of the surface, about 60% to about 5% of the
surface, or from about 30% to about 10% of the surface; with a
preferred coverage from about 30% to about 0% of the top
surface.
[0040] The frictional material can have an appropriate thickness to
provide desired properties. For example, the frictional material
can be disposed in a thinner amount to provide for lightness, lower
expense, greater flexibility, and the like. Frictional material can
be disposed in a thicker amount to provide, e.g., more cushioning,
more insulation, more stiffness, courser textures, and the like.
Frictional materials can be disposed on (into and/or onto) one or
more side of the absorbent fabric sheet to a thickness ranging from
less than about 0.1 mil to more than about 1 cm, from about 1 mil
to about 5 mm, or about 1 mm.
[0041] Patterns
[0042] Ornamental and/or functional patterns can be provided on one
or both sides of the absorbent fabric sheet. The patterns can
provide, e.g., functional indicia for the yoga practitioner,
functional textures, uniform dispersal of frictional material,
attractive designs, and/or the like.
[0043] Frictional material can be disposed on the top side of the
yoga mat absorbent fabric sheet in an ornamental pattern or design.
For example, the frictional material can be applied in pleasing
geometric patterns, such as arrays of dots or cross-hatches, or,
e.g., silk screened in scenes appropriate to meditation.
[0044] Frictional material can be disposed to provide functional
properties to the yoga mat. For example, frictional material can be
applied in patterns of human forms in typical yoga practice
positions. In one embodiment, frictional materials are disposed on
the top side in parallel lines, and in lines meeting at angles,
that can be seen and felt by the practitioner to provide a frame of
reference for proper body alignment and accurately directed dynamic
motions. In other embodiments, the frictional material is disposed,
e.g., in dotted, lined, or cross-hatched patterns conducive to hand
and feet gripping during exercises. In addition to patterned
disposition of frictional material on the top or bottom side, the
surface of the frictional material itself can be textured to
provide, e.g., ornamentation and/or enhanced non-slip function.
[0045] Loop Holes
[0046] Yoga mats of the invention can include loop holes to provide
supporting interaction between the yoga mat and one or more yoga
practitioners. Loop holes can provide, e.g., hand grips, support
rungs, and/or constrictable loops to allow support of appendages
during practice of certain yoga positions, and in stretching muscle
groups. Loop holes can be provided at any position through the
fabric sheet but loop holes near the peripheral edge are
preferred.
[0047] Loop holes in yoga mats of the invention are typically
perforations in the fabric sheet at opposing positions adjacent to
the peripheral edge. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2A and
2B, loop holes 10 can be, e.g., oval perforations at opposite ends
of yoga mat 11 long axis 12. The internal circumferences can
measure less than 4 inches, or more than about 4 inches, 6 inches,
12 inches, or more, as required to allow passage of a hand, arm,
foot, leg, for support. The loop hole internal circumference edge
13 can have reinforcement, as described for the sheet peripheral
edge above. The reinforcement can be thickened parallel to the
plane of the sheet to increase the surface for application of force
and to provide comfort. Optionally, additional loop holes can be
positioned between the opposing loop holes to provide alternative
loop hole support.
[0048] Loop holes can be used to provide variable size
constrictable loops to accommodate support of appendages. One or
more sections of fabric sheet peripheral edge can be inserted
through one or more loop holes and pulled to form one or more
constrictable loops. As shown in FIG. 2B, for example, the opposite
end of the yoga mat can be pulled through a loop hole to form
constrictable loop 20. The size of the constrictable loop can be
adjustable by pulling more or less of the mat through the loop
hole, as is well appreciated by those skilled in the art. The
constrictable loops allow for a firm grip on practitioner body
parts or secure mounting to support hardware, such as a hand rail
or post. The constrictable loop, or entire mat, can wrap around a
practitioner's torso or waist to provide a hand grip, e.g., for
support from a yoga instructor during lessons.
[0049] Connectors
[0050] Connectors can be provided on yoga mats of the invention,
e.g., to stabilize desirable mat configurations. For example
connectors can be used to hold a yoga mat in a rolled configuration
for transport and storage. Connectors can bind multiple yoga mats
together. Connectors can fix a constrictable loop at a desired
position, such as a desired loop size. Connectors can be used to
attach a composite yoga mat to the exercise floor, to tatami mats,
to traditional mats, or other commonly available mats.
[0051] Yoga mats can be rolled up for easy and compact handling.
The outer end of the roll can have one or more connectors to
prevent unrolling. The connectors can be, e.g., string for tying
around the roll, hook and loop (Velcro.RTM.) connectors, snaps,
zippers, buckles, pins, clips, straps, buttons, and/or the like.
Optionally, rolled yoga mats can be retained in a carry bag.
[0052] Two or more yoga mats can be bound together to provide a
thicker mat or larger area mat surface. In one embodiment, as shown
for example in FIG. 3, small yoga mat 30 of the invention, with
loop holes 10, is bound to larger yoga mat 31 of the invention
using, e.g., hook and loop strips. The small mat can alternately be
used to thicken cushioning at one end of the mat (in a pillow-like
configuration), expand the surface of the overall mat, or be
removed from the larger mat for use in loop support practices
described above. Yoga mats of the invention can be bound together,
typically, at the peripheral edges. Connectors 21 for binding
multiple yoga mats can include, e.g., zippers, hook and loop
(Velcro.RTM.) connectors, snaps, laces, buckles, pins, clips,
buttons, and/or the like.
[0053] Composite yoga mats can have connectors to attach them to
the floor or other mats. Such attachment can further stabilize the
yoga mat against slippage. Attachment to non-portable mats can
provide the benefits heavy mats that may be available at a yoga
practice location, while also providing the unique benefits of the
portable composite yoga mats. Attachment of composite yoga mats to
the floor or other mats can provide, e.g., additional cushioning, a
personal yoga practice surface, a more stable surface, and moisture
absorbency. Yoga mats of the invention can be attached to the floor
by connectors such as, e.g., clips, loop and hook connectors,
hooks, snaps, and/or the like. Yoga mats of the invention can be
attached to other mats using connectors, such as, e.g., zippers,
hook and loop (Velcro.RTM.) connectors, snaps, laces, straps,
buckles, pins, clips, buttons, and/or the like, as described for
connection of two or more yoga mats. In a preferred embodiment, a
yoga mat is be attached to other mats by providing a pocket of
fabric along the periphery of the mat so that it can be fitted over
one or more end, or corner, of the other mat in a fashion similar
to putting a fitted sheet on a mattress.
[0054] Connectors can be used to stabilize constrictable loops at a
desired size. Under high forces or loads, constrictable loops can
constrict to apply excessive pressures on practitioners. This can
be controlled by mounting suitable connectors, e.g., at points
where the body of the yoga mat slides through a loop hole. For
example, hook and loop connectors can be stitched with the loop
material at the internal circumference of the loop hole and with
the hook material extending along the second side of the fabric
sheet, thereby allowing selection of fixing points where the mat
body contacts the loop. Other connectors to stabilize constrictable
loops include, e.g., laces, hooks, zippers, snaps, buttons, and the
like.
[0055] Use of Yoga Mats
[0056] Yoga mats can provide combinations of characteristics useful
and specialized to aid in the practice of yoga. Yoga mats of the
invention are well adapted to functionally support practitioners in
the learning and practice of yoga positions and meditation. Yoga
mats of the invention can provide, e.g., combinations of
cushioning, orientation, indicia, stability, limb support,
insulation, removal of sweat, and traction, uniquely adapted to
aiding the practice of yoga.
[0057] In one embodiment, yoga mats of the invention can be used to
stretch a practitioner's muscles and go through joint range of
motion before or after a yoga session. For example, the
practitioner can flex the knee joint and stretch the quadriceps by
inserting a foot through a loop hole to the ankle, then grasping
and pulling the other end of the mat with her hands from behind her
back. The same yoga mat can then, e.g., be used to wipe sweat from
the practitioner, be attached to a larger mat to provide additional
practice area, and/or provide other yoga related functions
described herein.
[0058] In an aspect of the invention, yoga mats with loop holes can
be used to improve flexibility while learning certain positions.
For example, while progressing in the practice of positions, such
as utthita hasta padangustasana, the standing hand-big-toe-posture,
a practitioner can support the raised leg in a loop hole while
grasping the body of the mat with the raised arm. As the
practitioner increases in flexibility, the practitioner can grasp
the mat ever closer to the loop until the position can be practiced
without aid of the yoga mat. Optionally, yoga mats with loops can
be used to support elevated appendages until muscle strength is
acquired allowing practice of certain positions without additional
support. For example, in the uttana padasana position both the legs
and arms are extended and lifted up at an angle with the
practitioner on her back. While learning the uttana padasana, and
acquiring the necessary strength, the practitioner can provide
support from her hands to feet inserted in loop holes.
[0059] Yoga mats of the invention can optionally be used to provide
a stable surface for the practice of yoga positions and movements
(in addition to other functions described herein). Frictional
material on one or both sides can prevent slippage of the mat on
the floor and/or slippage of the practitioner on the mat. The
moisture absorbency of yoga mats of the invention can further
reduce slippage of mats and practitioners by preventing
accumulation of moisture between the frictional material and the
practitioner or floor. This characteristic can be particularly
beneficial in the practice of bikram yoga where the room
temperature is elevated.
[0060] The moisture absorbent aspect of yoga mats of the present
invention can be highly desirable in the practice of yoga. As
mentioned previously, removal of moisture can prevent slippage. In
addition, removal of excess moisture can provide a more
comfortable, less "clammy" contact with the skin of the
practitioner. In one aspect, the yoga mats of the invention can be
used as a towel to wipe sweat from the practitioner and to clean up
the practice area after exercises are completed.
[0061] Indicia can be imprinted onto the top side of the fabric
sheet to provide unique functional information to aid the
practitioner in the practice of yoga. For example, the top side can
be imprinted with silhouettes of the astanga yoga primary series of
positions to provide the practitioner with sequence and positioning
cues. In another example, lines and/or geometric patterns can be
imprinted onto the top side to provide references and alignment
cues to the practitioner, e.g., to indicate the proper back
alignment, limit of trunk rotation, or proper positions for foot
placement in particular positions or as directed by the yoga
instructor.
EXAMPLES
[0062] The following examples are offered to illustrate, but not to
limit the claimed invention.
Example 1
Yoga Mat with Frictional Material on Both Sides
[0063] A yoga mat can be fabricated with frictional material
disposed on both sides of the moisture absorbent fabric sheet to
provide stability and comfort. Imprinted frictional material 17 is
arrayed on top (first) side 14 in a pattern of dots to provide a
frictional surface and grippable texture to the top side, as shown
in FIG. 1A. Moisture absorbent fabric 15, exposed between and
around the frictional material dots, absorbs moisture away from the
dots and provides a surface that "breathes" for the comfort of the
practitioner. The top side frictional material is foamy, resilient,
and hydrophilic. Bottom (second) side 16 is substantially covered
with an impermeable layer of frictional material having a grid
pattern of linear grooves, as shown in FIG. 1B. The bottom side
frictional material layer can prevent transfer of moisture between
the practitioner and floor while providing a tough non-slip
surface.
[0064] FIG. 4 shows a schematic diagram of a cross section taken
through the mat of FIG. 1. The yoga mat is constructed as a
composite of moisture absorbent fabric sheet material 40 with tough
impermeable closed matrix frictional material 41 embedded into the
bottom side of the fabric sheet and a softer hydrophilic closed
cell foam frictional material 42 embedded in a dot pattern on the
top side of the fabric sheet.
[0065] It is understood that the examples and embodiments described
herein are for illustrative purposes only and that various
modifications or changes in light thereof will be suggested to
persons skilled in the art and are to be included within the spirit
and purview of this application and scope of the appended
claims.
[0066] While the foregoing invention has been described in some
detail for purposes of clarity and understanding, it will be clear
to one skilled in the art from a reading of this disclosure that
various changes in form and detail can be made without departing
from the true scope of the invention. For example, many of the
features and aspects of the yoga mats described above can be used
in various combinations.
[0067] All publications, patents, patent applications, and/or other
documents cited in this application are incorporated by reference
in their entirety for all purposes to the same extent as if each
individual publication, patent, patent application, and/or other
document were individually indicated to be incorporated by
reference for all purposes.
* * * * *