U.S. patent application number 10/848398 was filed with the patent office on 2005-11-24 for resistance exercise garment.
Invention is credited to Wilkinson, William T..
Application Number | 20050261113 10/848398 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35375902 |
Filed Date | 2005-11-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050261113 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wilkinson, William T. |
November 24, 2005 |
Resistance exercise garment
Abstract
A resistance exercise garment includes a tunnel mounted on a
pant or on a lower part of a vest with a pair of resistance members
extending through the tunnel. One end of each resistance member is
anchored to the pant or vest near the tunnel and the other end is
detachably fastened to an anchor member on a top or shirt. The
exercise garment may alternatively include a reel system mounted on
the pant or vest with a resistance element wrapped around a reel in
the reel system. Each free end of the resistance element is
detachably fastened to an anchor member on the sleeve of a top.
Inventors: |
Wilkinson, William T.;
(Salem, NJ) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Connolly Bove Lodge & Hutz LLP
P.O. Box 2207
Wilmington
DE
19899-2207
US
|
Family ID: |
35375902 |
Appl. No.: |
10/848398 |
Filed: |
May 18, 2004 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/124 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/00069 20130101;
A63B 21/0442 20130101; A63B 21/4013 20151001; A63B 21/4017
20151001; A63B 21/00185 20130101; A63B 21/0428 20130101; A63B
21/4001 20151001; A63B 21/00065 20130101; A63B 21/4021 20151001;
A63B 21/00061 20130101; A63B 21/4019 20151001; A63B 21/0004
20130101; A63B 21/4007 20151001; A63B 2208/0204 20130101; A63B
21/4025 20151001; A63B 21/4009 20151001; A63B 21/0552 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/124 |
International
Class: |
A63B 021/02 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A resistance exercise garment having a torso section, said torso
section terminating in an open waist, a tunnel located at and
transversely across a portion of said torso section, said tunnel
being open at both ends, at least one resistance members, said
resistance member being inserted into said tunnel and having one
end located outside of said tunnel and an opposite end anchored to
said torso section, and said one end having a fastener for
detachable attachment to an anchor member at a location on a
movable part of said garment whereby said resistance member is
stretched during movement of said movable part of said garment by
the wearer.
2. The garment of claim 1 wherein there are a pair of said
resistance members.
3. The garment of claim 1 wherein said torso section is part of a
pant having legs, each of said resistance members being attached to
said pant outside of and near a respective open end of said tunnel,
and said tunnel being in the rear of said pant below said open
waist.
4. The garment of claim 3 including a pocket in said pant.
5. The garment of claim 3 including anchor members secured to the
bottom of said legs of said pant and to the general waist area of
said pant.
6. The garment of claim 3 including a strap secured to and spanning
each of said legs of said pant.
7. The garment of claim 3 including a top, and a plurality of said
anchor members provided on said top.
8. The garment of claim 7 including further resistance members
extending from a torso portion of said top to a sleeve portion of
said top.
9. The garment of claim 3 wherein said open waist of said torso
section comprises a wide elastic waist.
10. The garment of claim 3 wherein said garment includes a top
having a pair of arms, and said anchor member is provided on each
arm of said top.
11. The garment of claim 10 wherein a plurality of said anchor
members being on each of said arms.
12. The garment of claim 11 including a hand engagement member for
each arm of said top, and one of said anchor members being on each
of said hand engagement members.
13. The garment of claim 12 wherein each of said arms terminates in
an open wrist portion through which the user's arm may extend, a
thumb loop spanning said wrist portion, and said thumb loop being
said hand engagement member.
14. The garment of claim 13 wherein said resistance members are
hollow tubings, each of said tubings being detachably attached to
an anchor member outside of and near said tunnel, each of said
tubings extending through said tunnel and being attached at its
other end to an anchor member on said top, said open waist of said
torso section being a wide elastic waist for providing abdominal
support, a pocket located on said pant between said elastic waist
and said tunnel, and each of said ends of said tubing being
attached to a respective anchor member by a fastener having a
manually depressable tongue generally disposed against a seat.
15. The garment of claim 2 wherein said torso section is part of a
vest to be worn over a top, and said tunnel being at the rear of
said vest.
16. The garment of claim 15 including weights mounted in said
vest.
17. The garment of claim 1 wherein said resistance members is a
hollow tubing.
18. The garment of claim 1 including a hand engagement member for
being worn on the hand of a user, and said anchor member being on
said hand engagement member.
19. The garment of claim 18 wherein said hand engagement member is
a mitt.
20. The garment of claim 18 wherein said hand engagement member is
a workout glove.
21. The garment of claim 18 wherein said hand engagement member is
a loop at the end of a sleeve on a top.
22. The garment of claim 1 including an abdominal support section
at said open waist of said torso section.
23. A resistance exercise garment comprising a first garment member
having a torso section and a pair of limbs and a second garment
member having a torso section, a reel system mounted to said torso
section of said second garment member, said reel system comprising
a rotatable reel, a resistance member having a pair of free ends,
said resistance member being mounted around said reel, each of said
free ends having a fastener, an anchor member on said limbs, and
each of said fasteners being attachable to a respective one of said
anchor members.
24. The garment of claim 23 wherein said resistance system includes
adjustable friction structure for resisting the free rotation of
said reel.
25. The garment of claim 23 wherein said reel system includes a
post, said reel being rotatably mounted on said post, said friction
structure including a brake pad disposed against said post, and an
adjustable knob rotatably mounted on said post for being moved
toward and away from said brake pad to control the resistance
created by said brake pad.
26. The garment of claim 23 wherein first garment member is a top
and said limbs are sleeves, and said anchor members are mounted to
said sleeves.
27. The garment of claim 23 wherein said resistance member is a
hollow tubing.
28. The garment of claim 23 wherein said first garment member is a
top and said limbs are sleeves, said second garment member being a
pant, and said reel system being mounted on said torso section of
said pant.
29. The garment of claim 28 wherein reel system is mounted to the
rear of said pant.
30. The garment of claim 23 wherein said second garment member is a
vest, and said reel system being mounted to the rear of said
vest.
31. A resistance garment comprising a pant having a front and a
back and a circumferential waist, said garment including two moving
limbs, hollow open ended guide structure on said back of said pant
in the general area of said waist, two resistance elements, each of
said resistance elements having two ends, one end of each of said
resistance elements being anchored to said general area of said
waist spaced from said guide structure, each of said resistance
elements being wrapped partially around said general area of said
waist and extending completely through said guide structure, and
the other end of each said resistance elements being anchored to a
respective one of said limbs.
32. The garment of claim 31 including a single anchor member
mounted to said front of said pant, and said one end of each of
said resistance elements being connected to said single anchor
member.
33. The garment of claim 32 wherein said guide structure is a
single guide member.
34. The garment of claim 31 wherein said one end of each of said
resistance elements is connected to a separate anchor member.
35. The garment of claim 34 wherein said guide structure is a
single guide member.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] A particularly desirable form of exercise is the provision
of a resistance exercise garment. Various forms of such garments
have been suggested. The general approach used is to provide some
form of stretchable elastic resilient resistance element which
would be anchored at two spaced portions of the garment, such as
between a limb and the body portion or torso or between limbs, such
as between an arm and a leg. As a result, when the user or wearer
of the garment performs an activity involving movement of the arms
or legs the movement is resisted by the resistance element which is
stretched during the movement and then the resistance element urges
the arm and/or leg back to the unstretched condition.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0002] An object of this invention is to provide an improved
resistance exercise garment.
[0003] A further object of this invention is to provide such a
garment which provides resistance elements that can be located on
the garment in a generally inconspicuous manner.
[0004] A further object of this invention is to provide such a
garment which includes resistance elements adjustable in their
resistance characteristics.
[0005] In accordance with this invention one form of the garment
may include a pants having a wide elastic waistband. A tunnel is
provided below the waistband such as at the rear of the garment. A
resistance cord, such as a tubing, would removably be inserted
through the tunnel. The resistance cord could include a fastener
for being clipped to an anchor point on the garment such as a mitt
or workout glove worn on the user's hand. During periods of non-use
the resistance cord and mitt could be placed in a pocket so as to
be stored out of sight and permit the pants to be worn as a normal
pants.
[0006] In another form of this invention the garment includes a
shirt which preferably has long sleeves with a plurality of anchor
sites located downwardly on the forearm section of the sleeve. A
hand covering or engagement member, such as a glove or mitt could
be detachably mounted to the free end of the sleeve to provide a
further anchor site. In addition, the sleeve could include a loop
across the open end which could serve as a thumb loop during
use.
[0007] In still another form of this invention the resistance
element could be in the form of a cord mounted around a reel
located on the garment such as at the pants. The advantage of using
a reel for the resistance element is that during the stretching of
the limb which pulls on the resistance element, a linear force is
applied regardless of the degree of stretching rather than having a
progressively increasing force being applied in accordance with the
increasing degree of stretching.
THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIG. 1 is a rear elevational view of a portion of a
resistance exercise garment in the form of pants.
[0009] FIG. 2 is a fragmental front elevational view of a portion
of the garment shown in FIG. 1;
[0010] FIGS. 3-5 are front or rear elevational views of variations
of the pants form of resistance garment;
[0011] FIG. 6 is a rear elevational view showing a resistance
garment which includes a cord mounted on a reel;
[0012] FIG. 7 is a top plan view of the cord/reel system of FIG.
6;
[0013] FIGS. 8-11 are front or rear elevational views of various
forms of resistance exercise garments utilizing the shirt portion
of the garment;
[0014] FIG. 12 is a rear elevational view showing the pants of FIG.
1 used with a top;
[0015] FIG. 13 is a front elevational view showing a garment in the
form of a vest in accordance with this invention;
[0016] FIG. 14 is a rear elevational view of the vest shown in FIG.
13; and
[0017] FIG. 15 is a side elevational view showing a garment in
accordance with this invention in use.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0018] In general there are two basic forms of resistance clothing:
(1) the resistance is permanently attached to or an integral part
of the garment and (2) the resistance is partially or completely
detachable from the garment. The present invention in its preferred
practices is directed to clothing wherein the resistance is
completely or partially detachable from the garment such as the
top/shirt or vest or pant. There are many benefits of this type of
arrangement including: the clothing can be more loose fitting, thus
being more comfortable, easy to get in and out of and easier to
size; the clothing can be more ordinary looking, thus being cheaper
and easier to manufacture; by being cheaper to manufacture, the
clothing can be more profitable to the manufacturer or distributor
of the clothing; by being cheaper to manufacture the clothing can
be priced lower and thus attract a larger market; the user can have
the option of using the clothing with our without the resistance
engaged, thereby providing more versatility and workout appeal; by
being more ordinary or traditional looking the clothing can also
have a broader market appeal and be more readily acceptable to the
consumer; and the level of resistance can be changed by adjusting
the length of the resistance element (e.g. tube/band) or by
interchanging resistance elements of different strengths.
[0019] In general, the resistance element could be of any suitable
kind such as springs, elastic bands, stretch fabric, cords and
fixed brake mechanisms, hydraulic or pneumatic, weights, etc. The
preferred form of resistance element is an elastic band, tube or
cord such as a spandex band or rubber tube. These have the
advantage of being low cost and light weight.
[0020] In one form of the invention, one or more elastic tubings or
bands can easily be attached and detached from the arms and/or legs
and torso. In the partially detachable forms, one end of the
resistance element can be permanently attached or anchored to the
garment, vest, top, pant, leg or arm (or any part of the garment)
while the other end is detachable. The resistance element can be
attached permanently by any suitable means. The resistance element
can also be detachable or attached by any suitable means, including
for example snaps, buttons, clips, hooks, hasps, post/hole, velcro,
belts, straps, ties, buckles, etc.
[0021] In one form of the invention, the resistance element is a
tube or band that is completely detachable from the garment. The
tube or band is easily and quickly attached or detached by a hand
clip on each end of the tube or band, that clips onto/off a ring or
hasp permanently attached to the garment. The ring or hasp can be
of any material and attached in any suitable manner, preferably the
ring or hasp is a soft strong material such as nylon web that is
sewn onto the garment. Thus it is soft for comfort but strong to
anchor one end of the resistance element. The ring or hasp also
preferably is not too wide or flat but rather more round or narrow
so that it can be easily clipped onto and off. The advantage of
such a system is that the resistance can be easily attached/engaged
and detached/disengaged during a workout by manipulating one or
more ends of the resistance element. The resistance can also be
easily interchanged from one strength band/tube to another. The
resistance element can also be easily removed for washing.
[0022] The resistance level can be changed by the addition of one
or more band/tube (i.e. multiple bands/tubes). This allows for
different levels of resistance while using a band/tube of one
standard strength.
[0023] Where the resistance elements are used in connection with
the top or shirt portion of the garment, one form of resistance
element would be a band or tube having a hand clip on each end.
Each end of the band/tube would then be clipped to a ring/hasp on
each arm. The band/tube would run in back of the user, and apply
resistance on the forward swing. The band/tube would not be sewn to
the garment but could slide freely in a fabric tunnel. When not in
use, the band/tube could retract into the fabric tunnel for a neat
appearance and out of sight storage.
[0024] In a preferred form of the invention there are two
bands/tubes, one for each arm. Each band/tube has a clip at each
end, one end is clipped to a ring/hasp on the back of the garment
in the fabric tube and the other end is clipped to the arm. Thus
each arm has a dedicated resistance element that has a better
anchor point and resistance elements of different strength can be
matched to each arm. Each resistance element can be adjusted in
length for a more comfortable swing and/or to alter the level of
resistance.
[0025] A plurality of clips/rings in the back allows the band/tube
to be attached at different points and thus can also adjust the
level of resistance and the comfort of the swing range of motion.
The lower half of the top in a preferred practice on the invention
is long with elastic/spandex panels that anchor the top around the
hips and lower abdomen and also flatten the mid-belly section. This
is a preferred form since the pull of the arm swing tends to make
the top ride up on the hips.
[0026] A preferred form of pant is one which uses suspenders and
has a wide elastic/spandex top or waist portion to help anchor the
pants over the hips and also to flatten the mid-section.
[0027] In a preferred practice of the invention the resistance
structure is semi or partially detachable. Any type of structure
can be used to adjust the garment width wise or length wise
together. Preferably the garment (top and/or pant) is adjusted
width wise to change the tension or strength of the resistance
bands. The structures used to adjust/tension the resistance can be
of any suitable kind such as straps, velcro, loops, hook/loop,
hasp, hasp/loop, buttons, belt, buckles, drawstrings, strap and
buckle, snaps, etc. Straps and snaps are particularly
advantageous.
[0028] Another aspect of this invention is to provide a method of
producing and varying the performance by changing one or more of
the following variables:
[0029] (1) GARMENT DESIGN--the number of pieces and type of pieces
worn (top and/or pant); the strength of resistance; the angle of
resistance relative to the muscle range of motion; the stretch of
resistance, ability of resistance to stretch over the entire length
of motion; integrity of anchor points, the less the anchor point
for the resistance element moves the stronger the resistance will
be; size--if too large there will be too much slack and performance
can be reduced, but if too small then a compression effect takes
place and the performance can be reduced.
[0030] (2) TECHNIQUE--the best technique is normal motion and
range. Technique is usually a modified version of natural motion to
take full advantage of the resistance; technique emphasizes a full
range of motion to increase the distance of exertion against
resistance; the technique includes a level of exertion that is high
enough to take full advantage of the resistance in the garment.
[0031] (3) USER--The strength of the garment should be matched to
the strength of the user; training the user over time to use the
proper form results in taking advantage of the resistance design;
training the user to work hard exerts the user against the
resistance and maximizes a workout benefit.
[0032] One of the features of this invention is the structures that
anchor the resistance eliminating slack and tensioning the
resistance while also helping make the garment easy to size and to
wear and to take on and off. The following are effective structures
for anchoring the resistance element. A glove, mitt or thumb/finger
loop or a loop could be used. Wrist wraps can also be helpful. The
anchor structure could have rows of snaps on the forearm, wrist
and/or hand structure thereby permitting both adjustability and
detach ability of the resistance element. A tapered sleeve could be
used to anchor the sleeve in the forearm area. In addition, an
elastic wrist band would be helpful. A short sleeve would help
insure tension and anchor pressure. A non-flexible ring below or
preferably above the elbow can be used to anchor the resistance
element. The resistance element preferably runs under the elbow so
that when the arm is bent, the elbow moves into the resistance and
helps to make another anchor point when the forearm is moved in a
backward direction. A short strong resistance band that runs under
the elbow and to the wrist or hand that puts resistance on the
forearm/hand/wrist when they are moved in a backward direction
helps anchor and tension the upper part of the arm, shoulders, back
and chest. In addition, the following structures are effective such
as a non-flexible ring above the elbow, the inside of the ring
could be padded to reduce rubbing and to add comfort. The
resistance bands can run across the back and chest and down the
arms. Straps, hooks and loops, buttons, velcro strap, straps and
snaps, belt and buckles, drawstrings, adjustable buckles and
straps, straps and buttons, etc. could be used to pull each side of
the top together thereby increasing the tension/resistance on the
upper body. These structures can be on one or more of the backside
and front of the garment. Having an elastic portion at the waist
also helps anchor the top. Drawstrings at the waist further help
anchor the top as well as a wide elastic waist and a belt at the
waist. Straps that pull against the abdominal panel of the top help
anchor the top. Snaps toward the bottom side of the top that can be
snapped into snaps in the pants anchor and tension the top. This
can also be done with also male/female types of attachment
structure such as hook/loop, velcro, etc.
[0033] The following structures are effective to anchor and tension
the leg: snaps on the side or back/front of the pant that snap into
the top at various levels; a drawstring at the waist; an elastic
waist; a wide/high elastic waist; snaps or other means that can be
used to draw the sides or legs of the pant together; a non-flexible
ring above or below the knee; stretch resistance that runs down the
leg; stirrup or half-sock that connects to the leg of the pant; a
resistance band(s) that is short and strong that draws the lower
leg/foot backwards toward the thigh and puts resistance in the
lower leg when it is swung/moved forwardly; an elastic band that
runs from the outside of the knee and preferably below it across
the buttocks or above or below the buttocks to the opposite hip
side and even around to the front abdominal panel where it is
anchored permanently or passes through a loop and pulls back on
each side of the abdominal panel. This flattens the stomach area
while at the same time producing an inward and backward tension on
the leg that is also at a lower angle that is very effective in
making the leg work harder; and a tensioning strap or band that
runs from one leg of the garment to the other leg of the garment to
preclude an inwardly directed pressure that also provides
resistance to the forward motion of the leg. A preferred form of
these structures is when they are detachable or semi-detachable so
that they provide adjustable positions to vary the amount of
tension/resistance and also help in making the garment comfortable
to wear, easy to size and take on and off.
[0034] The invention in its various practices have great utility in
that the garment can be easily and inexpensively adapted to all
types of clothing, particularly non-elastic garments such as
traditional cotton jerseys and sweat pants. The invention converts
regular clothing into resistance workout gear with a minimum of
expense. In this aspect of the invention, the clothing is primarily
a base fabric which is non-elastic and the resistance comes from
one or more elastic bands or straps that can be permanently
attached to the garment but are preferably partially or completely
detachable. A preferred form is an elastic band/strap whose length
can be adjusted by means of a buckle or other suitable fastener.
The ends of the bands/strap are attached to a side of a top or to
the leg of a pant. Any attachment structure can be used such as
snaps, velcro, hook/loop, buttons, drawstring, clips, etc. By
adjusting the length of the elastic strap or band the user can
attain the correct strength of resistance over the range of motion
for the arms or legs. Anchor points for the arms, wrists or hands
include gloves, mitts, thumb/finger loops, elastic wrist, tapered
elastic forearm, elastic waist, drawstrings at the waist, a belt
and snaps that snap to the pants. Anchor structure for the pants
include an elastic waist, drawstrings, a belt, buckle, suspenders
and snaps that snap to the top. An elastic portion below the knee
and a sock, half-sock or stirrup can be used on the pant. In one
practice of the invention the top has an elastic strap whose length
can be adjusted by a buckle or a series of snaps. Each end is
hooked or sewn to a hasp, the hasps are wide apart on each side of
the top, preferably on the back top half of the top. The strap/band
runs left to right or horizontally. The wider the hasps are apart
the larger the range of adjustment for the resistance can be.
Preferably a completely detachable band/strap is used so that a
stronger or weaker elastic strap can be interchanged as the user
prefers.
[0035] The invention can be practiced where the garment could be
marketed as a conversion kit that is sewn into a garment but
preferably the garment is manufactured with the resistance system
already built in. A preferred form for the pant is a partially or
completely detachable elastic band/strap. The ends of which attach
to the pant leg, preferably just below the buttocks and preferably
above the knee. By adjusting the length of the strap/band the user
can get an acceptable level of resistance over the length of
his/her particular stride. The pant has a high elastic waist that
has one or more drawstrings. Both the top and the pant can have an
elastic abdominal panel that helps to flatten, support and shape
the abdominal region. The pant preferably has a half-sock or
stirrup for the foot. The stirrups for the foot and the glove,
mitt, thumb/finger loop can be elastic or non-elastic.
[0036] An advantage of the invention is that it makes the garment
easy to size, have a broader range of styles and be more
comfortable. In addition the pant, top or other garment portion
that has attachment structure for the band/straps provides the
ability to have the resistance element detachable or to be
semi-detachable or even permanently attached to the garment.
[0037] The invention can be practiced at various types of
resistance elements such as springs, elastic bands, elastic cords
and elastic rubber tubing. An advantage of such tubing is that the
tubing has a stretch characteristic where it can stretch the full
length of an arm or leg swing but completely recovers to its
original length, thus the tubing provides resistance over the
entire range of motion. The tubing is also strong so it can be
stretched repeatedly without breaking. The tubing can be
manufactured or provided in different lengths, colors, strengths,
diameters and wall thickness. The length allows for different sizes
of people and arm/leg swings. The strength allows or fits people of
different muscular strength and can provide a progressive exercise
system. The color can be for style and/or strength differentiation.
For example, one color may be used to indicate a high strength
tubing, while a contrasting color could indicate a lower strength
tubing. The tubing has a means of attachment/detachment on each
end, preferably a finger clip that can easily and quickly clip on
and off by hand. One end of the tubing attaches to the garment and
serves as the anchor/base that is pulled against when the arm/leg
swings. The other end of the tubing attaches directly or indirectly
to an arm/hand/wrist or leg/ankle/foot. The tubing can attach by
any suitable structure including loops, clips, rings, snaps, hooks,
gloves, mitts.
[0038] A particularly advantageous arrangement is where the
resistance system of a pant or short can be independent of the
shirt or top. In the independent mode the tubing is clipped onto
the pant loops, preferably on opposite sides of the arm or leg
being swung. Each tube crosses over each other in the back to reach
the opposite arm. A fabric tunnel can be used to conceal or contain
the tubing for a neater appearance or style. The tunnel also serves
to position the tubing vertically and/or horizontally. The other
end of the tubing has a means to attach to the hand or arm means
such as a loop, snap, glove or grip can be used. Preferably a
stretchable mitt is used that has a ring to which a finger clip at
the end of the tube can attach. The mitt distributes the pressure
from the elastic tube comfortably over the entire hand and permits
an open loose grip so that the hand will not cramp or tire. This
greatly facilitates ease of swinging over and over without fatigue.
An open or loose grip also promotes lower blood pressure and lets
the muscles of the arm relax. In this way the open or loose grip
promotes a loose natural swing that helps the whole body to
coordinate and a natural swing exercise that is very comfortable
yet very effective. When not in use the mitts can be quickly and
easily disengaged by the finger clip and stored in a pocket on the
pants.
[0039] FIGS. 1-2 illustrate one embodiment of this invention
wherein the resistance is provided in a pant 10. As shown therein,
the pant 10 has a wide elastic waist 12 at its upper end which
could extend about three inches downwardly from the upper edge. A
pocket 14 is provided preferably in the rear portion on the pant
immediately below the waistband 12. A fabric tunnel 16 is
positioned below the waist at the rear as far down from the waist
but not so far as to interfere with sitting. The lower the tunnel
16, the more naturally the arm can swing with a less bent position
and a greater range of motion. As illustrated, the resistance
elements are in the form of a pair of tubings 18,18. One end of
each tubing 18 is anchored to a loop 20 in the front or side of the
pant as shown in FIG. 2. The tubing then extends through the tunnel
16 and exits from the opposite side of the pant. The second tubing
would likewise be mounted to a loop at the front or side of the
pant and extend through the tunnel 16 where it would crisscross
with the first tubing. FIG. 1 illustrates in solid lines each of
the tubings to extend from a respective end of the tunnel 16. As
illustrated, a mitt 22 is clipped to the free end of each tubing
18. Mitt 22 could have no specific finger structure or could have a
thumb portion or could have an opening 23 through which the thumb
can extend. FIG. 1 shows in phantom the wearer's arm 24 with the
mitt 22 on the arm and with the tubing 18 in its extended or
stretched condition. With the arrangement shown in FIGS. 1-2 the
arm can swing back and fully engage the resistance on the forward
swing to get the maximum exercise benefit of pulling the resistance
tubing 18 forward over the greatest swing range of motion.
[0040] During conditions of non-use the tubing and mitts could be
stored in pocket 14. If desired, the tubing could also be stored in
tunnel 16.
[0041] Pocket 14 can take any suitable form such as by being
completely open or by being closed in any manner. FIG. 1
illustrates the pocket to be selectively opened and closed by a
zipper. If desired, however, other structures such as a flap could
be used. The pocket is illustrated as being on the rear of the
pant, pocket 14 however could be at any other location including
being a front pocket, a side pocket, and/or could be located on the
leg at either the front or back.
[0042] Pocket 14 may also be located on the inside of the pant.
Where the garment includes a shirt or top or vest, the pocket may
be located on the inside or outside of the shirt, top or vest at
any suitable location. The preferred location is at the waist or on
the leg outside of the mid-thigh to give a cleaner wrinkle free
appearance.
[0043] A slit or loop may be provided at each end of tunnel 16 so
that the clip 28 at the free end of each cord or tubing 18 could be
held in place in the non-use condition when the tubing is retracted
to its unstretched condition and housed completely within the
tunnel 16. In such case the tubing 18 would be of a length no
longer than the length of tunnel 16.
[0044] In order to use a correct length of tubing, generally a
12-24 inch long tubing would be used. The attachment point would be
in front of the side midline which is where the loop 20 would be
located to act as an anchor. As a result the cord or tubing would
be taut or tensioned when it exits at the mid-buttocks position. In
this way, the arm 24 will be working against resistance over the
full range of the forward swing for an optimum workout.
[0045] FIG. 1 illustrates a particularly advantageous form of clip
26 mounted to each end of the tubing 18. As illustrated the clip 26
includes a resilient tongue 28 which would be urged toward making
contact with the outwardly extending seat 30 of the clip 26. Tongue
28 could be manually depressed to provide access to the open space
within the clip thereby permitting the clip to be mounted to either
the loop 20 or a loop 32 on mitt 22.
[0046] The use of tubing as the resistance element is particularly
advantageous in that rubber tubing, for example, is strong and is
stretchable while reliably tending to return to its unstretched
condition. The tubing could be provided in multiple lengths in
accordance with an exercise program wherein different lengths could
be used to offer different resistance values.
[0047] Tunnel 16 is preferably made of a fabric material to
completely conceal the resistance elements 18 such as during
conditions of non-use if elements 18 are stored in tunnel 16. A
main function of tunnel 16, however, is as a guide for the
resistance elements so that they pass through the tunnel and then
extend to a movable part of the garment such as the arm/sleeve or
the hand engagement member (mitt/glove/loop) where the resistance
element is anchored. Where the guide use of the tunnel is primarily
intended without use of its concealing feature, the tunnel could be
made from a more open material such as an open mesh or could be of
skeletal form. The tunnel is preferably at least three inches and
more preferably at least five or six or seven inches long. Broadly,
however, the tunnel could be formed by a single or a series of
narrow and/or variably wide loops similar to conventional loops on
pants.
[0048] As shown in FIG. 3 the pant 10 could also include other
anchor sites such as loops 34 near the bottom of each leg portion
of the pant. Other anchor locations are shown in FIG. 3 such as
loops 36 near the waist. Such additional anchor locations could be
used for attachment of resistance elements in place of or in
addition to the resistance elements previously described with
respect to FIG. 1-2.
[0049] FIG. 3 also shows the provision of stirrups 35 at the bottom
of each leg which would be used to anchor the leg portion in place
to restrain the leg from moving upward in reaction to the pulling
of the resistance element 18 on loop 34.
[0050] As shown in FIG. 3 the resistance element 18 could extend
from loop 34 to some anchor point on the art. Alternatively or in
addition, a resistance element may be secured to loop 34 at the
bottom of the leg to loop 36 at the waist or a resistance element
may be extend from loop 36 at the waist to an anchor point on the
arm.
[0051] FIG. 4 shows a further variation wherein the leg portions of
the pants are secured together by a strap 38 that extends through
buckles 40 on each leg for adding further restraint to the user
during the walking or running motion of the user. In addition to
the use of the previously described resistance elements. As shown
in FIG. 4 the strap 38 is provided with a series of holes to adjust
the effective length of the strap 38 spanning the buckles or loops
40. Strap 38 may be elastic so that it can stretch and return
toward its original size or may be non-elastic to remain of a fixed
length.
[0052] Strap 38 thus adjusts the tension on the legs creating more
resistance as it is shortened. When not in use strap 38 can be
stored in the back of the leg in an embodiment where one end of
strap 38 is permanently anchored, by snapping it onto itself.
Preferably however, strap 38 is folded and can be stored in a
pocket or tunnel such as pocket 14 or tunnel 16.
[0053] A further advantage of the arrangement shown in FIG. 4 is
that the strap 38 puts resistance on the legs in two basic ways.
One way is by pulling the legs together, thus the legs have to work
against an inward pulling force as they go forward. In addition,
the strap exerts a backward force on the leg as it moves
forward.
[0054] FIG. 5 shows a variation of the arrangement shown in FIG. 4
where one end of strap 42 is permanently anchored to one of the
legs. The strap 42 is then wrapped around the other leg and is
secured to itself by fastener 44. The effective length of strap 42
could be varied by using a plurality of spaced fasteners 44 so that
whichever fastener is selected will control the effective length of
strap 42.
[0055] It is to be understood that the various practices of the
invention in connection with a pant or also with a top or shirt
could be done where that portion of the garment is an outer
garment, an inner garment worn below an outer garment or is the
only garment.
[0056] FIGS. 6-7 show a further practice of the invention wherein
one or more reels are utilized with a resistance mechanism such as
a friction brake to effect the resistance. In this embodiment a
cord or line or tube 46 is pulled forward by the arm and resistance
is applied to the reel 48 which is preferably adjustable in its
resistance mechanism. The reel resistance is desirable in that it
has a more linear or constant resistance over the range of arm/leg
movement. Ordinary elastic resistance has a non-linear resistance
curve so that the resistance increases as the elastic resistance
element is stretched. This means that there is the greatest
resistance at the end of the range of motion where the arm/leg
(limb) is at the greatest mechanical disadvantage which can be
undesirable. The reel system shown in FIGS. 6-7 is particularly
advantageous from the standpoint of economics and simplicity. In
this system a common cord 46 is wrapped around a reel 48 with each
free end anchored to a limb. The cord 46 is pulled by one arm or
leg as it is extended/swung forward and then by the opposite arm or
leg. In this way the cord 46 is being wound on the reel as the one
limb is in a back swing while the cord is being unwound as it is
pulled off the reel on the forward swing motion.
[0057] An adjustable resistance can be applied to the reel/cord by
a knob 50 (FIG. 7) which could be of any suitable size and shape
and which can be turned by hand to tighten a spring that applies
pressure on the reel/cord. A brake pad 52 or other suitable
mechanism can be used to apply pressure or drag to the rotation of
the reel/cord. The reel is preferably positioned behind the
exerciser in the low center of the back of the pant 10 in the
sacral area. In this position the arm can swing backward naturally
with less bend of the elbow and completely backwards. This allows
for a more natural swing and a larger range of motion that starts
behind the exerciser. Thus the swinging motion is one in which the
hand is relaxed, the arm swings down and behind the exerciser.
[0058] The reel 48 is preferably mounted on a rigid backing 54 that
can be a square or rectangular or other suitable shape. The back
piece 54 has a center post or shaft 56 on which the reel 48 is
rotationally mounted. The rigid back piece can be placed in a back
center pant pouch/pocket that properly positions the reel and also
anchors the reel when it is pulled. Resistance pads 58 mounted
outwardly on each side of the reel 48 work in conjunction with
brake pad 52 to adjust the amount of friction against the rotating
movement of the reel 48 in accordance with the tightening of
adjusting knob 50.
[0059] When not in use the reel system can be carried in the pocket
in the general area of its use location or in any other suitably
located pocket 60 and/or can be removed for washing the pant or can
be carried in another carry pack that is preferably out of the way
such as on the leg. The reel is mounted on the post 56 by the turn
knob 50 which screws down on the threaded end of the post 56. The
back reel pocket for backing 54 can have slits on each side to
permit the cord to pass through and be attached to the hand by
means of a thumbloop or mitt as later described. Each end of the
cord 46 can have a clip 26 to easily detach/attach the hand
engagement structure such as a loop on a hand engagement member
such as a mitt or glove. The hand engagement member and its loop
can be stored in a pant pocket when not in use as previously
described. Where the reel is stored in a pocket, the pocket is
preferably padded such as padded reel pocket 60 on one of the
legs.
[0060] It is to be understood that the specific description and
illustration of the reel system herein is meant to be exemplary in
the preferred practice of this invention using a reel system. What
is intended is that a rotatable reel or pulley should be used with
the cord or resistance element mounted around the rotatable member
so as to provide linear resistance in response to an exerciser's
limb being moved to pull or permit the retraction of the resistance
element or cord. Preferably the reel mechanism has some form of
adjustable tensioning structure such as the previously described
brake pad and adjustable knob. Preferably a spring (not
illustrated) would also be mounted on the post 56 to urge the
various components of the reel mechanism into contact with each
other in a known manner.
[0061] Although FIGS. 6-7 show the preferred practice of the
invention wherein the reel system is provided on the pant, the
invention may also be practiced where the reel system is on the top
or shirt or on a vest in addition to or instead of being on the
pant. In general the reel system would be used where there is a
first garment member having limbs and the reel system would be on a
second garment member (pant, top or vest) preferably near the
waist, such as in the mid-buttocks region below the waist.
[0062] In use of the reel system the resistance element 46 would be
wound around the reel 48 with its free ends exposed so that each
free end may be secured by fastener 26 to an anchor point on
another part of the garment such as on the sleeves of a shirt or
top. Thus when the arms are swung the resistance element 46 would
move back and forth by being wound and unwound on the reel in
response to the swinging motion. By adjusting the brake, additional
resistance could be provided in a control manner.
[0063] FIGS. 8-11 show variations of the invention wherein the
resistance structure is provided on the front or on the rear of a
top or shirt 70. For exemplary purposes FIG. 8 illustrates the
front of the shirt to have a tunnel 72 preferably made of a soft
fabric. Each arm or sleeve 74 is provided with a loop or ring 76
which could be mounted to a reinforced non-flexible band 78. A hasp
80 is mounted inside of tunnel 72. Each resistance element 18 would
be secured to the hasp 80 and then extend through the tunnel to be
secured by a hook or fastener 77 to a respective loop 76 on arm 74.
As noted, although FIG. 8 illustrates the resistance arrangement to
be on the front of the shirt, the resistance arrangement could
alternatively be on the back. FIG. 8 also shows the bottom of the
top or shirt to have a wide elastic waist band 82. During periods
of non-use the resistance elements 18 would be detached from the
loop, hasp, hook or other anchor member 76 and would retract
completely into tunnel 72.
[0064] FIG. 9 shows a variation wherein the shirt or top 70
includes a buckle or other anchor member 84 on each arm 74. As
illustrated, a first resistance element 86 is permanently mounted
to the torso portion of top 70 and its free end extends to its
detachable securement to anchor member 84. A second resistance
element 88 is detachably or permanently mounted at one end to its
anchor member 84. The free end of second resistance element 88
includes fastening structure for selective mounting to the
fastening structure 90 which extends transversely across first
resistance element 86. As a result it is possible to adjustably
select the location where the free end of resistance element 88
would be mounted to the first resistance element 86. Conversely,
the adjustable mounting structure could be on resistance element 88
in addition to or instead of being on first resistance element
88.
[0065] FIG. 10 shows a further practice of this invention wherein
the top 70 is provided with anchor structure at the lower portion
thereof near the waist. As illustrated the top has a side slit 92
at each location of the anchor structure so as to conceal the
anchor structure, such as a loop or hasp 94. The resistance element
96 would pass through the slit and be secured to the anchor member
94. The opposite end of the resistance element 96 would then be
anchored to another part of the garment. In the illustrated
embodiment, each sleeve 98 includes a plurality of longitudinally
spaced anchor members such as hasps or loops 100 to provide for the
adjustment of the location where the resistance element 96 would be
anchored to the sleeve 98. These anchor locations 100 could also be
provided on gloves or mitts such as later described with regard to
FIG. 11. The sleeves, at least in the portion where the anchor
members 100 are located, can be made of an elastic material.
[0066] FIG. 11 shows a further practice of this invention wherein
the top 70 is provided with a plurality of anchor members 102 along
the torso portion of the front and/or back of the top. Each arm 104
is provided with further anchor members such as a loop or other
anchor member 106 being on a non-flexible reinforcement webbing or
band 108 and anchor members 110 being mounted at spaced locations
along each sleeve 104. In addition, each sleeve may terminate in a
thumb-loop 112. Further, sleeve 104 may include a plurality of
securing members such as snaps 114 for detachable securement of a
mitt or glove 22 of the type shown in FIG. 1. Mitt 22 would have
complementary securing members or snaps 116 to be detachably
mounted to the end of sleeve 104. The anchor members 110 are
preferably located on a reinforcement strip 118 secured to sleeve
104, similarly the snaps 114 are on a reinforcement strip 120.
Resistance elements 122 are provided wherein each resistance
element would be secured between a spaced pair of anchor members.
For example, FIG. 11 illustrates one end of each resistance element
122 to be mounted to an anchor member 102 on the torso with the
opposite end secured to one of the anchor members 110 on the
sleeve. The resistance members could be mounted to other torso
anchor members 102 and to other anchor members such as 106 on the
non-flexible webbing 108 or to the anchor member 32 on mitt 22.
Preferably both of the resistance elements 122 are secured to the
same anchor member. The invention however can be practiced where
each resistance element is secured to a different anchor member on
the torso and likewise to a different anchor member on the sleeve
or mitt.
[0067] As illustrated in FIG. 11 the lower portion of the shirt or
top could include an elastic bottom or waist area 124. A pocket 126
could be located in the waist area or in any other location of the
garment so that various parts such as the resistance elements or
mitts could be stored out of sight during periods of non use. The
pocket 126 could be closed by a zipper 128 or could be closed in
any other manner or could even be permitted to remain open.
[0068] The thumb loop 112 could be used to prevent the sleeve from
riding upwardly during use of the top 70. Alternatively, the mitt
122 could serve that same function. Where the mitt is used, the
thumb loop 112 could be folded inside the lower end or wrist area
of each sleeve. If desired, the mitt could be permanently attached
to its respective sleeve at the wrist area and can be folded inside
the sleeve when not in use and then folded back outside to be
accessible. In such version portions of the mitt would be free of
attachment to the sleeve so as to provide an open area into which
the hand may be inserted. As illustrated in FIG. 11 and also
particularly in FIG. 1, the mitt may be formed with a thumb opening
23 so that the thumb may extend outward of the mitt as best
illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0069] The mitt 22 can be formed of a stretchable material such as
spandex similarly the thumb loop 112 can be formed of the same
material. By use of the mitt or thumb loop it is possible to have a
natural swing where the hand is relaxed thereby avoiding hand
cramps and providing a better exercise of the muscles. The open
handed relaxed grip is possible through the use of the glove mitt
or loop, the swing preferably taken would be one which would be a
swinging downward and then behind the body and back.
[0070] FIG. 11 also shows the provision of fasteners such as snaps
130 which could be used for engagement for complementary fasteners
on a pant so that the entire garment would comprise both a shirt
and a pant. Where used with a pant, resistance elements could
extend from the pant to the various anchor members of FIG. 11.
[0071] FIG. 12 illustrates a form of shirt or top 70 similar to
that of FIG. 11 used with the pant 10 of FIG. 1. In this
illustrative practice of the invention, for aesthetic reasons, the
top would not have any anchor members on its torso or any anchor
members on the upper portion of the sleeve similar to anchor
members 106. It is to be understood however that the invention
could be practiced where such anchor members are utilized. In the
illustrated practice shown in FIG. 12 however, the only anchor
members are the set of forearm anchor members 110 and the anchor
member 32 on the hand engagement member 22A. When the shirt shown
in FIG. 12 is used with the pant 10, the shirt may also be of more
simplified construction than that shown in FIG. 11 in that it is
not necessary to have a pocket or a wide waist band on the shirt
since the wide waist band and the pocket are provided on the
pant.
[0072] While various figures illustrate the hand engagement member
to be loop 112 or a mitt 22, FIG. 12 illustrates the hand
engagement member to be a glove 22A having an anchor member or loop
32. It is particularly advantageous for glove 22A to be a workout
glove of generally known construction which could be fingerless and
wherein loop 32 could be used for attachment of rubber members as
conventionally done in workout practices. Thus, the same loop 32
could also be used as an anchor member for a resistance element
when used with one of the garments of this invention.
[0073] FIGS. 13-14 illustrate a further practice of this invention
wherein the resistance features are incorporated in a vest 140
which can be worn with a variety of clothing and the clothing does
not have to be especially designed except where necessary to
accommodate the resistance structure. As illustrated the arms in
the vest 140 are open to allow for free swinging motion of the
user's arms. The vest 140 is illustrated as having a lower portion
142 which extends below the waist. This provides a number of
benefits. For example, a low front belt 144 could be adjustably
connected between a pair of anchor members or loops 146 by having
the belt 144 extend through the anchor members 146 with the free
ends 148 of the belt secured together, such as by Velcro.RTM.
fasteners, providing a tightening which tends to flatten or support
the abdomen. In addition, such low front belt 144 would function to
resist rotation from the back and forth pulling of the elastic
resistance elements 150. Further, a low back 142 below the waist
permits the resistance elements, such as cords 150, to be placed in
a lower position for a longer, more natural arm swing.
[0074] Vest 140 would also preferably be in the form of a padded
body that keeps the back and forth motion of the cords or
resistance elements 150 from chaffing, particularly the upper
buttocks and at the side of the waist. In addition, the vest 140
could be provided with any suitable number of pockets 152 at any
suitable locations which could be used for storing various
articles, such as the hand attachment members (mitts, gloves,
loops), the resistance cords, and personal items of the user such
as watches, keys, coins, glasses, etc. It is to be understood that
the feature of having padded areas could be incorporated in the
various practices of this invention at any desired location on the
clothing to prevent chaffing and rubbing from the back and forth
motion of the resistance cords.
[0075] The vest 140 can be used in connection with any suitable
type of resistance structure, such as any of the previously
described structures. FIG. 13 illustrates the vest 140 to have a
zipper longitudinally down its front to permit the vest to be
easily worn or removed. Any other type of fastening structure could
also be used. If desired, the vest could also be a pull on type
vest having no opening structure along its front.
[0076] FIG. 14 illustrates the resistance structure to be similar
to that shown in FIG. 1 wherein a tunnel 154 is provided on the
rear or back of the vest with the elastic cords 150 exiting from
holes 156 at each end of the tunnel 154. Clips 158 similar to the
clips 26 are provided at each end of the one or more cords 150. The
clips are secured to an anchor member on a limb of the user. As
illustrated in FIG. 14 the clips are secured to a suitable hand
engagement member 160 which could be a mitt or glove or loop.
Although not illustrated the resistance system would preferably
include a pair of cords 150 which would cross within the tunnel 154
similar to the structure shown in FIG. 1.
[0077] The practices of the invention, particularly where a vest is
used, can incorporate resistance structure to function in
conjunction with the resistance elements to maximize the benefits
of the garment. For example, the vest or other garment members
(i.e., pants, top/shirt) can be provided with weights or other
forms of resistance in conjunction with the resistance elements.
Where weights are used the weights could be permanently mounted
such as by being sewn into the vest. Preferably the weights would
be removable by being placed in pockets so that the number,
location and total weight amount could be varied.
[0078] The invention provides for an improved method of exercising
with the use of resistance clothing or garments that uses the arms
more vigorously with the resistance. This is illustrated, for
example, in FIG. 15 wherein there is use of a full range of motion
for the arms 162, both backwards and forwards. The arm motion could
be enhanced with a modified arm swing that has more arc than a
regular arm swing since the arm/hand swings back inward and then
behind the body instead of simply back and forth. The use of a
loose open grip is permitted by such structure as the thumb loop,
hand loop, mitt or rings on the waist, forearm or sleeve of a top.
With the invention it is possible for the user to use a longer leg
swing/stride to counterbalance the long arm swing. The side to side
motion of the user is permitted because the movement of the arms is
in a more pronounced arc.
[0079] In practice of the invention an exercise program could be
used which consists of one or more of the following parts to
produce much superior aerobic results during exercise by utilizing
the upper body with resistance thereby involving the entire body in
an improved manner in the exercise. Such exercise program could
include first a slow warmup period wherein there is a swinging of
the arms in opposition to the resistance in a one for one
rhythm/cycle with the legs in less than a full range of motion for
both the arms and legs. There would then be a faster period wherein
the swinging of the arms with resistance is in a one to one rhythm
or cycle with the legs in a full range of motion for the arms and
legs. Next, there would be very fast period of high intensity
wherein the swinging of the arms with resistance is in a one to one
rhythm cycle with the legs in less than the full range of motion of
the legs, but near the full range of motion for the arms. The
exercise program could include special structure to allow for a
loose open grip to relax the muscles of the hand/arm as they work
against the resistance; thus, promoting a more natural and more
comfortable arm swing which reduces clamping and lets the exerciser
work out for longer periods. Such structure includes the hand
loops, thumb loops, mitts, gloves, rings/loops on the forearm/waist
of the top. The invention could also include special attachment
structure that can be operated easily by hand such as a clip 26
that can be easily or quickly engaged and disengaged and that also
firmly holds the resistance structure while being strong enough so
as not to break with repeated stress repetitions.
[0080] An advantage of the wide elastic waist band provided
preferably on the pant but alternatively on the shirt or vest is to
function as an abdominal support which helps flatten the abdominal
area while the user is performing a resistance workout thereby
maximizing the benefit of the garment. The provision of such
structure as tunnels and pockets also permits the garment to have a
more normal appearance in that it provides a location to store
various detachable components of the garment such as the resistance
members and the hand engagement members. The garment can be used
with a pant and/or a top and/or vest in combination or separately
from each other. The garment can be used where the pant and/or top
is an undergarment, an outer garment or the sole garment or where
for example, one of the pant or top is an outer garment while the
other is an undergarment or a sole garment.
[0081] The top and/or the pant and particularly the pant may
include abdominal support structure of the type disclosed in
co-pending application Ser. No. 10/781,406 filed Feb. 18, 2004, all
of the details of which are incorporated herein by reference
thereto. Such abdominal support structure could be enhanced by
including weight loss features. For example, a weight loss inducing
material, such as moisture management material or wickaway
material, could be placed directly against and in contact with the
skin of the user to wick away moisture and accelerate heat
transfer. Such material could be a lining against the skin or the
entire garment and at least the desired portion of the garment
could be made of such material. Preferably such material is located
at one or more or all of the following areas: waist, hips, buttocks
(butt), thigh and the upper and lower abdomen (stomach). The
garment could be sweat pants, shorts or otherwise conventional long
pants.
[0082] Where abdominal support structure is used the abdominal
support structure could be on either the outside or the inside of
the garment such as the pant. The use of the elastic waist area
avoids the need for any drawstrings, thus avoiding marks or
depressions being formed in the user through the user of the
garment.
[0083] The invention could be broadly practiced where each of a
pair of resistance elements is anchored at one end to the garment
preferably in the general torso section near the waist and then the
resistance elements extend through guide structure, such as a
tunnel or loop or ring preferably at the back of the garment. Each
resistance element is anchored at its other end to a moving part
(e.g. limb) of the garment such as a sleeve/arm or hand engagement
member.
[0084] Each resistance element may be permanently/non-detachably
secured at one or both anchor sites. Preferably, however, one or
more preferably both ends are detachably connected to a respective
anchor member.
[0085] Based on the above guidelines, the invention could be
broadly practiced where a single anchor member (e.g. loop or ring)
is centrally located at the front near the waist area of the torso
portion of the garment, such as on a pant near the waist area. A
single guide member (e.g. tunnel/loop/ring) would be centrally
located at the back of the pant near the waist area. Two resistance
elements would be anchored at one end to the common anchor member
at the front of the pant. The resistance elements would wrap around
the pant to extend through the common guide member and then would
be anchored to the respective anchor members on the moving part
(limbs) of the garment.
[0086] A variation of the above broad practice would be to
permanently anchor, such as by sewing or other means, one end of
the resistance element to the front or side of the pant and/or to
use a separate guide member for each resistance element or to use a
single common guide member. A further variation would be to anchor
each resistance element at locations spaced from each other and
spaced from the guide member(s). Such anchor locations could be at
the front or at the side or even at the back of the pant. The
anchoring could be a permanent connection to the pant or could be a
detachable connection to a separate anchor member. Preferably when
the resistance elements extend through a common guide member, the
resistance elements cross each other within the guide member.
[0087] It is to be understood that various features described in
various embodiments could be used in other embodiments in
accordance with the invention. Thus, for example, various structure
illustrated and described as being at the top of the pant could be
at the bottom of the shirt or vest and vice versa. Other variations
include modifying the garment for use by a person having a missing
or disabled limb where only one limb would thereby be used in the
exercise.
* * * * *