U.S. patent application number 11/398861 was filed with the patent office on 2006-08-17 for method and apparatus for performing stretching and strengthening exercises.
Invention is credited to Thomas S. Flynn.
Application Number | 20060183609 11/398861 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 33134711 |
Filed Date | 2006-08-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060183609 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Flynn; Thomas S. |
August 17, 2006 |
Method and apparatus for performing stretching and strengthening
exercises
Abstract
The invention provides a strap apparatus for stretching and
strengthening muscles and connective tissue, and includes a segment
of strap material having a first end, a medial portion, and a
second end, having a loop formed in the first end, length
adjustment means formed in the medial portion, and a connector
element attached to the second end. The connector element is
adapted for releasable connection to an anchor article, e.g., an
extremity cuff member or a clothing article, bearing a receiver
adapted for releasable attachment to the connector element.
Inventors: |
Flynn; Thomas S.; (Larkspur,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Larry D. Johnson
Suite 110
165 N. Redwood Dr.
San Rafael
CA
94903
US
|
Family ID: |
33134711 |
Appl. No.: |
11/398861 |
Filed: |
April 6, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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10487792 |
Feb 23, 2004 |
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11398861 |
Apr 6, 2006 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/124 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/0004 20130101;
A63B 21/00185 20130101; A63B 21/4025 20151001; A63B 21/0442
20130101; A63B 21/0552 20130101; A63B 23/03508 20130101; A63B
21/00043 20130101; A63B 21/4015 20151001; A63B 21/0557 20130101;
A63B 21/4011 20151001; A63B 21/16 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/124 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/02 20060101
A63B021/02 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Aug 22, 2002 |
WO |
PCT/US02/27006 |
Claims
1. A strap apparatus for stretching and strengthening muscles and
connective tissue, said strap apparatus comprising: a segment of
non-elastic strap material, said segment having a first end, a
medial portion, and a second end, having a loop formed in said
first end, length adjustment means formed in said medial portion,
and a connector element attached to said second end, said connector
element including releasable means for resistance exercise; and an
anchor article bearing a receiver, said receiver adapted for
releasable attachment to said connector element.
2. The strap apparatus of claim 1 wherein said length adjustment
means comprises an adjustable buckle.
3. The strap apparatus of claim 1 wherein said length adjustment
means comprises a strap retractor member.
4. The strap apparatus of claim 1 wherein said connector element
comprises a swivel.
5. The strap apparatus of claim 1 wherein said connector element
comprises a carabineer.
6. The strap apparatus of claim 1 wherein said connector element
comprises a clip.
7. The strap apparatus of claim 1 wherein said connector element
comprises a hook.
8. The strap apparatus of claim 1 wherein said anchor article
comprises a shoe.
9. The strap apparatus of claim 1 wherein said anchor article
comprises a glove.
10. The strap apparatus of claim 1 wherein said anchor article
comprises an extremity cuff member.
11. The strap apparatus of claim 10 wherein said extremity cuff
member comprises a padded loop.
12. The strap apparatus of claim 10 wherein said extremity cuff
member is adjustable in diameter.
13. The strap apparatus of claim 1 wherein said receiver comprises
an eyelet.
14. The strap apparatus of claim 1 wherein said receiver comprises
a D-ring.
15. The strap apparatus of claim 1 wherein said receiver comprises
an O-ring.
16. The strap apparatus of claim 1 wherein said receiver comprises
a fabric loop.
17. The strap apparatus of claim 1 wherein said means for
resistance exercise comprises a resistance band.
18. The strap apparatus of claim 1 wherein said segment of strap
material bears length indicia.
19. The strap apparatus of claim 1 wherein said means for
resistance exercise comprises resistance that can be varied.
20. A method for stretching and strengthening muscles and
connective tissue, said method comprising the steps of: providing a
segment of non-elastic strap material, the segment having a first
end, a medial portion, and a second end, having a loop formed in
the first end, length adjustment means formed in the medial
portion, and a connector element attached to the second end, the
connector element including releasable means for resistance
exercise; providing an anchor article bearing a receiver; and
attaching the receiver to the connector element, wherein a user may
grasp the loop in the first end and the anchor article to perform
exercise.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part and claims the
benefit under 35 U.S.C. Section 120 of copending U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/487,792, filed 23 Feb. 2004.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable.
REFERENCE TO A MICROFICHE APPENDIX
[0003] Not applicable.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0004] The present invention relates generally to exercise
equipment and sports apparatus, and more specifically to an
improved method and apparatus for performing stretching and
strengthening exercises for the human body.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION OF RELATED ART
[0005] It is widely recognized and generally accepted that proper
stretching and strengthening of the muscles is an important aspect
to overall fitness and health. However, most known stretching
regimens simply provide independent exercises or movements that the
individual must perform. Some forms of structural apparatus and
exercise accessories have been designed for use in stretching,
e.g., to provide a stationary surface or bar against which a user
may stretch, but these structures can be large and unwieldy, and
therefore of limited utility. Furthermore, no known apparatus
enables the combined benefits of stretching and strengthening in a
simple, versatile form.
[0006] Assisted stretching is an important subcategory to
stretching. Assisted stretching technique has been around for
hundreds of years. Thai massage is a form of massage that involves
a lot of the stretching of limbs by the person providing the
stretching. Assisted stretching is a fundamental and universal
physical therapy rehabilitation practice. During rehabilitation
from injury or surgery, physical therapists perform assisted
stretching on patients to help them regain range of motion and to
help realign muscle fibers. Prior to the present invention, simple
aids have been used by patients to assist themselves with
stretching with limited results. These aids have included towels
ropes, resistance bands and simple straps. These aids are limited
in their utility relative to the present invention for a number of
reasons.
[0007] First, they have to effect the stretch with hand and finger
strength--which some people especially those who have been injured
or arthritic do not have, or find uncomfortable. The present
invention has a loop that can be slipped around the side of the
hand or wrist providing greater upper body leverage to stretch
legs.
[0008] Next, they are not adjustable. The present invention is
precisely adjustable within millimeters to allow optimal length for
one part of the body to be stretching the other part of the body.
This provides for the best biomechanics, best positioning, and
proper alignment for an assisted stretch to be performed by an
individual on themselves. This is important in allowing the user to
correctly replicate proven assisted stretching technique according
to the principles of safe stretching. In simple layman terms, this
means that the user can be most comfortable in stretching.
[0009] Next, towels and straps are rigid and do not have give. The
present invention has "give" at the end of range of motion and
thereby provides a margin of safety. On the other hand, resistance
bands alone have too much give or too much elasticity and lack of
control when they are of a length that allows one part of the body
to stretch the other part of the body. An adjustable strap with
resistance at one end uniquely provides the right amount of control
and give.
[0010] Finally, the resistance means of the present invention,
unlike other straps, also allows good leverage and very controlled
and comfortable pushing back against resistance for strengthening
and warm up. Muscles should be warmed up before stretching and
doing strengthening in close proximity to stretching is very
efficient and effective especially because tight muscles are often
weak muscles.
[0011] Some products have been developed in an attempt to address
the limitations of simple straps. For example, the StretchRite.TM.
Stretching Strap consists of a strap with a series of color coded
plastic grips that allow progressive improvement. This product
purports to provide a means to stretch in stages and check
progress, by adjusting the length of the strap to accommodate the
user's body's length and flexibility, and increase tension by
changing the handgrip. This product differs from the present
invention in that it does not include releasable means for
resistance, a means to attach to the body, and its adjustment is
accomplished in a manner that relies on hand and finger
strength.
[0012] Another example is the Stretch Out Strap.TM. product which
consists of strap with a series of loops in an attempt to
accommodate people of all sizes and deliver the benefit of PNF (an
assisted stretching technique used commonly by physical therapists
and athletic trainers) without a partner or trainer. The multiple
loops purport to allow deep-gradual stretching of major muscle
groups. This product differs from the present invention in the same
manner as discussed above.
[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 5,813,955 to Gutkowski, et al. discloses an
aerobic exercise device including a belt assembly to be worn around
the torso of the user having first and second layers formed of
nylon or polypropylene. The belt assembly further includes a
plurality of attachment rings connected to the belt assembly and
hook and loop fastening strips for removably attaching the belt
assembly to the torso of the user. The device further includes a
pair of hand assemblies each including finger holes for receiving
the fingers of the user, a hand strap for removably attaching each
hand assembly to a hand of the user, and an elastic hand resistance
member having attachment clips thereon for detachably connecting
the hand assembly to one of the attachment rings on the belt
assembly. In addition, there are a pair of anklet assemblies each
including an ankle wrap for removably attaching each anklet
assembly to an ankle of the user, a foot strap for removably
attaching each anklet assembly to a foot of the user, a heel strap
for extending around the bottom of heel of the user and an elastic
foot resistance member having attachment clips thereon for
detachably connecting the anklet assembly to one of the attachment
clips on the belt assembly.
[0014] U.S. Pat. No. 5,855,539 to Wise describes a kinesiology
testing apparatus which includes a base. A foot treadle is provided
having a first end and a second end. The first end is pivotally
attached to the base. A line is provided having a first end and a
second end. The second end is secured adjacent to the second end of
the foot treadle. Means is provided for securing the first end of
the line to a person's arm. When a person has his arm extended out
parallel to a floor, a downward force exerted by a foot of the
person upon the foot treadle transmits, via the line, a downward
force upon the person's arm.
[0015] U.S. Pat. No. 6,036,626 to Taylor teaches an adjustable
resistance exercise device in the form of a continuous loop foot
strap which is connected to a bungee cord by an O-ring. An opposite
end of the bungee cord is looped through a flexible handle and back
through a clamping device. A push button actuator permits the size
of the handle loop to be adjusted to adjust the overall length of
the device to a) enable a different user to adjust the device for
her/his needs, b) alter the configuration for use in a different
exercise, or c) increase the resistance force afforded by the
device as repetition of the various exercises results in
strengthening of various muscle groups. Illustrative exercises are
discussed.
[0016] U.S. Pat. No. 6,368,258 to Emlaw discloses an exercising
device which includes a short strap having an interior surface and
an exterior surface with a first end and a second end and an
intermediate extent. A first pile-type fastener is provided on the
interior surface and a second pile-type fastener on the interior
surface. A large buckle has parallel end plates with parallel first
and second end cross pieces and a central cross piece. The first
end cross piece receives the first end. A long strap has a first
end constituting a handle. An intermediate extent of the long strap
is coupled to the exterior surface of the short strap.
[0017] The foregoing patents and product descriptions reflect the
current state of the art of which the present inventor is aware.
Reference to, and discussion of, these patents and products is
intended to aid in discharging Applicant's acknowledged duty of
candor in disclosing information that may be relevant to the
examination of claims to the present invention. However, it is
respectfully submitted that none of the above-indicated patents and
products disclose, teach, suggest, show, or otherwise render
obvious, either singly or when considered in combination, the
invention described and claimed herein.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0018] The method and apparatus for performing stretching and
strengthening exercises of this invention provides a strap
apparatus for stretching and strengthening muscles and connective
tissue. The inventive apparatus includes a segment of strap
material having a first end, a medial portion, and a second end,
having a loop formed in the first end, length adjustment means
formed in the medial portion, and a connector element attached to
the second end. The connector element is adapted for releasable
connection to an anchor article, e.g., an extremity cuff member or
a clothing article, bearing a receiver adapted for releasable
attachment to the connector element. The connector element is also
adaptable for releasable attachment to a variety of resistance
means such as resistance bands, springs, etc.
[0019] Variations include, but are not limited to, the following:
the strap material may be non-stretching (non-elastic); the length
adjustment means may consist of an adjustable buckle or strap
retractor member; the connector element may consist of a swivel,
carabineer, clip, snap, hook, or other releasable fastener; the
clothing article may consist of a shoe or glove to which an
appropriate receiver has been affixed; the extremity cuff member
may consist of a padded loop, and may be adjustable in diameter;
the receiver may consist of an eyelet, a D-ring, an O-ring, or a
fabric loop; the connector element may include means for imparting
resistance such as a resistance band; and the segment of strap
material may bear length indicia.
[0020] Applications for the inventive apparatus include use in
gyms, health clubs, physical therapist offices, orthopedic offices,
sports medicine centers, homes, professional sports teams,
hospitals, schools, senior citizen homes, massage and bodywork
centers, chiropractors offices, recreation centers, handicap
centers, dance centers, and yoga centers.
[0021] The apparatus can be used to stretch and strengthen every
major muscle group of the body. The commercial version of the
apparatus may include explanatory materials such as charts, names
and diagrams for specific stretch positions, either on the
packaging for the apparatus or in a written manual and/or videotape
demo.
[0022] It is therefore an object of the present invention to
provide a new and improved stretching apparatus.
[0023] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
new and improved apparatus that combines assisted stretching with
strengthening.
[0024] A further object or feature of the present invention is a
new and improved apparatus that can be used to stretch and
strengthen every major muscle group of the body.
[0025] An even further object of the present invention is to
provide a novel method for stretching and strengthening the body's
muscles and connective tissue.
[0026] Other novel features which are characteristic of the
invention, as to organization and method of operation, together
with further objects and advantages thereof will be better
understood from the following description considered in connection
with the accompanying drawings, in which preferred embodiments of
the invention are illustrated by way of example. It is to be
expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for
illustration and description only and are not intended as a
definition of the limits of the invention. The various features of
novelty which characterize the invention are pointed out with
particularity in the claims annexed to and forming part of this
disclosure. The invention resides not in any one of these features
taken alone, but rather in the particular combination of all of its
structures for the functions specified.
[0027] Here the more important features of the invention have been
broadly outlined in order that the detailed description thereof
that follows may be better understood, and in order that the
present contribution to the art may be better appreciated. There
are, of course, additional features of the invention that will be
described hereinafter and which will form additional subject matter
of the claims appended hereto. Those skilled in the art will
appreciate that the conception upon which this disclosure is based
readily may be utilized as a basis for the designing of other
structures, methods and systems for carrying out the several
purposes of the present invention. It is important, therefore, that
the claims be regarded as including such equivalent constructions
insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the
present invention.
[0028] Further, the purpose of the Abstract is to enable the U.S.
Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally, and
especially the scientists, engineers and practitioners in the art
who are not familiar with patent or legal terms or phraseology, to
determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and essence
of the technical disclosure of the application. The Abstract is
neither intended to define the invention of this application, which
is measured by the claims, nor is it intended to be limiting as to
the scope of the invention in any way.
[0029] Certain terminology and derivations thereof may be used in
the following description for convenience in reference only, and
will not be limiting. For example, words such as "upward,"
"downward," "left," and "right" would refer to directions in the
drawings to which reference is made unless otherwise stated.
Similarly, words such as "inward" and "outward" would refer to
directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center
of a device or area and designated parts thereof. References in the
singular tense include the plural, and vice versa, unless otherwise
noted.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0030] The invention will be better understood and objects other
than those set forth above will become apparent when consideration
is given to the following detailed description thereof. Such
description makes reference to the annexed drawings wherein:
[0031] FIG. 1 is a top plan view of an apparatus for performing
stretching and strengthening exercises of this invention;
[0032] FIG. 2A is a top plan view of the inventive apparatus as
affixed to a user's shoe by a cuff or strap member; and
[0033] FIG. 2B is a top plan view of the inventive apparatus as
affixed to a user's shoe by a ring element integral to the
shoe.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0034] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 2B, wherein like reference
numerals refer to like components in the various views, there is
illustrated therein a new and improved apparatus for performing
stretching and strengthening exercises, generally denominated 10
herein.
[0035] FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a first preferred embodiment of
an apparatus for performing stretching and strengthening exercises
of this invention. The inventive apparatus 10 includes a segment of
strap material 12 having a first end 14, a medial portion 16, and a
second end 18, having a loop 20 formed in the first end 14, length
adjustment means 22 formed in the medial portion 16, and a
connector element 24 attached to the second end 18. The connector
element 24 is adapted for releasable connection to an anchor
article, e.g., an extremity cuff member 26, and/or resistance means
bearing a receiver 28 adapted for releasable attachment to the
connector element 24. Here, the connector element includes a
resistance band 30.
[0036] FIG. 2A is a top plan view of the inventive apparatus as
affixed to a user's shoe 40 by a cuff or strap member 42 (bearing
hook and loop material. The shoe can also have hook and loop
material on it, which may help maintain position and security of
the strap.
[0037] FIG. 2B is a top plan view of the inventive apparatus as
affixed to a user's modified shoe 50 by a ring element 52 integral
to the shoe. Such a ring or means of attachment can be also
temporarily secured by being held at the base of the shoelaces or
other means.
[0038] The present invention thus provides an innovative design and
versatile system for stretching and strengthening exercises for the
human body. The apparatus itself preferably includes: [0039] a
means of attachment to the body (e.g., a cuff or clothing article
with the appropriate receiver); [0040] a means to provide some
degree of resistance (e.g., tubing, resistance bands, spring, or
elastic or other strap) for strengthening and warmup (via pushing
against resistance). This resistance feature also provides some
"give" during stretching exercises, thereby making those exercises
safer (the "give" helps prevent over-stretching, especially
important for people who have not been stretching). For many of the
strengthening exercises the shorter the strap is adjusted, the
greater the resistance. Resistance in a resistance band becomes
greater the further it is pulled to lengthen. Conversely, the
longer the strap the less the resistance; and [0041] a means for
length adjustment (e.g., a strap) which preferably includes: [0042]
a loop or handle to manually hold on to, or to close in a door
frame, or to attach around a fixed object. Attachment can be
accomplished, for example, by taking the other end (e.g., the cuff)
around a fixed object and then threading it through the loop. Being
connected to an adjustable strap makes it possible to adjust the
length of the strap and thereby the amount of resistance or
stretch. This loop or handle can be fixed to the means for
adjustment (e.g., strap), or it can be removable and can be
adjustable in size; or [0043] a means to attach to a fixed frame
with means such as a pulley and a cam cleat (or other means to
secure) which allows the user to adjust the amount of stretch or
resistance.
[0044] All of the above components can be attached to each other by
various connections and can be in different forms. For example:
[0045] The means of attachment to the body can be a padded cuff, a
strap or loop secured in different ways, a glove, a shoe, or a
strap around a shoe or glove. The attachment can be made with a
ring or other feature, made of metal, nylon, or other material.
[0046] The resistance material can be, among other things,
resistance tubing, elastic bands, or a spring, and can be of
various lengths and/or thickness to yield varying amounts of
resistance and appropriateness for various specific exercises.
[0047] The adjustable means can be made of a variety of materials
and be connected to the resistance material or to the means of
attachment to the body in a variety of ways. An important feature
of the adjustable means is that it can either be connected to the
resistance material, which is then connected to the means of
attachment to the body, or it can be connected directly to the
means of attachment to the body (i.e., without the resistance
material).
[0048] As discussed above, there are many products that have been
available for strengthening which consist of a resistance band and
a handle of some sort. Simple straps used for stretching and yoga
have also been on the market. But prior to the present invention
there was no product that combined the following in a highly
functional system: a releasable and adjustable resistance means, a
means to attach to the body, and an adjustable strap means with
measurements and a handle. This design allows users to stretch and
strengthen muscles with extraordinary ease and efficiency unlike
other previously available products.
[0049] The adjustable strap, combined with the other features of
this invention, makes it possible to very quickly, easily and
efficiently change the relationship between the part of the body
that is holding the handle or loop and the part of the body that
has the attachment means around it. While moving from position to
position and exercise to exercise, it is possible to continually
adjust the system, finding a comfortable and safe way to execute
each exercise with utmost efficiency.
[0050] This adjustability provides the distinct advantage of
allowing the body to maintain a comfortable, well-aligned, and safe
position and avoid becoming contorted in an awkward, off-balance or
strained position. Such straining can compromise the muscles,
tendons, ligaments, connective tissue, or vertebral disks of the
body.
[0051] The present invention has an adjustable strap and a
releasable means of resistance. Users can use the full-length
position of the resistance band in some exercises and then easily
double the resistance band (for more resistance) in other
exercises. The resistance band length can easily be changed between
its connection to the adjustable strap and the adjustable means of
attachment to the body.
[0052] The releasable resistance band also provides for different
thickness levels of resistance bands while working with this
invention. It is possible for a user needing rehabilitation to
start with very thin, light resistance bands and then gradually
progress to higher levels of resistance as they get stronger.
[0053] The adjustability of both the strap and of the resistance
means facilitates proper biomechanics: the safe and proper
relationship between the position of the body and forces on the
body. In other words, the principles of mechanical laws such as
leverage to living structures are being correctly applied.
[0054] It has been common for some time in exercise classes for
instructors to direct students working with resistance bands to
stand or kneel on the resistance bands at a specific point in order
to temporarily achieve certain lengths of resistance band. This has
been done to achieve that length for a specific exercise. However,
this often results in comprised biomechanics for the exercise.
[0055] For example, many students are instructed to kneel on a
resistance band at a certain length with one knee while the other
end of the resistance band is secured around the other foot. Then
the student is instructed to push backward on that other foot to
exercise the leg and buttock. This presents poor biomechanics,
where the force of resistance is causing the kneeling knee to be
pulled inward while the body as a whole is pulled off balance.
Physical limitations such as prior knee injury, hip instability, or
spinal problems can be aggravated by these poor biomechanics.
[0056] Proper biomechanics and more beneficial exercise can be
accomplished with the present invention. For the above exercise,
the strap can be adjusted so the strap loop can be comfortably held
around the hand, wrist or forearm (whichever best for the specific
individual). With this specific strap adjustment, the cuff can be
positioned around the foot or ankle at the specific position best
for that individual. Then while holding the strap loop with good
leverage, the leg on the same side of the body can push back
against the cuff with resistance and good alignment.
[0057] The inventive apparatus uniquely allows users to perform
both stretching and strengthening exercises within each position. A
user can comfortably and with good leverage pull on the strap in
one direction to stretch and then (again with good leverage) push
back against resistance in the opposite direction to
strengthen.
[0058] Elastic resistance bands have had means to adjust their
length. However, in order to hold the resistance means in place, it
is necessary to clamp down in some way on the resistance band at
each respective length. This process of clamping down, releasing
and clamping down again is considerably slower and more laborious
than the quick and easy adjustment possible with the inventive
strap. The present invention addresses the need to make several
fine adjustments to get just the right length for proper
biomechanics and comfort in an exercise.
[0059] The efficiency of the present invention allows users to make
adjustments with ease and gives them the ability to achieve
multiple objectives of stretching and strengthening in a short
amount of time. One of the key factors of successful rehabilitation
is whether or not the user will do the exercises (patient
compliance.) Efficiency or the time required to do the exercises is
an essential element of compliance. Thus the efficiency the present
invention provides in doing correct exercises is of significant
distinct value.
[0060] There have been strap products available on the market for
decades, which are used for stretching, especially in yoga. The
non-elastic strap material provides stability for users to pull and
hold themselves in stretches. However, pulling on this non-elastic
material has resulted in many overstretching injuries. The
likelihood of overstretching in yoga is increased by an emphasis on
flexibility and on getting the body into yoga postures. It is
recognized today that for safe yoga flexibility should be balanced
with an equal emphasis on strength.
[0061] The present invention has an adjustable rigid strap that
provides stability followed by a resistance means that provides
"give" when at the extremes of a pull. This combination allows for
a greater degree of control between the elements of stability and
give. The intensity of the stretch and/or resistance is more
effectively modulated by the user as compared to other equipment,
resulting in gentle, effective elongation and toning of the
muscles.
[0062] Together these elements avoid overstretching, allow pushing
back against resistance for warming up the muscles properly
(muscles should be warmed up before they are stretched), and
provide for essential balance of strength around joints where
stretching occurs.
[0063] Prior art of resistance band systems are more prone to
breakage than the present invention. Because the resistance bands
are often stepped on to provide a certain length for a specific
exercise and a specific muscle group, the resistance bands
(especially the thinner, lighter resistance bands) will quickly
wear out or break. One product attempts to address this breakage
problem by placing a fabric sleeve around the simple resistance
band at the points where it might be stepped on. The present
invention uniquely avoids placing such pressure on the resistance
band at all thanks to the adjustable strap which provides specific
length for specific exercises in a less problematic and more
elegant manner.
[0064] Resistance bands also have a limited range within which they
can be safely stretched while pulling or pushing on in doing
exercises. It is usually recommended that the bands be only
stretched three times their length because frequently they will
break if they are stretched further. However certain exercises and
muscles groups require short bands to be effective while other
exercises require longer bands. For this reason, there are many
different resistance band products of prior art (that cannot be
quickly and easily adjusted) that were made for the different
exercises. A user must purchase resistance bands of multiple
lengths and levels of resistance to perform a complete exercise
routine.
[0065] Adjusting the length of resistance bands only to modulate
the effort required to perform an exercise has limitations. Shorter
resistance bands deliver greater resistance with less distance
pushed. This is simply because the further the resistance band gets
stretched, the more it becomes taut and progressively the more
effort is required to lengthen it further. However, many exercises
require moving a limb through some distance to be beneficial.
[0066] With the adjustable strap of the present invention combined
with resistance, a user can move from exercise to exercise
(position to position) or through a series of movements that
require different lengths while maintaining much the same
resistance. The user can also increase resistance for a specific
exercise and position by shortening the strap (thereby lessening
the distance for tautness to be encountered), or decrease
resistance by lengthening it. In summary, the present invention can
quickly and easily be adjusted to different lengths and levels of
resistance for a multitude of exercise without having to change the
product and without undue wear to the product.
[0067] The releasable resistance facilitates a variety of assisted
stretching techniques. Many such techniques are complemented by
following the assisted stretching with pushing against resistance
for strengthening. On the other hand, one widely used form of
assisted stretching, Proprioreceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation
(PNF), involves pushing against something rigid in an isometric
manner following a stretch. The present invention allows for the
removal of the resistance means when PNF is desired and adding the
resistance back for most other forms of exercise.
[0068] The inventive apparatus uniquely provides a means of
measurement because the adjustable strap is also a measuring tape
(like a flexible ruler). These measurements provide a reference
point when doing exercises so that therapists and trainers can
recommend that users perform the exercises at certain measurements
or adjustments. It also allows users to track their progress and
flexibility.
[0069] Many exercises are done with two limbs at a time. Examples
include arm bicep curls or leg presses. It is important that these
exercises be done in a balanced manner in which the body is being
exercised in symmetry. The measurements on the adjustable strap
facilitate this when two of the inventive devices are used at
once.
[0070] The measurement system is also valuable when the invention
is attached by the strap to a fixed object. This can be done by
taking the means of attachment to the body end of the invention
around a fixed object and then through the loop of the adjustable
strap. This is one of the ways this invention can be used for
Pilates exercises. A user can move through a variety of Pilates
exercises while quickly adjusting the straps and making sure they
are of equal length.
[0071] Because the inventive apparatus is so versatile, it has
clear advantages for use in clinics, group exercise classes and
athletic training facilities. In a variety of settings, this single
device, adaptable to varied body types, levels of fitness, and
specific exercise techniques can be used in place of a range of
other equipment.
[0072] Accordingly, applicant's invention can be characterized as a
strap apparatus for stretching and strengthening muscles and
connective tissue, comprising a segment of non-elastic strap
material, the segment having a first end, a medial portion, and a
second end, having a loop formed in the first end, length
adjustment means formed in the medial portion, and a connector
element attached to the second end, where the connector element
included releasable means for resistance exercise; and an anchor
article bearing a receiver, the receiver adapted for releasable
attachment to the connector element. Thus, the adjustable segment
of non-elastic strap material can either be connected to the
resistance material, which is then connected to the means of
attachment to the body, or it can be connected directly to the
means of attachment to the body (i.e., without the resistance
material). This resistance feature provides some "give" during
stretching exercises, thereby making those exercises safer (the
"give" helps prevent over-stretching, especially important for
people who have not been stretching). The resistance material can
be, among other things, resistance tubing, elastic bands, or a
spring, and can be of various lengths and/or thickness to yield
varying amounts of resistance.
[0073] Alternatively, the invention may be characterized as a
method for stretching and strengthening muscles and connective
tissue comprising the steps of providing a segment of non-elastic
strap material, the segment having a first end, a medial portion,
and a second end, having a loop formed in the first end, length
adjustment means formed in the medial portion, and a connector
element attached to the second end, the connector element including
releasable means for resistance exercise; providing an anchor
article bearing a receiver; and attaching the receiver to the
connector element, wherein a user may grasp the loop in the first
end and the anchor article to perform exercise.
[0074] This inventive adjustable strap and resistance band enable
one to stretch safely, by both supporting with give and applying
resistance to the extremity as desired. The support of the static
strap provides more control. The give at the end of the range of
motion avoids overstretching. The resistance aids in warm up, which
is always recommended for stretching. The intensity of the stretch
and/or resistance is more effectively modulated by the user, rather
than by someone else or a machine, resulting in gentle, effective
elongation and toning of the muscles. Unlike other stretching
techniques, the stretch can be easily applied over full range of
motion, rather than just in one or two dimensions. The efficiency
of each exercise is maximized because the upper and lower body are
involved in each movement, and the abdominal core is concurrently
engaged, toned and stabilized with each movement. Stretching can
occur in one direction of movement and strengthening can occur in
the return movement. For recovery after exercise and relaxed
stretching, the adjustable strap allows the user to hold in a
comfortable position with good leverage, alignment and optimal
biomechanics.
[0075] The above disclosure is sufficient to enable one of ordinary
skill in the art to practice the invention, and provides the best
mode of practicing the invention presently contemplated by the
inventor. While there is provided herein a full and complete
disclosure of the preferred embodiments of this invention, it is
not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction,
dimensional relationships, and operation shown and described.
Various modifications, alternative constructions, changes and
equivalents will readily occur to those skilled in the art and may
be employed, as suitable, without departing from the true spirit
and scope of the invention. Such changes might involve alternative
materials, components, structural arrangements, sizes, shapes,
forms, functions, operational features or the like.
[0076] Therefore, the above description and illustrations should
not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention, which is
defined by the appended claims.
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