U.S. patent application number 11/342935 was filed with the patent office on 2006-11-16 for circular fitness apparatus and method.
This patent application is currently assigned to Corepole, Inc.. Invention is credited to Frank R. III Ardito, Larry Cunningham.
Application Number | 20060258519 11/342935 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38225259 |
Filed Date | 2006-11-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060258519 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ardito; Frank R. III ; et
al. |
November 16, 2006 |
Circular fitness apparatus and method
Abstract
A circular fitness apparatus and method. The circular fitness
apparatus includes plural flexible exercise attachments attached to
a vertical pole in a flat or non-flat circular or other shaped base
that can be selected and used for simultaneous group or individual
fitness exercises by plural exercise participants. The circular
fitness apparatus may be used with or without the base component
and may be attached to walls, floors or ceilings at one or both
ends. The circular fitness apparatus is useable for group and
individual exercise activities comprising health based, skill based
and functional based fitness activities and athletic
conditioning.
Inventors: |
Ardito; Frank R. III;
(Wonder Lake, IL) ; Cunningham; Larry; (Belvidere,
IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
REINHART BOERNER VAN DEUREN P.C.
2215 PERRYGREEN WAY
ROCKFORD
IL
61107
US
|
Assignee: |
Corepole, Inc.
Belvidere
IL
|
Family ID: |
38225259 |
Appl. No.: |
11/342935 |
Filed: |
January 30, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10679854 |
Oct 6, 2003 |
|
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11342935 |
Jan 30, 2006 |
|
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60417351 |
Oct 9, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/121 ;
482/129 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/28 20130101;
A63B 21/0557 20130101; A63B 21/0004 20130101; A63B 2208/0204
20130101; A63B 2071/024 20130101; A63B 21/0555 20130101; A63B
23/03508 20130101; A63B 2208/0228 20130101; A63B 2225/107 20130101;
A63B 2225/093 20130101; A63B 21/0442 20130101; A63B 21/4017
20151001; A63B 2071/025 20130101; A63B 21/04 20130101; A63B 21/4001
20151001; A63B 21/0552 20130101; A63B 2071/026 20130101; A63B
21/0428 20130101; A63B 71/023 20130101; A63B 21/00061 20130101;
A63B 21/16 20130101; A63B 2225/055 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/121 ;
482/129 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/02 20060101
A63B021/02; A63B 21/04 20060101 A63B021/04 |
Claims
1. A circular fitness apparatus, comprising: a vertical pole
attachable to one or more attachment points; one or more mounting
brackets attached to the vertical pole including a plurality of
attachment points for attaching a plurality of exercise
attachments, wherein the attached plurality of exercise attachments
allows simultaneous group or individual exercises to be completed
at various locations around the vertical pole and wherein each of
the plurality of attachment points can be used to attach a
plurality of exercise attachments; a plurality of exercise
attachments attachable at one end to the one or more mounting
brackets, attachable at another end to a handle attachment, wherein
the plurality of exercise attachments provide a plurality of
different levels of resistance for exercise activities; and a
plurality of handle attachments attachable to the plurality of
exercise attachments, wherein the plurality of handle attachments
include a pre-determined size large enough to allow an exercise
participant to complete a physical activity via the vertical pole
while changing positions without interfering with any of an
exercise participant's body parts.
2. The circular fitness apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a
flat base with a hollow component at a center point to attach the
vertical pole.
3. The circular fitness apparatus of claim 1 wherein the flat base
includes a plurality of legs for additional stability.
4. The circular fitness apparatus of claim 1 wherein the plurality
of legs include a plurality of legs with a horizontal orientation
or a vertical orientation.
5. The circular fitness apparatus of claim 1 wherein the vertical
pole is attachable at one end to a first fixed surface and mounted
at another end to a second fixed surface.
6. The circular fitness apparatus of claim 5 wherein the first
fixed surface and second fixed surface includes a floor, wall or
ceiling.
7. The circular fitness apparatus of claim 1 wherein the vertical
pole comprises a single solid pole or a single hollow tube.
8. The circular fitness apparatus of claim 1 wherein the vertical
pole comprises a plurality of solid poles or a plurality of hollow
tubes.
9. The circular fitness apparatus of claim 1 wherein the vertical
pole comprises a plurality of solid poles or a plurality of hollow
tubes of a non-circular shape.
10. The circular fitness apparatus of claim 1 wherein the one more
attachment points include one or more receptacles for inserting the
vertical pole.
11. The circular fitness apparatus of claim 1 wherein the vertical
pole is attachable at one end to a fixed surface including a floor,
wall or ceiling.
12. The circular fitness apparatus of claim 1 wherein the one or
more mounting brackets are moveable to a plurality of different
positions on the vertical pole.
13. The circular fitness apparatus of claim 1 wherein the one or
more mounting brackets are not moveable and are fixed at
pre-determined positions on the vertical pole.
14. The circular fitness apparatus of claim 1 wherein the plurality
of exercise attachments include a higher modulus material covered,
in whole or in part, by covering of a lower modulus material.
15. The circular fitness apparatus of claim 1 wherein the plurality
of exercise attachments include a low modulus material covered, in
whole or in part, by covering of a higher modulus material.
16. The circular fitness apparatus of Claim 1 wherein the plurality
of exercise attachments include a solid core of a higher modulus
material attached to and covered by a covering of a lower modulus
material.
17. The circular fitness apparatus of claim 1 wherein the plurality
of exercise attachments include a hollow tube with a plurality of
layers, including first layer of a higher modulus material attached
to and covered by a second layer of a lower modulus material.
18. The circular fitness apparatus of claim 1 wherein the plurality
of exercise attachments include a first portion of a higher modulus
material and a second portion comprising a plurality of strands of
a lower modulus material placed in one or more pre-determined
patterns on or around the higher modulus material.
19. The circular fitness apparatus of claim 18 wherein the
pre-determined pattern includes a longitudinal pattern, a
circumference pattern or a combination of a longitudinal and a
circumference pattern.
20. The circular fitness apparatus of claim 1 wherein the plurality
of exercise attachment includes a plurality of strands of second
portion of a lower modulus material attached longitudinally to a
first portion of a higher modulus at pre-determined angles.
21. The circular fitness apparatus of claim 20 wherein the
pre-determined angles include zero, 90, 180 and 270 degree
angles.
22. The circular fitness apparatus of claim 1 wherein the plurality
of exercise attachments include a first portion of a higher modulus
material and a second portion of a lower modulus material with a
plurality of circumferential attachments of the lower modulus
material adhered to and in contact with the first portion.
23. The circular fitness apparatus of claim 1 wherein the one or
more mounting brackets are moveable up and down the vertical
pole.
24. The circular fitness apparatus of claim 1 wherein the one or
more mounting brackets are permanently attached and not moveable up
and down the vertical pole.
25. The circular fitness apparatus of Claim 1 wherein the one or
more mounting brackets include a plurality of individual attachment
points, wherein each individual attachment point is used to attach
only one exercise attachment.
26. The circular fitness apparatus of claim 1 wherein the one or
more mounting brackets include a plurality of attachment points,
wherein each of the plurality of attachment points is used to
attach a plurality of exercise attachments.
27. A circular fitness apparatus, comprising: a vertical means
attachable to one or more attachment points; one or more mounting
means attached to the vertical means including a plurality of
attachment points for attaching a plurality of exercise means,
wherein the attached plurality of exercise means allows
simultaneous group or individual exercises to be completed at
various locations around the vertical means and wherein each of the
plurality of attachment points can be used to attach a plurality of
exercise means; a plurality of exercise means attachable at one end
to the one or more mounting means, attachable at another end to a
handle means, wherein the plurality of exercise means provide a
plurality of different levels of resistance for exercise activities
and wherein the plurality of exercise means include a higher
modulus material covered, in whole or in part, by covering of a
lower modulus material; and a plurality of handle means attachable
to the plurality of exercise means, wherein the plurality of handle
means include a predetermined size large enough to allow an
exercise participant to complete a physical activity via the
vertical pole while changing positions without interfering with any
of an exercise participant's body parts.
Description
CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This Application is a Continuation-In-Part (CIP) of U.S.
Patent Application No. 10/679,854, filed, Oct. 6, 2003, that claims
priority from U.S.
[0002] Provisional Patent Application 60/417,351, filed Oct. 9,
2002, the contents of all of which are incorporated by
reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0003] This invention relates to exercise equipment. More
specifically, it relates to a circular fitness apparatus and
method.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Group physical activity is as old as humankind itself. The
concept of physical activity performed in a circle around a pole
dates back many thousands of years. Individuals would gather around
a tall column, from which multi-colored strips of cloth or rope
were suspended. The participants would engage in a series of
choreographed movements around the column while music was played.
This type of physical activity around a pole was also known as the
"May Pole Dance."
[0005] May Poles were typically used to usher in the spring season.
Villagers would go out into the forest, cut down an appropriately
sized tree, and decorate it in the town square with ribbons and
flowers. The villagers would engage in group movements to music
appreciative of the coming spring.
[0006] Circular physical activity and/or the May Pole concept
capitalizes on human nature and the desire to work together, play
together and with grow with one-another. Anyone who has witnessed
"the wave" being performed by thousands in a stadium can understand
this concept quite well, and those who have actually participated
know first-hand the enjoyment and feeling of "togetherness" that
participation truly brings.
[0007] There are several problems associated with using a pole and
a circular activity concept for group exercise. One problem is that
most health and fitness clubs do not have poles with multiple
ribbons or ropes. Another problem is that if a pole with ribbons or
ropes would be available, the multiple ribbons can typically only
be used for fixed height, selected dance activities. Such poles
with ribbons typically could not be used for health based, skill
based or functional based fitness activities. Another problem is
that adults interested in health and fitness activities are not
likely to consider circular group activity around a pole with
colorful ribbons without fear of ridicule by others.
[0008] Thus, it would be desirable to provide a circular exercise
device comprising a specialized pole that could be used in health
and fitness clubs for group or individual exercise activity. The
circular exercise device should be useable for circular individual
or group activities comprising health based, skill based and
functional based fitness activities.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] In accordance with preferred embodiments of the present
invention, some of the problems associated with group exercise
activity are overcome. A circular fitness apparatus and method is
presented. The circular fitness apparatus may be used with or
without a base component. The circular fitness apparatus and method
may be used for circular individual or group activities comprising
health based, skill based and functional based fitness activities
and athletic conditioning.
[0010] The foregoing and other features and advantages of preferred
embodiments of the present invention will be more readily apparent
from the following detailed description. The detailed description
proceeds with references to the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] Preferred embodiments of the present invention are described
with reference to the following drawings, wherein:
[0012] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a circular fitness
apparatus;
[0013] FIG. 2Ais a block diagram illustrating a perspective view of
an exemplary central hollow circular base component of the circular
fitness apparatus of FIG. 1A;
[0014] FIG. 2B is a block diagram illustrating a top view of an
exemplary vertical pole 18';
[0015] FIG. 2C a block diagram illustrating a top view of an
exemplary vertical pole 18';
[0016] FIG. 2D is a block diagram illustrating a side view of a
vertical pole attached directly to a floor without a base;
[0017] FIG. 2E is a block diagram illustrating a side view of a
vertical pole with a flat base attached directly to a ceiling;
[0018] FIG. 2F is a block diagram illustrating a side view of a
circular base with plural legs with a vertical orientation;
[0019] FIG. 2G is a block diagram illustrating a top view of a flat
base with plural legs with plural legs in a horizontal
orientation;
[0020] FIG. 3A is a block diagram illustrating a side view of an
exemplary contoured circular hollow circular base;
[0021] FIG. 3B is a block diagram illustrating a top view of the
exemplary contoured circular hollow base of FIG. 3A;
[0022] FIG. 3C is a block diagram illustrating another side view of
the exemplary contoured circular hollow base of FIG. 3A;
[0023] FIG. 4A is a block diagram illustrating a top view of a
mounting bracket;
[0024] FIG. 4B is a block diagram illustrating a top view of
another exemplary mounting bracket;
[0025] FIG. 4C is a block diagram illustrating a side-view of a
mounting bracket;
[0026] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a side-view of a
vertical pole with plural mounting brackets including top and
bottom mounting collars attached at plural different locations on
the vertical pole;
[0027] FIG. 6A is a block diagram illustrating details of the
plural exercise attachments;
[0028] FIGS. 6B-6F are block diagrams illustrating perspective
views of additional details of the plural exercise attachments;
[0029] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating details of one of the
plural handle attachments;
[0030] FIG. 8A is a block diagram illustrating details of an
exemplary connections of selected components to the circular
fitness apparatus;
[0031] FIG. 8B is a photograph illustrating details of exemplary
connections of selected components to the circular fitness
apparatus;
[0032] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram illustrating a circular fitness
method;
[0033] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating a circular fitness
method;
[0034] FIG. 11 is a photograph illustrating use of the circular
fitness apparatus of FIG. 1 and the circular fitness method of FIG.
9;
[0035] FIG. 12 is a photograph illustrating one exemplary
embodiment of the circular fitness apparatus of FIG. 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Circular Fitness Apparatus
[0036] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a circular fitness apparatus
10. In one embodiment, the circular fitness apparatus 10 comprises
a central hollow circular base 12. The central hollow circular base
12 is a smooth circular or oval shape standing approximately
twenty-four to approximately thirty-six inches high with a diameter
ranging from twenty-four inches to thirty-six or more inches.
However, the present invention is not limited to these measurements
or shapes, and other measurements and other shapes (e.g.,
trapezoid, square, rectangle, etc.) can also be used for the
central hollow circular base 12. In another embodiment, the central
hollow circular base 12 is contoured as is explained below. In
another embodiment, the central hollow circular base 12 is not used
as is explained below.
[0037] In one embodiment, the central hollow circular base 12
comprises a single piece of stainless steel with hollow, fillible
walls. However, the invention is not limited to such an embodiment
and central hollow circular base 12 can comprise multiple pieces,
and can include other materials (e.g., composite materials,
fiberglass, other metals, plastics, etc.).
[0038] In one embodiment, the stainless steel is brushed-clear
coated stainless steel of various colors (e.g., red, green, blue,
natural steel, etc.). The coating is used to help resist corrosion
from sweat from exercise participants. However, the invention is
not limited to such an embodiment and the stainless steel can be
processed, coated and colored in other ways.
[0039] In one embodiment, the central hollow circular base 12
further includes plural legs that extend out from the central
hollow circular base 12. The plural legs may provide additional
stability for the central hollow circular base 12.
[0040] In another embodiment, the circular base 12 is not hollow
but instead is a solid piece of material, such as metal, composite
materials, plastic, wood, etc. In such an embodiment, the circular
base 12 does not include hollow fillable walls.
[0041] In one embodiment, the central hollow circular base 12 is
mounted to a fixed surface (e.g., floor, wall, etc.) via a
receptacle in the fixed surface.
[0042] FIG. 2A is a block diagram illustrating a perspective view
26 of an exemplary central hollow circular base 12 component of the
circular fitness apparatus 10. The central hollow circular base 12
includes a solid component 28 and plural hollow components 30, 32.
The solid component includes hollow, fillible walls 33.
[0043] A horizontal hollow component 30 is approximately one-inch
in height and is used to hold a rubberized non-skid, non-marring
bottom plate 14 attached to the central hollow circular base 12.
The rubberized non-skid, non marring bottom plate 14 is used to
provide a non-slip surface for the central hollow circular base The
bottom plate 14 provides additional stability for the central
hollow circular base
[0044] In one embodiment of the present invention, the bottom plate
14 is a rubberized gasket, with an internal portion that is
slightly smaller than a diameter of the central hollow circular
base 12 that fits inside the horizontal hollow component 30 and an
external portion including a raised lip that fits over the central
hollow circular base 12. In another embodiment, the bottom plate 14
is a rubberized gasket that includes a raised lip that fits over
the central hollow circular base 12 with an internal portion that
fits into the horizontal hollow component. In both of these
embodiments, the raised lip helps create a suction seal when
pressure is applied to the central hollow circular base 12 to help
secure the base 12 to a fixed surface. However, the present
invention is not limited to these embodiments and other embodiments
can also be use to practice the invention.
[0045] In another embodiment of the present invention, the bottom
plate 14 is a piece of rubberized material that is slightly smaller
than a diameter of the central hollow circular base 12 and slightly
smaller in height than the height of the horizontal hollow
component 30.
[0046] For example, if an exemplary diameter of the central hollow
circular base is thirty-six inches, and the depth of the horizontal
hollow component 30 is one-inch, an exemplary diameter of the
bottom plate 14 may be thirty-five and three-quarter inches and an
exemplary height of the bottom plate 14 may be three-quarters of an
inch. The quarter-inch gaps allow an air pocket to be formed
between the central hollow circular base 12 and the bottom plate
14.
[0047] The bottom plate 14 is used to provide a seal (e.g., an air
suction seal) between the central hollow circular base 12 and a
fixed surface it is placed upon (e.g., an exercise floor) when
pressure is applied to it (e.g., by stepping on it). The seal adds
additional stability to the central hollow circular base 12
exercise activities.
[0048] The central hollow circular base 12 comprises a weight of
approximately fifty pounds and its hollow walls can be filled with
sand, concrete, water or other liquids, dense metals such as lead,
steel, etc., or other materials to comprise a weight of
approximately 200 pounds when filed for additional stability. In
another embodiment, a larger version of the central hollow circular
base 12 allows approximately 250 pounds of a material to fill the
central hollow circular base In another embodiment, the central
hollow circular base 12 with hollow walls is filed with sand,
concrete, water or other liquids, dense metals such as lead, steel,
etc. or other materials during manufacturing and is permanently
sealed with such materials to comprise an appropriate weight and
stability.
[0049] In another embodiment, the base 12' is a flat base. The flat
base 12' is square, rectangular, trapezoidal, circular in shape and
includes a vertical hollow component 32 at a center point for
attaching a vertical pole 18. In one embodiment, the flat base
about 1'' to 3'' in height. In one embodiment, such a flat base 12'
is mounted to a fixed surface (e.g., floor, wall, ceiling, etc.).
The flat base 12' may include plural horizontal or vertical legs
(e.g., about 18'' to 24'' ) attached to and extending from the flat
base 12' for additional stability. A flat base 12' with the plural
legs, may or may not be mounted to a fixed surface.
[0050] A central vertical hollow component 32 is located at a
center point of the central hollow circular base 12 is used to hold
a vertical pole 18. The central vertical hollow component 32
includes a diameter slightly larger than a diameter of the vertical
pole 18 to allow the vertical pole 18 to be inserted and removed
easily, but fit snuggly.
[0051] FIG. 2B is a block diagram illustrating a top view 35 of an
exemplary vertical pole 18'. In this embodiment, the vertical pole
18' comprises a single circular hollow tube. In one embodiment, the
diameter of the vertical pole 18' is specifically sized to fit
inside the central hollow vertical component 32, whether of not the
central hollow circular base 12 is used.
[0052] FIG. 2C is a block diagram illustrating a top view of 37 of
another exemplary vertical pole 18''. In the exemplary embodiment,
the vertical pole 18'' comprises plural hollow tubes. In one
embodiment, the diameter of the vertical pole 18'' is specifically
sized to fit inside the central hollow vertical component 32,
whether or not the central hollow circular base 12 is used.
[0053] In another embodiment, the vertical pole 18 includes a
circular rim apparatus with multiple spokes that is slips over one
end of the vertical pole 18 and is used as a mounting bracket 22.
In such an embodiment, the circular rim apparatus looks like a
large bicycle rim horizontally attached to the vertical pole 18
through a center opening in the circular rim apparatus. Exercisers
clip exercise attachments 20 onto the circular rim apparatus via
one of the plural openings between the plural spokes. The circular
rim apparatus can be moved up and down in height on the vertical
pole 18 to create different anchor heights. This allows the
circular rim apparatus to be moved up and down the vertical pole by
the exercisers during exercise without removing and re-clipping
their exercise attachments 20.
[0054] In another embodiment, the vertical pole 18 includes a
larger version of the circular rim apparatus with plural spokes. In
such an embodiment, the circular rim apparatus looks like a large
bicycle rim turned on its side and is attached to the vertical pole
18 in a vertical orientation through a central portion or the
circular rim apparatus.
[0055] Exercisers clip exercise attachments 20 onto the circular
apparatus. In one embodiment, the larger circular rim apparatus
covers the enter length of the vertical pole 18. In another
embodiment, the larger circular rim apparatus covers less than the
enter length of the vertical pole 18.
[0056] In one embodiment of the present invention, the vertical
pole 18 ranges in height from six feet to six feet ten inches in
length to accommodate standard seven foot ceilings. The vertical
pole 18 also comprises a diameter of about 2.25 inches. In such an
embodiment, the central vertical hollow component 32 includes a
diameter of 2.28 inches. However, the present invention is not
limited to these measurements and other measurements and other
diameters can also be used for the vertical pole 18 and the central
vertical hollow component 32.
[0057] In one embodiment of the present invention, the vertical
pole 18 comprises a single piece of material 18'. In one
embodiment, the single piece is a single hollow stainless steel
tube as is illustrated in FIG. 2B. In another embodiment, the
vertical pole 18 comprises a solid round vertical pole. In another
embodiment, the vertical pole 18'' comprises plural hollow tubes
attached in a circular shape. In another embodiment, the vertical
pole 18'' comprises plural hollow tubes attached in a non-circular
shape (e.g., diamond, irregular, etc.).
[0058] FIG. 2C illustrates the vertical pole 18'' as four hollow
attached tubes in a non-circular shape. However, the present
invention is not limited to four tubes and more or fewer tubes or
solid vertical poles can be used to practice the invention.
However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment
and other materials (e.g., other metals, composite materials, wood,
plastic, etc.) and other numbers of solid poles or hollow tubes can
also be used for the vertical pole 18.
[0059] The vertical pole 18 comprising a single hollow tube or
single solid vertical pole can also comprise multiple pieces that
are permanently attached (e.g., plural pieces welded together etc.)
or non-permanently attached (e.g., plural pieces attached with pins
such as spring-loaded pins, that fit into pre-drilled holes, etc.).
The vertical pole 18'' comprising plural hollow tubes or plural
solid vertical poles can also comprise multiple pieces are either
permanently attached or non-permanently attached as described
above.
[0060] The vertical pole 18'' can also comprise hollow tubes of
non-circular shapes or solid poles of non-circular shape.
[0061] In one embodiment, the vertical pole 18 is mounted directly
to one fixed surface such as a wall, floor or ceiling without using
the central hollow circular base 12 or the flat base 12' .
[0062] FIG. 2D is a block diagram illustrating a side view 39 of a
vertical pole 18 attached directly to a floor without any base 12
or 12'.
[0063] FIG. 2E is a block diagram illustrating a side view 41 of a
vertical pole 18 with a flat base 12' attached directly to a
ceiling.
[0064] In one embodiment, the one fixed surface includes a mounting
point for the vertical pole 18. In such an embodiment, the mounting
pointing point includes a receptacle with a diameter large enough
to accommodate the vertical pole 18.
[0065] In another embodiment, the vertical pole 18 is mounted
between two fixed surfaces. In one exemplary embodiment, the
vertical pole 18 is mounted at one end to a first fixed surface and
mounted at another end to a second fixed surface. In one
embodiment, the vertical pole 18 is mounted at one end to a floor
and at another end to a ceiling. In another embodiment, the
vertical pole is mounted at one end to a wall and at another end to
a floor. In another embodiment, the vertical pole is mounted at one
end to a ceiling and at another end to a wall (e.g., at an angle of
45 degrees, etc.). However, the present invention is not limited to
these embodiments and other embodiments and combinations can also
be used.
[0066] In one embodiment, the vertical pole 18 is mounted so
exercisers can access the vertical pole 18 all around the vertical
pole 18 (e.g., 360 degree access). In another embodiment the
vertical pole 18 is mounted close to a fixed surface so exercisers
can access the vertical pole 18 in a limited area around the
vertical pole 18 (e.g., 270 degrees, 180 degrees or less,
etc.).
[0067] FIG. 2F is a block diagram illustrating a side view 43 of a
flat square base 12 with plural legs 45. In one embodiment, the
flat square base 12 further includes plural legs 45 that extend out
from the vertical pole 18 and include a vertical orientation
(illustrated in FIG. 2F). In such an embodiment, the plural legs 45
are flat (e.g., 1''-2''in height) to provide stability but not
interfere with exercisers.
[0068] FIG. 2G is a block diagram illustrating a top view 47 of a
flat circular base 12 with plural legs 45. The plural legs 45 that
extend out from the flat circular base 12 and include a horizontal
orientation. FIG. 2G illustrates two flat legs 45. However, the
invention is not limited to two flat legs 45, and more or fewer
flat legs 45 can be used to practice the invention. The plural legs
45 may provide additional stability for the vertical pole 18 when
the vertical pole is mounted directly to a fixed surface.
[0069] In these two and other similar embodiments, the plural legs
45 may also provide additional stability when the vertical pole 18
is used without the central hollow circular base 12 or is used with
a flat base 12'.
[0070] Returning to FIG. 1, in another embodiment of the invention,
the central hollow circular base 12 is a contoured shape with
plural contours standing approximately ten inches high. The
contoured shape allows the hollow circular base 12 to be
transported more easily and also allows the hollow circular base 12
to be included in, and used as part of exercise methods performed
on the circular fitness apparatus 10.
[0071] The contoured shape may also provide additional stability
for the hollow circular base 12 and not cause tripping by exercise
participants.
[0072] FIG. 3A is a block diagram illustrating a side view 34 of an
exemplary contoured 36 central hollow circular base The exemplary
contoured circular hollow circular base 36 includes a first contour
38 with an outside diameter of thirty-six inches.
[0073] The first contour 38 is one inch in height and includes a
hollow horizontal component 40 (illustrated by the dotted line)
one-inch in height in which the bottom plate 14 is attached.
[0074] The exemplary contoured circular hollow circular base 36
includes a second contour 42 from one inch in height, until eight
inches in height. The diameter of the second contour 42 gradually
decreases in diameter from thirty-six inches at one inch in height
to twenty-four inches at eight inches in height.
[0075] The exemplary contoured circular hollow base 36 includes a
third contour 44 from eight inches in height to nine inches in
height. The diameter of the third contour 44 gradually decreases in
diameter from twenty-four inches at eight inches in height to three
inches at nine inches in height.
[0076] The exemplary contoured circular hollow base 36 includes a
fourth contour 46 from nine inches in height to ten inches in
height. The fourth contour 46 is one-quarter to three-quarters of
inch in thickness and includes a central vertical hollow component
48 with an outside diameter of 3 inches and an inside diameter of
2.28 inches. This diameter is used to accommodate a circular pole
18 of 2.25 inches.
[0077] The contoured circular hollow base 36 also includes an
attached rubberized non-skid, non-marring bottom plate 14. The
bottom plate 14 is shown detached in FIG. 3A for illustrative
purposes, but is normally attached to the contoured hollow base
36.
[0078] In one embodiment of the invention, the bottom plate 14
comprises a rubberized gasket with a raised lip comprising a
diameter of 36.75 inches to be used with a first contour 38 of
thirty-six inches in diameter and a height of 0.75 inches. In such
an embodiment, the bottom plate 14 is attached over the contoured
circular hollow base 36.
[0079] In another embodiment of the invention, the bottom plate 14
comprises a rubberized non-skid, non-marring with diameter of
35.875 inches and a height of 0.758 inches to be used with the
contoured circular hollow base 36 with a first contour 38 of
thirty-six inches in diameter and a first horizontal hollow
component 40 of one-inch in height. In such an embodiment, the
bottom plate 14 is attached inside the horizontal hollow component
40 of contoured circular hollow base 36
[0080] In such an embodiment, since the bottom plate 14 has a
diameter slightly smaller than the first contour 38 of contoured
circular hollow base 36, the bottom plate 14 is also used to create
and maintain a seal between the contoured circular hollow base 36
and a surface, such as an exercise floor it is being used upon as
was explained above.
[0081] In one embodiment of the present invention, the contoured
circular hollow base 36 comprises a single piece of brushed
clear-coated stainless steel of varying colors (e.g., red, green,
blue, natural steel, etc.). However, the invention is not limited
to such an embodiment and the contoured circular hollow based 36
can comprise other materials (e.g., composite materials, other
metals, plastics, etc.) other coatings and other colors.
[0082] The contoured central hollow circular base 36 also comprises
a weight of approximately fifty pounds and also includes hollow,
fillible walls that can be filled with sand or other materials to
comprise a weight of approximately 200 pounds when filed for
additional stability.
[0083] The diameter and heights of the central hollow circular base
12 and the contoured circular hollow bases 36 both are specifically
selected to fit through small standard-size doorway openings (e.g.,
thirty-two inch to thirty-six inch doorways).
[0084] FIG. 3B is a block diagram illustrating a top view 50 of the
exemplary contoured circular hollow base 36 of FIG. 3A.
[0085] FIG. 3C is a block diagram illustrating another side view 52
of the exemplary contoured circular hollow base 36 of FIG. 3A. This
side-view illustrates a central hollow vertical component 54
including the vertical pole 18, a horizontal hollow component 55
including all or part of the bottom plate 14, and hollow, fillible
walls 57 ranging from one-inch to three-inches in thickness. FIG.
3C illustrates a bottom plate 14 attached over the contoured
circular hollow base 36.
[0086] However, the present invention is not limited to these
embodiments or measurements and other embodiments, measurements and
combinations can also be used.
[0087] Returning to FIG. 1, the vertical pole 18 includes plural
exercise attachments 20, 20' (two of which are illustrated)
attached to the vertical pole 18 with one or more mounting brackets
22. The plural exercise attachments 20, 20' radiate out from the
vertical pole 18.
[0088] FIG. 4A is a block diagram illustrating a top view 56 of an
exemplary mounting bracket 22. In one embodiment, the mounting
bracket 22 comprises a piece of stainless steel and includes a
plural attachment points 58, 60, 62, 64 (four of which are
illustrated for simplicity) for attaching the plural exercise
attachments 20, an attachment point 66 and a mounting bracket
collar 68 to mount the mounting bracket 22 on the vertical pole
18.
[0089] However, the present invention is not limited to a mounting
bracket 22 with four attachment points and more or fewer attachment
points can also be used. In addition, it is not limited to a
mounting bracket 22 made of stainless steel and other metals and
other materials such as plastic, composite materials, etc. can also
be used for mounting bracket 22.
[0090] The mounting brackets 22 typically include twenty-four
attachment points to attach twenty-four or more exercise
attachments 20 equally (or unequally) spaced around the vertical
pole 18 to accommodate twenty-four or more group exercise
participants. In addition, a single mounting point, such as
mounting point 58, is large enough and is typically used to attach
plural exercise participants (e.g., 10 or more).
[0091] In another embodiment of the present invention, the mounting
bracket 22 can also be mounted on a wall or other fixed
surface.
[0092] FIG. 4B is a block diagram illustrating a top view 57 of
another exemplary mounting bracket 22. In this exemplary
embodiment, the mounting bracket 22 includes plural small
individual attachment points 59 for attaching the plural exercise
attachments 20 instead of a fewer number of larger attachment
points. The plural exercise attachments 20 are attached to
individual attachment points 59 and fit snuggly within the
individual openings 59.
[0093] FIG. 4C is a block diagram illustrating a side-view 70 of a
mounting bracket 22. The mounting bracket 22 is in anchored in
place on the vertical pole 18 by one or more attached mounting
bracket collars 68, 72 (two of which are illustrated) attached
above and/or below the mounting bracket 22. The mounting collars
68, 72 are illustrated as being detachable mounting bracket 22.
However, the mounting bracket 22 can also include permanently
attached mounting collars. The mounting bracket 22 can also include
only a top mounting collar 68, or only a bottom mounting collar 72,
or both a top mounting collar 68 and a bottom mounting collar
72.
[0094] In another embodiment of the present invention, mounting
bracket 22 includes plural individual attachment points comprising
plural small round (or other shaped) holes 59 drilled with a
diameter just slightly larger than an attachment clip used to
attach an exercise attachment 20. In such an embodiment, only one
exercise attachment 20 can be attached per attachment point. In
such an embodiment, the mounting points cannot be used to attached
plural exercise participants.
[0095] In one embodiment, the one or more mounting brackets 22 can
rotate around the vertical pole 18 via opening 66 will be supported
by the mounting bracket collars 68, 72. In another embodiment, the
one or more mounting brackets 22 cannot be rotated around the
vertical pole 18 via opening 66.
[0096] In one embodiment of the present invention, the mounting
collars 68, 72 may include spring loaded or non-spring loaded pins
74 that can be pushed into pre-drilled holes in the vertical pole
18 as is illustrated only on mounting collar 68. In another
embodiment of the present invention, the mounting collars 68, 72
include an allen bolts, or other types of bolts or screws or pins
(not illustrated).
[0097] In another embodiment of the present invention, the mounting
collars 68, 72 include a screw with a handle 76 that can be
tightened to engage the vertical pole 18 (e.g., with no pre-drilled
holes) as is illustrated only on mounting collar 72. In yet another
embodiment of the present invention, the mounting collars 68, 72
include a screw with a handle that is used to tightened the
mounting collars 68, 72 themselves (not illustrated) to engage and
hold the collars on the vertical pole 18 (e.g., with no pre-drilled
holes).
[0098] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the one
or more mounting brackets 22 do not include mounting collars but
instead include a resistance (e.g., friction, etc.) inside (e.g.,
rubber, nylon, etc.) surface (e.g., a coating, gasket, washer,
etc.) to provide resistance when in contact with the vertical pole
18 to keep it at a desired location.
[0099] In one embodiment, the one or more mounting brackets (e.g,
versions 56, 57) are permanently attached at pre-determined
locations on the vertical pole 18. In such an embodiment, the
mounting brackets cannot be moved and do not spin or rotate around
the vertical pole 18.
[0100] In one embodiment, the one or more mounting brackets 22
allow the plural exercise attachments 20 to be moved in repetitive
360-degree movement patterns. The one or more mounting brackets 22
can be closely spaced to each other around the vertical pole 18 to
create a centralized mounting point. The one or more mounting
brackets 22 may also be attached widely spaced to form a singular
mounting point and allowing the plural the one or more mounting
brackets 22 to be moveable up and down, along and around the
vertical pole 18. In other embodiment, the one or more mounting
brackets 22 allow the plural exercise attachments 20 to be moved in
less than 360-degree movement repetitive patterns.
[0101] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a side-view 78 of the
vertical pole 18 with plural mounting brackets 22 including top 68
and bottom 72 mounting collars attached at plural different
locations on the vertical pole 18. FIG. 5 is illustrated with a
bottom plate 14 that is attached inside the horizontal hollow
component 40. However, the present invention is not limited to this
embodiment and the bottom plate 14 can also comprise a rubberized
gasket attached over the countered base 36 as is illustrated in
FIG. 3C.
[0102] FIG. 6A is a block diagram illustrating details 80 of the
plural exercise attachments 20. The plural exercise attachments 20
include plural mounting clips 82 and 84 attached at opposite ends
of the exercise attachments 20.
[0103] In one embodiment of the present invention, the plural
mounting clips 82 and 84 are both plastic "D" shaped rings. In such
an embodiment, one or more of the mounting clips 82, 84 may be
attached to a carabineer clip. In another embodiment of the present
invention, a first of the mounting clips 82 is a "D" shaped ring
and a second of the mounting clips 84 is a carabineer clip 86 (not
illustrated).
[0104] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, both of
the mounting clips 82 and 84 are both carabineer clips 86. The
carabineer clips 86 allow quick, easy and efficient
attachment/detachment of the exercise attachments 20.
[0105] However, the present invention is not limited to such
mounting clips and other types and shapes of mounting clips and
mounting rings including mounting clips and mounting rings
comprising other materials (e.g., metals, composite materials,
etc.) can also be used.
[0106] In one embodiment of the present invention, all the plural
exercise attachments 20 are thirty-six inches in length. However,
the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment and the
plural exercise attachments 20 can be shorter or longer lengths. In
addition, the plural exercise attachments 20 can include plural
different lengths.
[0107] Returning to FIG. 1, in one embodiment of the present
invention, the plural exercise attachments 20, 20' comprise elastic
or rubber or otherwise flexible bands or tubes of varying
thicknesses that are color coded and provide varying levels of
resistance. For example, the plural exercise attachments 20 may
include latex bands, non-latex bands, rubberized bands, rubber
tubing, or other types of flexible exercise attachments.
[0108] For example, the plural exercise attachments 20 may include
THERABAND brand products by Lifestyle Sports, Inc. or Dunkirk, N.Y.
or SPRI brand products by SPRI Products, Inc. of Libertyville,
Ill., or others. However, the present invention is not limited to
THERABAND brand or SPRI brand products and bands or tubes by other
manufacturers can also be used. In addition, the present invention
is not limited to elastic or rubber bands or tubes and flexible
tubes of other materials can also be used.
[0109] In one embodiment, the plural exercise attachments 20
include COREPOLE brand products. The COREPOLE brand products
include a higher modulus material attached to and covered, in whole
or in part, by covering of a lower modulus material, or visa-versa.
The plural exercise attachments made of different modulus materials
prevent the plural exercise attachments 20 from separating and
causing injury to an exerciser applying the load or other
exercisers or bystanders in the immediate vicinity should the
plural exercise attachments 20 fail.
[0110] As is known in the art, when a material is subjected to an
external load it becomes distorted or strained. When the load is
removed, the material returns to its original dimensions (i.e.,
they are elastic). Within the limits of elasticity, the ratio of
the linear stress to the linear strain is termed the "modulus" of
elasticity. The higher a modulus of a material, the more stiff it
is and the less flexible it is.
[0111] The plural exercise attachments 20 are continuously
stretched by a user providing resistance exercise to a user thereby
alternatively applying a load to plural exercise attachments 20 and
removing the load applied to the plural exercise attachments.
[0112] In one embodiment, the higher modulus material provides
resistance and a pre-determined amount of elasticity for
exercisers. The higher modulus material is stiff yet does provide
elasticity. The lower modulus material is not stiff provides about
three to four times more elasticity than the higher modulus
material and very little resistance (i.e., little or no noticeable
resistance for an exerciser).
[0113] For example, the lower modulus material may include a
resistance and elasticity similar to that of a normal rubber band,
while the higher modulus material may include a resistance and
elasticity similar that of a bungy chord or rubber tube. However,
the present invention is not limited to a lower modulus material
that has three to four times the elasticity of the higher modulus
material and other ratios of elasticity between the high and low
modulus materials can also be used to practice the invention.
[0114] If the higher modulus material should wear out and fail
(i.e., break), the lower modulus material covering will prevent the
higher modulus material from separating and causing injury to the
exerciser applying the load or other exercisers or bystanders in
the immediate vicinity.
[0115] The plural exercise attachments 20 with higher modulus and
lower modulus materials may be solid, hollow or include plural
types of coverings as is explained below.
[0116] The plural exercise attachments 20 may be manufactured via
multiple (e.g., dual/triple) extrusions to create flexible bands,
tubes, chords, arms, cables, etc. for exercise.
[0117] In one exemplary embodiment, the plural exercise attachments
20 comprises a higher modulus natural latex rubber core with a
lower modulus natural latex rubber covering. The flexible
attachment include varying thicknesses that are color coded (e.g.,
Tables 1, 2) and provide varying levels of resistance for
exercising. However, the present invention is not limited to this
embodiment and other high and lower modulus materials may also be
used to practice the invention.
[0118] FIGS. 6B-F are block diagrams illustrating additional
details of the plural exercise attachments.
[0119] FIG. 6B is a block diagram 87 illustrating a perspective
view of an exercise attachment 20 with a solid core. The exercise
attachment 20 includes a solid core 89 of a higher modulus material
attached to and covered by a covering 91 of a lower modulus
material (or visa-versa, i.e., a lower modulus material covered by
a higher modulus material, etc.).
[0120] In such an embodiment, the exercise attachment 22 provides a
pre-determined resistance and elasticity due to be solid core 89 of
the higher modulus material. If the solid core 89 of the higher
modulus material should fail (i.e., break), the covering 91 of a
lower modulus material prevents separation and injury. Should a
failure occur with the solid core 89 of the higher modulus
material, the exercise attachment 20 will go "limp" since the
covering 91 of the lower modulus material has an elasticity three
to four times higher than the solid core 87 of the higher modulus
material. A limp exercise attachment can then be replaced when
noticed an exerciser.
[0121] FIG. 6C is a block diagram 93 illustrating a perspective
view of an exercise attachment 20 with a hollow core. The exercise
attachment 20 includes a hollow tube with plural layers, including
but not limited to a first layer 95 of a higher modulus material
attached to and covered by a second layer 97 of a lower modulus
material (or visa versa).
[0122] The exercise attachment 20 of FIG. 6C is illustrated with
two layers.
[0123] However, the present invention is not limited to this
embodiment and more layers can also be used to practice the
invention.
[0124] FIG. 6D is a block diagram 99 illustrating a perspective
view of an exercise attachment 20 with additional attachments. The
exercise attachment 20 includes a first portion 101 of a higher
modulus material. The exercise attachment 20 includes a second
portion 103 comprising plural strands of a lower modulus material
(or visa versa).
[0125] In one embodiment, the first portion 10 is a solid band. In
another embodiment, the first portion 101 is hollow tube
(illustrated).
[0126] In one embodiment, the second portion 103 includes plural
strands attached longitudinally to the first portion at zero at
pre-determined angles (e.g., 90, 180 and 270 degree angles) with a
pre-determined equal spacing (e.g., 90 degrees, etc.) around the
first portions 101. However, the present invention is not limited
to the degree placement illustrated and the plural strands can be
placed at other angles to practice the invention.
[0127] In another embodiment, the second portion 103 includes
plural strands attached longitudinally to the first portion 101 at
various angles where the angles are separated by unequal spacing.
In another embodiment, the second portion 103 is applied in a
spiral or corkscrew manner to the first portion 101.
[0128] FIG. 6E is a block diagram 105 illustrating a perspective
view of an exercise attachment 20 with additional attachments. The
exercise attachment 20 includes a first portion 107 of a higher
modulus material and a second portion 109 and a third portion 111
of a lower modulus material. In one embodiment, the third portion
101 is identical to the lower modulus material of the second
portion 109. In another embodiment, the third portion 111 includes
a lower modulus material different from the second portion 109.
[0129] In one embodiment, the first portion 107 is a solid band. In
another embodiment, the first portion 107 is hollow tube
(illustrated).
[0130] The exercise attachment 20 includes a second portion 109
with plural circumferential attachments adhered to and in contact
with the first portion 107 of the higher modulus material attached
in a pre-determined pattern to the higher modulus material. The
plural circumferential attachments of the second portion 109 are
attached with the third portion 101 comprises one or more bands or
tubes of a lower modulus material. The second portion 109 and the
third portion 101 prevent separation of the first portion 107,
should the first portion 107 break during application and removal
of loads.
[0131] In one embodiment, the second portion 109 includes plural
circumferential attachments comprising, natural or artificial
rubbers or plastics. The third portion 111 is a lower modulus
material with the same modulus or a different modulus than the
second portion 109 comprising plural longitudinal bands. However,
the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment and
other materials and other orientations can also be used to practice
the inventions (e.g., metal, composite materials, etc.).
[0132] FIG. 6F is a block diagram 113 illustrating a perspective
view of an exercise attachment 20 with additional attachments. The
exercise attachment 20 includes a first portion 115 of a higher
modulus material and a second portion 117 comprising plural strands
of a lower modulus material (or visa-versa).
[0133] In one embodiment, the first portion 115 is a solid band. In
another embodiment, the first portion 115 is hollow tube
(illustrated).
[0134] In one embodiment, the pre-determined pattern includes
plural strands of the second portion 117 of lower modulus material
attached circumferentially around the first portion 115. However,
the present invention is not limited to these embodiments and other
combinations thereof can also be used to practice the
invention.
[0135] In another embodiment, the plural exercise attachments 20
illustrated in FIGS. 6A-6F are encased in a protective casing. In
such an embodiment, should the plural exercise attachments 20 fail,
pieces of the plural exercise attachments will be contained in the
protective casing.
[0136] However, the present invention is not limited to these
embodiments and more or fewer strands or other attachments can also
be used to practice the invention. 130
[0137] In all of the embodiments described herein, an exerciser
periodically applies and removes a load to the flexible attachment.
If the higher modulus material of the flexible attachment should
wear out and fail (i.e., break), the lower modulus materials will
prevent the higher modulus material from separating and causing
injury to the exerciser, other exercisers or bystanders in the
immediate vicinity.
[0138] In other embodiments of the present invention, the plural
exercise attachments 20 can also comprise cloth, metal, plastic,
composite or other materials. The plural exercise attachments 20
can include plural solid poles, flexible chords or straps,
non-flexible chords or straps, or other types of exercise
attachments 20 such as cables or flexible rods, arms, springs,
etc.
[0139] In another embodiment, plural exercise attachments 20 may
also be attached to cables, springs, or pulley systems that are in
turn attached to stacks of weights, stacks of plates, or flexible
rods or arms attached to vertical pole 18 and/or central hollow
circular bases 12, 36 (not illustrated) that provide
resistance.
[0140] Table 1 illustrates an exemplary color-coded resistance
scheme for the plural exercise attachments 20 when elastic or
rubber bands or tubes are used. However, the present invention is
not limited to the colors or resistance levels illustrated in Table
1 and more, less, or different colors and resistance levels and
other thicknesses can be used to practice the invention.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Color Resistance Level Thickness Tan Extra
Light 0.25'' Yellow Light 0.50'' Red Medium 0.75'' Green Heavy
1.00'' Blue Extra Heavy 1.25'' Black Very Heavy 1.75''
[0141] Table 2 illustrates another exemplary color-coded resistance
scheme for the plural exercise attachments 20. However, the present
invention is not limited to the colors or tensions illustrated in
Table 2 and more, less, or different colors and tension levels can
be used to practice the invention. TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Color
Tension 100% Stretch 200% Stretch Blue High Tension 14 lbs. 22 lbs.
Red Medium Tension 9 lbs. 13 lbs. Green Low Tension 7 lbs. 8
lbs.
[0142] An exercise participant desiring to exercise would select a
desired level of resistance by selecting an appropriate color and
thickness for the exercise attachment 20 from a rack including the
plural exercise attachments 20, 20'. For example, a first exercise
participant desiring a light workout might select a set of yellow
exercise attachments 20. A second exercise participant desiring a
very heavy workout might select a set of black exercise attachments
20'. Both sets of exercise attachments 20, 20' can be attached to
the same or a different mounting bracket 22 attached to the
vertical pole 18 allowing simultaneous group or individual physical
activity.
[0143] In one embodiment of the present invention, a whole group of
exercise participants may select exercise attachments 20 with the
same color and thickness to participate in a uniform group physical
activity (e.g., all yellow exercise attachments) where each
exercise participant is considered to be a the same or similar
fitness level.
[0144] In another embodiment of the present invention, each
exercise participant may select their own exercise attachments 20
with a select color and thickness to participate in a group
physical activity, but where each individual exercise participant
is at a different fitness level.
[0145] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating details 88 of one
embodiment of the plural handle attachments 24. The handle 24
includes a grip component 90. In one embodiment of the present
invention, the grip component 90 is a circular rod comprising a
hard plastic, metal or composite material approximately 4.5 inches
to 5.5 inches in length with a diameter of 0.75 inches covered by a
layer of foam, which is in turn, covered by a layer of non-slip
plastic, rubber or leather. However, the present invention is not
limited to such a grip component 90 and other measurements and
other materials can also be used.
[0146] The handle 24 further includes a strap component 92. In one
embodiment of the present invention, the strap component 92 is at
least 7.5 inches long to allow an exercise participant to complete
a physical activity while changing hand, wrist or arm positions
without having the strap component 92 interfere with the exercise
participant's forearm or elbow, or other body parts while
exercising.
[0147] The 7.5 inch length of the strap component 92 extends the
handle 24 and makes it larger than most handles for exercise
equipment know in the art. The 7.5 inch length was selected to
provide a comfortable handle 24 for a wide variety of male and
female exercise participants of a wide variety of sizes and
shapes.
[0148] In another embodiment of the present invention, the strap
component 92 is less than 7.5 inches long. In another embodiment of
the present invention, the strap component 92 is 7.5 inches to
twelve inches long.
[0149] However, the present invention is not limited to these
specific measurements and other measurements can also be used to
allow an exercise participant to complete a physical activity while
changing hand, wrist or arm positions without having the strap
component 92 interfere with the exercise participant's forearm or
elbow, or other body parts while exercising.
[0150] In one embodiment of the present invention, the strap
component 92 comprises a nylon webbing material one inch in width.
However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment
and other materials and other widths can also be used for the strap
component 92
[0151] The handle 24 further includes a release clip 94. The
release clip 94 is used to attach the handle 24 to an exercise
attachment 20. In one embodiment of the present invention, the
release clip 94 is a metal release clip with a spring-resistance or
other resistance component that can be compressed or moved to
release the clip. In another embodiment the release clip 94 is a
carabineer clip. However, the present invention is not limited to
the release clip 94 illustrated, other types of releasable clips
(e.g., carabineer clips) and non-releasable clips of other
materials can also be used (e.g., plastic, composite materials,
etc.).
[0152] In another embodiment of the present invention, the handle
24 does not include a release clip 94. In such an embodiment, the
plural exercise attachments 20 instead include a release clip such
as a carabineer clip 86 (FIG. 6).
[0153] In another embodiment of the present invention, the handle
24 may include an inverted "T-shaped" handle (not illustrated) to
allow an exercise participant to grasp the handle 24 with both
hands. However, other handle shapes may also be used and the
present invention is not limited to the handle 24 and the handle
components described.
[0154] In another embodiment of the present invention, the grip
component 90 may be extended to 10.5 inches or more in length
extend beyond both of its connections to the strap component 92
(not illustrated). Such an embodiment can also be used for two hand
gripping by an exercise participant.
[0155] FIG. 8A is a block diagram illustrating details 96 of
exemplary connections of selected components of the circular
fitness apparatus 10. However, the present invention is not limited
to such connections, and other types of connections and other
combinations of connections can also be used. This block diagram is
not drawn to scale.
[0156] FIG. 8B is a photograph illustrating details 121 of
exemplary connections of selected components to the circular
fitness apparatus 10. This photograph illustrates plural carabineer
clips 86 connected to one attachment point 58 the mounting bracket
22 illustrated 56 in FIG. 4A. This photograph also illustrates a
portion of an exerciser grasping plural exercise attachments
20.
[0157] Returning to FIG. 1, the central hollow circular base 12 and
central hollow contoured circular base 36 includes plural wheels 16
for transport. In one embodiment of the present invention, the
plural wheels 16 include two or more "twist-wheels" that are
twisted to engage, and untwisted to disengage. For example, the
twist-wheels are twisted to engage them and move the circular
fitness apparatus 10 to a new location.
[0158] Then the wheels are dis-engaged.
[0159] In another embodiment of the present invention, the plural
wheels 16 include two or more "tilt-n-steer" wheels that allow the
circular fitness apparatus 10 to be tilted and pushed or pulled
around from place-to-place. (See FIG. 8). The tilt-n-steer are
engaged when the central hollow circular base 12 and central hollow
contoured circular base 36 are tilted and disengaged when they are
not.
[0160] In one embodiment of the present invention, the wheels 16
are evenly spaced around central hollow circular base 12 and
contoured base 36. In another embodiment of the invention, the
wheels 16 are un-evenly spaced. However, the present invention is
not limited to such wheels and wheel spacing and other types of
wheels 16 and spacing can also be used.
[0161] In another embodiment, the central hollow circular base 12
does not include any wheels 16. In such an embodiment, the central
hollow circular base 12 is moved with a custom or non-custom, cart,
dolly, etc. In another embodiment, the central hollow circular base
12 does not include any wheels 16 and is rolled from place to
place.
[0162] The circular fitness apparatus 10 is typically used as a
free standing apparatus used for 360 degree individual or group
exercise activities around the central hollow circular base 12 or
countered base 36. In another embodiment of the present invention,
the circular fitness apparatus 10 can be permanently mounted to a
wall, floor or ceiling and used for individual or group exercise
activities for less than 360 degree individual or group exercise
activities.
[0163] The circular fitness apparatus 10 is used in health and
fitness clubs for group exercise or individual exercise activity.
The circular fitness apparatus 10 is useable for individual or
group exercise activities comprising health based, skill based and
functional based fitness activities.
Circular Fitness Apparatus Exercise Methods
[0164] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram illustrating a circular fitness
Method 98. At Step 100, a first set of exercise attachments 20 are
selected on the circular fitness apparatus 10. At Step 102, a
second set of exercise attachments 20' are selected on the circular
fitness apparatus 10, other than the first set exercise attachments
20. At Step 104, a direction of movement is selected for the first
set of exercise attachments 20 and for the second set of exercise
attachments 20'. The direction of movement is the same for the both
the first and second set of exercise attachments. At 106, the first
set and the second set of exercise attachments 20' are
simultaneously moved in the selected direction of movement
respectively, thereby providing group exercise via the circular
fitness apparatus 10.
[0165] In another embodiment of the present invention, the first or
second set of exercise attachments 20, 20' can be moved in a
direction opposite or at some other angle to the selected direction
of movement selected at Step 104, thereby also providing different
types group exercise activities.
[0166] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating a circular fitness
Method 108. At Step 110, a first set of exercise attachments 20 are
selected on the circular fitness apparatus 10. At Step 112, a
second set exercise of attachments 20' are selected on the circular
fitness apparatus 10, other than the first set of exercise
attachments 20. At Step 114, a first direction of movement is
selected for the first set of exercise attachments 20. At Step 116,
a second direction of movement is selected for the second set of
exercise attachments 20'. The second direction of movement is
different than the selected first direction of movement. At 118,
the first set of exercise attachments 20 and the set of second
exercise attachments 20' are simultaneously moved in the first and
second selected directions of movement respectively, thereby
providing group exercise via the circular fitness apparatus 10.
[0167] In embodiments of the present invention, an exercise
participant typically selects a set of two exercise attachments 20
(FIG. 6A), including two handles 24 (FIG. 7) for example, to be
used for both of the exercise participant's arms or legs. However,
an exercise participant may also select a set of one exercise
attachment 20 (e.g., or one arm, one leg, the neck, etc.), with an
inverted "T-shaped" handle or an extended handle as described above
for two-hand gripping. Or an exercise participant may select a set
of more than two exercise attachments 20, (e.g., four exercise
attachments 20, with four handles 24 for both arms and both legs,
etc.).
[0168] The circular fitness apparatus 10 can also be used from
standing, sitting, squatting position and other positions by groups
of exercisers or individual exercisers.
[0169] The circular fitness apparatus 10 allows a wide variety of
exercise movements including those targeted to the major and minor
muscle groups of the human body. The methods described herein are
useable for individual or group exercise activities comprising
health based, skill based and functional based fitness
activities.
[0170] Moving around the circular fitness apparatus 10 enables an
exercise participant to train in a multi-planar environment, which
may enable the exercise participant's body to become stronger and
more efficient in every day activities. Core integrated movement
patterns require balance and stability, due to the constant
changing of positions on the circular fitness apparatus 10 which
occur during the duration of a training session. Such balance and
stability combined with large movement patterns as opposing forces
result in a challenging and unique way of group exercise
training.
[0171] Opposing forces of each exercise participant are equalized
on the circular fitness apparatus 10, thus creating an additional
type of training element and camaraderie within the group.
ILLUSTRATIVE USE OF THE CIRCULAR FITNESS APPARATUS
[0172] FIG. 11 is a photograph 120 illustrating use of the circular
fitness apparatus 10 of FIG. 1 and Method 98 of FIG. 9. FIG. 11
illustrates a snapshot at one instance of time of use of the
circular fitness apparatus 10 in a simultaneous selected direction
of movement from a standing position by plural exercise
participants (e.g., with Method 98). The circular fitness apparatus
10 can also be used from a sitting position and other positions and
with other movements as was described above.
[0173] FIG. 12 is a photograph 122 illustrating one exemplary
embodiment of the circular fitness apparatus 10 of FIG. 1.
[0174] The methods described herein can also be used by one
individual exerciser.
[0175] In such an embodiment, the individual exerciser selects one
or more exercise attachments 20' and follows the steps of the
methods.
[0176] It should be understood that the methods and apparatus
described herein are not related or limited to any particular type
of materials unless indicated otherwise.
[0177] Various combinations of general purpose, specialized or
equivalent materials and components may be used with or to perform
operations in accordance with the teachings described herein.
[0178] In view of the wide variety of embodiments to which the
principles of the present invention can be applied, it should be
understood that the illustrated embodiments are exemplary only, and
should not be taken as limiting the scope of the present invention.
For example, the steps of the flow diagrams may be taken in
sequences other than those described, and more fewer or equivalent
elements may be used for the components described in the block
diagrams.
[0179] The claims should not be read as limited to the described
order or elements unless stated to that effect. In addition, use of
the term "means" in any claim is intended to invoke 35 U.S.C.
.sctn.112, paragraph 6, and any claim without the word "means" is
not so intended.
[0180] Therefore, all embodiments that come within the scope and
spirit of the following claims and equivalents thereto are claimed
as the invention.
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