U.S. patent application number 11/595114 was filed with the patent office on 2007-03-08 for circular fitness apparatus and method.
This patent application is currently assigned to Corepole, Inc.. Invention is credited to Frank R. III Ardito.
Application Number | 20070054789 11/595114 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32073453 |
Filed Date | 2007-03-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070054789 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ardito; Frank R. III |
March 8, 2007 |
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 hollow circular base that can be selected and
used for simultaneous group or individual fitness exercises by
plural exercise participants. The circular fitness apparatus is
useable for group and individual exercise activities comprising
health based, skill based and functional based fitness
activities.
Inventors: |
Ardito; Frank R. III;
(Woodstock, IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
REINHART BOERNER VAN DEUREN P.C.
2215 PERRYGREEN WAY
ROCKFORD
IL
61107
US
|
Assignee: |
Corepole, Inc.
Belvidere
IL
|
Family ID: |
32073453 |
Appl. No.: |
11/595114 |
Filed: |
November 9, 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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11595114 |
Nov 9, 2006 |
|
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60417351 |
Oct 9, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/121 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2225/107 20130101;
A63B 21/0555 20130101; A63B 2071/025 20130101; A63B 2225/093
20130101; A63B 21/0552 20130101; A63B 2225/055 20130101; A63B
2071/024 20130101; A63B 21/28 20130101; A63B 21/04 20130101; A63B
2208/0204 20130101; A63B 21/0557 20130101; A63B 21/0442 20130101;
A63B 71/023 20130101; A63B 2071/026 20130101; A63B 2208/0228
20130101; A63B 21/16 20130101; A63B 21/00061 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/121 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/02 20060101
A63B021/02 |
Claims
1. A circular fitness method, comprising: selecting a first
resilient exercise attachment of a circular fitness apparatus;
selecting a second resilient exercise attachment of a circular
fitness apparatus; selecting a direction of movement for the first
resilient exercise attachment and a direction of movement for the
second resilient exercise attachment; and simultaneously moving the
first and the second resilient exercise attachments in the selected
directions of movement, thereby providing group exercise via the
circular fitness apparatus
2. The circular fitness method of claim 1, wherein the directions
of movement are the same for the first and second resilient
exercise attachments.
3. The circular fitness method of claim 1, wherein the directions
of movement are different for the first and second resilient
exercise attachments.
4. The circular fitness method of claim 2, wherein the directions
of movement are radially outward from a central location.
5. The circular fitness method of claim 1, wherein the step of
simultaneously moving the first and the second resilient exercise
attachments includes elastically stretching the first and second
resilient exercise attachments.
6. The circular fitness method of claim 3, wherein the direction of
movement for the first resilient exercise attachment is radially
inward toward a central location and the direction of movement for
the second resilient exercise attachment is radially outward away
from the central location.
7. The circular fitness method of claim 1, further comprising the
step of angularly moving the first and second resilient exercise
attachments around a central location.
8. The circular fitness method of claim 1, wherein the first
resilient exercise attachment provides a different resilient
resistance than the second resilient exercise attachment.
9. A method of coordinated circular group fitness by a plurality of
exercisers, comprising: selecting, by the exercisers, a plurality
of resilient exercise attachments of a circular fitness apparatus,
wherein each exerciser selects at least one of the plurality of
resilient exercise attachments and the at least one resilient
exercise attachment selected by an individual exerciser is
different than the at least one resilient exercise attachment
selected by the other exercisers; selecting a path of movement for
each of the plurality of resilient exercise attachments; and
simultaneously moving the plurality of resilient exercise
attachments along the selected paths of movement, thereby providing
group exercise via the circular fitness apparatus.
10. The circular fitness method of claim 9, wherein the paths of
movement are substantially similar for each of the plurality of
resilient exercise attachments.
11. The circular fitness method of claim 9, wherein the paths of
movement for at least two of the plurality of resilient exercise
attachments are different.
12. The circular fitness method of claim 10, wherein the paths of
movement include reciprocally moving the resilient exercise
attachments radially inward and outward relative to a central
location.
13. The circular fitness method of claim 12, wherein each resilient
exercise attachment is moved radially inward simultaneously and
each resilient exercise attachment is moved radially outward
simultaneously.
14. The circular fitness method of claim 12, wherein while the
resilient exercise attachments are moved reciprocally radially
inward and outward, adjacent ones of the plurality of resilient
exercise attachments are moved in opposite radial directions.
15. The circular fitness method of claim 12, wherein the paths of
movement further include moving vertically upward and vertically
downward.
16. The circular fitness method of claim 9, further comprising
moving the plurality of resilient exercise attachments angularly
around a central location.
17. The circular fitness method of claim 9, wherein moving the
plurality of resilient exercise attachments includes resiliently
stretching the plurality of resilient exercise attachments.
18. The circular fitness method of claim 9, wherein at least one
exerciser selects at least two adjacent resilient exercise
attachments.
19. The circular fitness method of claim 9, wherein resiliently
stretching at least one resilient exercise attachment overcomes a
different resistance than resiliently stretching another one of the
resilient exercise attachments.
20. A method of coordinated circular group fitness by a plurality
of exercisers, comprising: selecting, by the exercisers, a
plurality of resilient exercise attachments of a circular fitness
apparatus, wherein each exerciser selects at least one of the
plurality of resilient exercise attachments and the at least one
resilient exercise attachment selected by an individual exerciser
is different than the at least one resilient exercise attachment
selected by the other exercisers; selecting an exercise for each of
the plurality of exercisers to perform by resiliently manipulating
the exerciser's selected at least one resilient exercise
attachment; and simultaneously performing the selected exercise for
each of the exercisers.
Description
CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This patent application is divisional of co-pending U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 10/679,854, filed Oct. 6, 2003, which
claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
60/417,351, filed Oct. 9, 2002, the entire teachings and disclosure
of which are hereby incorporated in their entireties by reference
thereto.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates to exercise equipment. More
specifically, it relates to a circular fitness apparatus and
method.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] 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."
[0004] 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.
[0005] 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 firsthand the enjoyment and feeling of "togetherness" that
participation truly brings.
[0006] 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.
[0007] 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
[0008] 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 and method may be used
for circular individual or group activities comprising health
based, skill based and functional based fitness activities.
[0009] 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
[0010] Preferred embodiments of the present invention are described
with reference to the following drawings, wherein:
[0011] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a circular fitness
apparatus;
[0012] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a perspective view of
an exemplary central hollow circular base component of the circular
fitness apparatus of FIG. 1 A;
[0013] FIG. 3A is a block diagram illustrating a side view of an
exemplary contoured circular hollow circular base;
[0014] FIG. 3B is a block diagram illustrating a top view of the
exemplary contoured circular hollow base of FIG. 3A;
[0015] FIG. 3C is a block diagram illustrating another side view of
the exemplary contoured circular hollow base of FIG. 3A;
[0016] FIG. 4A is a block diagram illustrating a top view of a
mounting bracket;
[0017] FIG. 4B is a block diagram illustrating a side-view of a
mounting bracket;
[0018] 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;
[0019] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating details of the plural
exercise attachments;
[0020] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating details of one of the
plural handle attachments;
[0021] FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating details of an
exemplary connections of selected components of the circular
fitness apparatus;
[0022] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram illustrating a circular fitness
method;
[0023] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating a circular fitness
method; and
[0024] FIG. 11 is a photograph illustrating use of the circular
fitness apparatus of FIG. 1 and the circular fitness method of FIG.
9.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0025] Circular Fitness Apparatus
[0026] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a circular fitness apparatus
10. The circular fitness apparatus 10 comprises a central hollow
circular base 12. In one embodiment of the invention, 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 of the
present invention, the central hollow circular base 12 is contoured
as is explained below.
[0027] In one embodiment of the present invention, the central
hollow circular base 12 comprises a single piece of stainless steel
with hollow, fillable 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.).
[0028] In one embodiment of the present invention, 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.
[0029] FIG. 2 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, fillable walls 33.
[0030] 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 12.
The bottom plate 14 provides additional stability for the central
hollow circular base 12.
[0031] 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.
[0032] 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.
[0033] 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.
[0034] 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
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 10 to the central hollow circular base 12
during exercise activities.
[0035] The central hollow circular base 12 comprises a weight of
approximately fifty pounds and its hollow walls can be filled with
sand, concrete or other materials to comprise a weight of
approximately 200 pounds when filed for additional stability.
[0036] 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 to be inserted and removed
easily.
[0037] 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 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.
[0038] In one embodiment of the present invention, the vertical
pole 18 comprises a single stainless steel tube. However, the
present invention is not limited to such an embodiment and other
materials (e.g., other metals, composite materials, wood, plastic,
etc.) can also be used for the vertical pole 18.
[0039] The vertical pole 18 can also comprise multiple pieces that
are permanently attached (e.g., plural stainless steel tubes welded
together etc.) or non-permanently attached (e.g., plural stainless
steel tubes attached with pins such as spring-loaded pins, that fit
into pre-drilled holes, etc.).
[0040] 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. The contoured shape may also provide additional
stability for the hollow circular base 12 and not cause tripping by
exercise participants.
[0041] FIG. 3A is a block diagram illustrating a side view 34 of an
exemplary contoured 36 central hollow circular base 12. The
exemplary contoured circular hollow circular base 36 includes a
first contour 38 with an outside diameter of thirty-six inches. 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.
[0042] 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.
[0043] 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.
[0044] 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.
[0045] The contoured circular hollow base 36 also includes an
attached rubberized nonskid, 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.
[0046] 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.
[0047] 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.
[0048] 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.
[0049] 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 base 36 can
comprise other materials (e.g., composite materials, other metals,
plastics, etc.) other coatings and other colors.
[0050] The contoured central hollow circular base 36 also comprises
a weight of approximately fifty pounds and also includes hollow,
fillable walls that can be filled with sand or other materials to
comprise a weight of approximately 200 pounds when filled for
additional stability.
[0051] 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).
[0052] FIG. 3B is a block diagram illustrating a top view 50 of the
exemplary contoured circular hollow base 36 of FIG. 3A.
[0053] 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 55
including the vertical pole 18, a horizontal hollow component 54
including all or part of the bottom plate 14, and hollow, fillable
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.
[0054] 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 radiate out from the
vertical pole 18.
[0055] FIG. 4A is a block diagram illustrating a top view 56 of an
exemplary mounting bracket 22. 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.
[0056] 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.
[0057] The mounting brackets 22 typically include twenty-four or
more 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).
[0058] In another embodiment of the present invention, mounting
bracket 22 includes plural attachment points comprising plural
small round holes 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 hole. In such an embodiment, the mounting points cannot be used
to attach plural exercise participants.
[0059] In another embodiment of the present invention, the mounting
bracket 22 can also be mounted on a wall or other fixed
surface.
[0060] FIG. 4B 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.
[0061] 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).
[0062] 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).
[0063] 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 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.
[0064] 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 allowing the plurality of the one or more mounting brackets
22 to be moveable up and down, along and around the vertical pole
18.
[0065] 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 a 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.
[0066] Returning to FIG. 1, in one embodiment of the present
invention, the plural exercise attachments 20, 20' comprise elastic
or rubber or other wise 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, or rubber tubing or other
types of flexible exercise attachments. 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.
[0067] 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 cords or straps,
non-flexible chords or straps, or other types of exercise
attachments 20 such as cables or flexible rods or arms. The plural
exercise attachments 20 may also be attached to cables or pulley
systems that are in turn attached to stacks of weights, or flexible
rods or arms attached to vertical pole 18 and/or central hollow
circular bases 12, 36 (not illustrated).
[0068] 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 also be used. 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 1.78''
[0069] 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.
[0070] 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.
[0071] 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.
[0072] FIG. 6 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.
[0073] 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 carabiner 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 carabiner clip 86 (not
illustrated).
[0074] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, both of
the mounting clips 82 and 84 are both carabiner clips 86. The
carabiner clips 86 allow quick, easy and efficient
attachment/detachment of the exercise attachments 20.
[0075] 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.
[0076] 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.
[0077] 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.
[0078] 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.
[0079] 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.
[0080] 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.
[0081] 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.
[0082] 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 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
carabiner clip. However, the present invention is not limited to
the release clip 94 illustrated, other types of releasable clips
(e.g., carabiner clips) and non-releasable clips of other materials
can also be used (e.g., plastic, composite materials, etc.).
[0083] 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 carabiner clip 86 (FIG. 6).
[0084] 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.
[0085] 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.
[0086] FIG. 8 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.
[0087] 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. Then the wheels are
dis-engaged.
[0088] 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.
[0089] 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.
[0090] 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 and used for individual or group exercise activities for less
than 360 degree individual or group exercise activities.
[0091] 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.
[0092] Circular Fitness Apparatus Exercise Methods
[0093] 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.
[0094] 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.
[0095] 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.
[0096] In embodiments of the present invention, a exercise
participant typically selects a set of two exercise attachments 20
(FIG. 6), 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.).
[0097] The circular fitness apparatus 10 can also be used from
standing, sitting, squatting position and other positions. 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.
[0098] 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.
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.
[0099] Illustrative Use of the Circular Fitness Apparatus
[0100] 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.
[0101] 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.
[0102] 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.
[0103] 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 then those described, and more fewer or equivalent
elements may be used for the components described in the block
diagrams.
[0104] 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. 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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