U.S. patent application number 12/052230 was filed with the patent office on 2008-09-25 for exercise system and method for its use.
Invention is credited to PAULA ELZERMAN.
Application Number | 20080234116 12/052230 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39775344 |
Filed Date | 2008-09-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080234116 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
ELZERMAN; PAULA |
September 25, 2008 |
EXERCISE SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ITS USE
Abstract
An exercise system includes at least a first and second pivot
pole assembly for supporting and stabilizing a person engaged in
exercise. The pivot pole assemblies each include a base plate which
is configured to rest on a floor during the use of the system, and
a pole portion which is pivotally connected to the base portion by
a universal joint. The assemblies may be configured so as to be
connectable to one another, and such connection may be achieved
through the bases and/or the poles. The system may incorporate
weights attachable to the poles and/or may utilize compressible
poles to provide an enhanced effect. Further disclosed are exercise
programs incorporating the systems.
Inventors: |
ELZERMAN; PAULA; (Oxford,
MI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
GIFFORD, KRASS, SPRINKLE,ANDERSON & CITKOWSKI, P.C
PO BOX 7021
TROY
MI
48007-7021
US
|
Family ID: |
39775344 |
Appl. No.: |
12/052230 |
Filed: |
March 20, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60896512 |
Mar 23, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/123 ;
482/128 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/045 20130101;
A63B 21/026 20130101; A63B 21/04 20130101; A63B 21/023 20130101;
A63B 21/015 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/123 ;
482/128 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/045 20060101
A63B021/045 |
Claims
1. An exercise system, said system comprising: a first and a second
pivot pole assembly, each pivot pole assembly comprising: a base
plate which is configured to rest on a floor during the use of the
system, and a pole portion which is pivotally connected to the base
portion by a universal joint; wherein said first and second pivot
pole assemblies are configured so that they may be mechanically
coupled together.
2. The exercise system of claim 1, wherein said system is
configured so that the base plate of the first pivot pole assembly
may be mechanically coupled to the base plate of the second pivot
pole assembly.
3. The exercise system of claim 1, further including a coupler for
joining the pole portion of the first pivot pole assembly to the
pole portion of the second pivot pole assembly.
4. The system of claim 3, wherein said coupler is a rigid
coupler.
5. The system of claim 3, wherein said coupler is a resilient
coupler.
6. The system of claim 3, wherein said coupler includes at least
one handgrip associated therewith.
7. The exercise system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the pole
portions of said first and second pivot pole assemblies is
longitudinally compressible.
8. The exercise system of claim 7, wherein said longitudinally
compressible pole includes a resilient element disposed and
operable to bias said longitudinally compressible pole toward its
noncompressed state.
9. The exercise system of claim 1, wherein lie length of at least
one of said pole portions of said first and second pivot pole
assemblies is adjustable.
10. The exercise system of claim 1, further including at least one
weight which is affixable to the pole portion of at least one of
said first and second pivot pole assemblies.
11. The exercise system of claim 1, wherein at least one of said
first and second pivot pole assemblies includes a resistance device
associated with the base portion and/or the pole portion thereof
said resistance device being disposed and operable so as to provide
a resistance to movement of said pole portion relative to said base
portion.
12. The exercise system of claim 1, wherein in at least one of said
first and second pivot pole assemblies, the pole portion thereof
may be selectively immobilized relative to the base portion
thereof.
13. The exercise system of claim 1, wherein said universal joint
comprises a member selected from the group consisting of: a
ball-and-socket joint, a double yoke joint, a living hinge, and
combinations thereof.
14. The exercise system of claim 1, wherein in at least one of said
first and second pivot pole assemblies, the pole portion is
selectively detachable from the base portion.
15. The exercise system of claim 1, wherein in at least one of said
first and second pivot pole assemblies, the pole portion includes a
handgrip.
16. The exercise system of claim 1, further including a body of
instructional material describing an exercise program which may be
implemented with the use of the first and second pivot pole
assemblies.
17. An exercise device comprising: a base plate which is configured
to rest on a floor during the use of the system; and a
longitudinally compressible pole portion which is pivotally
connected to the base plate by a universal joint.
18. An exercise system which comprises two of the exercise devices
of claim 17.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority of U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 60/896,512 filed Mar. 23, 2007, entitled
"Exercise Device and Method for its Use" which is incorporated
herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates generally to exercise equipment, to
methods for the use of the equipment, and for instructional
programs which incorporate the equipment.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] It is often desirable to provide enhanced stability to
persons participating in exercise programs including aerobic
programs, strength training programs and physical rehabilitative
programs. By enhancing user stability, risks of injury are reduced.
Also, stabilizing a participant allows for a greater range of
motion to be achieved in an exercise program. Many exercise devices
such as treadmills, stair steppers, elliptical devices, ski
trainers and the like include handgrips or other stabilizing
devices. However, many other exercise devices do not include any
type of stabilizing-assembly. Exercise programs such as yoga,
Pilates, calisthenics, aerobics and the like, generally do not rely
upon use of any equipment; but, such exercises would also benefit
from providing enhanced stability to their participants.
[0004] The prior art has implemented a number of systems for
enhancing the stability of a person engaged in exercise. Some of
such prior art approaches are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos.
5,759,139; 5,244,444; 4,249,727; 7,115,078 and 606,747.
[0005] As will be explained in detail here, the present invention
comprises a simple, easy to use, low cost and relatively
lightweight exercise system which includes a pair of assemblies
which can stabilize, and at least partially support, a user,
through a large range of motions associated with various types of
exercise. The system of the present invention is readily adaptable
to a number of different users and may be easily configured for
incorporation into a large variety of exercise programs. These and
other advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the
drawings, discussion and description which follow.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0006] Disclosed herein is an exercise system which is comprised of
at least a first and a second pivot pole assembly. Each pivot pole
assembly comprises a base plate which is configured to rest on a
floor during the use of the system and a pole portion which is
pivotally connected to the base plate by a universal joint. In
specific instances, the system is configured so that the first and
second pivot pole assemblies can be coupled together. Coupling may
be through the base plate. In other instances, the poles may be
coupled together, and this may be accomplished by the use of a
rigid or a resilient member.
[0007] In particular embodiments, the poles are longitudinally
compressible and may further include a resilient element therein.
In other instances, the poles may be configured so that their
length may be varied.
[0008] The system may further include one or more weights which are
affixable to the pole. The system may also include a resistance
device associated with the base plate and the pole. In yet other
instances, the system may include a device for selectively
immobilizing the pole relative to the base plate. The pole may
include handgrips, lanyards, reflective features and the like, and
in some instances, the pole may be made to be detachable from the
base plate. The device of the present invention may be used in a
variety of exercise programs, and may be incorporated into a kit
which includes instructional materials, additional exercise
devices, training aids and the like.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of pivot pole
assembly which may be used in the present invention;
[0010] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a detachable weight which
may be incorporated into the present system;
[0011] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present
invention where the base plates of two pivot pole assemblies are
configured to be joinable;
[0012] FIG. 4 is an illustration of an embodiment of coupling
member as used to join the pole portions of two pivot pole
assemblies in accord with the present invention;
[0013] FIG. 5 is an illustration of another embodiment of coupling
member which can be used to join two pivot pole assemblies in
accord with the present invention;
[0014] FIG. 6 is an illustration of a resistance device which may
be incorporated into the present invention;
[0015] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a
longitudinally compressible pole which may be used in the present
invention; and
[0016] FIG. 8 is an illustration of a member for selectively
immobilizing the pole portion of the pivot pole assembly relative
to the base portion thereof.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0017] The present invention is directed to exercise equipment and
comprises a system of exercise equipment which is simple in
construction, lightweight, portable and easy to use. As will be
explained hereinbelow, the system of the present invention may be
utilized in conjunction with a variety of exercise programs ranging
from high-intensity aerobic exercise to rehabilitative physical
therapy programs directed to persons with limited mobility. The
system of the present invention may be utilized on its own or in
conjunction with other equipment such as treadmills, exercise
balls, balance devices, stair steppers and the like.
[0018] The system of the present invention includes at least two
pivot pole assemblies. One particular embodiment of pivot pole
assembly is shown in FIG. 1 at reference numeral 10. The pivot pole
assembly 10 includes a base plate 12 which is configured to rest on
a floor or other support surface during the use of the invention.
In the illustration of FIG. 1, the base plate 12 is a generally
planar member having a rectangular shape; however, it is to be
understood that the base plate may be otherwise configured. The
base plate may be variously sized; however, in particular
embodiments, the length of the base plate will be in the range of
10-20 inches, and its width will be in the range of 3-20 inches. In
many instances, the base plate will include a nonslip material such
as rubber, suction cups, or the like on at least its bottom
surface.
[0019] In the FIG. 1 embodiment, the second portion of the assembly
10 is comprised of a pole 14 which is pivotally connected to the
base portion 12 by a universal joint 16. In the illustrated
embodiment, the universal joint 16 is a ball-and-socket joint.
However, a universal joint is understood to mean a joint which
allows for at least two axis movement of the pole 14 relative to
the base plate 12, as is indicated by arrow A; and in that regard,
it will be appreciated that a universal joint may be otherwise
configured. For example, a universal joint may comprise a
multi-hinge arrangement such as a dual yoke joint of the type used
in a variety of mechanical applications. Likewise, the universal
joint may be comprised of one or more living hinges. As is
understood in the art, a living hinge is a hinge which includes no
discrete parts which move relative to one another, but relies upon
flexing and/or bending of a material, typically a polymeric
material, to provide for a hinge action. Therefore, it is to be
understood that the term "universal joint" is to be given an
expansive interpretation so as to include all devices and members
which allow for an action of the pole relative to the plate as is
generally indicated by arrow A.
[0020] The pivot pole assembly 10 of FIG. 1 further illustrates
other, optional, features of the present invention. For example, as
is illustrated, the pole 14 includes a handgrip portion 18 at one
end thereof, and this handgrip further includes a lanyard 20.
Typically, the pole will have a length in the range of 3-5 feet,
depending on the height of the user and/or the type of exercise
being carried out. As is further illustrated in FIG. 1, the pole 14
has an adjustable length, and in this regard, it is configured as a
telescoping pole which includes a locking ring 22 for selectively
immobilizing the telescoping portions of the pole 14 relative to
one another. It is to be understood that other provisions may be
made for altering the length of the pole. For example, a
telescoping pole may include a detent mechanism comprised of a
spring-loaded button operating in cooperation with a series of
through holes for selectively immobilizing the pole at various
lengths. In yet other instances, length adjustability may be
achieved by the use of a number of discrete segments affixable to
one another, as for example by threading. Yet other arrangements
for providing length adjustability are contemplated within the
scope of the present invention as are poles of fixed lengths.
[0021] In accord with another feature of the present invention, an
optional, selectively positionable, weight 24 is shown in FIG. 1 as
being attached to the pole. This weight, which is illustrated in
greater detail in FIG. 2, comprises a hinged, dual segment member
configured to fit around a portion of the length of the pole and to
snap thereonto. As is understood in the art, further fastening
mechanisms such as elastic bands, mechanical connectors and the
like may be used to aid in retaining the weight. It is also to be
understood that other configurations of weight may be used in the
present invention. In some instances, the weight may be
incorporated into the handgrip. Typically, the weight will be in
the range of 1-5 pounds, but other variations are also
contemplated. While use of a weight is not necessary in all
instances, it has been found that inclusion of a weight can further
enhance the utility of the invention by providing increased
resistance thereby enhancing the beneficial effect of an exercise
carried out using the present system.
[0022] As discussed above, the exercise system of the present
invention includes two pivot pole assemblies, and in a typical
implementation, the pivot pole assemblies will be generally
identical. In a typical exercise program, a user will grasp one
pivot pole assembly in each hand and execute a series of exercise
movements which can include twisting, squatting, bending and the
like. The assemblies may be positioned on either side of the user
or they may be in front of the user, behind the user, or in some
other combination of placements. The user may be standing or
seated. As noted above, the system of the present invention may be
used in combination with other exercise equipment, and in that
regard, the user may be positioned on a treadmill, on a balance
board, or on some other type of device. In some instances, the
exercise system of the present invention may be used in an aquatic
environment. It has been found that the system of the present
invention can aid in maintaining a user's balance, and can also be
used to provide increased resistance and enhanced training.
[0023] In some instances, it may be desirable to couple the two
pivot assemblies together for specific exercise programs. Referring
now to FIG. 3, there is shown a first pivot pole assembly 26 and a
second, generally similar, pivot pole assembly 28. Each pivot pole
assembly includes a pole 30 coupled to a base plate 32 via a
universal joint 34. In the FIG. 3 embodiment, the base plates 32a,
32b are configured so as to be mechanically interlockable, and in
his regard may include coupling features which include
corresponding dovetail tabs and recesses which enable the base
plates to be locked together. Other coupling features, as is known
in the art, such as hook-and-loop fasteners, may be similarly
employed. As illustrated, the coupling features are disposed on two
edges of each of the base plates; however, it is to be understood
that all edges may be configured to include coupling features.
Also, while coupling features are shown as being integral with the
base plates, coupling may be also be accomplished by a separate
member, such as a coupling bar, affixable to join the two plates
together.
[0024] In other instances, it may be desirable to couple the pole
portions of two pivot pole assemblies together, with or without
coupling the bases, and such may be accomplished in various
manners. For example, FIG. 4 shows a coupler 36 which is configured
to couple two poles 38a, 38b portions of which are shown in FIG. 4)
together. The coupler 36 includes a rigid center rod having pole
engaging portions 40a, 40b at either end thereof. As illustrated,
the coupling member 36 is a rigid member. However, in other
instances, the coupling member may be a flexible member such as a
length of chain, a hinged member, a jointed member or the like so
as to allow for some further degree of motion between the coupled
poles.
[0025] In yet other instances, the coupling member may be a
resilient coupling member as is shown at reference numeral 42 in
FIG. 5. The coupling member 42 of FIG. 5 includes a central,
resilient portion 44 defined by a coil spring, and further includes
couplers 46a, 46b for engaging the poles. The coupler of FIG. 5 may
be configured so that the spring is replaceable. In this manner,
the degree of resiliency of the coupling may be selectably
adjusted. In yet other embodiments, the resilient portion may be
comprised of a body of an elastomeric material such as synthetic or
natural rubber. In still other instances, the resilient portion may
be comprised of a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, or any
other such variable resistance device. The resilient portion of
this connector may be exposed, as shown in the figure, or it may be
enclosed in a telescoping or otherwise expandable sheath.
[0026] The couplers, 46a, 46b are configured to engage, and be
retained by, the poles; and various mechanical arrangements for
doing so will be apparent to those of skill in the art. For
example, the poles may include detent features such as lips or
other protrusions which engage corresponding features on the
couplers 46a, 46b. In some instances, the poles may include a
series of holes, slots, or other such openings which are engaged by
corresponding portions of the couplers. Furthermore, such coupling
features may also be used to retain other members, such as the
weights, illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, on the poles.
[0027] The coupling member may, in some instances, include one or
more handgrips. These handgrips may be integral with, or separately
attached to, the coupling member, and in some instances, they may
be pivotable. These handgrips may be used with coupling members
that have rigid central portions, as in FIG. 4 as well as with
those that have flexible or resilient central portions. Also, the
coupling member may include rigid portions as well as resilient
portions. The couplers (40a, 40b in FIG. 4; 46a, 46b in FIG. 5) may
also include a resilient body therein, and in this regard, will
allow for relative motion of the central portion of the coupler in
relation to the poles. Other such modifications will also be
apparent to those of skill in the art.
[0028] Yet other modifications and variations of the exercise
system of the present invention will be apparent to those of skill
in the art. For example, FIG. 6 shows a portion of a pivot pole
assembly 48 which incorporates a resistance device for increasing
the resistance required to pivot the pole relative to the base
plate. In the FIG. 6 embodiment, a pole 50 (a portion of which is
illustrated) is coupled to a base plate 52 via a universal joint 54
as previously described. This mechanical arrangement will allow for
pivotal action as described above. However, the assembly 48 of FIG.
6 further includes a resistance device comprised, in this instance,
of four separate elastic cords 56a-56d which couple the pole 50 to
the base plate 52. These elastic cords increase the amount of
effort required to pivot the pole 50. Similar resistance could be
achieved through the use of springs. Also, while four elastic
members are shown, a larger or smaller number may be utilized. In
yet other instances, resistance may be provided by other
configurations known in the art. For example, resistance of the
universal joint 54, itself, may be increased by various art-known
methods such as inclusion of a frictional wedge into the joint,
inclusion of a tightenable collar and the like.
[0029] As discussed above, the pole portion of the pivot pole
assembly may be configured to be length adjustable. However, in
accord with a further embodiment of the present invention, the pole
portions may be made longitudinally compressible so that in the use
of the device, the user may actively vary the length of the pole.
Such may be accomplished by the use of telescoping joints,
accordion pleated polymeric bodies and other such mechanical
arrangements. Referring now to FIG. 7, there is shown a cutaway
view of a portion of a longitudinally compressible pole 60 which
may be utilized in the present invention. In the FIG. 7
illustration, the pole 60 is comprised of a first segment 62 and a
second segment 64 which fit together in a telescoping relationship
such that the first segment 62 is free to slide within the interior
of the second segment 64. As further illustrated in FIG. 7, a coil
spring 66 is disposed within the second segment 64 so that the
spring 66 is compressed as the first segment 62 is advanced into
the second segment 64. In this manner, the pole 60 is compressible
and resilient in the longitudinal direction as indicated by arrow
B. It is to be understood that other resilient bodies may be used
in substitution for the coil spring 66 and these include bodies of
polymeric material as well as mechanical arrangements such as
hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders. Use of a longitudinally
compressible pole further expands the exercise capabilities of the
system of the present invention since such compressibility can
allow a user to execute movements including squatting, bending,
pushing and pulling, while further enhancing muscle tone. And the
pole assembly which includes the longitudinally compressible pole
may be used either singly or in combination with other pole
assemblies in a variety of exercise programs.
[0030] In some instances, it may be desirable to immobilize the
pole portion of the pivot pole assembly relative to the base
portion. Such immobilization may be advantageous when the equipment
is not in use, and also for some specific types of exercise or
therapy. This may be readily accomplished by a number of relatively
simple arrangements. FIG. 8 is an illustration of a base plate 68
and pole portion 70 of a pivot pole assembly further including a
generally funnel shaped immobilizing device 72 which is disposed so
as to prevent the pole 70 from pivoting relative to the base plate
68. The immobilizing device 72 fits onto the pole 70 and engages
the base plate. When not in use, the immobilizing device 72 may be
slid upward on the pole, and may be retained in place by a detent
mechanism (not shown) as is known in the art. Other embodiments of
immobilizing device including slidable pegs, pins, collars, and the
like, will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art.
[0031] Other modifications and variations of the exercise system
may be implemented. For example, in some instances, the pole
portions, or at least a segment of the length of the pole portions,
may be disengaged from the remainder of the pole assemblies. In
this manner, the disengaged poles may be used for other purposes
such as balance poles, trekking poles and the like. In such
instances, the poles may include light-reflective tape, paint or
other features thereupon to enhance their visibility. In yet other
instances, the poles may include features such as cuffs, bands or
the like which will allow them to be joined to arms, legs, or other
portions of a user's body.
[0032] Also within the scope of this invention are exercise
programs which utilize the disclosed exercise system. Such programs
may be implemented through use of a kit of materials which can
include two or more of the pole assemblies together with
instructional materials in the form of a printed manual, audio
recording and/or video recording. Such exercise programs may
include aerobic programs, strength building programs, as well as
flexibility building programs including yoga, tai chi and the like.
Such programs may also include rehabilitative programs such as
physical therapy programs and occupational therapy programs.
[0033] Still other implementations of the present invention will be
readily apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the
teaching presented herein. The foregoing drawings, discussion and
description are illustrative of some specific embodiments of the
invention, but are not meant to be limitations upon the practice
thereof. It is the following claims, including all equivalents,
which define the scope of the invention.
* * * * *