U.S. patent application number 12/435202 was filed with the patent office on 2009-11-05 for gripping apparatus for an exercise bar.
Invention is credited to Michael N. Fishman.
Application Number | 20090275448 12/435202 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41257481 |
Filed Date | 2009-11-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090275448 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Fishman; Michael N. |
November 5, 2009 |
GRIPPING APPARATUS FOR AN EXERCISE BAR
Abstract
A gripping apparatus for an exercise bar grip surface. The
apparatus including an elongate flexible strap and a tubular
member. The strap including a retention member for removeably
securing to a wrist of a user. The strap including an extension
portion, where the extension portion extends away from the
retention member. The tubular member mounts on the exercise bar
grip surface. The tubular member having a longitudinal length,
wherein the tubular member is open at opposed ends of the
longitudinal length. The tubular member having an inner passage
defined by at least one wall. The tubular member including a cut
passing through the wall and extending across the longitudinal
length. A portion of the strap is secured to the tubular member,
whereby an amount of the extension portion between the retention
member and the tubular member is selectively adjustable.
Inventors: |
Fishman; Michael N.; (Great
Neck, NY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HOFFMANN & BARON, LLP
6900 JERICHO TURNPIKE
SYOSSET
NY
11791
US
|
Family ID: |
41257481 |
Appl. No.: |
12/435202 |
Filed: |
May 4, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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61050025 |
May 2, 2008 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/139 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/0726 20130101;
A63B 21/072 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/139 |
International
Class: |
A63B 71/00 20060101
A63B071/00 |
Claims
1 A gripping apparatus for an exercise bar grip surface, the
apparatus comprising: a tubular member including a thickness and a
longitudinal length, the thickness defined by the distance between
an outer surface of the tubular member and an inner surface of the
tubular member, the inner surface having an inner tubular width
suitable for substantially surrounding the exercise bar grip
surface, wherein a cut extends across the entire longitudinal
length for removeably securing the member to the exercise bar grip
surface, wherein the cut includes opposed inner walls extending
from the outer surface to the inner surface, wherein the distance
between the opposed walls is substantially less than the inner
tubular width, wherein the tubular member is formed of an elastic
material such that the cut can be forced apart from a closed
position to an open position by a user in order to removeably
secure the tubular member on the exercise bar, the material being
biased to return the cut to the closed position when no longer
forced apart, wherein at least one strap aperture extends into the
thickness, the at least one strap aperture being disposed remote
from the cut.
2. The gripping apparatus of claim 1, wherein the tubular member
has a generally circular cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the
longitudinal length.
3. The gripping apparatus of claim 1, wherein the tubular member
has a non-circular shape perpendicular to the longitudinal
length.
4. The gripping apparatus of claim 1, wherein the tubular member
includes more than one tubular layer, wherein upon installation on
the exercise bar an inner surface of a first layer engages the
exercise bar, wherein at least one second layer is removeably
secured to and substantially surrounds the first layer.
5. The gripping apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: an
elongate flexible strap, the strap extending into the strap
aperture.
6. The gripping apparatus of claim 5, wherein the strap includes a
retention member for securing to a wrist of the user.
7. The gripping apparatus of claim 6, wherein a size of the
retention member is adjustable for customizing to a user.
8. The gripping apparatus of claim 6, wherein the strap position is
adjustable relative to the tubular member, wherein a distance
between the tubular member and the retention member is selectively
adjustable.
9. A gripping apparatus for an exercise bar grip surface, the
apparatus comprising: an elongate flexible strap, the strap
including a retention member for removeably securing to a wrist of
a user, the strap including an extension portion, the extension
portion extending away from the retention member; and a tubular
member for mounting on the exercise bar grip surface, the tubular
member having a longitudinal length, wherein the tubular member is
open at opposed ends of the longitudinal length, the tubular member
having an inner passage defined by at least one wall, the tubular
member including a cut passing through the wall and extending
across the longitudinal length, wherein a portion of the strap is
secured to the tubular member, whereby an amount of the extension
portion between the retention member and the tubular member is
selectively adjustable.
10. The gripping apparatus of claim 9, wherein the retention member
includes a loop for receiving the wrist.
11. The gripping apparatus of claim 9, wherein retention member
includes an adjustable wrist band for snuggly securing to the
wrist.
12. The gripping apparatus of claim 9, wherein the tubular member
includes a strap aperture, wherein at least a portion of the strap
extension portion passes through the strap aperture.
13. The gripping apparatus of claim 9, wherein the cut forms a gap
in the tubular member, wherein opposed inner walls of the tubular
member form the gap, the opposed inner walls being spaced apart
from one another.
14. The gripping apparatus of claim 13, wherein the tubular member
inner passage includes a width sized for mounting on the exercise
bar, the distance between opposed walls being substantially smaller
than the inner passage width.
15. The gripping apparatus of claim 9, wherein the tubular member
has a generally circular cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the
longitudinal length.
16. The gripping apparatus of claim 9, wherein the tubular member
includes an outer surface forming a first cross-sectional shape
perpendicular to the longitudinal length, the tubular member
including an inner surface having a second cross-sectional shape
perpendicular to the longitudinal length, wherein the first and
second cross-sectional shapes are substantially different
shapes.
17. A method of performing exercise using a gripping apparatus on
an exercise bar grip surface, the method comprising: placing a
first end of an elongate strap on a wrist, the strap extending from
the first end to an opposed second end, the strap adjustably
secured to a tubular member disposed between the first and second
ends, the tubular member having a longitudinal length, wherein the
tubular member is open at opposed ends of the longitudinal length,
the tubular member having an inner passage defined by at least one
wall, the tubular member including a cut passing through the wall
and extending across the longitudinal length, wherein the strap
passes through an aperture in the at least one wall; applying the
tubular member to the exercise bar by passing a portion of the
exercise bar through the cut, thereby placing the exercise bar
portion substantially inside the tubular member inner passage;
wrapping a first extension portion of the strap around an outer
portion of the tubular member; and gripping the wrapped first
extension portion while moving the exercise bar.
18. The method of claim 17, further comprising: adjusting the
position of the tubular member with respect to the strap by sliding
the strap through the tubular member aperture.
19. The method of claim 17, further comprising: securing a second
extension portion of the strap to a wrist band, the wrist band
fixedly secured to the strap first end, the second extension
portion being disposed along the strap length closer to the second
end.
20. The method of claim 17, further comprising: securing the strap
second end to a central portion of the wrist disposed between the
first end and the tubular member.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims priority to provisional
patent Application Ser. No. 61/050,025, filed May 2, 2008. This
earlier filed provisional application is incorporated herein by
reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The disclosed technologies relate to weight lifting and
fitness exercise. In particular, disclosed is a gripping apparatus
for an exercise bar for improving a user's grip on and interaction
with an exercise bar.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Lifting straps are often used to assist a user in exercising
and particularly weight lifting. Such straps allow the user to
concentrate on aspects of the exercise relating to the user's body
and muscle movements, rather than those aspects involved in
maintaining one's grip on the exercise bar. Maintaining one's grip
on an exercise bar can be a challenge when the weight being lifted
or moved approaches or exceeds the user's grip strength. Such
lifting straps generally include a strap with a loop that is placed
around the user's wrist. The rest of the strap extending away from
the loop is then tightly wrapped directly around the exercise bar.
The user then grips the wrapped portion of the strap, enabling the
user's wrist and arm to relieve some of the effort otherwise needed
to hold the weight.
[0004] Additionally, exercise bars are typically formed in a fixed
cylindrical form. Whether as a unitary bar upon which weights are
secured, the grip portion of a dumbbell or a grip handle for weight
lifting, such exercise bar have a fixed grip circumference. Thus,
even though the size and strength of individual users various
drastically, they are all forced to conform to a fixed size
exercise bar. Also, individual users are unable to vary the size,
circumference or even nature of a grip surface in order to alter an
exercise. For example, a thicker bar will require a different grip
than a thinner bar.
[0005] Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide a gripping
apparatus for an exercise bar and a method of using same in order
to assist a user in maintaining a grip on an exercise bar while
allowing the user to alter the fixed circumference of the grip
surface, as well as overcoming other shortcomings of the prior
art.
SUMMARY
[0006] One aspect of the disclosed technologies relates to a
gripping apparatus for an exercise bar grip surface. The apparatus
including a tubular member including a thickness and a longitudinal
length. The thickness defined by the distance between an outer
surface of the tubular member and an inner surface of the tubular
member. The inner surface having an inner tubular width suitable
for substantially surrounding the exercise bar grip surface,
wherein a cut extends across the entire longitudinal length for
removeably securing the member to the exercise bar grip surface.
The cut includes opposed inner walls extending from the outer
surface to the inner surface, wherein the distance between the
opposed walls is substantially less than the inner tubular width.
The tubular member is formed of an elastic material such that the
cut can be forced apart from a closed position to an open position
by a user in order to removeably secure the tubular member on the
exercise bar. The material being biased to return the cut to the
closed position when no longer forced apart. Also, at least one
strap aperture extends into or through the thickness, the at least
one strap aperture being disposed remote from the cut.
[0007] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosed
technologies the tubular member can have a generally circular
cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the longitudinal length.
Also, the tubular member can have a non-circular shape
perpendicular to the longitudinal length. Further, the tubular
member can include more than one tubular layer, wherein upon
installation on the exercise bar an inner surface of a first layer
engages the exercise bar, wherein at least one second layer is
removeably secured to and substantially surrounds the first
layer.
[0008] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosed
technologies the gripping apparatus can include an elongate
flexible strap, wherein the strap extends into or through the strap
aperture. The strap can include a retention member for securing to
a wrist of the user. A size of the retention member can be
adjustable for customizing to a user. The strap position can be
adjustable relative to the tubular member, wherein a distance
between the tubular member and the retention member is selectively
adjustable.
[0009] Another aspect of the disclosed technologies relates to a
gripping apparatus for an exercise bar grip surface, the apparatus
including an elongate flexible strap and a tubular member. The
elongate flexible strap including a retention member for removeably
securing to a wrist of a user. The strap including an extension
portion, wherein the extension portion extends away from the
retention member. The tubular member can be mounted on the exercise
bar grip surface. The tubular member having a longitudinal length,
wherein the tubular member is open at opposed ends of the
longitudinal length. The tubular member having an inner passage
defined by at least one wall. The tubular member including a cut
passing through the wall and extending across the longitudinal
length. A portion of the strap is secured to the tubular member,
whereby an amount of the extension portion between the retention
member and the tubular member is selectively adjustable.
[0010] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosed
technologies the retention member can include a loop for receiving
the wrist. The retention member can include an adjustable wrist
band for snuggly securing to the wrist. The tubular member can
include a strap aperture, wherein at least a portion of the strap
extension portion passes through the strap aperture. The cut can
form a gap in the tubular member, wherein opposed inner walls of
the tubular member form the gap, the opposed inner walls being
spaced apart from one another. The tubular member inner passage can
include a width sized for mounting on the exercise bar, the
distance between opposed walls being substantially smaller than the
inner passage width. The tubular member can have a generally
circular cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the longitudinal
length. Also, the tubular member can include an outer surface
forming a first cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the
longitudinal length. Further, the tubular member can include an
inner surface having a second cross-sectional shape perpendicular
to the longitudinal length, wherein the first and second
cross-sectional shapes are substantially different shapes.
[0011] Yet another aspect of the disclosed technologies relates to
a method of performing exercise using a gripping apparatus on an
exercise bar grip surface. The method includes placing a first end
of an elongate strap on a wrist. The strap extending from the first
end to an opposed second end. The strap adjustably secured to a
tubular member disposed between the first and second ends. Also,
the tubular member having a longitudinal length, wherein the
tubular member is open at opposed ends of the longitudinal length.
The tubular member having an inner passage defined by at least one
wall, the tubular member including a cut passing through the wall
and extending across the longitudinal length, wherein the strap
passes through an aperture in the at least one wall. The method
also including applying the tubular member to the exercise bar by
passing a portion of the exercise bar through the cut, thereby
placing the exercise bar portion substantially inside the tubular
member inner passage. The method also including wrapping a first
extension portion of the strap around an outer portion of the
tubular member. Also, the method also including gripping the
wrapped first extension portion while moving the exercise bar.
[0012] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosed
technologies the method can further include adjusting the position
of the tubular member with respect to the strap by sliding the
strap through the tubular member aperture. Also, the method can
include securing a second extension portion of the strap to a wrist
band, where the wrist band is fixedly secured to the strap first
end. The second extension portion being disposed along the strap
length closer to the second end. Further, the method can include
securing the strap second end to a central portion of the wrist
disposed between the first end and the tubular member.
[0013] These and other objectives, features, and advantages of this
invention will become apparent from the following detailed
description of illustrative embodiments thereof, which is to be
read in connection with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view of a gripping apparatus
in accordance with an aspect of the disclosed technologies.
[0015] FIG. 2 illustrates a side cut-away view of the gripping
apparatus of FIG. 1, with a strap ended folded back over onto the
strap, in accordance with an aspect of the disclosed
technologies.
[0016] FIG. 3 illustrates the gripping apparatus of FIG. 2 mounted
on an exercise bar, with the tubular member reversed in accordance
with an aspect of the disclosed technologies.
[0017] FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of an alternative gripping
apparatus placed on a user's wrist, in accordance with an aspect of
the disclosed technologies.
[0018] FIG. 5 illustrates an isometric view of the gripping
apparatus of FIG. 4, secured on a user's wrist and mounted on an
exercise bar in accordance with another aspect of the disclosed
technologies.
[0019] FIG. 6 illustrates an isometric view of an alternative
tubular member in accordance with an aspect of the disclosed
technologies.
[0020] FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of a multilayer tubular
member in accordance with an aspect of the disclosed
technologies.
[0021] FIG. 8 illustrates an isometric view of an alternative
tubular member in accordance with an aspect of the disclosed
technologies.
[0022] FIG. 9 illustrates an isometric view of an alternative
tubular member in accordance with an aspect of the disclosed
technologies.
[0023] FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of an alternative tubular
member mounted on an exercise bar in accordance with an aspect of
the disclosed technologies.
[0024] FIG. 11 illustrates a side view of another alternative
tubular member mounted on an exercise bar in accordance with an
aspect of the disclosed technologies.
[0025] FIG. 12 illustrates a side view of another tubular member in
accordance with an aspect of the disclosed technologies.
[0026] FIG. 13 illustrates a side view of another tubular member in
accordance with an aspect of the disclosed technologies.
[0027] FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of another tubular member in
accordance with an aspect of the disclosed technologies.
[0028] FIG. 15 illustrates a side view of yet another alternative
tubular member mounted on an exercise bar in accordance with an
aspect of the disclosed technologies
[0029] FIG. 16 illustrates a side view of another tubular member in
accordance with an aspect of the disclosed technologies.
[0030] FIG. 17 illustrates a side view of the tubular member of
FIG. 16 mounted on an exercise bar in accordance with an aspect of
the disclosed technologies.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0031] The present invention is a gripping apparatus for an
exercise bar used in weight lifting and fitness exercise. The
gripping apparatus disclosed herein will assist a user in
maintaining a grip on an exercise bar. Also, the gripping apparatus
disclosed herein allows a user to alter aspects of the grip for
performing and altering an exercise with an exercise bar.
[0032] FIGS. 1 and 2 show an embodiment of a gripping apparatus 10
prior to placement on a user and prior to installation on an
exercise bar. The gripping apparatus 10 includes a tubular member
100 and an elongate flexible strap 200. It should be noted that the
tubular member 100, by itself, is also a gripping apparatus in
accordance with the invention herein. The elongate flexible strap
200 passes through at least one aperture in the tubular member
providing a coupling between a user's wrist, the tubular member and
the weight carried thereon (i.e., the exercise bar).
[0033] The tubular member 100 in accordance with the disclosed
technologies is generally formed as an elongate hollow member. A
tubular member as referred to herein means any elongate hollow body
having a longitudinal length from end to end and apertures at
opposed ends into the inner hollow region. A tubular member is not
limited to a cylindrical member. The tubular member is preferably
sized to accommodate an intended exercise bar and sized to
accommodate either a broad range of users or a particular more
common sized user. For example, the length of the tubular member
100 can be approximately 43/8 inches, which accommodates a
contemporary dumbbell. However, it should be understood that the
tubular member 100 can be made longer or shorter to accommodate
different bars and/or different applications. As a further example,
the tubular member can have an outer diameter 102 of 2 inches and
an inner diameter 104 of 1 inch, which dimensions also accommodate
typical barbells, dumbbells and cable grips that have a 1 inch grip
bar diameter. This provides for a 1/2 inch thickness for the
tubular member 100. Alternatively, this thickness could be made
greater or smaller, depending on the application or desires of the
user. For example, a thinner grip thickness might be helpful for
users with smaller hands and/or users wanting a smaller grip
configuration. By altering or adjusting the grip thickness, from
that of the standard exercise bar, a user can target different
muscles during an exercise.
[0034] The tubular member 100 is intended to be placed over a
portion of an exercise bar that would otherwise be handled or
engaged by a user directly or engaged by the user through the use
of a lifting strap. Also, the tubular member 100 while keeping
itself firmly secured to the exercise bar, should also be easily
removable by a user without the need for tools. Thus, using only
his or her hand(s), without the need for tools, the user should be
able to pull the tubular member off the exercise bar. In this way,
it can be re-used on another exercise bar as part of a next
exercise, stored or removed for a period until that exercise bar is
used again. The tubular member 100 can be easy to clean and can
withstand the wear of numerous exercise intervals. Also, the
tubular member 100 is preferably made from a durable, elastic,
mildew resistant and somewhat yielding material that is comfortable
for a user to grip. For example the tubular member 100 can be made
of neoprene rubber or similar strong elastic materials. It should
be understood that the tubular member 100 can be made from other
materials, in order to provide a softer or firmer grip as desired.
Additionally, the tubular member 100 can be made from a layered or
non-homogenous construction in order to alter the weight,
durability, firmness or other characteristics.
[0035] The inner diameter 104 of the tubular member 100 can be
designed to match or loosely accommodate the outer diameter and
shape of the exercise bar on which it is placed, or at least the
gripping portion/surface thereof. The tubular member 100 is
generally mounted onto an exercise bar by separating the tubular
member at cut 130 and wrapping the tubular member around the
exercise bar. In this way, the tubular member is applied to the
exercise bar by passing a portion of the exercise bar through the
cut 130 until the exercise bar is seated inside the hollow region
of the tubular member 100. The material of the tubular member 100
is preferably flexible enough to allow it to be expanded to
accommodate the thickness of the bar on which it is being
installed. Also, the cut 130 allows the tubular member 100 to
easily be removed from the exercise bar.
[0036] The cut 130 can be formed as a slit or gap that passes
completely through the material of the tubular member 100 and
extends across the entire tubular member from one end to the other.
When the cut is formed as a gap, there is a separation X between
opposed longitudinal edges n the tubular member 100. When the cut
is formed as a slit, the separation X is reduced to zero, the
opposed longitudinal edges touch one another. The size of the
separation X can be altered to achieve varied design
considerations.
[0037] The strap 200 is formed as an elongate flexible band
extending from a loose end 201 along its length to a wrist
engagement end 209. An extent of the strap can be formed of one or
more fabrics, as are known in contemporary lifting straps for
weight lifting and exercise. The wrist engagement end 209 can
include a retention member 214 in the form of a loop. The retention
member 214 receives a user's wrist by slipping the user's hand
through the loop. Such a loop can be formed by simply folding the
strap 200 back over on itself and sewing or otherwise fastening an
end of the strap to a more central portion 216. In the embodiment
shown, the strap 200 is further provided with Velcro.RTM. elements
212, 218 so the loose end 201 of the strap can be folded back and
secured to the strap 200 after passing through the tubular member
100. In this way, a portion 203 of the strap runs along a portion
of the outer surface of the tubular member 100 for securing the
mating Velcro.RTM. elements 212, 218. Alternatively, a traditional
belt buckle, clip or other type of fastening means could be used in
place of Velcro.RTM.. Also, the loose end need not have any
fastening means and be simply wrapped around the outer surface of
the tubular member 100 and held by a user.
[0038] As shown in FIG. 2, the strap 200 passes through a strap
aperture 140. The strap aperture 140 is shown disposed directly
opposite the cut 130, however these openings need not be 180
degrees apart, relative to such a side view. The strap aperture 140
can be formed as a further slit or cut in tubular member 100.
However, in contrast to the cut 130, the strap aperture 140 should
not extend across the entire length of the tubular member 100.
Rather, strap aperture 140 is preferably sized to accommodate the
thickness and width of the portion of strap 200 intended to pass
therethrough. At minimum, the strap aperture 140 can be a tight
slit, wherein the somewhat yielding material of the tubular member
allows the strap 200 to forced therethrough. Having a tight fit of
the strap 200 in strap aperture 140 provides the advantage that the
tubular member 100 will not easily move along, fall off or separate
from the strap 200. A tight fit between the strap aperture 140 and
the strap 200 allows both the tubular member 100 and the strap 200
to be adjustably secured relative to one another.
[0039] FIG. 3 illustrates that the strap 200 can be fed through the
tubular member 100 in the opposite direction. In this
configuration, the strap aperture 140 faces the retention member
214. Also, FIG. 3 shows how tubular member 100 can accommodate both
the strap 200 as well as an exercise bar 15. Accordingly, a portion
205 of the strap is made to run between an outer surface of the
exercise bar 15 and an inner surface of the tubular member 100. As
a further alternative, the inner surface of the tubular member 100
can include a groove or recess for receiving portion 205 of the
strap, allowing the inside shape of the tubular member 100 to more
accurately match the outer shape of the exercise bar 15.
[0040] As yet a further alternative embodiment, the tubular member
100 could be formed with an additional internal passage that runs
inside the thickness of the outer wall of tubular member 100 and
connects cut 130 with strap aperture 140. In this way, the strap
portion 205 is fed through that additional passage and kept
separate from the exercise bar. With reference to FIG. 3, such an
additional internal passage could be formed in the upper and/or
lower halves of the tubular member 100. Also, the strap portion 205
would be fixedly secured or pre-molded inside such an additional
internal passage. In an embodiment where the strap 200 is fixedly
secured to the tubular member 100, it could be advantageous to
provide a means for adjusting the position of the retention member
214 relative to the tubular member 100. Thus, the strap central
portion 216 could alternatively include a buckle or adjustable
retention mechanism, rather than having a fixed non-adjustable
retention member 214.
[0041] FIG. 4 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the gripping
apparatus 10 placed on the wrist 2 of a user. Once again the
tubular member 100 includes a cut 130 and strap aperture 140. Also,
FIG. 4 more clearly illustrates the internal hollow passage 125
extending from both ends through the entire tubular member 100.
Additionally, this embodiment includes a wrist band 220 attached to
the strap 200 for securing the gripping apparatus 10 to the user's
wrist 2. The wrist band 220 is formed as a split loop that overlaps
on itself for adjusting its size to accommodate wrists of various
sizes. The wrist band 200 can be provided with a padding or
protective layer 222 that is comfortable to a user's skin, as this
protective layer 222 directly engages the user's wrist. The size of
the wrist band 200 can be changed by adjusting the amount of band
strap 224 extending beyond buckle 225. The loose end 229 along with
any excess band strap 224 can then be folded back over the buckle
225 and secured to the wrist band 200 with alternative mating
Velcro.RTM. elements 226, 228. by in size to accommodate different
users. Alternatively, buckle 225 could be in the form of another
type of fastening means, such as snap fasteners or a traditional
belt buckle, with strap 224 having apertures for a pivotal buckle
pin that would be added to buckle 225.
[0042] FIG. 5 shows the gripping apparatus in accordance with the
disclosed technologies in use during an exercise. Accordingly, the
strap 200 is placed on the user's wrist 2; particularly the
protective layer 222 of the wrist band 220. The strap 200 passing
through the tubular member 100, which is in turn mounted on an
exercise bar 15. The loose end 210 of strap 200 is folded back
toward the user's wrist 2 and can be further secured under the
Velcro.RTM. secured end 229 of the band strap.
[0043] FIG. 6 illustrates a further alternative embodiment of the
tubular member 100. As shown the tubular member 100 can be formed
with a cut 130 have a bigger separation X'. Additionally, FIG. 6
illustrates yet another aspect of the disclosed technologies with
regard to the strap aperture. In particular, more than one strap
aperture 141, 142, 143 can be provided. Also, even if a single
strap aperture were provided, it need not be centrally located
along the longitudinal length of the tubular member 100. Also, the
strap apertures 141, 142, 143 can be located at different
circumferential positions along the internal surface. In fact, it
can be advantageous not to align the strap apertures 141, 142, 143
along their length in order to avoid easily splitting the tubular
after moderate use.
[0044] In accordance with an aspect of the disclosed technologies,
the tubular member 100 can alternatively be used on an exercise bar
without the strap 200. Also, as yet a further alternative, the
tubular member can be used by itself as a squeezing or gripping
exercise. In this way, without the use of an exercise bar or the
strap 200, the user simply squeezes the tubular member 100 as an
exercise in and of itself. The outer surface of the tubular member
100 preferably provides a mildly yielding surface for the user to
engage. For example, a soft rubber surface is gentler on a user's
hand than the hard metal surface of a contemporary exercise bar. By
using a tubular member 100, the user can avoid having to wear
gloves when working out. Also, the outer surface can be provided
with patterns, pictures, logos, text and/or names. Alternatively,
the outer surface can include advertisements or other information.
Additionally, while the inner and outer surfaces of the tubular
member 100 can be made smooth, they can alternatively be provided
with a more textured or porous surface to resist slippage or
relative rotation.
[0045] FIG. 7 shows a side view of yet a further tubular member 100
that is formed by overlapping layers of thinner tubular members
111, 112, 113. It should be understood that while three layers of
tubular members 111, 112, 113 are shown, two or more such layers
can be used as desired by a user. The use of multiple layers allows
a user to adapt the tubular member 100 to a desired diameter
suitable to the size of the user's hand or even to alter the effect
of the exercise on the user. Thus, having a user grip a small
diameter outer surface during an exercise can target muscles
differently than having that user grip a larger diameter outer
surface.
[0046] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 the tubular members 111,
112, 113 are each formed with a cut gap Y.sub.1, Y.sub.2, Y.sub.3
respectively. As shown, it is advantageous to provide varying cut
gaps Y.sub.1, Y.sub.2, Y.sub.3 in order to more easily separate one
tubular member layer 111, 112, 113 from another. Alternatively, the
dimensions of the tubular member layers 111, 112, 113 can be formed
such that cut gaps Y.sub.1, Y.sub.2, Y.sub.3 are all equal or
substantially equal to one another. Additionally, the individual
tubular members 111, 112, 113 need not be formed having the same
thickness, materials or texturing. For example, outer layer 113 can
be formed of a more pliable/flexible foam or gel-like material,
while inner layers 111, 112 can be formed of more rigid materials.
Also, the inner layer 111 along with the outer layer 113 can be
formed of pliable/flexible materials, while having the middle layer
112 formed of more rigid material to maintain the form of the
overall tubular member 100.
[0047] FIG. 8 shows an further alternative tubular member 100 with
outer diameter 102 and inner diameter 104. As with other
embodiments, the cut 130 includes a gap or separation X formed by
opposed inner walls 132, 134 being separated from one another.
Also, the separation X extends along the tubular member 100 from
one end 101 to another 109. The embodiment shown in While such a
gap x can be of varying sizes, the tubular member 100 should be
designed to remain securely on the exercise bar when in use.
However, while the tubular member should not easily slip off when
performing exercises, it should be removable from the exercise bar
without a great deal of effort by a user.
[0048] FIG. 8 further illustrates that an outer surface 110 can
include mildly recessed gripping grooves 115. Such grooves 115 can
be engaged by a user's fingers while gripping the tubular member
100. Further, the grooves 115 can included a more textured surface
than the outer surface 110 for helping a user maintain a grip.
Also, a single wider groove could be provided that is adapted to
accommodate the portion of the wrist strap that extends across the
outer surface of the tubular member.
[0049] FIG. 9 shows yet a further embodiment of a tubular member
100 with an outer surface 110 that contains additional gripping
elements 116. Gripping elements 116 extend longitudinally across
the extent of outer surface 110. Such gripping elements 116 can be
formed by small grooves in the outer surface 110. Alternatively,
gripping elements 116 can be formed as a protruding ridge that
extends across the outer surface 110. Also, as yet a further
alternative, the gripping elements 116 can be formed by forming
alternating grooves and ridges around the circumference of the
outer surface 110. It should be understood that gripping elements
116 can also be formed to extend across only a portion of the
longitudinal length of outer surface 110. Also, separate regions of
gripping elements 116 can be formed in the outer surface, such as
the regions of grooves 115 illustrated with regard to tubular
member in FIG. 8. Further still, the grooves and/or protrusions
forming the gripping elements 116 can be non-symmetrically spaced
around the outer or inner surfaces of the tubular member. Also, the
gripping elements 116 can comprise anything from a single extending
ridge or protrusion to a greater plurality as shown in the
illustrations. Yet further still, each groove/protrusion can be
deeper or extend outwardly further, respectively. Also, the grooves
and/or ridges can vary in size, depth, height and width.
[0050] The tubular member 100 also includes an inner surface 120
provided with gripping elements, similar to gripping elements 116,
in order to limit or resist relative movement with the exercise bar
15 or strap 200 once the user is ready to exercise with the
apparatus 10. Alternatively, the inner surface of the tubular
members 100 in the various embodiments shown can be provided with a
porous or gripping surface to make sure it holds onto the exercise
bar and to ensure that the tubular member remains in place. As a
further alternative, the inside surfaces of the tubular members 100
can be formed with a relatively high coefficient of friction, a
mild tackiness or even be provided with adhesives to ensure that
they remain in place relative to the exercise bar. A high
coefficient of friction as referred to herein refers to a level
friction that generally prevents relative movement between two
surfaces under normal handling and exercising conditions.
Preferably, the adhesives are mild enough to allow the tubular
member to be removed after being installed and used for the
intended exercise.
[0051] FIGS. 10 and 11 show a further embodiment of the disclosed
technologies. The tubular member 150 is formed with a square
cross-section. In this way, outer surface 151 is formed as a
generally planar surface. Rather than having a diameter, the
tubular member 150 has dimensions suited to the exercise bar 15 for
which it is intended. In FIG. 10, the distance between opposed
inner planar surfaces is substantially similar to the outer
diameter of the exercise bar 15. Also, while cut 153 is shown with
a gap, it should be understood that alternatively either no gap can
be formed by the cut or a larger gap can be formed if desired. FIG.
11 shows an alternative where tubular member 150 is formed slightly
smaller than that shown in FIG. 6, such that upon installation on
exercise bar 15, the outer surface 154 is somewhat distorted or
bulges/undulates. When the distance between opposed inner surfaces
of the exercise tubular member 150 are smaller than the outer
diameter of the exercise bar 15, the inner surfaces 152 somewhat
conform to the shape of the bar, thus slightly drawing-in the outer
corners of the otherwise square shape. The distortions or bulges in
outer surface 154 can further assist the user in maintaining a firm
grip, similar to the gripping elements described above. Also,
forming the bulges and mildly protruding corners using the
configuration shown in FIG. 11 can reduce manufacturing costs, as
compared to the texturing and/or surfaces described with regard
other embodiments. A relatively simple cross-sectional shape, once
installed distorts into a more form-fitting contoured shape with
protrusions that assist the user to grip the outer surface.
[0052] FIGS. 10 and 11 further illustrate how the tubular member
500, as with the other embodiments herein, will substantially
surround a grip surface of the exercise bar 15. As noted herein,
the gap 153 shown can be formed larger or smaller than that shown
and can be eliminated as shown in FIG. 16. In substantially
surrounding the grip surface, the tubular member wraps around
enough of the circumference of the exercise bar 15 in order to
remain secured thereon. Accordingly, a larger gap can be used with
a more rigid tubular member composition, while a more flexible or
elastic composition may require a relatively smaller gap in order
to remain secured on the bar while in use. Nonetheless, the gap
should be substantially smaller than the inside diameter or width
of the tubular member in order to remain secured on the exercise
bar.
[0053] FIGS. 12-15 show side views of further alternative tubular
members in accordance with the disclosed technologies. FIG. 12
shown tubular member 160 formed with an octagonal cross-sectional
shape. FIG. 13 shown tubular member 162 formed with a hexagonal
cross-sectional shape. FIG. 14 shown tubular member 164 formed with
a triangular cross-sectional shape. FIG. 15 shown grip sleeve 166
formed with an elliptical cross-sectional shape. As a further
alternative to grip sleeve 166, the cut 130 could be disposed 90
degrees from that shown. In this way added internal space 156 is
provided to accommodate the strap 200 that will pass therethrough.
It should be understood that while various cross-sectional shapes
are illustrated and noted herein, the tubular member in accordance
with the disclosed technologies is not limited to those recited
shapes. The cross-sectional shapes can be other known geometric
shapes, for example a star, rectangle, polygon etc. Also, the
cross-sectional shape need not be a uniform or symmetrical
shape.
[0054] It should be further understood, that a tubular member can
alternatively be formed having an outer surface form having a
non-cylindrical shape, but with a generally cylindrical inner
shape. For example, FIG. 16 shows a tubular member 168 with an
outer surface 110 that forms a hexagonal cross-sectional shape, yet
has an inner surface 120 that has a circular cross-sectional shape.
Similarly, outer tubular member 113, shown in FIG. 7, could
alternatively be formed with a non-cylindrical outer form.
[0055] As referred to herein, the "cross-sectional shape" refers to
a form included in a cross-section of the tubular member. The shape
can refer to the outer surface and/or the inner surface of the
tubular member. In several embodiments the outer and inner surfaces
have a similar cross-sectional shape having different sizes.
However, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the tubular member can
include a different cross-sectional shape related to its outer
surface from the cross-sectional shape associated with the inner
surface.
[0056] As shown in FIGS. 10 and 15, the tubular members can be
designed to have a loose fit on the exercise bar 15. As more
particularly shown in FIG. 15, by varying the internal gap 156
between the inner tubular member surfaces and the bar 15, the
tubular member can be made to have a loose fit on the bar 15. It
may be desirable for the tubular member to slip or rotate relative
to the bar 15, while remaining secured thereon. Such slippage can
also be facilitated by providing a smooth or low friction inner
surface on the inside of the tubular member. A low coefficient of
friction as referred to herein refers to a level friction that
generally promotes or facilitates relative movement between two
surfaces under normal handling and exercising conditions.
[0057] The inner diameter or form of the tubular member can be
designed to match or closely match the outer diameter and shape of
the exercise bar on which it is placed. Alternatively, it can be
useful for the inner diameter of the tubular member to be slightly
smaller than the anticipated outer diameter of the exercise bar, in
order to ensure a tight fit. As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the
tubular member 168 is formed with a closed cut 130 in the form of a
slit. Thus, in a relaxed position the two opposed walls within the
cut 130 engage one another. Also, the tubular member 168 has an
internal diameter D.sub.1. As shown in FIG. 17, once the tubular
member 168 is mounted onto the exercise bar 15, having a wider
diameter D.sub.2, the cut 130 separates and forms a gap Y.
Providing a gap can be useful to avoid a user pinching their own
skin while gripping the device.
[0058] The gripping apparatus of the present invention has many
advantages for user's of exercise bars. By easily installing and
removing the tubular member, a user can ensure a more sanitary
exercise environment. Additionally, a user can maintain a better
grip on an otherwise heavy, smooth or hard to hold exercise bar.
Also, without having to use gloves a user can keep his or her hand
relatively cool while still ensuring a soft surface for engaging an
exercise bar. Further, a user can alter an exercise by changing the
tubular member dimensions. The use of the gripping apparatus as
described herein can allow a user to alter the range of motion or
even target different muscles during an exercise.
[0059] While various embodiments of the present invention are
specifically illustrated and/or described herein, it is to be
understood that the invention is not limited to those precise
embodiments and that various other changes and modifications may be
affected herein by one skilled in the art without departing from
the scope or spirit of the invention, and that it is intended to
claim all such changes and modifications that fall within the scope
of the invention.
* * * * *