U.S. patent application number 12/399964 was filed with the patent office on 2010-09-09 for asymmetric physical exercise system.
Invention is credited to CHI HUNG DANG.
Application Number | 20100227744 12/399964 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42678766 |
Filed Date | 2010-09-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100227744 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
DANG; CHI HUNG |
September 9, 2010 |
ASYMMETRIC PHYSICAL EXERCISE SYSTEM
Abstract
Asymmetric Physical Exercise method and hardware system wherein
two trainee's body member units apply a load referred as isometric
load against each other directly or indirectly while an additional
load referred as bias load from an external source is applied to
one of the body member units, each of said body member units
includes at least one trainee's body member, and the said bias load
direction is independent from the directions of body member units
instantaneous motion velocities and has a component parallel to the
isometric load.
Inventors: |
DANG; CHI HUNG; (Tucson,
AZ) |
Correspondence
Address: |
CHI HUNG DANG
7901 EAST HARDY STREET
TUCSON
AZ
85750
US
|
Family ID: |
42678766 |
Appl. No.: |
12/399964 |
Filed: |
March 8, 2009 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/91 ; 482/122;
482/129; 482/93 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/0023 20130101;
A63B 21/154 20130101; A63B 21/4017 20151001; A63B 2220/51 20130101;
A63B 21/06 20130101; A63B 23/12 20130101; A63B 21/00058 20130101;
A63B 23/1209 20130101; A63B 21/0552 20130101; A63B 21/00181
20130101; A63B 23/03525 20130101; A63B 21/4043 20151001; A63B
23/03533 20130101; A63B 21/4035 20151001 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/91 ; 482/93;
482/122; 482/129 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/002 20060101
A63B021/002; A63B 21/06 20060101 A63B021/06; A63B 21/04 20060101
A63B021/04 |
Claims
1. Asymmetric Physical Exercise System, which comprises: two
attachment means, each is attached to one of two trainee's body
member units, each of said body member units includes at least one
trainee's body member, an attachment interconnecting means that
connects the said two attachment means to at least provide means
for the two body member units to apply a load referred as isometric
load against each other, and a bias loading generating means to
apply an additional load referred as bias load to one body member
unit directly or indirectly, the said bias load direction is
independent from the instantaneous motion velocity direction of the
attachment interconnecting means and comprises a component parallel
to the isometric load.
2. Asymmetric Physical Exercise System of claim 1 wherein the
attachment interconnecting means comprises a load sensing means to
monitor the isometric load applied by the two body member units
against each other.
3. Asymmetric Physical Exercise System of claim 1 wherein the
spacing distance between the two attachment means is
adjustable.
4. Asymmetric Physical Exercise System of claim 1 wherein the bias
loading generating means comprises a means for generating bias load
with gravity force.
5. Asymmetric Physical Exercise System of claim 1 wherein the bias
loading generating means comprises a means for generating bias load
with elastic force.
6. Asymmetric Physical Exercise System of claim 1 further comprises
a supporting means to connect the attachment interconnecting means
to a rigid platform.
7. Asymmetric Physical Exercise System of claim 6 wherein the
supporting means comprises a load sensing means to monitor the
supporting load provided by the supporting means.
8. Asymmetric Physical Exercise System of claim 6 wherein the
supporting means length is adjustable.
9. Asymmetric Physical Exercise System of claim 6 wherein the
attachment interconnecting means comprises: a pulley system that
comprises at least one pulley, and a flexible cable that runs
through the pulley system, each end of said flexible cable is
connected to each attachment means.
10. Asymmetric Physical Exercise System of claim 6 wherein the
attachment interconnecting means comprise a bar, each end of said
bar is connected to each attachment means and the supporting means
connects to said bar at a location between the two attachment
means.
11. Asymmetric Physical Exercise System of claim 10 wherein the
bias loading generating means that comprises a means for generating
bias load with gravity force is mounted on the bar at adjustable
location along the bar for varying the bias load.
12. Asymmetric Physical Exercise System of claim 10 wherein the
supporting means comprises a flexible cable with adjustable
length.
13. Asymmetric Physical Exercise System of claim 10 wherein the
supporting means comprises a belt with buckle for adjusting the
supporting means length.
14. Asymmetric Physical Exercise method wherein two trainee's body
member units apply a load referred as isometric load against each
other directly or indirectly, during which a load referred as bias
load is applied to one of the body member units, each of said body
member units includes at least one trainee's body member, and the
said bias load direction is independent from the directions of body
member units instantaneous motion velocities and comprises a
component parallel to the isometric load.
15. Asymmetric Physical Exercise method of claim 14 wherein the two
trainee's body member units move in reciprocal motion.
16. Asymmetric Physical Exercise method of claim 14 wherein the two
trainee's body member units remain motionless at one or a plurality
of joint positions.
17. Asymmetric Physical Exercise method involving two trainee's
body member units referred as first body member unit and second
body member unit, each of said body member unit includes at least
one trainee's body member, wherein: the total load applied to the
first body member unit comprises an isometric load produced by the
second body member unit against the first body member unit, the
total load applied to the second body member unit comprises an
isometric load produced by the first body member unit against the
second body member unit and a bias load, and the said bias load
direction is independent from the directions of body member units
instantaneous motion velocities and comprises a component parallel
to the isometric load.
18. Asymmetric Physical Exercise method of claim 17 wherein the two
trainee's body member units move in reciprocal motion.
19. Asymmetric Physical Exercise method of claim 17 wherein the two
trainee's body member units remain motionless at one or a plurality
of joint positions.
20. Asymmetric Physical Exercise method of claim 17 wherein the
bias load comprises gravity force.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to the field of physical
exercises, particularly to strength training and muscle
building.
[0003] 2. Background of the Invention
[0004] For strength training, there are several concepts including:
[0005] Isometrics: Static Isometric resistance training refers to
muscular action during which no change in the length of the muscle
takes place. Static Isometric exercises develop static strength.
This is the strength one needs to push or pull a heavy object or
hold it up. The Dynamic Isometric exercise concept is referred as
an exercise technique wherein the trainee uses force applied
symmetrically by opposite sides of his body or by two different
body parts such as leg versus arm, substantially without any
external resistance. The motion includes ("positive") concentric
phase wherein the muscle contracts to produce movement and
("negative") eccentric phase wherein the muscle lengthens to
produce movement. The load can be applied directly or via a device,
the two body members are alternately subjected to opposite motion
phase: when one is in ("positive") concentric phase, then the other
is in ("negative") eccentric phase, and vice versa. The most
advantage of this technique is that the exerciser controls the
resistance, speed, and pre-stretch; unfortunately, the advantage is
also the disadvantage since the exerciser needs to master the
technique to enjoy the best benefits. For rehabilitation, the
Static Isometric mode is commonly used pre and post operatively or
when pain associated with motion is a factor. Isometric
contractions are effective at developing strength and decreasing
joint effusion while avoiding painful points in the range of
motion. Static Isometric exercises have great benefits for joint
rehabilitation programs because by definition they involve no
movement and so can be performed in joint positions that produce no
pain or excessive stress, which avoids jeopardizing the healing
process of the injury. In addition, useful isometric exercises can
be performed in any house without any equipment. [0006] Dynamic
Constant External Resistance: Used to be called isotonic exercise.
Muscle exerts a constant tension. The motion includes a concentric
("positive") phase wherein the muscle contracts to produce movement
and an eccentric ("negative") phase wherein the muscle lengthens to
produce movement. The weight on a machine or bar stays constant but
at the various angles in a range of motion there are changes in the
mechanical advantage, thus the force exerted by the muscle is not
constant. [0007] Variable Resistance Training: using cams, lever
arms and pulleys, these types of machines alter the resistance in
an attempt to match the increases and decreases in strength
throughout the exercises range of motion. These are typical
strength curves: [0008] Ascending strength curve=squat, easier at
the top. [0009] Descending strength curve=upright row, easier at
the bottom. [0010] Bell-shaped curve=biceps curl easier in the
middle. [0011] No machine has been enabling to match the three
types of strength curves or be able to accommodate differences in
body height and limb lengths. Lots of studies using various
combinations of sets and reps have determined that dynamic variable
resistance can cause significant increases in strength. [0012]
Eccentric Training: Also called "negative" training refers to a
muscular action in which the muscle lengthens in a controlled
manner. Eccentric force output is greater than concentric
output--one can lower more than you can lift so strength can be
improve greatly. This training technique usually requires a spotter
to assist with the concentric phase of the lift since the optimum
load for the eccentric phase is greater than the load that the
trainee can lift during the concentric phase. [0013] Isokinetic
Training: Isokinetic exercise was first introduced by Hislop et al.
in 1967, and since then it has been used widely in rehabilitation.
Unlike isometric and isotonic contraction, isokinetic contractions
provide muscle training throughout the range of motion (ROM) of a
joint at a pre-set, constant speed of contractions. When a specific
speed is reached the device will automatically accommodate to give
resistance to each point in the range of motion (ROM) while
allowing the specific speed to be maintained. If the trainee is
working as fast and as hard as he/she can, the muscles will work at
the maximum force at all points in the ROM at that particular
speed. This type of training is very safe. When the trainee applies
force, the device provides resistance. If the force stops, the
resistance stops automatically. Force changes caused by muscle
length/tension relationship, skeletal leverage, pain or fatigue is
then easily accommodated. Though the advantage of being able to
train at several contractile speeds has not been specifically
illustrated, most athletic events, however, occur at fast speed of
contraction. Early studies have shown that strength gained at
relatively fast speed of contraction could be carried over into
relatively slow speed of contraction. [0014] It can be Concentric
or Eccentric. Results of a study suggest Concentric Isokinetic and
Eccentric isokinetic training equally improve Concentric muscular
torque and rate of torque production. In addition, Eccentric
training results in greater Eccentric torque and rate of torque
production improvements compared to Concentric training. Another
study suggests: The preloaded isokinetic exhibited retention of
strength and endurance gains for as long as a year. The results
indicated that the preloaded isokinetic yielded superior gains in
strength and endurance as compared with the pure isokinetic except
for isometric endurance. The observed retention of gains in the
preloaded isokinetic during follow-ups may help direct
rehabilitation to include eccentrics with isokinetic training. In
U.S. Pat. No. 4,822,036, U.S. Pat. No. 4,750,738, and U.S. Pat. No.
4,751,440, Dang disclosed design concepts for Isokinetic training
system that can provide preload Concentric Isokinetic and Eccentric
Isokinetic training employing an electrical motor; however, the
system can be very expensive to produce and maintain. [0015]
Plyometrics Training: The word plyometric is beginning to be
replaced by the term "stretch-shortening cycle exercise". This
refers to the sequence of: Eccentric>isometric>concentric.
[0016] When the sequence of eccentric to concentric action is
performed quickly; the muscle is stretched slightly prior to the
concentric action. The slight stretching stores elastic energy,
which is added to the normal force developed only by the concentric
muscle action. The pre-stretch might also result in quicker
recruitment of muscle fibers. Elastic energy may account for a 30%
increase in force production. It's important to introduce
stretch-shortening training slowly into the program and keep the
volume of training relatively low.
[0017] None of the above training techniques can meet all of these
advantages that produce effective results and can be cost
effective: [0018] Producing Maximum load (resistance) that matches
the trainee maximum capacity through out the range of motion and
through out the course of training for each and every repetition of
every set. [0019] The generated Eccentric load (resistance) is
greater than the generated Concentric load (resistance). [0020]
Providing Preload (Pre-stretch) before the motion. [0021]
Feasibility for injury rehabilitation. [0022] Control of motion
speed through out the range of motion. [0023] The means to monitor
the load and the speed of the training motion. [0024] The ease of
training. [0025] Safe training, minimum risk of injury. [0026]
Without the need for an assistant such as a spotter. [0027] Low
cost to produce and maintain the training equipments.
[0028] In U.S. Pat. No. 5,234,396, Miller disclosed an adjustable
resistance upper body exerciser that includes a generally arcuate
belt encircling the waist of a user and having a generally flat,
rigid posterior central portion and flexible anterior portions
including buckling means. A flexible inelastic cord having a length
and left and right ends passes through an elongated guide means
attached to the belt, slidably retaining a central portion of the
length the cord and leaving the right and left ends of the cord
extending in the anterior direction. A snubber is attached to the
rigid posterior portion of the belt, contacting the slidable cord
and applying an adjustable friction load to the slidably retained
cord. A pair of handles are attached to left and right ends of the
cord, whereby a user wearing the belt encircling the waist may
alternately pull said left and right handles with a tension force
generally proportional to the friction load applied to the cord by
the snubber. In this concept, the load is the sum Isometric
resistance produced by the trainee and the Isotonic resistance
produced by friction force having direction opposite to the cord
motion. As result: the concentric load is always greater than the
eccentric load. This concept does not meet these criteria:
Producing maximum load that matches the trainers maximum capacity
through out the range of motion and through out the course of
training for each and every repetition of every set, producing
Eccentric load is greater than Concentric load, the means to
monitor the load and the speed of the training motion and Control
of motion speed through out the range of motion. The force diagram
is illustrated in FIG. 3a. In U.S. Pat. No. 4,441,707, Bosch
disclosed an exerciser, which includes a belt shaped for encircling
the waist of a user, and attachment thereabout in a selected
orientation. A flexible line with handles attached to opposite ends
is slidingly connected with the belt for longitudinal,
reciprocating motion of the flexible line with respect to the belt.
While jogging, the user can simultaneously exercise his upper body
muscles by grasping the handles in opposite hands, and alternately
pushing one handle forwardly, while simultaneously resisting
rearward movement of the other handle, thereby isometrically
exercising the user's arm and upper body muscles. This concept does
not meet these criteria: Producing maximum load that matches the
trainers maximum capacity through out the range of motion and
through out the course of training for each and every repetition of
every set, producing Eccentric load is greater than Concentric
load, the means to monitor the load and the speed of the training
motion and Control of motion speed through out the range of motion.
The force diagram is illustrated in FIG. 3a.
[0029] In U.S. Pat. No. 5,328,432, Gvoich disclosed A reciprocating
variable isotonic resistance upper extremity and upper torso
exerciser comprising: a plurality of removable and flexible
housings having a channel and a bore interiorly said housing being
slidingly mounted on a waist encircling belt; a means for buckling
said belt; a flexible inelastic rope having a length and right and
left ends; a plurality of guide tubes mounted in said bores of said
housings, said members slidably retaining said rope, leaving said
right and left ends extending therefrom in the anterior direction;
a resistance means being mounted in one of said bores of one of
said housing, which contacts and slidable rope to impart a
resistance thereon, further including: notched guide means having a
threaded orifice in a outward facing wall thereof, a threaded thumb
screw engaging therein, a U-shaped metal shoe having flanges at its
left and right ends whereby said shoe is docked in a lumen of said
notched guide with one of said flanges interlocking with one of
said notches of said guide means to retain said shoe in place
during use, whereby a turning of said crew adjust the friction load
born on said rope; and handles attached to a left and a right end
of said rope, whereby, during use, a user may reciprocally pull
said left and right handles against a resistance provided by said
means for providing a resistance. In this concept, the load is the
sum Isometric resistance produced by the trainee and the Isotonic
resistance produced by friction force having direction opposite to
the cord motion, as result: the concentric load is always greater
than the eccentric load. This concept does not meet these criteria:
Producing maximum load that matches the trainers maximum capacity
through out the range of motion and through out the course of
training for each and every repetition of every set, producing
Eccentric load is greater than Concentric load, the means to
monitor the load and the speed of the training motion and Control
of motion speed through out the range of motion. The force diagram
is illustrated in FIG. 3a.
[0030] In U.S. Pat. No. 5,328,429, Potash proposed a concept to
provide eccentric load that is larger tan the concentric load
wherein: An attachment for a weight stack type exercise machine to
pull the weight stack down while it is being lowered, so that the
eccentric exercise force required to lower the stack is greater
than the concentric exercise force required to raise it. Such
asymmetric exercise forces more closely match muscle strengths,
which are normally greater for eccentric exercise than for
concentric exercise. The attachment has an electric motor and a
control unit including a keypad, a display and a microcontroller.
The motor is coupled to the weight stack by an eccentric force
control cable. The keypad allows the user to select the amount of
force added during the eccentric phase of exercise, when the weight
stack is moving down and part of a lifting cable connected to a
handle or engageable member on the weight stack type machine is
moving in. A sensor enables the controller to determine whether the
weight stack is moving up or down. As the weights in the stack are
being raised, no significant. This concept is complicate and
expensive for practical application. With inclined gravity trainer
such as Versa Swim Trainer (versatrainer.com), the training is
completely Dynamic Isometric wherein the trainee uses force applied
symmetrically by opposite arms, substantially without any external
resistance; the total applied to both arm is a ratio of the trainee
weight. This concept does not meet these criteria: Producing
maximum load that matches the trainers maximum capacity through out
the range of motion and through out the course of training for each
and every repetition of every set, producing Eccentric load is
greater than Concentric load.
[0031] With ergometer trainer such as Versa Ergometer Trainer
(versatrainer.com), the load is the sum Isometric resistance
produced by the trainee and the Isotonic resistance produced by
friction force having direction opposite to the cord motion, as
result: the concentric load is always greater than the eccentric
load. This concept does not meet these criteria: Producing maximum
load that matches the trainers maximum capacity through out the
range of motion and through out the course of training for each and
every repetition of every set, producing Eccentric load is greater
than Concentric load.
[0032] A hand held Heartflex device produce by "heartflex.com" is
based on the frictional force, which is generated by bending and
twisting a component connecting two hand grips; The total training
force depends on the relative motion of the two hands and includes
no isometric component.
[0033] In a training concept wherein the trainee is trained using
weight equipments with the assistance of a spotter who is equipped
with all necessary tools to monitor the resistance and speed of the
motion, the spotter applies additional load during both concentric
phase and eccentric phase to ensure maximum load (resistance) that
matches the trainee maximum capacity through out the range of
motion and though out the course of training for each and every
repetition of every set, Eccentric load (resistance) to be greater
than the generated Concentric load (resistance), and safe training
with minimum risk of injury, then this training concept would meet
all desirable criteria except for the fact that the spotter
assistance is not cheap. However, if the spotter is the trainee
himself, then the expense or trouble in obtaining the spotter
assistance can be eliminated, and that is the core idea of this
invention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION AND OBJECTS
[0034] The objects of this invention is to provide physical
training method and system that meet these criteria: [0035]
Producing Maximum load (resistance) that matches the trainee
maximum capacity through out the range of motion and through out
the course of training for each and every repetition of every set.
[0036] The generated Eccentric load (resistance) is greater than
the generated Concentric load (resistance). [0037] Providing
Preload (Pre-stretch) before the motion. [0038] Feasibility for
injury rehabilitation. [0039] Control of motion speed through out
the range of motion. [0040] The means to monitor the load and the
speed of the training motion. [0041] The ease of training. [0042]
Safe training, minimum risk of injury. [0043] Without the need for
an assistant such as spotter. [0044] Low cost to produce and
maintain the training equipments.
[0045] To achieve the above objective, this invention proposes:
[0046] Asymmetric Physical Exercise method wherein two trainee's
body member units apply a load referred as isometric load against
each other directly or indirectly while an additional load referred
as bias load from an external source is applied to one of the body
member units, each of said body member units includes at least one
trainee's body member, and the said bias load direction is
independent from the directions of body member units instantaneous
motion velocities and has a component parallel to the isometric
load. [0047] Hardware system architectures to perform the said
Asymmetric Physical Exercise method.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0048] FIG. 1a and FIG. 1b subsequently demonstrate the Lateral
Pull-Down muscle training for right Arm/Torso and left Arm/Torso
using a preferred embodiment of the Asymmetric Physical Exercise
System of the present invention.
[0049] FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b subsequently demonstrate the Lateral
Shoulder Press muscle training for left Arm/Shoulder and right
Arm/Shoulder using a preferred embodiment of the Asymmetric
Physical Exercise System of the present invention.
[0050] FIG. 3a and FIG. 3b subsequently demonstrate the load
diagram of the prior-art design concepts and the load diagram of
the design concept proposed by this invention.
[0051] FIG. 4 partially illustrates an alternative preferred
embodiment of the Asymmetric Physical Exercise System of the
present invention.
[0052] FIG. 5 partially illustrates an alternative preferred
embodiment of the Asymmetric Physical Exercise System of the
present invention.
[0053] FIG. 6 partially illustrates an alternative preferred
embodiment of the Asymmetric Physical Exercise System of the
present invention.
[0054] FIG. 7 partially illustrates an alternative preferred
embodiment of the Asymmetric Physical Exercise System of the
present invention using a barbell.
[0055] FIG. 8 partially illustrates an alternative preferred
embodiment of the Asymmetric Physical Exercise System of the
present invention using a cable weight machine
[0056] FIG. 9a and 9b subsequently illustrate asymmetric lateral
raise & iron cross training for left and right shoulder &
torso.
[0057] FIG. 10a and 10b subsequently illustrate asymmetric front
& back flyer training for left and right chest & back.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0058] As partially illustrated in FIG. 1, wherein FIG. 1a and FIG.
1b subsequently demonstrate the Lateral Pull-Down muscle training
for right Arm/Torso and left Arm/Torso using a preferred embodiment
of the Asymmetric Physical Exercise System of the present
invention, which comprises: [0059] Interconnecting means that
includes attachment means 1 such as handles, stirrups, hand grips,
straps, pedals at each end of a flexible cable 2 for the trainee's
right hands 3R and left hand 3L to apply isometric load 10R and 10L
against each other through the cable 2, the said cable 2 runs
through a pulley system 4 including at least one pulley, which is
connected to the rigid platform 5 such as the upper portion of a
rigid frame via a supporting means comprising a supporting bracket
6 and a load sensing means 7 such as a load cell to monitor the
supporting load 11, the length of the supporting bracket 6 is
adjustable to accommodate for the trainee height; [0060] A bias
load generating means 8 such as a weight unit for directly or
indirectly applying a bias load 9 that is independent from the
instantaneous motion velocity of the attachment interconnecting
means to one of the trainee's hands; for right Arm/Torso training,
the bias load generating means 8 is attached to the trainee's left
hand 3L via the attachment means 1; alternately for left Arm/Torso
training, the bias load generating means 8 is attached to the
trainee's right hand 3R via the attachment means 1. At equilibrium,
the sum of all loads equals zero.
[0061] During right Arm/Torso training as illustrated in FIG. 1a,
as both arms pull the cable 2 while moving in reciprocal motion, to
keep the total load balanced the right arm 1 2R must exert a load
that equals to the sum of the isometric load produced by the left
arm 12L and the bias load 9 imposed by the bias load generating
means 8; since the right arm 12R must exert greater load than the
left arm 12L, the right arm 12R is the trainee member and the left
arm 12L is the trainer member. With the assistance of the bias load
9, the left arm 12L only needs to exert an isometric load that is
below its maximum endured capacity through out the routine in order
to impose the total load to the right arm 12R at the right arm
maximum capacity during concentric and eccentric motions. In left
Arm/Torso training as illustrated in FIG. 1b, the role is reversed,
the right arm 12R becomes the trainer member and the left arm 12L
becomes the trainee member. Basically, the member that must resist
the additional load produced by the bias load generating means is
the trainee member, and the other is the trainer member. The force
diagram is illustrated in FIG. 3b. The load sensing means 7 can be
a device to continuously measure the load 11 amplitude or just to
indicate when/where the load 11 has reached certain limits such as
maximum and/or minimum limits; the output signal can be visually
displayed with such as a graph, chart and numerical output, or can
be audibly displayed with such as a sound with variable amplitude
or frequency or a verbal announcement.
[0062] As partially illustrated in FIG. 2, wherein FIG. 2a and FIG.
2b subsequently demonstrate the Lateral Shoulder Press muscle
training for left Arm/Shoulder and right Arm/Shoulder using the
same above preferred embodiment of the Asymmetric Physical Exercise
System. In this arrangement, the rigid platform 5 is the lower
portion of a rigid frame, and the arm that carries the bias load
generating means 8 becomes the trainee member since it must resist
the additional load beside the isometric load.
[0063] Beside gravity force generating means such as a weight unit,
the bias load generating means 8 can be one or a plurality of
elastic devices such as mechanical or air springs for producing
elastic force. The electromagnetic force produced by an
electromagnetic motor is another excellent alternative choice since
it can be incorporated into the pulley system 4, the bias load
magnitude and direction can be varied and controlled
electronically, and however it is expensive and not portable. One
important feature of the bias load generating means is ability to
vary the load amplitude.
[0064] An alternative design is partially illustrated in FIG. 4,
wherein the system comprises: [0065] Interconnecting means that
includes attachment means 1 such as handles, hand grips, straps,
pedals at each end of a bar 13 for the trainee's right hands 3R and
left hand 3L to apply isometric load 10R and 10L against each other
through the bar 13, a supporting means comprising a connecting
bracket 14 with swivel ends and a load sensing means 7 such as a
load cell for monitoring the supporting load 11 to connect the
rigid platform 5 such as the upper portion of a rigid frame to the
said bar 13 at a location between the two attachment means 1, the
length of the connecting bracket 14 is adjustable to accommodate
for the trainee's height; the connecting bracket 14 can be a
flexible cable 15 as illustrated in FIG. 5 or a belt 16 with
adjusting buckle 17 as illustrated in FIG. 6 or any other flexible
means such as chain, rope or cord. During training, the reciprocal
motion of the arms is produced by the reciprocal rotation of the
bar. [0066] A bias load generating means 8 such as a weight unit
for directly or indirectly applying a bias load 9 that is
independent from the bar 13 instantaneous motion velocity direction
to one of the trainee's hands; for right Arm/Torso training, the
bias load generating means 8 is attached to the trainee's left hand
3L via the attachment means 1; alternately for left Arm/Torso
training, the bias load generating means 8 is attached to the
trainee's right hand 3R via the attachment means 1; the bias load
generating means 8 can be slid along the bar 13 to vary the
effective bias load. At equilibrium, the sum of all loads equals
zero.
[0067] During right Arm/Torso training as illustrated in FIG. 4, as
both arms pull the bar 13 while moving in opposite directions
during reciprocal rotation of the said bar 13, to keep the total
load balanced the right arm 12R must exert a load that equals to
the sum of the isometric load produced by the left arm 12L and the
Bias load 9 imposed by the bias load generating means 8; since the
right arm 12R must exert greater load than the left arm 12L, the
right arm 12R is the trainee member and the left arm 12L is the
trainer member. With the assistance of the bias load 9, the left
arm 12L only needs to exert an isometric load that is below its
maximum endured capacity through out the routine in order to impose
the total load to the right arm 12R at the right arm maximum
capacity during concentric and eccentric motions. In left Arm/Torso
training wherein the bias load generating means 8 is relocated to
right hand portion of the bar 13, the role is reversed, the right
arm 12R becomes the trainer member and the left arm 12L becomes the
trainee member. Basically, the member that must resist the
additional load produced by the bias load generating means is the
trainee member, and the other is the trainer member. The force
diagram is illustrated in FIG. 3b. It is obvious that the above
asymmetric training concept is applicable for training two body
member units that apply isometric load against each other, with
each body member unit includes at least one trainee's body member
such as hand, foot, arm, leg, elbow, head or a combination.
[0068] When a dumbbell set having different weight is available,
each dumbbell can be utilized as the combination of attachment
means 1 and bias load generating means 8 as illustrated in FIG. 1
and FIG. 2; it is also feasible to use a pair of dumbbells having
different weights with the lighter one as the attachment means 1
and the heavier one as the combination of attachment means 1 and
bias load generating means 8; the difference in weight is the bias
load 9.
[0069] It is obvious that when barbells are available, the bar can
be utilized as the bar 13, and the weight plates can be utilized as
the bias load generating means 8, as illustrated in FIG. 7.
[0070] When a cable weight machine, wherein cables that connect the
handles to the weight stacks run through adjustable pulleys that
can be fixed at any height is available, the bias load 9 can be
generated in any direction with gravity force, then another
alternative design is possible as partially illustrated in FIG. 8,
wherein the system comprises: [0071] Interconnecting means that
includes two attachment means 1 such as handles, hand grips,
straps, pedals at each of a bar 13 for the trainee's right hands 3R
and left hand 3L to apply isometric load 10R and 10L against each
other through the bar 13 that comprises a load sensing means 7 such
as a load cell to monitor the isometric load, the length of bar 13
is adjustable. During training, the reciprocal motion of the arms
is produced by the reciprocal motion of the bar. The load sensing
means 7 can be a device to continuously measure the isometric load
amplitude or just to indicate when/where the isometric load has
reached certain limits such as maximum and/or minimum limits; the
output signal can be visually displayed with such as a graph, chart
and numerical output, or can be audibly displayed with such as a
sound with variable amplitude or frequency or a verbal
announcement. [0072] A bias load generating means 8 such as a cable
weight machine for directly applying a bias load 9 that is
independent from the bar 13 instantaneous motion velocity direction
to the bar, the said bias load 9 must have the longitudinal
component along the bar length substantially larger than the
orthogonal component.
[0073] In right arm triceps muscle training, as both arms pull on
the bar 13 with the forearms rotating about the elbows to produce
reciprocal linear motion, the right arm triceps must exert a load
that equals to the sum of the isometric load produced by the left
arm and the bias load 9 imposed by the bias load generating means
8; since the right arm triceps must exert greater load than the
left arm triceps, the right arm triceps is the trainee member and
the left arm triceps is the trainer member. With the assistance of
the bias load 9, the left arm triceps only needs to exert isometric
load that is below its maximum endured capacity through out the
routine in order to impose the total load to the right arm triceps
at the right arm triceps maximum capacity during concentric and
eccentric motions. In left arm triceps muscle training wherein the
bias load generating means 8 is relocated to right hand portion of
the bar 13, the role is reversed, the right arm triceps becomes the
trainer member and the left arm triceps becomes the trainee member.
Basically, the member that must resist the additional load produced
by the bias load generating means is the trainee member, and the
other is the trainer member. By pushing on the bar with the forearm
rotating about the elbows, the training becomes the arm biceps
training. The force diagram is illustrated in FIG. 3b.
[0074] FIG. 9a partially illustrates the asymmetric lateral raise
shoulder training with the right shoulder & arm 12R as the
trainer members, the left shoulder & arm 12L as the trainee
members and the dumbbell as the bias load generating means 8; with
this technique, as standing, both arms pull against each other
through the bar 13 while reciprocally rotate about the shoulder
joints to produce a reciprocal swinging motion in a vertical plane,
the left shoulder & arm 12L are the trainee members since they
are subjected to an isometric load and an additional bias load.
With the same arrangement, both arms push against each other
through the bar 13 while reciprocally rotate about the shoulder
joints to produce a reciprocal swinging motion in a vertical plane,
the technique becomes an asymmetric iron cross torso training with
the right torso & arm 12R as the trainee members, the left
torso & arm 12L as the trainer members and the dumbbell as the
bias load generating means 8; the right torso & arm 12R are the
trainee members since they are subjected to an isometric load and
an additional bias load.
[0075] FIG. 9b partially illustrates the asymmetric lateral raise
shoulder training with the left shoulder & arm 12L as the
trainer members, the right shoulder & arm 12R as the trainee
members and the dumbbell as the bias load generating means 8; with
this technique, as standing, both arms pull against each other
through the bar 13 while reciprocally rotate about the shoulder
joints to produce a reciprocal swinging motion in a vertical plane,
the right shoulder & arm 12R are the trainee members since they
are subjected to an isometric load and an additional bias load.
With the same arrangement, both arms push against each other
through the bar 13 while reciprocally rotate about the shoulder
joints to produce a reciprocal swinging motion in a vertical plane,
the technique becomes an asymmetric iron cross torso training with
the left torso & arm 12L as the trainee members, the right
torso & arm 12R as the trainer members and the dumbbell as the
bias load generating means 8; the left torso & arm 12L are the
trainee members since they are subjected to an isometric load and
an additional bias load.
[0076] FIG. 10a partially illustrates the asymmetric flyer chest
training with the right chest & arm 12R as the trainer members,
the left chest & arm 12L as the trainee members and the
dumbbell as the bias load generating means 8; with this technique,
as laying in horizontal position, both arms push against each other
through the bar 13 while reciprocally rotate about the shoulder
joints to produce a reciprocal swinging motion in a vertical plane,
the left chest & arm 12L are the trainee members since they are
subjected to an isometric load and an additional bias load. With
the same arrangement, both arms pull against each other through the
bar 13 while reciprocally rotate about the shoulder joints to
produce a reciprocal swinging motion in a vertical plane, the
technique becomes an asymmetric flyer back training with the right
back & arm 12R as the trainee members, the left back & arm
12L as the trainer members and the dumbbell as the bias load
generating means 8; the right back & arm 12R are the trainee
members since they are subjected to an isometric load and an
additional bias load.
[0077] FIG. 10b partially illustrates the asymmetric flyer chest
training with the left chest & arm 12L as the trainer members,
the right chest & arm 12R as the trainee members and the
dumbbell as the bias load generating means 8; with this technique,
as laying in horizontal position, both arms push against each other
through the bar 13 while reciprocally rotate about the shoulder
joints to produce a reciprocal swinging motion in a vertical plane,
the right chest & arm 12R are the trainee members since they
are subjected to an isometric load and an additional bias load.
With the same arrangement, both arms pull against each other
through the bar 13 while reciprocally rotate about the shoulder
joints to produce a reciprocal swinging motion in a vertical plane,
the technique becomes an asymmetric flyer back training with the
left back & arm 12L as the trainee members, the right back
& arm 12R as the trainer members and the dumbbell as the bias
load generating means 8; the left back & arm 12L are the
trainee members since they are subjected to an isometric load and
an additional bias load.
[0078] It is obvious that some of these training methods can be
performed without the bar 13 while the isometric load and the bias
load are applied directly through the trainee's hands, however
there is no means to monitor the isometric load in this method.
[0079] It is obvious that the above systems can be utilized for
static asymmetry training wherein no motion is produced while the
two body member units apply isometric load against each other with
the addition of a bias load.
* * * * *