U.S. patent application number 13/754500 was filed with the patent office on 2013-08-01 for systems and methods to monitor an exercise routine.
This patent application is currently assigned to ICON HEALTH & FITNESS, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is ICON HEALTH & FITNESS, INC.. Invention is credited to David Watterson, Mark D. Watterson, Scott R. Watterson.
Application Number | 20130196822 13/754500 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48870707 |
Filed Date | 2013-08-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130196822 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Watterson; Scott R. ; et
al. |
August 1, 2013 |
Systems and Methods to Monitor an Exercise Routine
Abstract
A computer-implemented method to monitor an exercise routine is
described. An activity of a user relating to the use of an exercise
apparatus is captured. Data relating to the captured activity is
received. The received data is output to the user of the exercise
apparatus.
Inventors: |
Watterson; Scott R.; (Logan,
UT) ; Watterson; David; (Logan, UT) ;
Watterson; Mark D.; (Logan, UT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
ICON HEALTH & FITNESS, INC.; |
Logan |
UT |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
ICON HEALTH & FITNESS,
INC.
Logan
UT
|
Family ID: |
48870707 |
Appl. No.: |
13/754500 |
Filed: |
January 30, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61593285 |
Jan 31, 2012 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/9 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2225/50 20130101;
A61B 5/112 20130101; A63B 24/0006 20130101; A63B 24/0087 20130101;
A61B 5/0002 20130101; A63B 22/025 20151001; G09B 19/0038 20130101;
A61B 2505/09 20130101; A63B 2071/068 20130101; A63B 2230/06
20130101; A63B 2220/808 20130101; A63B 24/00 20130101; G16H 20/30
20180101; A63B 22/0605 20130101; A63B 22/0664 20130101; A63B
2220/805 20130101; A63B 24/0062 20130101; A63B 2024/0093 20130101;
A63B 2220/806 20130101; A61B 5/6895 20130101; A63B 2071/0625
20130101; A63B 2220/13 20130101; A63B 22/04 20130101; A63B 24/0075
20130101; A63B 2071/0677 20130101; A63B 2220/807 20130101; A63B
71/0622 20130101; A63B 22/0235 20130101; A63B 2071/063 20130101;
A63B 2225/20 20130101; A63B 2024/0081 20130101; A63B 22/0023
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/9 |
International
Class: |
A63B 24/00 20060101
A63B024/00 |
Claims
1. A computer-implemented method, comprising: capturing, by a
hardware processor, an activity of a user relating to the use of an
exercise apparatus; receiving, by the hardware processor, data
relating to the captured activity; and outputting, by the hardware
processor, the received data to the user of the exercise
apparatus.
2. The method of claim 1, further comprising transmitting data
representing the captured activity to a remote computing
device.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein receiving data relating to the
captured activity further comprises: receiving at least one command
to modify at least one setting of the exercise apparatus; and
modifying the at least one setting of the exercise apparatus based
on the received at least one command.
4. The method of claim 3, wherein the at least one command to
modify the at least one setting comprises a command to modify a
speed setting of the exercise apparatus, a command to modify a
resistance setting of the exercise apparatus, or a command to
modify an incline setting of the exercise apparatus.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein capturing the activity of the
user relating to the user of the exercise apparatus comprises
recording the activity of the user via a video camera integrated
within the exercise apparatus.
6. The method of claim 1, further comprising: establishing a video
connection between the exercise apparatus and a remote computing
device; and outputting video data received from the remote
computing device.
7. The method of claim 1, further comprising: establishing a video
connection between the exercise apparatus and one or more
additional exercise apparatuses; transmitting the captured activity
of the user of the exercise apparatus to the one or more additional
exercise apparatuses via the established video connection;
receiving video data relating to the activity of one or more
additional users using the one or more additional exercise
apparatuses; and outputting the received video data.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the activity is captured by a
video camera, a web camera, a digital cameral, a microphone, or a
sensor.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein outputting the received data
further comprises outputting instructions to the user to manually
modify one or more settings of the exercise apparatus.
10. An exercise apparatus, comprising: a processor; memory in
electronic communication with the processor; a data capture
apparatus, the data capture apparatus configured to capture an
activity of a user relating to the use of an exercise apparatus; a
command receiving module, stored in the memory, the command
receiving module configured to receive data relating to the
captured activity; and a data output apparatus, the data output
apparatus configured to output the received data to the user of the
exercise apparatus.
11. The exercise apparatus of claim 10, wherein the data capture
apparatus is further configured to transmit data representing the
captured activity to a remote computing device.
12. The exercise apparatus of claim 11, wherein the command
receiving module is further configured to: receive at least one
command to modify at least one setting of the exercise apparatus;
and modify the at least one setting of the exercise apparatus based
on the received at least one command.
13. The exercise apparatus of claim 12, wherein the at least one
command to modify the at least one setting comprises a command to
modify a speed setting of the exercise apparatus, a command to
modify a resistance setting of the exercise apparatus, or a command
to modify an incline setting of the exercise apparatus.
14. The exercise apparatus of claim 10, wherein the data capture
apparatus comprises a video camera integrated within the exercise
apparatus, the data capture apparatus being further configured to
record the activity of the user via the video camera integrated
within the exercise apparatus.
15. The exercise apparatus of claim 10, wherein the data capture
apparatus is further configured to establish a video connection
between the exercise apparatus and a remote computing device.
16. The exercise apparatus of claim 15, wherein the data output
apparatus if further configured to output video data received from
the remote computing device.
17. The exercise apparatus of claim 10, wherein the data capture
apparatus is further configured to: establish a video connection
between the exercise apparatus and one or more additional exercise
apparatuses; and transmit the captured activity of the user of the
exercise apparatus to the one or more additional exercise
apparatuses via the established video connection.
18. The exercise apparatus of claim 17, wherein the command
receiving module is further configured to receive video data
relating to the activity of one or more additional users using the
one or more additional exercise apparatuses.
19. The exercise apparatus of claim 10, wherein the data capture
apparatus comprises a video camera, a web camera, a digital
cameral, a microphone, or a sensor.
20. A computer-program product, the computer-program product
comprising a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having
instructions thereon, the instructions comprising: code programmed
to capture an activity of a user relating to the use of an exercise
apparatus; code programmed to receive data relating to the captured
activity; and code programmed to output the received data to the
user of the exercise apparatus.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 61/584,648 filed Jan. 9, 2012.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Physical exercise is a bodily activity that helps promote
and/or maintain physical fitness and an overall health and
wellness. Frequent and regular physical exercise helps boost the
immune system and may help prevent diseases of affluence, such as
heart disease, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity.
Physical exercise may also improve the mental health of an
individual. In addition, exercise may prevent depression and
promote or maintain a positive self-esteem.
[0003] Individuals that exercise may look for ways increase their
motivation and resolve to continue exercising. For example,
individuals may set personal goals they would like to achieve and
then regularly exercise to accomplish these goals. Often times, the
individual may be left on his/her own to figure out how to
accomplish a particular goal. In addition, the individual may hire
a personal trainer or other health coach to receive instructions on
how to complete a particular goal.
[0004] Providers of exercise equipment are regularly introducing
new exercise machines and equipment to be sold to gyms, individual
consumers, schools, and the like. In some instances, an individual
might not be familiar with a particular piece of exercise
equipment. In addition, the consumer may be unaware that he/she is
using the machine improperly. For example, the individual might not
know how to use the equipment, the benefits of using the equipment,
etc. As a result, the individual may choose to not use the
equipment simply because he/she does not fully understand its
functionality, benefits, etc. Further, a consumer may desire to
hire a personal trainer, but the consumer may not be interested in
exercising at the same location where the trainer is located. As a
result, the consumer may opt to not seek the professional guidance
of a personal trainer.
[0005] One type of method and system to control an exercise
apparatus is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,997,852 issued to Scott
R. Watterson et al. and assigned to Icon IP, Inc. In this patent, a
portable system retrieves exercise programs from a remote
communication system that provides motivational content for a user
exercising upon an exercise machine. The exercise program includes
at least one control signal that controls one or more operating
parameters of the exercise mechanism. The portable system includes
a control device that retrieves the exercise program and delivers
the motivational content to the user by way of an audio delivery
device, while delivering the control signals to the exercise
machine. A sensor tracks one or more measurable parameters of the
user during the user's performance of the exercise program. Data
representing the one or more measureable parameters is delivered to
the control device for delivery to the remote communication
system.
SUMMARY
[0006] In one aspect of the disclosure, a computer-implemented
method to monitor an exercise routine is described.
[0007] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include capturing
an activity of a user relating to the use of an exercise
apparatus.
[0008] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include receiving
data relating to the captured activity.
[0009] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include outputting
the received data to the user of the exercise apparatus.
[0010] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include
transmitting data representing the captured activity to a remote
computing device.
[0011] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include receiving
at least one command to modify at least one setting of the exercise
apparatus.
[0012] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include modifying
the at least one setting of the exercise apparatus based on the
received at least one command.
[0013] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include the at
least one command to modify the at least one setting including a
command to modify a speed setting of the exercise apparatus, a
command to modify a resistance setting of the exercise apparatus,
or a command to modify an incline setting of the exercise
apparatus.
[0014] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include recording
the activity of the user via a video camera integrated within the
exercise apparatus.
[0015] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include
establishing a video connection between the exercise apparatus and
a remote computing device.
[0016] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include outputting
video data received from the remote computing device.
[0017] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include
establishing a video connection between the exercise apparatus and
one or more additional exercise apparatuses.
[0018] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include
transmitting the captured activity of the user of the exercise
apparatus to the one or more additional exercise apparatuses via
the established video connection.
[0019] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include receiving
video data relating to the activity of one or more additional users
using the one or more additional exercise apparatuses.
[0020] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include outputting
the received video data.
[0021] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include capturing
the activity by a video camera, a web camera, a digital cameral, a
microphone, or a sensor.
[0022] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include outputting
instructions to the user to manually modify one or more settings of
the exercise apparatus.
[0023] In one aspect of the disclosure, an exercise apparatus is
also described. The exercise apparatus may include a processor and
memory in electronic communication with the processor. The exercise
apparatus may further include a data capture apparatus.
[0024] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include the data
capture apparatus capturing an activity of a user relating to the
use of an exercise apparatus.
[0025] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include the
exercise apparatus including a command receiving module stored in
the memory.
[0026] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include the command
receiving module receiving data relating to the captured
activity.
[0027] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include the
exercise apparatus including a data output apparatus.
[0028] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include the data
output apparatus outputting the received data to the user of the
exercise apparatus.
[0029] In one aspect of the disclosure, a computer-program product
is also described. The computer-program product may include a
non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having instructions
thereon.
[0030] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include the
instructions including code programmed to capture an activity of a
user relating to the use of an exercise apparatus.
[0031] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include the
instructions including code programmed to receive data relating to
the captured activity.
[0032] Another aspect of the disclosure may include any combination
of the above-mentioned features and may further include the
instructions including code programmed to output the received data
to the user of the exercise apparatus.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0033] The accompanying drawings illustrate various embodiments of
the present method and system and are a part of the specification.
The illustrated embodiments are merely examples of the present
system and method and do not limit the scope thereof
[0034] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of an
environment in which the present systems and methods may be
implemented.
[0035] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a further embodiment
of an environment in which the present systems and methods may be
implemented.
[0036] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a further embodiment
of an environment in which the present systems and methods may be
implemented.
[0037] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of an
environment in which the present systems and methods may be
implemented.
[0038] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a
method to provide exercise training
[0039] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a
method to modify one or more settings of an exercise apparatus.
[0040] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a
method to automatically modify settings of an exercise apparatus
based on the activity of the user of the exercise apparatus.
[0041] FIG. 8 depicts a block diagram of a computer system suitable
for implementing the present systems and methods.
[0042] Throughout the drawings, identical reference numbers
designate similar, but not necessarily identical, elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0043] Systems and methods to monitor workout routines are
disclosed herein. Specifically, the present systems and methods
capture the activity of a user while the user is operating an
exercise apparatus. The captured data may be displayed on the
exercise apparatus itself and/or a remote device or additional
exercise apparatuses. Other users may view the captured data,
monitor the activity of the user using the exercise apparatus, and
provide feedback regarding the user's technique, form, style,
etc.
[0044] In one embodiment, a camera may record the activity of a
user operating an exercise machine. The recorded activity may be
displayed on a remote computing device. A camera may be located at
the remote device and may record the activity of a user of the
computing device. The recorded activity of the user of the
computing device may be displayed to the user using the exercise
machine. As a result, a real-time video connection may be
established between the user of the exercise machine and the user
of the remote computing device. The user of the remote computing
device may issue commands via the remote computing device that may
change one or more settings of the exercise machine. A video
connection may also be established between the user of the exercise
machine and another user of another exercise machine. Additionally,
verbal instructions may be provided to the user operating the
exercise device based at least in part on the monitored
information. Details regarding the present systems and methods will
be described below.
[0045] Referring now to the Figures, FIG. 1 illustrates a block
diagram of one embodiment of an environment 100 in which the
present systems and methods may be implemented. In one
configuration, an exercise apparatus 102 may communicate with a
computing device 110 across a network 108 connection. The network
108 connection may include, but is not limited to, a WI-FI, a
cellular network, a local area network (LAN), a wireless local area
network (WLAN), and the like.
[0046] In one embodiment, the exercise apparatus 102 may be, but is
not limited to, a treadmill machine, a stair-climber machine, a
stationary bicycle, a spinner bicycle, an elliptical exercise
machine, a weightlifting machine, and the like. The apparatus 102
may include a data capture apparatus 104-a-1 and a data output
apparatus 106-a-1. In one example, the data capture apparatus
104-a-1 may be a video camera, a web camera, a sensor, a
microphone, a digital or non-digital camera, and the like. The data
capture apparatus 104-a-1 may monitor and capture data relating to
an activity of a user using the exercise apparatus 102. While only
one data capture apparatus 104-a-1 is illustrates, the exercise
apparatus 102 may include more than one apparatus to capture data.
The data output apparatus 106-a-1 may output data to the user of
the exercise apparatus 102. For example, the data output apparatus
106-a-1 may be audio speakers, and/or a display. The display may
provide video data, text data, image data, etc. to the user of the
exercise apparatus 102. The data capture apparatus 104-a-1 and the
data output apparatus 106-a-1 may be integrated within the exercise
apparatus 102.
[0047] Alternatively, portions of the function provided by the data
capture apparatus 104-a-1 and/or the data output apparatus 106-a-1
may be provided by coupling a user's portable electronic device to
the exercise apparatus 102. The personal electronic device may
include, but is in no way limited to, a smart phone, a personal
digital assistant (PDA), a tablet computing device, an iPad, an
iPod, a smart phone, and the like. In one embodiment, the computing
device 110 may be a personal computer (PC), a laptop, a tablet, or
any other type of computing device. The device 110 may also include
a data capture apparatus 104-a-2 and a data output apparatus
106-a-2.
[0048] In one example, the data capture apparatus 104-a-1 may be a
video camera positioned to record the activity of a user using the
exercise apparatus 102. Video data of the user's activity may be
communicated to the computing device 110 across the network 108.
The data output apparatus 106-a-2 located on the computing device
110 may output the video data to a user of the computing device
110. The user of the computing device 110 may be a personal trainer
or other type of health coach. In one configuration, the user of
the computing device 110 may view in real time (or delayed time)
the activity of the user using the exercise apparatus 102 via the
data output apparatus 106-a-2.
[0049] The data capture apparatus 104-a-2 located at the computing
device 110 may capture the activity of the user using the computing
device. As an example, the data capture apparatus 104-a-2 at the
computing device 110 may also be a video camera. The captured data
may be transmitted to the exercise apparatus 102 across the network
108. The data may be provided to the user of the exercise apparatus
102 via the data output apparatus 106-a-1. For example, the data
output apparatus 106-a-1 may be a screen that displays the video
data of the user of the computing device 110 to the user of the
exercise apparatus 102. As a result, the user of the computing
device 110 may record a video message that includes instructions
and/or demonstrations for the user of the exercise apparatus 102 on
ways the user may improve his/her exercising technique. The user of
the exercise apparatus 102 may view such messages while he/she is
using the exercise apparatus 102 and make the appropriate changes
to his/her technique. The video message may also include
instructions to modify one or more settings of the exercise
apparatus 102.
[0050] In one embodiment, the communication between the exercise
apparatus 102 and the computing device 110 may be achieved through
a video connection. The connection may be facilitated by a video
connection provider such as Skype.RTM. or Facetime.RTM.. Other
video connection providers may also be used to establish a video
connection between the exercise apparatus 102 and the computing
device 110. Additional types of connections may also be established
between the exercise apparatus 102 and the computing device 110.
For example, audio connections may be established. An audio
connection may allow the users to communicate with each other via
microphones and audio speakers. The user of the exercise apparatus
102 may describe audibly how he/she is using the exercise apparatus
102, how he/she is feeling, the biometric measurements of the user
while he/she is exercising, etc. A personal trainer located at a
remote location may receive the audio information via the data
output apparatus 106-a-2 at the computing device 110. The trainer
may provide audio instructions to the user and the user of the
exercise apparatus 102 may receive the instructions via the data
output apparatus 106-a-1 at the exercise apparatus 102.
[0051] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a further embodiment
of an environment 200 in which the present systems and methods may
be implemented. In one configuration, an exercise apparatus 102-a
may communicate with a computing device 110-a across a network 108
connection. The exercise apparatus 102-a may be an example of the
exercise apparatus 102 illustrated in FIG. 1. The computing device
110-a may be an example of the computing device 110 illustrated in
FIG. 1.
[0052] In one example, the exercise apparatus 102-a may include a
data capture apparatus 104-b-1, a data output apparatus 106-b-1,
and a command receiving module 202. Similarly, the computing device
110-a may include a data capture apparatus 104-b-2, a data output
apparatus 106-b-2, and a command input module 204. The data capture
apparatuses 104 and the data output apparatuses 106 may be examples
of the apparatuses illustrates in FIG. 1.
[0053] In one embodiment, the command input module 204 may be an
interface that allows the user of the computing device 110-a to
enter one or more commands relating to the exercise apparatus
102-a. For example, the command input module 204 may allow the user
to input commands to modify one or more settings of the exercise
apparatus 102-a. The commands provided to the command input module
204 may be transmitted across the network 108 to the command
receiving module 202. Upon receiving the commands, the command
receiving module 202 may modify the one or more settings of the
exercise apparatus 102-a. As an example, the exercise apparatus
102-a may be a treadmill. The data capture apparatus 104-b-1 may
capture the activity of a user operating the treadmill. For
example, the data capture apparatus 104-b-1 may be a camera that
captures video data of the activity. The video data may be
transmitted to the computing device 110-a. The user of the
computing device 110-a may be a personal trainer or other type of
health coach. The personal trainer may view the video data via the
data output apparatus 106-b-2 and identify that the user is
running/walking on the treadmill with an overpronation or
underpronation foot position, for example. The data capture module
104-b-2 associated with the computing device 110-a may capture
video data of the personal trainer. The video data may include
instructions to the user of the exercise apparatus 102 to correct
the pronation. The video data may be transmitted to the exercise
apparatus 102. The user may then view the video data via the data
output apparatus 106-b-1. The personal trainer may also input
commands to the command input module 204 to modify the incline
setting of the treadmill. The commands may be transmitted to the
exercise apparatus 102 and received by the command receiving module
202. The command receiving module 202 may analyze the commands and
automatically adjust the incline of the treadmill based on the
received commands. In another embodiment, the command receiving
module 202 may output the commands to the user of the exercise
apparatus 102 via the data output apparatus 106-b-1. The user may
then manually adjust the incline of the treadmill as indicted by
the outputted commands.
[0054] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a further embodiment
of an environment 300 in which the present systems and methods may
be implemented. In one configuration, an exercise apparatus 102-c
may communicate with a computing device 110-c across a network 108
connection. The exercise apparatus 102-c may be an example of the
exercise apparatus of FIG. 1 or 2. In addition, the computing
device 110-c may be an example of the computing device 110
illustrated in FIG. 1 or 2.
[0055] The exercise apparatus 102-c may include a data capture
apparatus 104-c and a data output apparatus 106-c. As previously
explained, the data capture apparatus 104-c may be a camera, or
other input device, that captures the activity of a user while the
user is using the exercise apparatus 102-c. The data output
apparatus 106-c may output information to the user.
[0056] As previously explained, the data captured by the data
capture apparatus 104-c may be transmitted to the computing device
110-c across the network 108. The computing device 110-c may
include an analysis module 302 that may analyze the data received
from the exercise apparatus 102-c. Based on the analysis, a command
generation module 304 may automatically generate a command to
modify one or more settings of the exercise apparatus 102-c. For
example, the data capture apparatus 104-c may be one or more
sensors placed on the exercise apparatus 102-c. In one
configuration, the apparatus 102-c may be a treadmill. The sensors
may be placed on or under the moving tread or belt of the
treadmill. In one example, the sensors may sense the position and
running/walking technique of the user's feet while the user is
running/walking on the treadmill. The data captured by the sensors
may be transmitted to the analysis module 302. The module 302 may
analyze the data to identify the pattern of the user's feet as they
strike the surface of the moving tread of the treadmill. The
analysis may conclude that the position of the user's feet is
incorrect when the feet contact with the surface of the treadmill.
The analysis module 302 may identify one or more settings that may
be modified on the exercise apparatus 102-c to help correct the
user's technique.
[0057] The command generation module 304 may generate a command
indicating which settings to modify on the exercise apparatus 102-c
based on the analysis of the analysis module 302. These commands
may be transmitted across the network 108 and received by a command
receiving module 202-a at the exercise apparatus 102-c. Upon
receiving the commands, the receiving module 202-a may
automatically modify the one or more settings of the exercise
apparatus 102-c. In another embodiment, the command receiving
module 202-a may cause the commands to be outputted to the user via
the data output apparatus 106-c. The user may then determine
whether to manually modify the settings of the exercise apparatus.
In addition, the user may determine whether to allow the command
receiving module 202-a to automatically modify the settings.
[0058] Upon modifying the settings of the exercise apparatus 102-c,
the data capture apparatus 104-c may continue to capture the
activity of the user on the exercise apparatus 102-c. The data may
be transmitted and analyzed by the analysis module 302. The module
302 may determine whether the user's technique is still incorrect.
If the modified settings of the exercise apparatus 102-c do not
improve or solve the user's exercise technique, the command
generation module 304 may continue to generate commands to modify
settings of the exercise apparatus 102-c until the user's technique
is improved.
[0059] In one embodiment, the analysis module 302 and the command
generation module 304 may be located on the exercise apparatus
102-c. As a result, data acquired by the data capture apparatus
104-c may not be transmitted across the network 108. Instead, the
analysis module 302 located on the exercise apparatus 102-c may
analyze the data captured by the data capture apparatus 104-c and
the command generation module 304 may generate a command to modify
one or more settings of the exercise apparatus 102-c based on the
analysis performed by the analysis module 302. The data output
apparatus 106-c may output information to the user of the exercise
apparatus 102-c indicating the settings that are scheduled to be
modified by the command receiving module 202-a. The data output
apparatus 106-c may further provide information to the user
indicating the reason why the settings of the exercise apparatus
102-c are being modified. As a result, the user of the exercise
apparatus 102-c becomes aware of the improper exercising techniques
that the user is currently performing.
[0060] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of an
environment 400 in which the present systems and methods may be
implemented. In one example, a number of exercise apparatuses may
communicate with each other across a network 108 connection. For
example, a first exercise apparatus 102-d-1 may communicate with a
second exercise apparatus 102-d-2 across the network 108
connection. Each apparatus may include a data capture apparatus
104-d as well as a data output apparatus 106-d. The exercise
apparatuses 102-d illustrated in FIG. 4 may be examples of the
exercise apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1, 2, or 3.
[0061] In one embodiment, a first user may begin exercising using
the first exercise apparatus 102-d-1. The data capture apparatus
104-d-1 may capture the activity of the first user. Similarly, a
second user may begin exercising using the second exercise
apparatus 102-d-2. The data capture apparatus 104-d-2 on the second
exercise apparatus 102-d-2 may capture activity of the second user.
The data output apparatus 106-d on each exercise apparatus may
output to each user the captured data of the other user. As an
example, the data capture apparatus 104-d may be a camera, and a
video connection may be established between the two exercise
apparatuses (such as a Skype.RTM. connection). The data output
apparatus 106-d may be a monitor or display that outputs the data
to each user. As a result, two different users on two different
exercise apparatuses may engage in video communications while
exercising. The two different users may be located at locations
that are remote to each other. The connection may allow the users
to exercise together, even though they may not be located near one
another.
[0062] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a
method 500 to provide exercise training In one configuration, the
method 500 may be implemented by the data capture apparatus 104 and
the data output apparatus of FIG. 1, 2, 3, or 4.
[0063] At block 502, an activity of a user of an exercise apparatus
may be captured. For example, a user may begin running and/or
walking on a treadmill. The treadmill may include one or more
cameras affixed to or near the treadmill. The cameras may record
the actions of the user while the user is using the treadmill. At
block 504, data relating to the captured activity may be received.
For example, a personal trainer may remotely view the captured data
of the user running and/or walking on the treadmill. The trainer
may generate instructions for the user to improve the user's
exercise technique. The trainer may input the instructions via a
computing device that is remotely located from the exercise
apparatus. These instructions may be audio instructions, video
instructions, text, images, etc. The instructions may be the data
received at block 504. At block 506, the received data may be
output via an output apparatus of the exercise apparatus. For
example, if the received instructions are audio instructions,
speakers connected to the exercise apparatus may output the
instructions to the user. If the received instructions are video
instructions, a monitor or display connected to the exercise
apparatus may output the video data to the user of the exercise
apparatus. As a result, while the user is exercising, a trainer may
remotely view the activity of the user and provide instructions for
the user to improve the user's exercise routine. The trainer may,
according to one embodiment, view the activity of the user in
real-time in order to provide real-time instructions to improve the
user's exercise techniques.
[0064] Thus, the method 500 may provide real-time training
instructions for a user of an exercise apparatus. It should be
noted that the method 500 is just one implementation and that the
operations of the method 500 may be rearranged or otherwise
modified such that other implementations are possible.
[0065] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a
method 600 to modify one or more settings of an exercise apparatus.
In one configuration, the method 600 may be implemented by the
device capture apparatus 104 and the device output apparatus 106 of
FIG. 1, 2, 3, or 4 as well as the command receiving module 202 of
FIG. 2 or 3.
[0066] At block 602, an activity of a user of an exercise apparatus
may be captured, as described above. At block 604, a command to
modify a setting of the exercise apparatus may be received. In
another embodiment, the captured data of the user using the
exercise apparatus may not be transmitted to a remote computing
device. The captured data may be analyzed by the analysis module
302 of FIG. 3. The analysis may automatically identify ways the
user could improve his/her exercise technique. Based on the
analysis, a command may be generated to modify one or more settings
of the exercise apparatus. The generated commands may be
communicated from the analysis module 304 and received by the
command receiving module 202 at block 604.
[0067] In one embodiment, at block 606, the one or more settings of
the exercise apparatus may be modified based on the received
command. For example, the speed of the exercise apparatus may be
increased or decreased, the resistance of the exercise apparatus
may be increased or decreased, the incline of the apparatus may be
increased or decreased, and the like. The settings may be modified
automatically by the exercise apparatus. In another embodiment, the
commands may be outputted to the user of the exercise apparatus.
The user may then manually change the settings of the exercise
apparatus based on the received command.
[0068] Thus, the method 600 may provide a command to modify various
settings of an exercise apparatus based on captured activities of
the user of the exercise apparatus. It should be noted that the
method 600 is just one implementation and that the operations of
the method 600 may be rearranged or otherwise modified such that
other implementations are possible.
[0069] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a
method to automatically modify settings of an exercise apparatus
based on the activity of the user of the exercise apparatus. In one
configuration, the method 700 may be implemented by the data
capture apparatus 104, the data output apparatus 106, the analyzing
module 302, the command generation module 304, and the command
receiving module 202, of FIG. 1, 2, 3, or 4.
[0070] At block 702, an activity of a user of an exercise apparatus
may be captured. At block 704, data representing the captured
activity may be analyzed. The captured data may be analyzed to
identify one or more areas of improvement relating to the user's
exercise technique on the exercise apparatus. For example, the
captured data of the user may indicate that a user is running or
walking on the exercise apparatus with a pronated foot position. At
block 706, a command may be generated to modify a setting of the
exercise apparatus based on the analysis of the captured data. For
example, a command may be generated to increase the incline of the
exercise apparatus, which may improve the pronated foot position of
the user. At block 708, the setting of the exercise apparatus may
be modified automatically based on the generated command. As a
result, the incline of the apparatus may be automatically increased
and the activity of the user may continue to be captured and
monitored to determine if the increased incline improves the foot
position of the user.
[0071] Thus, the method 700 may provide for automatically modifying
a setting of an exercise apparatus based on analysis of data
representing the activity of a user. It should be noted that the
method 700 is just one implementation and that the operations of
the method 700 may be rearranged or otherwise modified such that
other implementations are possible.
[0072] FIG. 8 depicts a block diagram of a computer system 810
suitable for implementing the present systems and methods. The
computer system 810 may be an example of the exercise apparatus 102
and/or the computing device 110 of FIG. 1, 2, 3, or 4. Computer
system 810 includes a bus 812 which interconnects major subsystems
of computer system 810, such as a central processor 814, a system
memory 817 (typically RAM, but which may also include ROM, flash
RAM, or the like), an input/output controller 818, an external
audio device, such as a speaker system 820 via an audio output
interface 822, an external device, such as a display screen 824 via
display adapter 826, serial ports 828 and 830, a keyboard 832
(interfaced with a keyboard controller 833), multiple USB devices
892 (interfaced with a USB controller 891), a storage interface
834, a floppy disk unit 837 operative to receive a floppy disk 838,
a host bus adapter (HBA) interface card 835A operative to connect
with a Fibre Channel network 890, a host bus adapter (HBA)
interface card 835B operative to connect to a SCSI bus 839, and an
optical disk drive 840 operative to receive an optical disk 842.
Also included are a mouse 846 (or other point-and-click device,
coupled to bus 812 via serial port 828), a modem 847 (coupled to
bus 812 via serial port 830), and a network interface 848 (coupled
directly to bus 812).
[0073] Bus 812 allows data communication between central processor
814 and system memory 817, which may include read-only memory (ROM)
or flash memory (neither shown), and random access memory (RAM)
(not shown), as previously noted. The RAM is generally the main
memory into which the operating system and application programs are
loaded. The ROM or flash memory can contain, among other code, the
Basic Input-Output system (BIOS) which controls basic hardware
operation such as the interaction with peripheral components or
devices. Applications resident with computer system 810 are
generally stored on and accessed via a non-transitory computer
readable medium, such as a hard disk drive (e.g., fixed disk 844),
an optical drive (e.g., optical drive 840), a floppy disk unit 837,
or other storage medium. Additionally, applications can be in the
form of electronic signals modulated in accordance with the
application and data communication technology when accessed via
network modem 847 or interface 848.
[0074] Storage interface 834, as with the other storage interfaces
of computer system 810, can connect to a standard computer readable
medium for storage and/or retrieval of information, such as a fixed
disk drive 844. Fixed disk drive 844 may be a part of computer
system 810 or may be separate and accessed through other interface
systems. Modem 847 may provide a direct connection to a remote
server via a telephone link or to the Internet via an internet
service provider (ISP). Network interface 848 may provide a direct
connection to a remote server via a direct network link to the
Internet via a POP (point of presence). Network interface 848 may
provide such connection using wireless techniques, including
digital cellular telephone connection, Cellular Digital Packet Data
(CDPD) connection, digital satellite data connection or the
like.
[0075] Many other devices or subsystems (not shown) may be
connected in a similar manner (e.g., scanners, digital cameras and
so on). Conversely, all of the devices shown in FIG. 8 need not be
present to practice the present systems and methods. The devices
and subsystems can be interconnected in different ways from that
shown in FIG. 8. The operation of a computer system such as that
shown in FIG. 8 is readily known in the art and is not discussed in
detail in this application. Code to implement the present
disclosure can be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable
medium such as one or more of system memory 817, fixed disk 844,
optical disk 842, or floppy disk 838. The operating system provided
on computer system 810 may be MS-DOS.RTM., MS-WINDOWS.RTM.,
OS/2.RTM., UNIX.RTM., Linux.RTM., or another known operating
system.
[0076] Moreover, regarding the signals described herein, those
skilled in the art will recognize that a signal can be directly
transmitted from a first block to a second block, or a signal can
be modified (e.g., amplified, attenuated, delayed, latched,
buffered, inverted, filtered, or otherwise modified) between the
blocks. Although the signals of the above described embodiment are
characterized as transmitted from one block to the next, other
embodiments of the present systems and methods may include modified
signals in place of such directly transmitted signals as long as
the informational and/or functional aspect of the signal is
transmitted between blocks. To some extent, a signal input at a
second block can be conceptualized as a second signal derived from
a first signal output from a first block due to physical
limitations of the circuitry involved (e.g., there will inevitably
be some attenuation and delay). Therefore, as used herein, a second
signal derived from a first signal includes the first signal or any
modifications to the first signal, whether due to circuit
limitations or due to passage through other circuit elements which
do not change the informational and/or final functional aspect of
the first signal.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0077] In order to assist a person that is exercising, as well as
motivate the person to continue to exercise, and to enjoy the
workout, the present system records certain aspects of the person
while he/she is exercising. This may be accomplished by attaching a
camera to an exercise machine, placing sensors on the exercise
machine, or by positioning any other type of input device on or
near an exercise apparatus and/or on the user. In general, the
present systems and methods capture the person while he/she is
exercising, provide the captured data to a personal trainer or an
automated system, receive instructions from the personal trainer,
provide the instructions to the person while they are exercising,
and alter a setting of the exercise machine.
[0078] When the person begins exercising, a communication link may
be established between the exercise machine and a computer used by
the personal trainer. As the person exercises, a video camera or
other sensor may capture the person's movements. These images may
be relayed to the computer used by the personal trainer. The
trainer may watch the person as they exercise in real-time. In
addition, the person exercising may view a monitor on the exercise
machine and view images of the personal trainer and/or view images
of themselves exercising. As a result, a live video chat session
may be established between the person exercising and the personal
trainer.
[0079] During the session, the trainer may provide tips, feedback,
advice, encouragement, etc. to the person while he/she exercises.
The trainer may use the real-time footage of the person to identify
areas of improvement relating to the exercising technique being
performed by the user of the exercise apparatus that the person
could implement while he/she exercises. For example, the trainer
may identify that that the posture of the person is incorrect and
that if the person continues exercising with that posture, their
results will not be ideal. The trainer may speak, provide written
instructions, provide an image, etc. to inform the person to change
his/her posture. The person, while exercising, may view a monitor
with a live video and/or audio feed of the personal trainer. The
person may receive these instructions via the video connection and
modify his/her posture.
[0080] In addition to providing instructions, the personal trainer
may also input one or more commands on the remote computer. These
commands may be transmitted to the exercise machine and various
settings of the machine may be altered based on the commands. For
example, from the live video feed and sensors attached to a
treadmill, the personal trainer may identify that the person's
heart rate is too high while the person is running on the
treadmill. The trainer may input a command to reduce the speed of
the treadmill. The command may be received by the exercise machine,
and the speed may be automatically reduced. Alternatively, the
person may receive instructions from the personal trainer to reduce
the speed and the person may manually lower the speed of the
machine.
[0081] For example, the video message from the trainer to the user
may include instructions to modify the speed, modify the
resistance, modify the incline, etc. of the exercise apparatus. In
one embodiment, the user of the exercise apparatus may manually
modify the one or more settings. In another embodiment, the one or
more settings may be automatically modified based on the
instructions provided in the video message. As a result, a personal
trainer may remotely monitor the exercise activity of a customer
and provide real-time instructions to the customer as well as
real-time commands to modify one or more settings of the exercise
equipment being used by the customer.
[0082] The video feed of the person exercising may be transmitted
to a location other than a remote computer. According to one
embodiment, the exercise machine may include software to analyze
the video feed and identify any errors with the person's exercise
routine. If errors are discovered, the software may automatically
generate instructions to the user to correct the error. In
addition, the software may generate commands to modify various
settings of the exercise machine in order to help the person
correct his/her exercise technique.
[0083] In conclusion, the present systems and methods provide for a
mechanism by which a person is provided real-time advice, feedback,
tips, etc. while he/she is exercising. The motivation for the
person to continue exercising may also increase because the person
is aware that a personal trainer is able to monitor their
exercising technique in real-time. Individuals that are not as
familiar with certain exercise machines may be motivated to use
these machine since a trainer is able to remotely control the
settings of the machine to help the person maximize the benefits of
their exercise session with the machine.
* * * * *