U.S. patent application number 13/678546 was filed with the patent office on 2014-05-22 for method and apparatus for using cues and music during exercise routine.
The applicant listed for this patent is Ryan Spratt. Invention is credited to Ryan Spratt.
Application Number | 20140141396 13/678546 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50728277 |
Filed Date | 2014-05-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140141396 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Spratt; Ryan |
May 22, 2014 |
Method and Apparatus For Using Cues and Music During Exercise
Routine
Abstract
A method of instructing, motivating and influencing a user's
exercise routine using cues and music is disclosed.
Inventors: |
Spratt; Ryan; (Chicago,
IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Spratt; Ryan |
Chicago |
IL |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
50728277 |
Appl. No.: |
13/678546 |
Filed: |
November 16, 2012 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
434/247 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G10H 2240/131 20130101;
G10H 2220/371 20130101; G10H 1/40 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
434/247 |
International
Class: |
A63B 69/00 20060101
A63B069/00 |
Claims
1. A computer-implemented method for providing a user with a
combination of exercise instructions matched to digital music
beats-per-minute (BPM) comprising a) receiving exercise
instructions and music from a set of data, the set of data
comprising a set of exercise instructions and a music list
segmented by music beats-per-minute (BPM); b) inputting the set of
data into a computer readable storage unit coupled to one or more
processors; c) configuring the processor to couple the exercise
instructions with music from the music list segmented by music
beats-per-minute; and d) deriving and storing in volatile or
non-volatile memory an association of the set of exercise
instructions with the music segmented by music beats-per-minute;
wherein one or more steps a)-d) are performed using one or more
configured processors.
2. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having
computer-executable instructions for performing the method-of claim
1.
3. A computer-implemented method according to claim 1, wherein the
exercise instructions are selected from a group consisting of
verbal, visual or both.
4. A computer-implemented method according to claim 3, wherein the
exercise instructions is to proper body alignment.
5. A computer-implemented method according to claim 1, the method
used for exercise specific routines selected from a group
consisting of indoor cycling, elliptical trainers, stair climbers
and stationary row machines.
6. A computer-implemented method according to claim 1, further
comprising two or music lists.
7. A computer-implemented method according to claim 6, wherein each
music list represents an individual section for an exercise
specific routine.
8. A computer-implemented method according to claim 7, wherein the
user can select a previously selected music list or a previously
selected combination of music lists.
9. A computer-implemented method according to claim 5, wherein the
user can further select a level of skill for the exercise specific
routine.
Description
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates, generally, to a
computer-implemented method of instructing, motivating and
influencing a user's exercise routine using cues and music. In
particular, this invention relates to a system that provides
exercise instruction and music to a person. The system has the
ability to factor in beats per minute from digital audio files with
a specific type of exercise instruction. The system also allows the
user to search for music that fits into the one or more stages of
exercise instruction. Optional settings such as integrated
difficulty setting, multiple exercise modalities options,
cardiovascular monitoring, foot pressure monitoring, topography
maps, timed classes, and the like can also be incorporated into the
system.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Increasing awareness of health benefits derived from
physical exercise and participation in athletic events has resulted
in an increase in the numbers of individuals engaged in such
activities. Many individuals train or work out in clubs or indoor
gyms using exercise equipment that include various sensors for
measuring physical and/or physiological parameters associated with
the user's workout. For example, treadmills, elliptical trainers,
stair steppers, stationary bicycles, and the like often provide
electronic devices that measure or estimate various physical and/or
physiological parameters associated with a workout or training
exercise, such as the distance traveled, the elapsed time of the
exercise, the altitude climbed, the inclination level, the movement
rate, the heart rate, the power expended, the calories burned, the
rate of calories burned, etc. In some gyms or clubs, data relating
to an individual's workout may be transmitted automatically from
the exercise equipment directly to a computer system and stored.
Athletes, their trainers, and/or their coaches may gain access to
this data, e.g., for post-workout analysis, to gauge progress or
improvement, to develop future workout routines or plans, etc.
[0003] Some athletic workouts, training routines, or events simply
do not lend themselves to the use of indoor gyms and/or stationary
exercise equipment of the type described above. For example, long
distance runners (e.g., marathoners), cyclists, triathletes, and
the like typically cover long distances during each workout, and
they must train over a variety of different terrains and
conditions. Such athletes also may quickly become bored when using
stationary, indoor exercise equipment for the length of time
required to prepare for the events in which they compete. Moreover,
some individuals simply prefer being outdoors and working out
outdoors as compared to the confinements of an indoor gym or club.
Working out individually and outdoors additionally has advantages
over use of indoor facilities in that an individual outdoor workout
typically will not require club or gym memberships and their
associated membership fees, thereby eliminating at least some of
the expense involved in keeping fit and participating in athletic
events.
[0004] Recently, athletic performance monitoring systems utilizing
global positioning satellite ("GPS") data to provide data and
information to athletes and/or to equipment used by athletes during
an athletic event has been described. Also, a computing device that
receives and analyzes data indicating current physiology and
movement of a user in order to provide certain music that
influences the user has been reported.
[0005] However, there is still a need in the art for other portable
athletic performance monitoring systems and methods that correlate
measured physical and/or physiological data associated with an
athletic performance to other data collected during the performance
including the elapsed time and/or distance in the performance.
There also is a need in the art for systems and methods that will
automatically store data associated with an athletic performance
and make it available to athletes, their coaches, and/or their
trainers for post-performance analysis. There also is a need in the
art for improved athletic performance monitoring systems and
methods that will allow athletes to better use data generated from
past performances.
[0006] Accordingly, the instant invention utilizes a music-based
system to provide exercise-related instruction to a user, thereby
fulfilling the needs presented above.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0007] In accordance with the present invention, a
computer-implemented method provides a user with a combination of
exercise instruction matched to digital music beats-per-minute
(BPM). As described herein, the BPM is the unit of measure for the
tempo of the music in question. The method can be used for exercise
specific routines, such as, indoor cycling, elliptical trainers,
stair climbers or stationary row machines. A specific non-limiting
example the method of the invention can be used in is a simulated
indoor cycling class. The exercise instruction is in the form of
verbal and/or visual cues to explain, for example, proper body
alignment, including but not limited to, hip, spine, shoulder and
hand positioning during exercise. The method of the present
invention provides the user with one or more settings/options to 1)
select music from the user's own library to match the given class
BPM segments; 2) control the difficulty level of the exercise
program; 3) change the instruction type; 4) connect to one or more
external sensors such as a heart rate monitor, cadence-enabled
sensors and Bluetooth-enabled sensors; and 5) adjust time settings.
The method can also optionally provide for integrated software
which will allow for variations controlled by the user, creating a
vast number of workouts.
[0008] Accordingly, it will be understood by those skilled in the
art that one or more aspects of this invention can meet certain
objectives, while one or more other aspects can meet certain other
objectives. Each objective may not apply equally, in all its
respects, to every aspect of this invention. As such, the following
objects can be viewed in the alternative with respect to any one
aspect of this invention.
[0009] Other objects, features, benefits and advantages of the
present invention will be apparent from this summary and the
following descriptions of certain embodiments, and will be readily
apparent to those skilled in the art. Such objects, features,
benefits and advantages will be apparent from the above as taken
into conjunction with the accompanying examples, data, and all
reasonable inferences to be drawn therefrom. The disclosures in
this application of all articles and references, including patents,
are incorporated herein by reference.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 is a pictorial diagram illustrating an exemplary user
interface for a home page of the application.
[0011] FIG. 2 is a pictorial diagram illustrating an exemplary user
interface for an exercises or classes screen of the
application.
[0012] FIG. 3 is a pictorial diagram illustrating an exemplary user
interface for a music playlist of the application.
[0013] FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary embodiment
of a processor system configured to implement the methods of the
invention.
[0014] FIG. 5 is a pictorial diagram illustrating an exemplary user
interface for instructing a user.
[0015] FIG. 6 is an example of a hand animation instruction that
can be provided to a user; a)-c) show different positions.
[0016] FIG. 7 is an example of a lower-body animation instruction
that can be provided to a user; a)-d) show different positions.
[0017] FIG. 8 is a pictorial diagram illustrating an exemplary user
interface for a past performance of a user.
[0018] FIG. 9 is a pictorial diagram illustrating an exemplary user
interface for a user's past performances via statistics; a) first
page including graph of heart rate; and b) second page including
calories burned.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0019] Illustrating certain non-limiting aspects and embodiments of
the invention, and specifically referring now to the drawings in
detail wherein like numbers represent like elements throughout, a
method comprising a processor-based application comprising a
multiple option user interface 500 is provided (FIG. 1). From the
interface 500, a user obtains a set of data from a database 220
(see FIG. 4). Thus, the method can also comprise receiving exercise
instructions and music from a set of data, the set of data
comprising a set of exercise instructions and a music list
segmented by music beats-per-minute (BPM); inputting the set of
data into a computer readable storage unit coupled to one or more
processors; configuring the processor to couple the exercise
instructions with certain music; and deriving and storing in
volatile or non-volatile memory an association of the set of
exercise instructions with the certain music.
[0020] In a specific embodiment of the invention, FIG. 1 depicts an
example of the top view and home screen of the mobile application
as it appears after it completes loading from the initial start
up/short cut. In one embodiment, FIG. 1 consists of several user
interfaces that are specifically designed to customize a program
based on selections made. Each interface in FIG. 1 instruct/lead
the user to a decision which is used in calculations resulting in
the desired workout format. The interface 500 has multiple
functions and displays during operation of the application.
[0021] In a specific example and again referring to FIG. 1, which
describes a specific non-limiting example of the invention, the
interface 500 provides the user with an option to choose a specific
exercise (for example, a "Get To Class") 1. By choosing this
option, the user is redirected to another screen (FIG. 2) from
which a specific type of class 10 can be chosen, such as, for
example, indoor cycling, indoor rowing, stair climber, elliptical
training, and the like, with each class having a plurality of
sub-classes 12 from which to choose from. For example, and
referring to FIG. 2, choosing the class 10 indoor cycling provides
the user with a variety of indoor cycling sub-classes 12 to choose
from, such as Rolling Hills 12a, Cali Cruise 12b, Windy Day 12c,
Double Time 12d, Interval Hills 12e, and the like. The sub-classes
12 can appear, for example, in a pop up screen. Additional options
can be presented in choosing a class, such as, for example, the
length of time, or duration, 14 the exercise is to be performed;
the skill or difficulty level 16 of the particular exercise; and
even a recollection of past performance results 18 for the user for
any given exercise (see FIGS. 8 and 9 for an example of a past
performances and/or statistics).
[0022] Once a selection is made, the application, in one
embodiment, takes the user back to the original screen (or home
screen) as depicted in FIG. 1. The user then selects the music
from, for example, a create playlist option 2. In another
embodiment, the user is not taken back to the home screen, but is
prompted with a create playlist 2 option in the screen depicted in
FIG. 2 after the class 10 and all options thereto are selected.
[0023] Regardless, the create playlist 2 option takes the user to
another screen as depicted in FIG. 3. In an embodiment, the
playlist 20 provides the user with, for example, the option to
select a custom playlist 22. The custom playlist allows the user to
choose the BPM 20b for each element 20a of the class. By element is
meant each individual section of the class, such as, for example, a
warm-up section, a running section, a jumping section, and the
like, to which is assigned a specific BPM 26. Optionally, the
artist's name 20c, the track number and/or title 20d, and the
duration of the track 20e can also be displayed. The custom
playlist 22 allows the user the ability to choose certain songs
based on the BPM 20b. In other words, each element 20a with its
assigned BPM 20b has a plurality of songs for the user to choose
from. In contrast, and representing another embodiment, the user
can elect to have the application choose the songs for each element
20a of the selected class 10, or in other words, an "auto" option
24 from the playlist 20. Again, those songs have a particular BPM
20b, which correlates to the specific element 20a of the class 10.
The auto option includes, for example, the ability for the user to
use a playlist 20 previously created. Still another embodiment
allows the user to connect to a shared playlist, such as, for
example, an online community, 26 enabling the user to create and
share one or more playlists 20 she creates through social networks.
Once the class 10 and playlist 20 is selected, the user may start
28 his workout.
[0024] In certain other non-limiting examples, an optional skill
level button 16 depicted in FIG. 2, when depressed, can display one
or more separate options, including but not limited to, increasing
or decreasing the BPM start up and rest period during operation. In
other words, the skill level 16 can be, but does not necessarily
have to be, related to the duration 18 of class 10. Once selected,
the application can formulate, for example, rest periods, and set
BPM 20b settings for each element 20a of the class 10. The duration
18 button can also display the time remaining by default, but
regardless, when the duration button 18 is depressed, the option of
time lapse or time remaining can pop up on the screen for the
user.
[0025] Once the workout is defined by the class 10 and the playlist
20, the application provides a new screen dedicated to user
instruction/cues (FIG. 5). This can be achieved automatically or by
depressing a button. FIG. 5 is an example of a screen in which cues
or instructions 30, either verbal 30a or visual 30b or both, are
displayed. In FIG. 5, the box marked with an "X" can be a display
for the visual cues 30b, and can display such instruction (either a
picture display or in text), for example, as certain body position.
Thus, the visual cue 30b, can show the user how to adjust his or
her body into a given position using animations and other visual
cues. For example, the visual cue 30b can be a display of a
two-stage animation of the suggested hand (FIG. 6) and foot
position (FIG. 7) depending on the current body position the
application has the user in. Preferably, the instruction screen 30
can also display the duration 18, the heart rate of the user 32 if
the user is wearing sensors (see, for example, U.S. Pat. No.
7,683,252, incorporated herein by reference), and the calories
burned by a user 34 during a particular workout.
[0026] The ability for the disclosed method to integrate its
software with digital music relies on its ability to play digital
audio track(s) at the same time as the verbal/visival cues 30a and
30b are given to the user during the workout. The user also has the
ability to initiate 36 or pause 38 the workout once started.
Optionally, a countdown timer can be displayed at or near the
duration display 18 to alert the user of the start of workout. In
addition, an optional button can be added to the instruction screen
30 such that the user, at any point during her workout, has a means
to return to the original interface 500. The instruction screen 30
can also optionally allow the user to connect with online
communities 26 enabling the user to create, use and share the
playlists created in the individual community. The instruction
screen 30 can additionally allow the user to view past workouts 18
and to check settings 39 of in-progress workouts.
[0027] In a specific example, a user can elect the specific
exercise of indoor cycling, and a specific sub-class of, for
example, Rolling Hills, Cali Cruise, Windy Day, Double Time,
Interval Hills, and the like from the class screen. Once a playlist
is selected, the computer readable storage unit uses an algorithm
to differentiate between the program options. Upon the start of the
application, the user is directed to the instruction screen. The
user will see the marker representing him/her with the percentage
completed and a mach map based on the time lapsed. The use of
sensors such as cadence foot sensors and a heart rate monitor can
increase accuracy of distance and energy output. The skill level
interface, when pressed, gives the user two or more choices in a
pop up window. For example, novice, amateur, professional and elite
can be displayed until the user makes a selection. This selection
increases or decreases the selected class segments BPM count,
therefore changing the difficulty of the workout. Simultaneously,
the option screen disappears and redirects the user back to the
home screen with the selection made visible in the skill level box.
The skill level button uses an underlying computer readable storage
unit that increases the specified exercise modality's class
segments BPM as the skill level moves from novice towards the
elite. In an example, the computer readable storage unit calculates
a higher BPM for each class segment for a user that elects an elite
skill level, as compared to, a lower BPM for each class segment and
longer rest period between class segments for a user that elects a
novice skill level. This algorithm uses the information from the
duration button in determining not only the total time of the
workout but the intervals the user is experiencing during the
workout. The algorithm distributes verbal and/or visual cues
programmed into the computer readable storage unit and separates
them according to the exercise program, skill level and duration
selected.
[0028] When the class buttons, the skill select button and the
duration button 7 are filled in with the users selection, the start
button is highlighted and allows the user to begin the program by
pressing the same. Depressing the start button initializes several
of the other components and interfaces contained on the home
screen, and subsequently directs the user to the instruction
screen. The instruction screen provides the user with specific
verbal and/or visual instructions, including specific body
position(s) the user is instructed to be in during the specific
elements of the workout.
[0029] In an example, and referring now to FIGS. 6 and 7,
animations of hand and foot positions are displayed when the user
is instructed to be in a specific position. The user is prompted to
sit straight up with hips flat in the saddle or seat 110, as shown
in FIG. 7a, of an indoor cycling bike, while maintaining a hand
position closest to the user and medial to the handle bars 100, as
shown in FIG. 6a. The proper hand, shoulder, foot and pelvic
positions are displayed when the specific program requires the user
to shift body position. Instructions have the user altering between
a seated position (FIG. 7a) to having their hips positioned
slightly forward (FIGS. 7b-7c) and or raised off of the saddle 110,
depending on the specific instructions, informing the user to
activate the rhomboids in their shoulder girdle to retract the
scapulas and force the shoulders back while maintaining a forward
chest and straight back. The hands also change positions on the
handle bars 100, as depicted in FIG. 6a and FIG. 6b,
respectively.
[0030] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a processor
system 200 configured to implement the methods of the invention
disclosed herein. A processing unit 240, for example, is a
mainframe, server or mobile device coupled to an array of
peripherals or a desktop computer or a laptop computer. Coupled to
the processor are one or more databases 220 which may themselves be
coupled to additional processors.
[0031] During climbs and sprints, the user is required to alter the
hips by raising them off of the saddle 110 vertically and slightly
forward, as shown in FIG. 7c, then returning to, or repeating from,
the original position. This position tells the user, through
animation, to maintain shoulder position while taking the hands to
the furthest point away from the body on the handlebars 100 and as
lateral position as can be obtained on the grips, as shown in FIG.
6c.
[0032] The instruction screen, when activated during use, displays
animations of the last body position and how to adjust into the
current body position. These illustrations are synced with the BPM
of the selected program, giving the user a visual representation of
the preferred or recommended cadence for the users leg speed during
exercise. These animations, illustrated by the direction arrow 120
shown in FIGS. 7b and FIG. 7d, show knee height 130 and speed
changes, and toe angle 140 and force direction during a specific
point of the workout.
[0033] In a preferred embodiment, a display for the user's current
heart rate is provided when the user is connected, via wire or
wirelessly, using a heart rate monitor/sensors. Upon completion of
the workout, the heart rate display can optionally become an
interactive user interface, allowing the user to see, for example,
his/her lowest heart rate count, highest heart rate count, and
average heart beats per minute. This information is displayed in
list, graph and/or spread sheet form.
[0034] In another preferred embodiment, the amount of calories used
during the workout session is displayed. The formula needed to
ensure accuracy of calculations will include the user's
information, such as, for example, his weight, height, age, gender,
skill level and heart rate information. Once the workout is
completed, the calorie display can optionally become an interactive
user interface.
[0035] In FIG. 4, a database of exercise instructions 206 segmented
by digital audio BPM 20b provides a set of data 210 to the
processor 240. Such data 240 can be provided by an input drive 250,
coupled to the processor 240, or through an internet network 260
connection, either by hardwired or wireless devices. The data 210
is stored in a computer readable storage unit coupled 230 to the
processor 240 and manipulated by a menu control system 260 coupled
to the processor 240. As stated, the processor typically includes
an input device 250, for example a mouse, a keyboard or touch
screen, and a display device 270, for example a monitor screen or a
smart phone. Such devices can be hardwired to the processor or
connected wirelessly with appropriate software, firmware and
hardware. The display device 270 may optionally include a printer
280 coupled to the processor 240. The printer 280 may be configured
to mail or fax reports as determined by a user of the processor
system 200. The network is constructed from a database or databases
220 that stores a predetermined set of exercise instructions and a
correlating list of music defined by BPM 20b. The playlist is not
predetermined based on the workout, but the BPM (music) 20b
imbedded in the program is predetermined in order to allow the user
to upload a random playlist or create one from, for example, an
internet search. This search can be conducted using a BPM analyzing
software similar to a system and method for predicting musical keys
from an audio source representing a musical composition, as
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,842,878, incorporated herein by
reference. Based on the exercise selection, the processor 200, in
turn, is configured to couple a set of exercise instructions with
certain music BPM 20b, which is dependent on exercise and skill
selections made by the user. The methods, as described herein, can
be in the form of a mobile application, i.e. the processor 200 can
be a mobile application.
[0036] Other optional functions can also be incorporated into the
instant method. For example, the user, from the settings button on
the instruction screen, can enter his/her email address in the
allocated space. This option can also be linked to one or more
social networking sites, and information can be shared. Other
options include a birthday entry screen, a gender screen and a
weight screen to allow the program to calculate for, for example, a
proper heart rate during any given program.
[0037] In another aspect, the invention is drawn to the combination
of verbal and/or visual cues of an indoor cycling class being
transmitted on the same frequency as the user's music to eliminate
sound dampening between the verbal and digital music from their
mobile device. Other aspects of this invention include indoor
rowing classes, stair climbing classes and elliptical training
classes. The instant invention pertains to a computer-readable
storage unit with the ability to integrate verbal cues and digital
music of the user's choosing, along with the ability to sync and
overlay specific verbal cues designed to instruct a user through a
simulated indoor cycling class while simultaneously and without
volume dampening allowing the user to hear the desired music tracks
from any music folder, directory, or file available to be played
during the operational phase. The aforementioned verbal cues refer
to, but are not limited to, the language spoken from an instructor
before, during, and after an indoor cycling class, indoor rowing
session, stair climber use or elliptical training instruction.
These cues allow the user to understand, participate and improve
his cardiovascular endurance while increasing his neuromuscular
awareness and overall health without being in a class setting.
[0038] The user can select from one or a combination of genres of
music, e.g. rock, dance, Top 40. The application takes the
pre-programmed class segmented BPM creates a playlist based on the
BPM of the class and the user's genre selection. The results are
displayed in a list showing the separate class segments, their BPM
rating and the songs that match to the specific class segments.
[0039] As an example, a class list shows the type of movement, the
BPM rating and the number of songs available. When a class segment
is selected, the user is directed to a list of songs available for
that particular class segment. This gives the user an option to
customize her own playlist. Once chosen, the application places the
selected song into the class segment playlist. The selected songs,
matching the BPM and user's preference, are set into a random
playlist or a custom playlist created by the user, and played in
conjunction with an audio recording of the indoor cycling class.
The playback of the two will fluctuate in volume. As the voice
instruction is given, the music volume is lowered to a level that
ensures the user hears a clear vocal instruction. The music then
returns to the user's desired/preset volume once the instruction is
over. The user has the option to increase or decrease this ratio to
his/her preference.
[0040] The playlist is generated at random, unless specified
otherwise by the user, by the search/file sharing software. The
application allows the user to search a library connected to or
part of the mobile device, i.e. files on his/her home computer.
This search enables the user to playback songs in his own library.
The application also allows the user to breakdown the class
intervals into single searches. This gives the user the opportunity
to create a playlist in conjunction with a music generator.
[0041] The disclosures of all articles and references, including
patents, are incorporated herein by reference.
[0042] The invention and the manner and process of making and using
it are now described in such full, clear, concise and exact terms
as to enable any person skilled in the art to which it pertains, to
make and use the same. It is to be understood that the foregoing
describes preferred embodiments of the present invention and that
modifications may be made therein without departing from the spirit
or scope of the present invention as set forth in the claims.
* * * * *