U.S. patent application number 14/207158 was filed with the patent office on 2014-10-02 for exercise, training, and therapy tool and related systems and methods.
The applicant listed for this patent is Butler Nooner. Invention is credited to Butler Nooner.
Application Number | 20140295983 14/207158 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51621383 |
Filed Date | 2014-10-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140295983 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Nooner; Butler |
October 2, 2014 |
EXERCISE, TRAINING, AND THERAPY TOOL AND RELATED SYSTEMS AND
METHODS
Abstract
An exercise tool includes an elongated bar configured to be
positioned behind a user such that a midpoint of the elongated bar
is substantially aligned with a spine of the user. The exercise
tool includes a sensing unit configured to be operational during
rotation of the bar by the user about the midpoint of the elongated
bar. The sensing unit is configured to sense at least one of a
speed associated with the bar, an acceleration associated with the
bar, a number of times the bar has been rotated, an angle between a
plane of rotation and a reference plane or reference line, a range
of rotation, and an amount of deviation from which the plane of
rotation varies from a standard or a measured plane.
Inventors: |
Nooner; Butler; (McKinney,
TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Nooner; Butler |
McKinney |
TX |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
51621383 |
Appl. No.: |
14/207158 |
Filed: |
March 12, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61798021 |
Mar 15, 2013 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
473/223 ;
482/8 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2024/0071 20130101;
A63B 2225/09 20130101; A63B 24/0003 20130101; A63B 2220/34
20130101; A63B 2220/803 20130101; A63B 21/4033 20151001; A63B
2071/063 20130101; A63B 69/36 20130101; A63B 2220/44 20130101; A63B
21/026 20130101; A63B 2210/58 20130101; A63B 24/0087 20130101; A63B
2220/833 20130101; A63B 23/0238 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/223 ;
482/8 |
International
Class: |
A63B 69/36 20060101
A63B069/36; A63B 24/00 20060101 A63B024/00; A63B 21/00 20060101
A63B021/00 |
Claims
1. An exercise tool comprising: an elongated bar configured to be
positioned behind a user such that a midpoint of the elongated bar
is substantially aligned with a spine of the user; a sensing unit
configured to be operational during rotation of the bar by the user
about the midpoint of the elongated bar, the sensing unit
configured to sense at least one of a speed associated with the
bar, an acceleration associated with the bar, a number of times the
bar has been rotated, an angle between a plane of rotation and a
reference plane or reference line, a range of rotation, and an
amount of deviation from which the plane of rotation varies from a
standard or a measured plane.
2. The exercise tool of claim 1, wherein the sensing unit is
mounted to the elongated bar at approximately the midpoint of the
elongated bar.
3. The exercise tool of claim 1, wherein the sensing unit is
configured to worn by or mounted to the user.
4. The exercise tool of claim 1, wherein the sensing unit is at
least one of a gyroscopic sensor, an accelerometer, an
inclinometer, a magnetic sensor, a load sensor, and a location
sensor.
5. The exercise tool of claim 1 further comprising a storage unit
configured to store data sensed by the sensing unit.
6. The exercise tool of claim 5, wherein the stored data may be
compared to exemplary data collected from a third party using a
similar exercise tool.
7. The exercise tool of claim 6, wherein the third party is a
professional athlete.
8. A method of exercising comprising: positioning an elongated bar
behind a neck of a user and aligning a midpoint of the elongated
bar with a spine of the user; rotating the elongated bar and a
portion an upper body of the user about an axis of rotation that
substantially corresponding to a longitudinal axis of the spine,
the path of the elongated bar during rotation defining a rotational
plane; collecting data regarding at least one of a speed associated
with the rotation of the elongated bar, an acceleration associated
with the rotation of the elongated bar, a number of times the bar
has been rotated, an angle between the rotational plane and a
reference plane or reference line, a range of rotation, and an
amount of deviation from which the rotational plane varies from a
standard or a measured plane.
9. The method of claim 8 further comprising: storing the data.
10. The method of claim 9 further comprising: comparing the stored
data to exemplary data collected from a third party using a similar
exercise tool.
11. The method of claim 9 further comprising: reviewing or
replaying a portion of the stored data.
12. A system for teaching a golf swing, the system comprising: an
exercise and training tool that is sized and configured to be
positioned behind the shoulder blades of the user with the arms of
the user wrapping around a top surface of the tool and extending
out toward each end of the tool, the tool comprising: a sleeve
having a first end configured to engage a first collar and a second
end configured to engage a second collar, the sleeve having a first
inner diameter stop positioned a first distance from the midpoint
of the sleeve and a second inner diameter stop positioned a second
distance from the midpoint of the sleeve on the opposite side of
the midpoint from the first inner diameter stop; a first
telescoping member operable to extend from and retract into the
first end of the sleeve, the first telescoping member having an
outer diameter that is less than the inner diameter of the sleeve,
wherein the first telescoping member has a first outer diameter
stop positioned along an outer surface of the first telescoping
member; a second telescoping member operable to extend from and
retract into the second end of the sleeve, the second telescoping
member having an outer diameter that is less than the inner
diameter of the sleeve, wherein the second telescoping member has a
second outer diameter stop positioned along an outer surface of the
second telescoping member; the first collar being coupled to the
first end of the sleeve and the second collar being coupled to a
second end of the sleeve; a computing device coupled to the
midpoint of the sleeve; wherein the first collar is operable to
engage the first telescoping member and the first end of the sleeve
to fix the position of the first telescoping member relative to the
sleeve; wherein the second collar is operable to engage the second
telescoping member and the second end of the sleeve to fix the
position of the second telescoping member relative to the sleeve;
and wherein the computing device comprises a display, a vibratory
motor, a speaker, a memory, a processor, and one or more
sensors.
13. The system of claim 12, wherein the memory comprises
instructions for: receiving user input indicating one or more user
parameters that the user desires to track; receiving sensor input
from one or more sensors indicating that the user has started using
the exercise tool, and starting a tracking process based on the
sensor input; and providing feedback to the user to indicate the
tracked one or more user parameters.
14. The system of claim 12, wherein the memory further comprises
instructions for estimating user motion paths based on the received
sensor input.
15. The system of claim 12, wherein the memory comprises
instructions for tracking and recording the rotational motion of
the training tool in multiple axes as it is moved by the user.
16. The system of claim 12, wherein the one or more sensors
includes a sensor selected from the group consisting of a
gyroscope, an accelerometer, and an inclinometer.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/798,021 filed on Mar.
15, 2013, entitled EXERCISE, TRAINING, AND THERAPY TOOL AND RELATED
SYSTEMS AND METHODS, which is hereby incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to a portable
fitness and therapy apparatus for use in improving a user's
physical conditioning and the biomechanical form of a rotational
motion, such as a golf swing.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] While golfers vary in skill, age and physical condition, the
pursuit of the majority of golfers is the same - a more powerful,
more efficient, more consistent golf swing. Technology has produced
forgiving modern equipment that makes the results of any given golf
swing more effective, but the truth remains that the player's own
body is his most significant, most variable piece of equipment.
This concept, however, is not specific to the game of golf and is
applicable to almost any sport or physical activity that requires
swinging or rotational motion. Thus, for many golfers and other
athletes, an effective physical training and conditioning regime is
paramount to improving their performance, minimizing the potential
for injury, and creating a competitive edge. Nonetheless, typical
exercise regimens do little to improve a person's biomechanics that
are specific to their sport of interest.
SUMMARY
[0006] The problems presented by existing portable fitness
apparatuses for use in improving a user's physical conditioning and
the biomechanical form of a rotational motion are solved by the
systems and methods of the illustrative embodiments described
herein. In one embodiment, an exercise tool is provided and
includes an elongated bar configured to be positioned behind a user
such that a midpoint of the elongated bar is substantially aligned
with a spine of the user. The exercise tool includes a sensing unit
configured to be operational during rotation of the bar by the user
about the midpoint of the elongated bar. The sensing unit is
configured to sense at least one of a speed associated with the
bar, an acceleration associated with the bar, a number of times the
bar has been rotated, an angle between a plane of rotation and a
reference plane or reference line, a range of rotation, and an
amount of deviation from which the plane of rotation varies from a
standard or a measured plane.
[0007] In another embodiment, a method of exercising includes
positioning an elongated bar behind a neck of a user and aligning a
midpoint of the elongated bar with a spine of the user. The
elongated bar and a portion the upper body of the user are rotated
about an axis of rotation that substantially corresponds to a
longitudinal or vertical axis of the spine. The path of the
elongated bar during rotation defines a rotational plane. Data is
collected regarding at least one of a speed associated with the
rotation of the elongated bar, an acceleration associated with the
rotation of the elongated bar, a number of times the bar has been
rotated, an angle between the rotational plane and a reference
plane or reference line, a range of rotation, and an amount of
deviation from which the rotational plane varies from a standard or
a measured plane.
[0008] In another embodiment, a system for teaching a golf swing
includes an exercise and training tool that is sized and configured
to be positioned behind the shoulder blades of the user with the
arms of the user wrapping around a top surface of the tool and
extending out toward each end of the tool. The tool includes a
sleeve having a first end configured to engage a first collar and a
second end configured to engage a second collar. The sleeve
includes a first inner diameter stop positioned a first distance
from the midpoint of the sleeve and a second inner diameter stop
positioned a second distance from the midpoint of the sleeve on the
opposite side of the midpoint from the first inner diameter stop. A
first telescoping member is operable to extend from and retract
into the first end of the sleeve, the first telescoping member
having an outer diameter that is less than the inner diameter of
the sleeve. The first telescoping member includes a first outer
diameter stop positioned along an outer surface of the first
telescoping member. A second telescoping member is operable to
extend from and retract into the second end of the sleeve, the
second telescoping member having an outer diameter that is less
than the inner diameter of the sleeve. The second telescoping
member has a second outer diameter stop positioned along an outer
surface of the second telescoping member. The first collar is
coupled to the first end of the sleeve and the second collar is
coupled to a second end of the sleeve. A computing device is
coupled to the midpoint of the sleeve. The first collar is operable
to engage the first telescoping member and the first end of the
sleeve to fix the position of the first telescoping member relative
to the sleeve. The second collar is operable to engage the second
telescoping member and the second end of the sleeve to fix the
position of the second telescoping member relative to the sleeve.
The computing device includes a display, a vibratory motor, a
speaker, a memory, a processor, and one or more sensors.
[0009] In yet another embodiment, an exercise and training tool
that is sized and configured to be positioned behind the shoulder
blades of the user with the arms of the user wrapping around a top
surface of the tool and extending out toward each end of the tool
is provided. The tool includes a sleeve having a first end
configured to engage a first collar and a second end configured to
engage a second collar, the sleeve having a first inner diameter
stop positioned a first distance from the midpoint of the sleeve
and a second inner diameter stop positioned a second distance from
the midpoint of the sleeve on the opposite side of the midpoint
from the first inner diameter stop. A first telescoping member is
operable to extend from and retract into the first end of the
sleeve, the first telescoping member having an outer diameter that
is less than the inner diameter of the sleeve. The first
telescoping member has a first outer diameter stop positioned along
an outer surface of the first telescoping member. A second
telescoping member is operable to extend from and retract into the
second end of the sleeve, the second telescoping member having an
outer diameter that is less than the inner diameter of the sleeve.
The second telescoping member has a second outer diameter stop
positioned along an outer surface of the second telescoping member.
The first collar is coupled to the first end of the sleeve and the
second collar is coupled to a second end of the sleeve. The first
collar is operable to engage the first telescoping member and the
first end of the sleeve to fix the position of the first
telescoping member relative to the sleeve. The second collar is
operable to engage the second telescoping member and the second end
of the sleeve to fix the position of the second telescoping member
relative to the sleeve.
[0010] In still another embodiment, a process for tracking the
motion of a person using an exercise tool is provided. The exercise
tool includes a sleeve having a first end configured to engage a
first collar and a second end configured to engage a second collar,
a first telescoping member operable to extend from and retract into
the first end of the sleeve, and a second telescoping member
operable to extend from and retract into the second end of the
sleeve. The exercise tool is operated by a user placing the tool
over their shoulder and rotating evenly from one direction to
another such that the user's shoulders emulate the motion of
swinging a golf club. The process includes receiving user input
indicating one or more user parameters that the user desires to
track. The process further includes receiving sensor input from one
or more sensors indicating that the user has started using the
exercise tool, and starting a tracking process based on the sensor
input. The process further includes providing feedback to the user
to indicate the tracked one or more user parameters.
[0011] Other objects, features, and advantages of the invention
will become apparent with reference to the drawings, detailed
description, and claims that follow.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] Illustrative embodiments are described in detail below with
reference to the attached drawing figures, which are incorporated
by reference herein and wherein:
[0013] FIG. 1 illustrates a front, isometric view of an
illustrative embodiment of an exercise tool;
[0014] FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded, isometric view of the
exercise tool of FIG. 1;
[0015] FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of an exercise tool that is
similar to the exercise tool of FIG. 1 and that includes comfort
pads, the exercise tool being shown in an extended position;
[0016] FIG. 4 illustrates a front view of the exercise tool of FIG.
3, the exercise tool being shown in a contracted position;
[0017] FIG. 5 illustrates a front view of the exercise tool of FIG.
3, the exercise tool being shown with a mount and a computing
device attached;
[0018] FIGS. 6A-6C illustrates a schematic of a user using the
exercise tool of FIG. 5;
[0019] FIG. 7 illustrates a flow chart showing an illustrative
process for tracking data related to the use of the exercise tool
of FIG. 5;
[0020] FIG. 8 illustrates an illustrative embodiment of a
screenshot of a display of a computing device running an
application that executes a process that is similar to the process
shown in FIG. 7, the screenshot showing a user input display;
and
[0021] FIG. 9 illustrates an illustrative embodiment of a
screenshot of the display of a computing device that is running an
application that executes a process that is similar to the process
shown in FIG. 7, the screenshot showing data that is displayed to a
user.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0022] In the following detailed description of the illustrative,
non-limiting embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying
drawings that form a part hereof. These illustrative embodiments
are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the
art to practice the disclosed tools, systems and methods. It is
understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that logical
structural, mechanical, electrical, and chemical changes may be
made without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure.
To avoid detail not necessary to enable those skilled in the art to
practice the embodiments described herein, the description may omit
certain information known to those skilled in the art. The
following detailed description is not to be taken in a limiting
sense, and the scope of the illustrative embodiments is defined
only by the appended claims.
[0023] It will be understood that the benefits and advantages
described above may relate to one embodiment or may relate to
several embodiments of the invention. It will further be understood
that reference to "an" item refers to one or more of those
items.
[0024] In view of the shortcomings of existing exercise regimens
with regard to improving the biomechanics of an upper body motion,
especially a motion that involves rotation of the upper body, there
is a need for an improved exercise tool that helps golfers,
athletes, and other users improve their strength and physical
conditioning and, in some cases, the mechanics of a desired motion
or activity. The following disclosure describes illustrative
embodiments of an exercise tool that provides improved flexibility
and strength to a user.
[0025] With respect to golfers, for example, the physical stresses
experienced by the body as a result of the golf swing are
staggering. When one considers that the average swing speed for
many golfers exceeds 100 miles per hour (mph), it becomes obvious
that the golf swing is very powerful and highly dynamic. The club
travels over an arc with an average circumference of roughly twenty
feet. The rapid acceleration of the club head from 0 mph (top of
back swing) to 100 mph (ball impact) and then back to 0 mph (end of
follow through), while traveling such a short relative distance
over and over again, creates massive physical loads on the skeletal
and muscular systems in the body. These loads may be directly
related to the measurably high incidences of lower back (lumbar
spinal) injury and trauma experienced by golfers around the world.
The repetitive nature of these motions can lead to damaging
degenerative effects seen in the spines of many golfers.
[0026] Similar injuries can occur in athletes of other sports,
including, for example, baseball, tennis, and hockey. All of these
sports, among others, require extensive upper body movement and
rotation, all of which place stress on the spine and require use of
abdominal and other core muscles. Strengthening these muscles
provides great benefits to people engaged in these sports, such as
greater performance and a decreased risk of injury. Similarly, for
people who have been injured (whether an athlete or not) or who
have a need to participate in physical therapy for other reasons,
strengthening of core muscles and increasing flexibility often
provide a path to healing.
[0027] In an attempt to assist golfers in attaining a higher level
of consistency, many golf training and exercise devices exist. Most
of these devices are oriented to one of two common goals: (1)
providing the golfer with a training device to improve swing
mechanics and (2) providing the golfer with an exercise device to
strengthen his swing. Many of these training aids, however, do not
help to significantly improve the physical conditioning of the
golfer.
[0028] Golfers may use traditional workout regimens, such as weight
training, running, and cycling to gain strength and stamina and
other types of exercise, such as yoga, to increase flexibility.
With regard to improving performance in golf or any other sport
that involves a swinging motion, a shortcoming of these exercise
regimens is that they are not specific to any one particular type
of motion and may not help an athlete to improve the mechanics of
their swing. Thus, there is a need for a training aid that improves
an athlete's physical conditioning while also improving the
mechanics of their swing.
[0029] Referring now to the Figures, a system for refining a
swinging motion and improving the physical conditioning of a user
is shown. According to the illustrative embodiment of FIGS. 1 and
2, an exercise tool 100 that may be used as a training aid
comprises a multi-piece elongated bar. The elongated bar includes a
sleeve 102 that, in the illustrative embodiment is a round, tubular
member. The sleeve 102 may be circular in shape, or may be made
from a material having an alternative profile, such as a shaped
part that is hollow at the ends or a hollow extrusion having a
cross-section that is rectangular, elliptical, triangular, or of
any other suitable shape. The exercise tool 100 includes two
telescoping members 104 that are received by and extend from either
end of the sleeve 102, the telescoping members 104 being sized and
shaped to have an external profile that complements the internal
profile of the sleeve 102. The telescoping members 104 may be
extended from the sleeve 102 in an extended or expanded position
and retracted back into the sleeve 102 in a retracted or collapsed
position.
[0030] To prevent the telescoping members 104 from retracting
completely within the sleeve 102, one or more stops, such as inner
stops 122, may be coupled to or formed into the internal surface of
the sleeve 102. As referenced herein, a stop refers to a feature on
a telescoping member 104 or sleeve 102 that limits the depth or
extension to which the telescoping member 104 may be received
within or extended from the sleeve 102. For example, the inner stop
122 may be positioned on the inner diameter of the sleeve 102 at
approximately the midpoint of the sleeve 102 to prevent the
telescoping member 104 from contracting into the sleeve 102 past
the location of the inner stop 122. In such an embodiment, the
inner stop 122 may be a stopping groove, a portion of material
having a smaller diameter section or other restrictive feature,
such as a fastener, an adhesive, or a lock ring placed in a
complementary grove that makes a section of the sleeve 102 narrower
than the outer diameter of the telescoping member 104.
Alternatively, two inner stops 122 may be placed at approximately
the same distance from the midpoint of the sleeve 102 on either
side of a midpoint of the sleeve 102 to restrict the contraction of
each telescoping member 104 into the sleeve 102.
[0031] A second stop, such as an outer stop 120, may also be
attached to an outer surface of the telescoping members 104 to
limit the extent to which the telescoping members 104 may extend
from the sleeve 102 and thereby retain at least a portion of the
telescoping members 104 within the sleeve 102. The outer stop 120
may be formed from a lock ring, clip, fastener, set screw, a raised
portion of the telescoping member 104, a bushing, or a similar
feature having an outer dimension, such as an outer diameter, that
is greater than an inner dimension, such as an inner diameter, of a
retaining feature that is coupled to the end of the sleeve 102. In
the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the retaining feature
is a collar 106 that is coupled to each end of the sleeve 102 to
retain the telescoping member 104 within the sleeve 102.
[0032] It is noted that the telescoping members 104 may be free to
slide in an out of the sleeve 102 to the extent the telescoping
member is not restricted by engagement of the end of the
telescoping member 104 and internal stop 122 or the outer stop 120
and the retaining feature, such as the collar 106. In some
embodiments, a bushing 112, such as a step down bushing, may be
installed at the end of the sleeve 102 where the telescoping member
104 enters the sleeve 102. The bushing 112 provides for efficient
telescopic performance and serves as a safety feature by covering
any potentially sharp edges that would otherwise be exposed at the
junction of the tubes that form the telescoping members and the
larger tube that forms the sleeve. The bushings 112 remove any play
or excessive clearance space between the telescoping members 104
and collar 106 or sleeve 102. Each bushing 112 constrains one of
the telescoping members 104 so that the telescoping members 104 are
guided to move axially along the axis of the sleeve 102 without
excessive play. In one embodiment, the bushings 112 are made from a
softer material that provides a relatively smooth, low-friction
interface between sleeve 102 and the telescoping members 104. The
collars 106 may be tightened against the sleeve 102, and may
include an expansion cam or similar feature that engages and fixes
the position of the telescoping members 104 so that the telescoping
members 104 are no longer free to move along the axis of the sleeve
102. It is noted that while a threaded collar 106 that engages a
threaded end 124 of the sleeve 102 is shown, other collar
configurations may also be suitable. For example, a variable
diameter collar such as a quick release-type collar may be used to
fix the telescoping members 104 relative to the sleeve 102. To
facilitate the use of a quick-release, the ends of the sleeve 102
may be notched in some embodiments to allow the quick-release
collar to more easily compress the ends of the sleeve 102.
[0033] As further shown in FIG. 2, weights 110 may be inserted into
the telescoping members 104 to add weight to the exercise tool 100.
In some embodiments, the weights 110 are inserted within the distal
ends of each telescoping member 104, opposite the end of the
telescoping member that is closest to the midpoint of the sleeve
102 in the assembled exercise tool 100. Here, the weights 110 are
high-density weight inserts composed of a material such as lead,
tungsten, iron, steel, or concrete. The weights 110 are generally
formed in a shape that complements the shape of the inner surface
of the telescoping members 104. For example, where the telescoping
members 104 are formed from round tubing, the weights may be
cylindrical and sized and shaped to have a precise fit with minimal
clearance between the surface of the weight 110 and inner surface
of the telescoping member 104, which allows for precise
installation of the weight 110 into the inner volume of the end of
the telescoping member 104. In such an embodiment, the diameter of
the weights 110 may be no greater than the maximum allowable
internal diameter of the telescoping members 104. The weighted
inserts may be fixed into place by a high strength epoxy, resin
epoxy, glue, any suitable high-strength adhesive material, or a
mechanical fastener, such as a screw or bolt. In an illustrative
embodiment, the weights 110 may range from 1-20 pounds. In an
embodiment, based on the anticipated characteristics of the user,
the optimal weight of each of the two weights may be 2.5 lbs.
[0034] Protective end caps 108 may be applied to each end of the
exercise tool 100 at the ends of the telescoping members 104 over
the weights 110 to minimize the risk of the telescoping members
being damaged or causing damage. The end caps 108 close the ends of
each telescoping member 104 and thereby enhance the durability of
the exercise tool 100 and reduce the potential for accidental user
injury from that might result from contact with rough metal ends or
edges at the ends of the telescoping members 104.
[0035] In some embodiments, the weights 110 may be formed
integrally to the telescoping members 104 by bar stock that is
solid at the end that is distal from the sleeve and hollow at the
end that is proximate or within the sleeve 102. In another
embodiment, the weights 110 may be formed from cement or suitable
another high density filler material that is molded within the
telescoping members 104. In another embodiment, the weights 110 may
include a plurality of small parts, such as metallic or other
high-density beads or stackable cylinders, a high-density powder,
or a liquid that occupies a spring-loaded or compressible
compartment in the telescoping member 104 to bias the weight toward
the ends of the telescoping members 104. In such embodiments, the
protective end caps 108 may also serve as lids to enable the easy
removal or addition of weight, whether in the form of a plurality
of small parts, a powder, or a liquid.
[0036] In an embodiment, the components of the exercise tool 100
may be constructed of a high tensile strength material, such as a
high-grade steel, aluminum, or other alloy, a fibrous composite
material, a polymer, or even wood. Tubing of various diameters may
be used to form the sleeve 102 and telescoping members 104. For
example, the sleeve 102 may be constructed from a tube having a
continuous diameter of no less than 0.5 inches and no greater than
2 inches. Similarly, the telescoping members 104 may be formed from
tubing that is sized and configured to complement the inner
diameter of the sleeve 102 to facilitate smooth, telescopic
movement of the telescoping members 104 into and out of the sleeve
102. In the embodiment, the material selected to form the sleeve
102 and telescoping members 104 exhibits a high strength to weight
ratio and relatively low deflection modulus.
[0037] In an illustrative embodiment, the design of the exercise
tool 100 is bilaterally symmetrical about a midpoint, such as
midpoint 205 discussed with regard to FIGS. 3 and 4. While the
exercise tool 100 includes several movable parts, in some
embodiments, the assembled exercise tool 100 may be considered a
unitary design with no removable components, such as weights or
handles. In other embodiments, the exercise tool 100 may have
telescopic members or sleeves that could be removed by the user. In
any particular embodiment, accessories such as a bracket may be
removably attached to the exercise tool 100 to allow the
positioning of sensors or a computing device on the exercise tool
100. The respective telescoping members 104 may be identical,
having like measurements and smaller corresponding inner and outer
diameters relative to the sleeve 102 to provide efficient
telescopic functionality.
[0038] Referring again to FIG. 2, in an illustrative embodiment,
construction of the exercise tool 100 includes installing the
tubular telescoping member 104 into each end of the sleeve 102.
Each telescoping member 104 is adjustable and fixable relative to
the sleeve 102 using the collar 106, which may be a plastic
expansion cam twist locking mechanism combined with
step-down-bushings 112, to anchor the telescoping member 104
relative to the sleeve 102. Weights 110 may be installed within the
telescoping members 104, which may be covered by protective end
caps 108 that prevent the telescoping members 104 from causing or
receiving damage. The resulting construction may be considered a
bilaterally symmetrical telescopic apparatus, wherein each of the
two telescoping members 104 may be manipulated by a user to
contract within and extend out of the sleeve 102 over an equal
range of distances.
[0039] According to an illustrative embodiment, each telescoping
member 104 will displace no more than 50% of the available inner
circumferential volume of the sleeve when the telescoping members
are fully contracted. As such, one or more stopping grooves may
function as inner stops 122 to impede the telescoping members from
traveling than further into the sleeve and occupying more than 50%
of the volume of the sleeve. Each telescoping member 104 may be
restricted by outer stops 120 from extending beyond the end of the
sleeve 102 by more than 90% of the length of the telescoping
member. This limitation creates a structurally beneficial overlap
between the sleeve 102 and each telescoping member 104 that helps
to maintain the structural rigidity of the exercise tool 100 even
when the telescoping members 104 are fully extended. The outer
stops 120 are installed at each end of the sleeve, and may be
formed by complementary features such as ridges in the collar 106
and telescoping member 104 that engage to prevent the telescoping
members 104 from exiting the sleeve entirely.
[0040] In an embodiment, the collars 106 may be simple internal
twist operated expansion cams that can be operated with one hand.
The collars 106 are be installed at the ends of the sleeve 102 to
engage and fix the position of the telescoping members 104. Such an
internal cam feature enables a user to secure the telescoping
members 104 into the fully contracted position, fully extended or
any other intermediate position that may be desirable to a user. As
such, the exercise tool 100 may be configured with intermediate
stops, such as detents or notches in the sleeve 102 that complement
protrusions, spring-loaded ball bearings, or recesses in the
telescoping members 104. The intermediate stops may establish
intermediate locating indicia for partially extending each
telescoping member 104 the same distance from the end of the sleeve
102. In an embodiment, visual indicia, such as numbers or lines
drawn or printed on the telescoping members may be included to
enable a user to extend each telescoping member 104 by the same
amount. These features allow for customization and adjustment by
users because each user may easily and accurately move the
telescoping members 104 into and out of the sleeve 102 and thereby
adjust the characteristics of the exercise tool 100.
[0041] FIG. 3 shows an exercise tool 200 that is similar in many
respects to the exercise tool 100 of FIG. 1. The embodiment of
FIGS. 3 and 4 includes comfort pads 214 that are positioned along
the sleeve at the locations of a user's shoulders. With regard to
the embodiment of FIGS. 3 and 4, it is noted that the sleeve 202 is
the central structural element of the exercise tool 200. Shown
here, pressure release ports 211 are formed or drilled into the
central portion of the sleeve to facilitate the piston-like motion
of the telescoping members 204 into and out of the sleeve 202. The
pressure release ports shall be adequately sized to prevent a
pneumatic pressure differential between the inner volume of the
sleeve 202 and the external environment so that the air in the
sleeve 202 does not resist extension and contraction of the
telescoping members 204. As noted above, the sleeve 202 is
partially covered by one or more comfort pads 214, which may be
made from a resilient and dense cushioning material. The pads 214
or a single pad may be joined to the sleeve 202 using a suitable
adhesive compound, such as an epoxy, or frictionally engaged with
the outer surface of the sleeve 202. The length of the one or more
comfort pads 214 may be generally less than the length of the
sleeve 202. As such, the comfort pads 214 may be separated to
provide easy recognition of the midpoint 205, or center, of the
exercise tool 200. The comfort pads 214 may be formed from, or
covered by, leather or another suitable covering material that may
increase wear and comfort for the user. The color and finish of the
exercise tool 200, including its components, may be that of the
natural chosen construction materials or some other modified
process of sealing, finishing or painting chosen to enhance the
durability of the apparatus.
[0042] Other features of the embodiments of FIGS. 3 and 4 are
similar to those of FIGS. 1 and 2. The embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 3 and 4 has several components that are similar to those
described above with regard to FIGS. 1 and 2. Although not all of
these features are discussed are discussed in detail with regard to
FIGS. 3 and 4, these components have been identified by reference
numerals that are indexed by 100. As shown in FIG. 3, the collars
206 may be loosened to allow the telescoping members 204 to slide
freely along the axis of the sleeve 202 to the fully extended
position. FIG. 4 shows that the collars 206 may be loosened to
allow the telescoping members 204 to retract within the sleeve 202
to the fully retracted position. As noted below, the exercise tool
200 may be used to perform an exercise that involves rotating the
exercise tool 200 about its midpoint 205 and an axis of rotation
207 associated with a user's body. According to an embodiment, the
axis of rotation 207 passes through the midpoint of the tool when
properly held by the user such that the weight of the exercise tool
200 on each side of the midpoint 205 is balanced. In some
embodiments, however, it may be desirable to configure the exercise
tool 200 to have a weight distribution that is asymmetrical about
the midpoint 205.
[0043] The degree of resistance experienced by a user when rotating
the exercise tool 200 about the axis 207 may vary depending on the
moment of inertia of the exercise tool 200 relative to the midpoint
205, which a user may vary by adjusting the extent to which the
telescoping members 204 extend from the sleeve 202. For example, by
fixing the telescoping members 204 in a contracted position, a user
may lower the moment of inertia of the exercise tool 200 about the
axis 207 to decrease resistance. The user may increase the moment
of inertia about the axis 207 by adjusting the exercise tool 200
and fixing the telescoping members 204 in an extended position. In
general, the positioning of the telescoping members 204 in the
extended position provides a more difficult exercise regimen for
the use of the exercise tool 200 since the force required to start
and stop rotation of the exercise tool 200 within a given distance
is greater when the telescoping members 204 are extended compared
to when the telescoping members 204 are retracted.
[0044] Similarly, the mass of the weights 210 used in the exercise
tool 200 may vary based on the physical traits of the user, such as
strength, weight, and physical conditioning. For example, the mass
of the weights 210 may range from 2-10 lbs each for a smaller user
having a normal amount of strength and good physical conditioning.
The same configuration may also be appropriate for a larger user
having low strength or poor physical condition, such as poor
muscular-skeletal conditioning in the lower back. This
configuration may also be desirable for a patient undergoing
physical therapy. Conversely, higher mass weights 210 may be used
for larger users or users who are more physically fit and seeking
to build strength.
[0045] While many of the exercise tools described herein are
adjustable in length, it is conceivable that the exercise tool
could be a one-piece elongated bar of fixed length. Whether the
exercise tool is fixed or adjustable in length, it is generally
desirable in some embodiments for the exercise tool to have a
length that is approximately the same as the height of the user
that will be using the exercise tool. In one embodiment, the total
combined contracted length of the exercise tool 200 may be no less
than 30 inches and no greater than 72 inches, and the total
combined extended length may be no less than 30 inches and no
greater than 144 inches. In one embodiment, the length of the
exercise tool is about 44 inches contracted and about 72 inches
extended.
[0046] In view of the features of the illustrative embodiments of
the exercise tool 200 described above, it is noted that the
exercise tool 200 serves as a portable tool that may be easily
carried in the car, a golf bag, or other luggage of a user. The
exercise tool 200 also provides a low mass weight that, due to its
relatively high moment of inertia about the axis of intended
motion, offers a high degree of dynamic resistance. In an
illustrative embodiment, 87% of the weight of the exercise tool 200
is concentrated in the 22.2% of the length of the tool 200 that
resides at the distal ends of the telescoping members 204 helping
to beneficially increase the amount of torque that a user must
apply to use the tool. The exercise tool 200 is also easy to
assemble, ship, and store because of its collapsibility. The
variable length of the exercise tool 200 makes it easy to adjust so
that it may be used easily by people of different shapes, sizes,
and abilities. The exercise tool 200 also has orienting features,
as the two-piece comfort pad 214 (not shown), which aid the user in
quickly establishing the midpoint 205 of the exercise tool 200. The
exercise tool 200 may also serve as a two-in-one device that
performs the functions of both training and conditioning, and the
configuration of the weights 210 provide for a self-contained,
high-density material that provides significant kinetic forces
without deforming, decoupling, or incurring significant wear.
[0047] After assembly, the exercise tool 200 serves as a
bilaterally telescopic, unitary assembly with a fixed length. The
exercise tool 200 may also be provided as separate components or
taken apart for easy transportation and be easily assembled by a
user for use. The contractibility of the exercise tool 200 makes
the tool easy to transport and store. In addition, the bilaterally
telescopic and captive weight exercise tool 200 is advantageous, as
compared to fixed length or multi-piece assemblies, because the
length of the exercise tool 200 can be easily modified to adjust
the moment of inertia and associated angular momentum that works
against the user 230 to improve strength and conditioning during
operation. The adjustability of the exercise tool 200 also makes
the tool suitable for use by users having varying heights, levels
of flexibility, and strength.
[0048] Concentration of mass in the weights 210 at the ends of the
exercise tool 200 provides for the greatest possible angular
momentum and moment of inertia about the axis of rotation 207,
which offers the user 230 greater resistance for a small amount of
weight. When used as a golf swing training tool, for example, the
exercise tool 200 may increase ball striking ability, distance,
accuracy, and may even enhance the user's endurance.
[0049] Further, it is noted that while the exercise tool 200
generally described herein contemplates a central sleeve 202 and
telescoping members 204 that extend from the sleeve 202. The
exercise tool 200 may, in an alternative embodiment, have an
inverted construction. In such an embodiment, the telescoping
members 204 may be constructed similar to the sleeve 202 such that
the telescoping members 204 extend over a central member when the
tool is collapsed by a user. Such a tool would be largely similar
to the tool shown and described in the drawings, with the
exceptions that the collars 206 would be configure to engage the
inward ends of the telescoping members 204 and the retaining stops
would be placed at the distal ends of the central member which, in
the alternative embodiment, may be formed from a solid material in
addition to a tube or hollow member. Further, in another
embodiment, it may be desirable to form an exercise tool having
nested telescoping members to provide for greater collapsibility
and extendibility. In such an embodiment, intermediate telescoping
members may also serve as sleeves to allow for multiple sets of
telescoping members that extend from each end of a central
sleeve.
[0050] Referring now to FIG. 5, an illustrative embodiment of an
exercise tool 300 includes a mount 316 that is attached to a
location on the exercise tool 300 that corresponds to the midpoint
305 of the exercise tool 300. The mount 316 is used to couple a
computing device 318 or other sensor assembly that may be used to
help a user operate the exercise tool 300 by tracking and analyzing
the use of the exercise tool 300, as described below. The computing
device 318 may be a dedicated computing device that includes one or
more sensors, such as a gyroscope, inclinometer, or accelerometer;
a processor; a memory; a power source; and an input/output system.
The input/output system may include one or more of a touch-screen
or other display, hard-button controls, a microphone, and a
speaker. The computing device 318 may also include customized
software stored on the memory of the device to track and analyze
data relating to the use of the exercise tool 300 and to provide
visual and audible feedback to a user. It is noted that, in
addition to being a purpose specific computing device 318, the
computing device 318 may also be formed by a multi-function
computing device, such as an MP3 player, smart phone, personal
digital assistant, or similar computing device that is provided
with customized software to track and analyze data relating to the
use of the exercise tool 300.
[0051] FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate how a user 430 may operate the
exercise tool 400. In the illustrative embodiment, an exercise tool
400 having the features described above with regard to FIGS. 1-5 is
placed centrally behind the upper shoulders 432 or lower shoulders
434 while the user grasps the exercise tool 400 near each end 436.
The user operates the exercise tool 400 by rotating the exercise
tool 400 across different rotational, or swing, planes 440 using
different combinations of muscle groups for each rotational plane
440. In the embodiment of FIG. 6A, the rotational plane 440 is
shown as being parallel to the ground. However, the rotational
plane 440 may vary based on the position of the user 430 and may
therefore be at an angle y relative the user's spine.
[0052] In an embodiment, the angle y is a 90.degree. angle and the
rotational plane 440 is perpendicular to the axis 407, which
corresponds to the average vector of the user's spine. In turn, the
axis 407 may be angled relative to the ground at an angle that
corresponds to the position of the user 430 in the stance of a
golf-swing, a baseball swing, or a similar motion. Further, in the
case of a golf swing, for example, the rotational plane 440 may be
varied to approximate the plane through which the shoulders of the
user 430 would rotate when swinging each type of golf club that a
user may swing in a round of golf. For example, one rotational
plane 440 may correspond to a driver and another rotational plane
440 may correspond to a pitching wedge. The user 430 may also
operate the exercise tool 400 at different speeds, where higher
speeds may be used to refine muscle movements and increase strength
and conditioning and lower speeds may be used to more carefully
isolate muscle groups and establish a consistent rotational plane
440.
[0053] FIG. 6C shows how the user 430 may rotate the exercise tool
400 through the rotational plane 440 during use. The user 430 is
shown holding the exercise tool 400 in a starting position 452 and
rotating to a second position 454 that is an angle a from the
starting position. The user rotates from the second position 454
back across the starting position 452 to a third position 456 that
is an angle .beta. from the starting position to complete a swing
or rotation. In an embodiment, the angle .alpha. from the starting
position to the second position and the angle .beta. from the
starting position to the third position are equivalent. In another
embodiment, for example, when a physical therapy patient has been
instructed to restrict movement in a direction or has a limited
range of motion on one side of their body, the angles .alpha. and
.beta. may be different.
[0054] According to an illustrative method for using the exercise
tool 400, the user 430 may increase improve their physical
conditioning by using the exercise tool 400 to repeat isometric
motions or, motions that isolate certain muscle groups. The user
430 places the exercise tool 400 behind their shoulders and grips
the tool at each end, as shown in FIG. 6. The user 430 may then
rotate their torso from one direction to another through a range of
motion of approximately 90 degrees in either direction such that
the user starts a rep facing directly to their left, rotates their
torso through their midsection such that they are facing directly
to their right midway through the rep, and returns to the
left-facing position to complete the rep. The repetition may
alternatively be started with the user facing forward or to the
right, provided that the same path of motion (a 180 degree turn
from the left to the right, and back) is included within each
repetition.
[0055] A user 430 may employ the exercise tool 400 to perform
repetition based rotational exercises at any athletic spine angle
and rotational plane 440. To increase power, the user may execute a
high number of repetitions at a time at a high speed over a short
range of motion, such as 45 degrees in either direction.
Conversely, to increase flexibility, the user may execute a lower
number of repetitions at a low speed through a large range of
motion, for example, greater than 90 degrees. In an embodiment, the
user 430 drives the exercise tool 400 using their abdominal and
secondary core muscles to increase the benefits of using the
exercise tool 400.
[0056] Through use of the exercise tool 400, it is contemplated
that a user will increase his rotating core muscle power and his
rotating core range of motion. Using the exercise tool 400, a user
is able to define and remember the proper rotational axis of the
correct spine angle and rotational plane 440. Through repeated use,
a user can build muscle memory for a preferred rotational plane
440. In addition, a user may gain added core stability and core
endurance to enable enabling consistent, repeatable swing or
rotation performance over time. Taken together, these enhancements
to the physical conditioning of the user, when applied to the game
of golf, for example, serve to increase the user's accuracy,
distance, and endurance.
[0057] In addition, by utilizing the sensing and analyzing
capabilities of the computing device 418, the user 430 is able to
actively monitor and improve their swinging motion in real time. As
such, the computing device 418 may monitor the usage of the
exercise tool 400 and provide the user 430 with feedback about
their usage of the exercise tool 400. In an embodiment, the
computing device 418 may be configured to provide feedback relative
to the user's range of motion and rotational plane 440. For
example, the computing device, may track the motion of the exercise
tool 400 through a set number of repetitions to determine the
rotational plane 440 and alert the user 430 if his swing breaks
plane. The computing device may also track the rotation of the
exercise tool 400 and alert the user 430 if he rotates to a second
position having an angle a that is greater than a preselected
angle, or average angle a determined from previous repetitions, at
the start of his swing. Similarly, the computing device may alert
the user 430 if he rotates to a third position having an angle
.beta. that is greater than a preselected angle, or average angle
.beta. determined from previous repetitions, at the end of his
swing. Such alerts may be beneficial in assisting the user 430 to
identify and adhere to a consistent motion and to prevent the user
430 from over-rotating, which may lead to bad swing mechanics or
possible injury. The computing device 418 may also monitor the
angles corresponding to the start of the swing and end of the swing
(.alpha.and .beta., respectively) to determine if the angles are
less than preselected angles or angles .alpha. and .beta.
determined from previous swings to alert the user 430 or their
trainer if the user 430 is under-rotating and not completing their
swinging motion.
[0058] FIG. 7 shows a representative process for receiving user
input, monitoring the usage of the exercise tool, and providing
feedback to the user. To start the process 500, a user starts an
application 510 on the computing device, which in turn prompts the
user to select a program 512 or program features. The process
determines whether the user has selected program features 514, and
which features the user has selected, and determines whether the
user has started using the exercise tool 516. The computing device
also determines whether the user has started using the exercise
tool based on whether the user has selected a "start" button or by
monitoring the sensors described above to determine whether the
exercise tool is being used. Once the device has determined that
the exercise tool is in use, the computing device displays visual
feedback and increments the repetition count 518 if the user has
requested a repetition count. The process also monitors the motion
of the exercise tool for variation from an alert parameter 519,
such as swing angle, range of motion (ROM), and rotational plane.
For example, the system may establish a rotational plane and ROM
when the user begins using the tool by taking the average planes
and ROM from a predetermined number of repetitions, such as the
first ten repetitions. Alternatively, the ROM and rotational plane
may be calibrated in advance with a user-defined value or assigned
a default value. In such an embodiment, the ROM may have a default
value of 90 degrees from the forward-facing position and the
rotational plane may be parallel to the ground. The process also
includes determining whether the swing or rotation has broken plane
520 and determining whether the swing has exceeded the ROM or if
the user has under-rotated. For example, if the user's motion
varies more than a predetermined amount from the rotational plane,
such as plus or minus, for example, 2 degrees, the device may
determine that the swing has broken plane. Similarly, if device may
determine that the swing or rotation is not within the expected ROM
if the ROM of the swing is not within plus or minus, for example, 2
degrees from the expected ROM. In either case, in accordance with
the illustrative process, the device alerts the user 524 if the
swing has broken plane, under-rotated, or over-rotated. Depending
on the device and the configuration selected by the user, the alert
may be a vibration to be felt by the user, an audible sound, or a
visual indicator such as a flashing light, the presence of a color
on the display, or text.
[0059] FIGS. 8 and 9 show representative displays for a computing
device 600 and 700, respectively, that implements a process similar
to the process shown in FIG. 7. As shown in FIG. 8, the computing
device 600 displays a menu that allows a user to select which swing
parameters he wishes to track. As shown, the user may select a
check box 611-615 that corresponds to several requested inputs. As
such, the user is queried by portions of the display that ask the
user whether he wants to monitor, for example, swing count 602,
angular acceleration 604, virtual club head speed 606, rotational
plane 608, and range of motion 610.
[0060] As shown in FIG. 9, depending on the user selection, the
computing device 700 may display swing count 711, maximum swing
angle 712, the angle of the rotational plane relative to a
reference plane, such as, for example, the plane parallel to the
ground 713, the percentage of the swings that are in plane 714, and
the percentage of swings that are within the expected range of
motion 715. In addition, the computing device 700 may be configured
to display visual indicators to convey similar data. For example, a
heat map may be used to show the percentage of swings that are
within plane or within the expected range of motion by displaying
each swing from a view that is perpendicular to the rotational
plane and facing the user and a view that is parallel but offset
from the rotational plane. In accordance with such an embodiment,
each swing may be shown and multiple swings following the same
trajectory may be shown by incrementing the color toward a color
that indicates a high number of swings. Thus, where 49 swings are
in plane and one swing is out of plane, the trajectory of the one
outlying swing may be shown in light red while the trajectories of
the in-plane swings are shown in dark green.
[0061] In accordance with the foregoing, a simple-to-use, active
response feedback and motion analysis system is provided for use in
conjunction with the exercise tool. The system functions to assist
the user in defining and achieving the correct athletic motion and
assists the user in counting repetitions by recognizing a pattern
of motions associated with swinging the exercise tool. In one
embodiment, the system may also provide a three-dimensional display
to pair with the analysis mentioned above and to show swing
trajectories. The system may be configured to maintain a user's
training history and graphically display swing related mechanical
trends from the user's history of data associated with their use of
the device. In an embodiment, the system also includes the ability
to set alarms so that they do not miss scheduled session trainings
and, where a smart phone is used as the computing device, it may be
possible to provide the analysis and associated data to the user
without the user incurring any additional cost by utilizing sensors
already embedded in the smart phone or similar computing
device.
[0062] In accordance with an illustrative embodiment, the process
described above may be expanded to initiate, capture, record and
export three-dimensional sports motion analysis from an
accelerometer, a speed sensor, an inclinometer, a load sensor, a
gyroscopic sensor, a magnetic sensor, or a location sensor (such as
for example a Global Positioning System (GPS) sensor) coupled to
the exercise tool. The process may also include the ability to
record the motion of an elite player so that their motions can be
used as a composite baseline for sports-related or other movements,
and to allow the user to compare their movements to movements
provided by the elite player. The process and device may also
compare recorded sensor data to the aforesaid baseline to provide
real time biomechanical feedback to user through vibration or an
audible signal.
[0063] In addition, in an illustrative embodiment, the process and
computing device may use the sensor data to warn against unsafe
levels of velocity, acceleration, or excessive rotation to protect
the user from injury. The process and system may also employ
repetitive pattern recognition to identify common known athletic
movements, such as a golf swing, thereby providing the ability to
audibly count exercise repetitions. Further, three-dimensional
plotting and graphical display playback of "average shoulder plane,
range and plane accuracy " may be recorded and displayed on the
user's computing device or on a remote computing device via a
server that is communicatively coupled to the user's computing
device to receive and record sensor data.
[0064] By recording user data and elite player data, the data
gathered using the systems, tools, and processes described herein
may be used to populate a database that allows the comparison of
user data to professional player data, and may provide a video
analysis that superimposes the user's swing over the elite players
swing to show deviations from the baseline. The device may also
instruct the user in accordance with different modes. For example,
where the user desires to increase power, they may be instructed to
execute short, fast repetitions, and where the user desires to
increase flexibility, they may be instructed to execute long slow
repetitions.
[0065] As noted above, the computing device and sensor system may
be calibrated by using baselines determined from a sample set of
user motions, default values, user input values, and values taken
from a database that includes recorded data for a variety of
amateur and elite athletes.
[0066] It is also noted that while the data aggregation, input, and
analysis is generally contemplated as being executed on a user
computing device, the sensors or computing device may be
communicatively coupled to a remote server that may analyze,
compile, and store the data for future analysis and display. Thus,
a user may be able to view analysis and swing data from a remote
computer and to receive instruction from a secondary computing
device having a larger display, such as a television or desktop
computer.
[0067] It is further noted that while the exercise tool, computing
device, and related systems and processes described herein are
generally discussed in the context of a sport that involves a
swinging motion, such as golf or baseball, the tool, device, and
related systems and processes may have a variety of alternative
uses. For example, motions associated with other technique-oriented
sports involving the use of a bar may also be tracked and analyzed
as described above. These motions may also include weight lifting
motions and motions associated with simple physical therapy
sessions in a therapeutic environment. As such, the exercise tool,
systems, and processes may be used to rehabilitate a patient by
providing the patient with an exercise tool and tracking their
recovery or improvements with regard to workout history, range of
motion, and ability to execute consistent, stable movements. As
such, the exercise tool, systems and processes may also be used to
record, monitor and coach physical therapy sessions and related
activities.
[0068] Where appropriate, aspects of any of the embodiments
described above may be combined with aspects of any of the other
embodiments described to form further examples having comparable or
different properties and addressing the same or different problems.
Several non-limiting examples of the tools, systems, and methods
disclosed herein are provided below.
Example 1
[0069] An exercise tool comprising: [0070] an elongated bar
configured to be positioned behind a user such that a midpoint of
the elongated bar is substantially aligned with a spine of the
user; [0071] a sensing unit configured to be operational during
rotation of the bar by the user about the midpoint of the elongated
bar, the sensing unit configured to sense at least one of a speed
associated with the bar, an acceleration associated with the bar, a
number of times the bar has been rotated, an angle between a plane
of rotation and a reference plane or reference line, a range of
rotation, and an amount of deviation from which the plane of
rotation varies from a standard or a measured plane.
Example 2
[0072] The exercise tool of example 1, wherein the sensing unit is
mounted to the elongated bar at approximately the midpoint of the
elongated bar.
Example 3
[0073] The exercise tool of example 1, wherein the sensing unit is
configured to worn by or mounted to the user.
Example 4
[0074] The exercise tool of example 1, wherein the sensing unit is
at least one of a gyroscopic sensor, an accelerometer, an
inclinometer, a magnetic sensor, a load sensor, and a location
sensor.
Example 5
[0075] The exercise tool of example 1 further comprising a storage
unit configured to store data sensed by the sensing unit.
Example 6
[0076] The exercise tool of example 5, wherein the stored data may
be compared to exemplary data collected from a third party using a
similar exercise tool.
Example 7
[0077] The exercise tool of example 6, wherein the third party is a
professional athlete.
Example 8
[0078] A method of exercising comprising: [0079] positioning an
elongated bar behind a neck of a user and aligning a midpoint of
the elongated bar with a spine of the user; [0080] rotating the
elongated bar and a portion an upper body of the user about an axis
of rotation that substantially corresponding to a longitudinal axis
of the spine, the path of the elongated bar during rotation
defining a rotational plane; [0081] collecting data regarding at
least one of a speed associated with the rotation of the elongated
bar, an acceleration associated with the rotation of the elongated
bar, a number of times the bar has been rotated, an angle between
the rotational plane and a reference plane or reference line, a
range of rotation, and an amount of deviation from which the
rotational plane varies from a standard or a measured plane.
Example 9
[0082] The method of example 8 further comprising: [0083] storing
the data.
Example 10
[0084] The method of example 9 further comprising: [0085] comparing
the stored data to exemplary data collected from a third party
using a similar exercise tool.
Example 11
[0086] The method of example 9 further comprising: [0087] reviewing
or replaying a portion of the stored data.
Example 12
[0088] A system for teaching a golf swing, the system comprising:
[0089] an exercise and training tool that is sized and configured
to be positioned behind the shoulder blades of the user with the
arms of the user wrapping around a top surface of the tool and
extending out toward each end of the tool, the tool comprising:
[0090] a sleeve having a first end configured to engage a first
collar and a second end configured to engage a second collar, the
sleeve having a first inner diameter stop positioned a first
distance from the midpoint of the sleeve and a second inner
diameter stop positioned a second distance from the midpoint of the
sleeve on the opposite side of the midpoint from the first inner
diameter stop; [0091] a first telescoping member operable to extend
from and retract into the first end of the sleeve, the first
telescoping member having an outer diameter that is less than the
inner diameter of the sleeve, wherein the first telescoping member
has a first outer diameter stop positioned along an outer surface
of the first telescoping member; [0092] a second telescoping member
operable to extend from and retract into the second end of the
sleeve, the second telescoping member having an outer diameter that
is less than the inner diameter of the sleeve, wherein the second
telescoping member has a second outer diameter stop positioned
along an outer surface of the second telescoping member; [0093] the
first collar being coupled to the first end of the sleeve and the
second collar being coupled to a second end of the sleeve; [0094] a
computing device coupled to the midpoint of the sleeve; [0095]
wherein the first collar is operable to engage the first
telescoping member and the first end of the sleeve to fix the
position of the first telescoping member relative to the sleeve;
[0096] wherein the second collar is operable to engage the second
telescoping member and the second end of the sleeve to fix the
position of the second telescoping member relative to the sleeve;
and [0097] wherein the computing device comprises a display, a
vibratory motor, a speaker, a memory, a processor, and one or more
sensors.
Example 13
[0098] The system of example 12, wherein the memory comprises
instructions for: [0099] receiving user input indicating one or
more user parameters that the user desires to track; [0100]
receiving sensor input from one or more sensors indicating that the
user has started using the exercise tool, and starting a tracking
process based on the sensor input; and [0101] providing feedback to
the user to indicate the tracked one or more user parameters.
Example 14
[0102] The system of example 12, wherein the memory further
comprises instructions for estimating user motion paths based on
the received sensor input.
Example 15
[0103] The system of example 12, wherein the memory comprises
instructions for tracking and recording the rotational motion of
the training tool in multiple axes as it is moved by the user.
Example 16
[0104] The system of example 12, wherein the one or more sensors
includes a sensor selected from the group consisting of a
gyroscope, an accelerometer, and an inclinometer.
Example 17
[0105] An exercise and training tool that is sized and configured
to be positioned behind the shoulder blades of the user with the
arms of the user wrapping around a top surface of the tool and
extending out toward each end of the tool, the tool comprising:
[0106] a sleeve having a first end configured to engage a first
collar and a second end configured to engage a second collar, the
sleeve having a first inner diameter stop positioned a first
distance from the midpoint of the sleeve and a second inner
diameter stop positioned a second distance from the midpoint of the
sleeve on the opposite side of the midpoint from the first inner
diameter stop; [0107] a first telescoping member operable to extend
from and retract into the first end of the sleeve, the first
telescoping member having an outer diameter that is less than the
inner diameter of the sleeve, wherein the first telescoping member
has a first outer diameter stop positioned along an outer surface
of the first telescoping member; [0108] a second telescoping member
operable to extend from and retract into the second end of the
sleeve, the second telescoping member having an outer diameter that
is less than the inner diameter of the sleeve, wherein the second
telescoping member has a second outer diameter stop positioned
along an outer surface of the second telescoping member; [0109] the
first collar being coupled to the first end of the sleeve and the
second collar being coupled to a second end of the sleeve; and
[0110] wherein the first collar is operable to engage the first
telescoping member and first end of the of the sleeve to fix the
position of the first telescoping member relative to the sleeve,
[0111] wherein the second collar is operable to engage the second
telescoping member and the second end of the of the sleeve to fix
the position of the second telescoping member relative to the
sleeve.
Example 18
[0112] The exercise and training tool of example 17, further
comprising a first split ring bushing affixed to the first collar
and a second split ring bushing affixed to the second collar,
wherein: [0113] the inner diameter of the first split ring bushing,
the inner diameter of the second split ring bushing, and outer
diameter of the first telescoping member, and the outer diameter of
the second telescoping member are approximately equivalent; [0114]
the first split ring bushing compresses to engage the outer
diameter of the first telescoping member when the first collar
engages the first end of the sleeve; and the second split ring
bushing compresses to engage the outer diameter of the second
telescoping member when the second collar engages the second end of
the sleeve.
Example 19
[0115] The exercise and training tool of example 17, further
comprising a first bushing affixed to the inner surface of the
first end of the sleeve and a second bushing affixed to the inner
surface of the second end of the sleeve, wherein [0116] the first
end of the sleeve is configured to engage the first telescoping
member when the first collar engages the first end of the sleeve;
and [0117] the second end of the sleeve is configured to engage the
second telescoping member when the second collar engages the second
end of the sleeve.
Example 20
[0118] The exercise and training tool of example 17, wherein the
first telescoping member and second telescoping member comprise
weights.
Example 21
[0119] The exercise and training tool of example 20, wherein the
weights are high-density weights fixed relative to an internal
surface of each of the first telescoping member and second
telescoping member.
Example 22
[0120] The exercise and training tool of example 17, further
comprising a first comfort pad coupled to the outer surface of the
sleeve and a second comfort pad coupled to the outer surface of the
central tubular, the first comfort pad and second comfort pad being
offset from one another on opposing sides of the midpoint of the
sleeve.
Example 23
[0121] The exercise and training tool of example 17, further
comprising a mount for a computing device coupled to the midpoint
of the sleeve.
Example 24
[0122] The exercise and training tool of example 23, wherein the
computing device is a smart phone.
Example 25
[0123] A process for tracking the motion of a person using an
exercise tool having a sleeve comprising a first end configured to
engage a first collar and a second end configured to engage a
second collar, a first telescoping member operable to extend from
and retract into the first end of the sleeve, and a second
telescoping member operable to extend from and retract into the
second end of the sleeve, wherein the exercise tool is operated by
a user placing the tool over their shoulder and rotating evenly
from one direction to another such that the users shoulders emulate
the motion of swinging a golf club, the process comprising: [0124]
receiving user input indicating one or more user parameters that
the user desires to track; [0125] receiving sensor input from one
or more sensors indicating that the user has started using the
exercise tool, and starting a tracking process based on the sensor
input; and [0126] providing feedback to the user to indicate the
tracked one or more user parameters.
Example 26
[0127] The process of example 25, wherein the one or more user
parameters comprise a user parameter selected from the group
consisting of acceleration, degree of rotation, rotational plane,
and number of repetitions.
Example 27
[0128] The process of example 26, further comprising playing an
audible signal when the user's motion deviates from the target
rotational plane or exceeds the target range of rotation.
Example 28
[0129] The process of example 27, further comprising vibrating the
exercise tool when the user's motion deviates from the target
rotational plane or exceeds the target range of rotation.
Example 29
[0130] The process of example 25 wherein the one or more user
parameters comprises acceleration, degree of rotation, rotational
plane, and number of repetitions, and wherein providing feedback to
the user comprises displaying the number of repetitions, displaying
a map of the user's motion from a plane that is parallel to the
user's rotational plane to indicate the user's degree of rotation
relative to a target range of rotation, displaying a map of the
user's motion from a front view that is perpendicular to the user's
target rotational plane to indicate the path of the repetitions
relative to the target rotational plane.
Example 30
[0131] The process of example 25, wherein the one or more user
parameters comprises degree of rotation, and wherein providing
feedback to the user comprises alerting the user when their degree
of rotation exceeds a predetermined range.
Example 31
[0132] The process of example 25, wherein the one or more user
parameters comprises rotational plane, and wherein providing
feedback to the user comprises alerting the user when their path of
motion deviates from a target rotational plane.
[0133] It will be understood that the above description of
preferred embodiments is given by way of example only and that
various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art. The
above specification, examples and data provide a complete
description of the structure and use of exemplary embodiments of
the invention. Although various embodiments of the invention have
been described above with a certain degree of particularity, or
with reference to one or more individual embodiments, those skilled
in the art could make numerous alterations to the disclosed
embodiments without departing from the scope of the claims.
* * * * *