U.S. patent application number 14/638480 was filed with the patent office on 2015-09-10 for weighted exercise device.
The applicant listed for this patent is Glenda S. Holderbaum. Invention is credited to Glenda S. Holderbaum.
Application Number | 20150251043 14/638480 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 54016356 |
Filed Date | 2015-09-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150251043 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Holderbaum; Glenda S. |
September 10, 2015 |
WEIGHTED EXERCISE DEVICE
Abstract
A weighted exercise device having a pliable cover, and a
displaceable fill material located within the cover, such that the
overall device exhibits some degree of malleability and
deformability while still substantially retaining its intended
shape. Embodiments generally include bulbous or otherwise enlarged
ends that are separated but connected by an intermediate portion of
lesser cross-sectional dimension, which intermediate portion may
have an arcuate shape. Weighted exercise device embodiments remain
malleable after filling but retain a contoured and ergonomic shape
that facilitates retention between the limbs or by the hands of a
user during exercise.
Inventors: |
Holderbaum; Glenda S.;
(Hilliard, OH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Holderbaum; Glenda S. |
Hilliard |
OH |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
54016356 |
Appl. No.: |
14/638480 |
Filed: |
March 4, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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61949655 |
Mar 7, 2014 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/108 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 23/1236 20130101;
A63B 23/1218 20130101; A63B 21/075 20130101; A63B 21/0726 20130101;
A63B 2023/0411 20130101; A63B 21/0603 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/075 20060101
A63B021/075; A63B 21/072 20060101 A63B021/072 |
Claims
1. A weighted exercise device, comprising: a pliable cover having a
shape that includes spaced apart, bulbous end portions that are
separated but connected by an arcuate intermediate portion; and a
fill material located in a sealed manner within the cover; wherein,
the device exhibits a degree of malleability and deformability, but
substantially retains the shape of the cover.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the cover is comprised of a
thermoplastic elastomer shell.
3. The device of claim 1, wherein the fill material is a
displaceable material and is selected from the group consisting of
sand, crushed shells, metallic pellets, and combinations
thereof.
4. The device of claim 1, wherein the cover further includes a port
through which the fill material may be introduced, and a sealing
element for sealing the port.
5. The device of claim 1, further comprising internal bracing
within the cover in a form selected from the group consisting of
spines, bulk heads, webbing, and combinations thereof.
6. The device of claim 1, further comprising a reinforcing rod or
tube that traverse the interior of the intermediate portion of the
cover.
7. The device of claim 1, further comprising texturing on an
exterior surface of the cover.
8. The device of claim 1, wherein the overall length of the device
is between about 6-10 inches, and the diameter of the intermediate
portion is between about 2-3 inches.
9. The device of claim 1, wherein the hardness of the device is
between approximately 80-90 on the Shore A scale.
10. A set of weighted exercise devices of different weights, each
weighted exercise device comprising: a pliable cover having a shape
that includes spaced apart, bulbous end portions that are separated
but connected by an arcuate intermediate portion; and a fill
material located in a sealed manner within the cover; wherein, each
device exhibits a degree of malleability and deformability, but
substantially retains the shape of its cover.
11. The set of claim 10, wherein the cover of one or more of the
weighted exercise devices is comprised of a thermoplastic
elastomer, and the fill material is a displaceable material
selected from the group consisting of sand, crushed shells,
metallic pellets, and combinations thereof.
12. The set of claim 10, further comprising internal bracing within
the cover of one or more of the weighted exercise devices, the
internal bracing in a form selected from the group consisting of
spines, bulk heads, webbing, and combinations thereof.
13. The set of claim 10, further comprising texturing on an
exterior surface of the cover of one or more of the weighted
exercise devices.
14. The set of claim 10, wherein at least some of the weighted
exercise devices have the same volume, despite being of different
weights.
15. The set of claim 14, wherein at least the weighted exercise
devices of like volume are color coded to indicate the weight
thereof.
16. The set of claim 10, wherein the volumes of the weighted
exercise devices differ with the differing weights thereof.
17. A weighted exercise device kit, comprising: a pliable cover
having a shape that includes spaced apart, bulbous end portions
that are separated but connected by an arcuate intermediate
portion; an opening in the cover through which a fill material may
be introduced; a sealing element for sealing the opening in the
cover; and instructions providing the amount of one or more fill
materials to be added to the cover to produce a device of a given
weight; wherein, after filling the cover, the device will exhibit a
degree of malleability and deformability, but will substantially
retain the shape of the cover.
18. The kit of claim 17, wherein the cover is comprised of a
rotational molded thermoplastic elastomer shell.
19. The kit of claim 17, wherein the fill material is a
displaceable material selected from the group consisting of sand,
crushed shells, metallic pellets, and combinations thereof.
20. The kit of claim 1, wherein a plurality of covers are provided
and the instructions advise how to create a set of weighted
exercise devices of different weights using particular fill
materials or combinations of fill materials.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/949,655, filed on Mar. 7, 2014.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] Exemplary embodiments described herein relate to weighted
exercise devices that may be used in, for example and without
limitation, fitness or rehabilitation activities.
BACKGROUND
[0003] The benefits of exercise, particularly with respect to
strength training, have been known for 5,000 years or more. (See,
e.g., History of Weightlifting at www.teamusa.org). In this regard,
ancient cultures developed various resistance training (e.g.,
weight lifting) routines for building strength, as well tests and
competitions to demonstrate the prowess of the weight lifters of
the day. History similarly traces a variety of corresponding weight
lifting devices that were developed over time. These devices
include objects as rudimentary as stones, to more sophisticated
devices such as Indian clubs, dumbbells, barbells and
kettlebells.
[0004] Along the way, a weighted and round exercise ball now
commonly referred to as a "medicine ball," was also developed.
Initially, medicine balls may have been no more than animal skins
or other types of bladders filled with sand. Nonetheless, it has
been documented that at least some ancient cultures used such
devices for strength training and in rehabilitation therapy.
[0005] Interest in medicine ball training continues to the present,
and advances in materials and manufacturing techniques have
accordingly altered the construction of such devices. Particularly,
modern medicine balls are typically constructed from a vinyl or
other leather-like cover that is filled with sand or a similar
material and subsequently sealed. Consequently, typical medicine
balls may experience some level of shape deformations during
use.
[0006] Medicine balls may be used at least in a variety of
strength, flexibility, agility and injury recovery exercises. For
example, and without limitation, a medicine ball may be held or
carried while performing various resistance exercises. A medicine
ball may also be repeatedly thrown against a wall and caught, or
may be thrown or passed from one exercise partner to another.
[0007] While the use of a medicine ball may be advantageous, such
as by allowing for passing or throwing exercises to be more safely
performed, medicine balls of known design are not without
drawbacks--particularly when used for certain exercises. More
particularly, while medicine balls are normally offered in weights
ranging from about 2-25 pounds, a standard medicine ball is
typically still round and about 14 inches in diameter. While other
sizes (i.e., diameters) have also become available, as well as
medicine balls with attached handles, the overall shape of existing
medicine balls is still round.
[0008] As a result of their shape and construction, those of skill
in the art and likely even novice users will understand that known
medicine balls have inherent deficiencies when used for certain
exercises. For example, when placing a known medicine ball between
the legs or feet to add resistance for exercises such as pull-ups
or various core training exercises such as leg raises, etc., the
diameter and/or hardness of the ball may cause user discomfort.
Additionally, known medicine balls have a tendency to easily slide
out from between the legs or feet because the round shape of the
medicine ball is largely incompatible with the shape of the
grasping body parts. And even if the medicine ball is not
completely dropped during such use, retaining and maintaining
control of the medicine ball frequently requires concentration on
the part of the user that should instead be directed at other
aspects of the associated exercise.
[0009] It can, therefore, be understood that there is a need for a
weighted exercise device having certain characteristics of a known
medicine ball, such as a somewhat soft and malleable construction,
but with a shape and design that facilitates use of the device
during exercises where grasping and/or retention of a known
medicine ball would typically be difficult. Embodiments of weighted
exercise devices of the invention satisfy this need.
SUMMARY
[0010] Weighted exercise device embodiments according to the
invention are of generally malleable construction, which may be
imparted by a somewhat pliable cover and a displaceable filling
material. However, unlike known medicine balls, weighted exercise
device embodiments of the invention have a contoured and more
ergonomic shape, rather than a simple round shape. This more
ergonomic design virtually eliminates slippage and improves comfort
for the user. Particularly, the contoured shape combined with the
malleable construction facilitates gripping the device at different
locations along a user's body, thus allowing for more effective use
of a weighted exercise device during at least certain resistance
training exercises.
[0011] It is contemplated that weighted exercise device embodiments
may be constructed, for example, of a moldable plastic cover that
is filled with sand or another displaceable material. The cover
should be somewhat pliant to allow for some level of device
deformity, which enhances comfort and improves gripping ability
during use. Weighted exercise device embodiments may be provided in
multiple different sizes and weights.
[0012] Various construction techniques are possible, including but
not limited to blow molding and rotational molding of a cover,
followed by filling of the cover with a weight supplying fill
material. The weight supplying fill material may be, for example,
sand, crushed shells (e.g., walnut shells), metallic (e.g., steel
or lead) pellets, or other materials or combinations of materials
that can provide a desired weight without precluding the overall
malleable nature of the device.
[0013] Other aspects and features of the invention will become
apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following
detailed description of exemplary embodiments along with the
accompanying drawing figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] In the following descriptions of the drawings and exemplary
embodiments, like reference numerals across the several views refer
to identical or equivalent features, and:
[0015] FIG. 1 is a first three dimensional view of one exemplary
embodiment of a weighted exercise device residing in a vertical
position;
[0016] FIG. 2 is a second three dimensional view of the weighted
exercise device of FIG. 1, with the device residing in a
substantially horizontal position;
[0017] FIG. 3 is a front view of the weighted exercise device of
FIGS. 1-2;
[0018] FIG. 4 is an end view of the weighted exercise device of
FIGS. 1-3;
[0019] FIG. 5 is sectional view of the weighted exercise device of
FIGS. 1-4, taken along line A-A shown in FIG. 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT(S)
[0020] One exemplary embodiment of a weighted exercise device 5 is
depicted in FIGS. 1-5. As shown, the device 5 has two spaced apart
and somewhat bulbous ends 10, 15 separated but connected by an
arcuate intermediate portion 20. Consequently, this particular
embodiment of the device 5 has a contoured shape that at least
somewhat mimics the shape of, for example, an hourglass or an apple
core.
[0021] As should be apparent, the shape of the device 5 facilitates
its retention between, for example, the knees, calves, ankles or
feet of a user when performing various exercises including, but not
limited to, core training exercises such as leg or plank lifts, or
other resistance training exercises such as pull-ups, press-ups, or
dips. It is also contemplated that the shape of the device 5 will
further permit its use during exercises such as squats and lunges,
such as by placing the intermediate portion of the device over the
shoulder of the user. Obviously, a separate device 5 could also be
placed over each shoulder of the user so that the body is evenly
loaded. It is further contemplated that the shape of the device 5
will also facilitate its use during exercises such as sit ups or
back extensions by placing or holding the intermediate portion of
the device against the front or back, respectively, of the user's
neck.
[0022] In comparison to round medicine balls, especially standard
size medicine balls, the shape of the device 5 also facilitates its
use during exercises that require gripping with the hands. For
example, the device 5 may be oriented vertically (see FIG. 1) and
gripped about the intermediate portion during the performance of,
for example, front arm raises, seated or standing triceps presses,
or lying chest pullovers.
[0023] Notably, with respect to any of the exemplary uses of the
device 5 described above, the shape and construction of the device
lends itself to improved comfort in comparison to, for example, a
hard rubber or steel dumbbell. Additionally, the construction of
the device 5 obviously improves the safety of any such exercise
where the device is required to be held over or passed over the
user's head, face, etc.
[0024] Weighted exercise device embodiments according to the
invention may be of various size and may be of numerous different
weights. For example, such weighted exercise device embodiments may
be provided in the 2-25 pound weight range of typical medicine
balls. It is also contemplated that heavier weights may be
provided, depending on the nature of the fill material and the
capacity of the cover to retain the fill material and retain its
shape. Device dimensions may also vary. Without limitation,
however, an exemplary weighted exercise device embodiment hereof
having a weight of between about 5-25 pounds and being filled with
a material such as for example, and without limitation, sand,
crushed walnut shells, metallic pellets, or some combination of
such materials to achieve a density necessary to provide the
desired weight within the given volume of the device, might have an
overall length of about 6-10 inches and an intermediate portion
cross-sectional dimension of approximately 2-3 inches. As stated
above, other suitable fill materials or combinations of fill
materials may also be used.
[0025] Similarly, a weighted exercise device embodiment hereof is
not limited to the exemplary dimensional ranges provided above. For
example, it may be desirable to change the curvature dimensions of
the intermediate portion such that a weighted exercise device
embodiment best frames a particular body part(s) where the device
will be placed and supported (e.g., between the knees or behind the
neck). In this regard, exemplary weighted exercise device
embodiments may also be provided in sizes (e.g., small, medium,
large) that are targeted to users of different stature--with the
various sizes corresponding to different height/weights, etc., and
with the curvature dimensions of the intermediate portion varying
accordingly. It is also contemplated with respect to the dimensions
of the intermediate portion of an exemplary weighted exercise
device embodiment that a reduced cross-sectional dimension may
facilitate use in single arm exercises that are traditionally
performed with dumbbells. Such exercises may include, without
limitation, arm curls, shoulder presses, lateral arm raises,
triceps extensions, etc. Furthermore, a reduced intermediate
portion cross-sectional dimension may be better-suited to smaller
or younger users, whether held between the knees, calves, ankles or
feet, or between or by the hands.
[0026] In regard to weight and size, it is also noted that weighted
exercise device embodiments of different weights may nonetheless be
of the same volume. Alternatively, and as is common with dumbbells,
the volume of weighted exercise device embodiments hereof may
change as the weight changes. In the former case, achieving
different weights within a like volume may be achieved by adjusting
the density of the fill material used. In the latter case, portions
such as the bulbous ends of a weighted exercise device embodiment
may be enlarged to accommodate a greater amount of a common fill
material, although different fill materials may again be used to
produce a desired weight.
[0027] Further in regard to weight and size, it is noted that a
weighted exercise device embodiment according to the invention may
include internal bracing, spines, bulk heads, webbing, etc., that
help to maintain the intended shape of the device but do not result
in an unacceptably adverse effect on the feel and malleability
thereof. For example, in the case of a weighted exercise device
such as that shown in FIGS. 1-5, a reinforcing rod or tube could
traverse the intermediate portion of heavier embodiments while
being simultaneously surrounded by fill material so as to maintain
the desired feel and malleability of the device 5. Similar internal
supports could be located within the ends of any weighted exercise
device embodiments. In a more complex embodiment, a full
endoskeleton may be present but sufficiently encased in fill
material so as to retain the aforementioned device
characteristics.
[0028] In any case, the contoured shape of weighted exercise device
embodiments contemplated herein is more ergonomic in nature and,
when coupled with the malleable nature of the device construction,
virtually eliminates slippage during use and improves comfort for
the user. Consequently, such weighted exercise device embodiments
may be more effectively used during resistance
training--particularly for certain exercises. It is also possible
that exemplary weighted exercise device embodiments may employ a
textured outer surface to further reduce or eliminate device
slippage during use. While abdominal core training is no doubt a
class of resistance training where the benefits of such weighted
exercise device embodiments would be seen, similar benefits may
also be obtained when using such devices with at least the other
exemplary exercises mentioned above.
[0029] As with the exact size, shape and weight of weighted
exercise device embodiments of the invention, device construction
may also vary. The covers of said devices may be constructed of,
for example, a moldable plastic such as a thermoplastic elastomer
having an appropriate hardness. However, other cover materials may
also be possible, including without limitation, other plastics,
rubber, vinyl, leather, etc., as long as such materials are capable
of substantially retaining their shape while being sufficiently
pliable. Such weighted exercise device embodiments may be filled
with sand, crushed walnut or other shells, metallic pellets such as
steel or lead pellets (which may be of various grain size) and/or
other materials that are sufficiently dense so as to provide an
appropriate weight within acceptable device dimensions, and do not
unacceptably hinder the overall malleability of the device. The
hardness (durometer) of weighted exercise device embodiments of the
invention may also vary but, for example, may be between about 80
to 90 on the Shore A scale in at least some variations.
[0030] Weighted exercise device embodiments of the invention may be
constructed by any manufacturing technique now or not yet known, as
long as the aforementioned device characteristics can be imparted
thereby. Such cover manufacturing techniques may include, without
limitation, a blow molded or rotational molded process, as such
techniques may allow for mass production at the lowest cost. As can
best be observed in FIG. 5, for example, the particular exemplary
weighted exercise device embodiment 5 of FIGS. 1-5 includes a
molded cover 25 in the form of a substantially hollow shell that
defines the overall shape and volume of the device. The cover 25
thickness may vary according to, for example and without
limitation, the target weight of the device 5, the type of fill
material being used, the type of cover material being used, etc.,
or a combination of such factors. As one non-limiting example,
testing has shown that a pliable thermoplastic elastomer cover
having a thickness of approximately 0.10 inches may exhibit
acceptable malleability while simultaneously maintaining its shape
without excessive deformation within a given weight range (e.g.,
2-25 pounds). Other cover thicknesses are, of course, also
possible.
[0031] Following molding, the cover 25 of the weighted exercise
device embodiment 5 is filled with a selected fill material or
combination of fill materials to achieve a desired weight, and in a
manner that results in a sealed cover. In this exemplary
embodiment, filling of the cover occurs through a molded in port 30
that is then sealed with a plug (not shown). Molding over internal
reinforcement components, such as some form of insert molding or
the like, is also contemplated.
[0032] Other weighted exercise device embodiment features are also
contemplated. For example, it is possible for such weighted
exercise devices to be provided in a set that includes individual
or pairs of devices of different weights (e.g., five pound
increments between 5-25 pounds). Weighted exercise device
embodiments hereof may also be color coded, with each color
representing a different weight. This may be especially useful in
the case where weighted exercise devices of different weights are
all provided with the same volume (as described above). It is
further possible to provide a weighted exercise device embodiment
as a kit, whereby an empty cover and possibly a sealing element are
provided to a user, and the user provides the fill material as
instructed to achieve a desired weight and then seals the cover.
Such an embodiment may be useful in reducing shipping
costs--whether provided to a distributor or to an end user.
[0033] While the exemplary embodiments shown in the drawing figures
have been described herein in the context of resistance training of
a fitness variety, it is to be understood that such embodiments
could be used equally effectively in rehabilitation therapy, and in
flexibility or agility training. Generally speaking, it is intended
that weighted exercise device embodiments of the invention may at
least be substituted for known weighted exercise balls or standard
dumbbells in a variety of exercises. Therefore, nothing herein is
meant to or should be interpreted as limiting the manner in which
weighted exercise device embodiments of the invention may be
used.
[0034] While certain exemplary embodiments of the invention are
described in detail above, the scope of the invention is not
considered limited by such disclosure, and modifications are
possible without departing from the spirit of the invention as
evidenced by the following claims:
* * * * *
References