U.S. patent application number 17/704283 was filed with the patent office on 2022-09-29 for method for controlling a user's breathing during a workout with an exercise machine and exercise machine thereof.
The applicant listed for this patent is TECHNOGYM S.p.A.. Invention is credited to Nerio ALESSANDRI, Andrea BISCARINI, Alessandro PASINI, Silvano ZANUSO.
Application Number | 20220305338 17/704283 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006283682 |
Filed Date | 2022-09-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220305338 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
ALESSANDRI; Nerio ; et
al. |
September 29, 2022 |
METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A USER'S BREATHING DURING A WORKOUT WITH AN
EXERCISE MACHINE AND EXERCISE MACHINE THEREOF
Abstract
A method for controlling breathing of a user during workout with
an exercise machine is provided. The method includes acquiring, by
a data processing unit of the exercise machine, at least one
parameter representative of a physical exercise being performed by
the user with the exercise machine, determining, by the data
processing unit of the exercise machine, an indication of the
breathing to be followed by the user while performing the physical
exercise based on the acquired at least one parameter
representative of the physical exercise, and providing the user, by
the data processing unit of the exercise machine, with the
determined indication of breathing. An exercise machine
implementing the method for controlling breathing of the user
during workout is also provided.
Inventors: |
ALESSANDRI; Nerio; (Cesena
(Forl -Cesena), IT) ; PASINI; Alessandro; (Cesena
(Forl -Cesena), IT) ; ZANUSO; Silvano; (Cesena (Forl
-Cesena), IT) ; BISCARINI; Andrea; (Perugia,
IT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
TECHNOGYM S.p.A. |
Cesena (Forl -Cesena) |
|
IT |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000006283682 |
Appl. No.: |
17/704283 |
Filed: |
March 25, 2022 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 24/0062 20130101;
A63B 24/0075 20130101; A63B 2024/0071 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A63B 24/00 20060101
A63B024/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Mar 25, 2021 |
IT |
102021000007334 |
Claims
1. A method for controlling breathing of a user during a workout
with an exercise machine, comprising steps of: acquiring, by a data
processing unit of the exercise machine, at least one parameter
representative of a physical exercise being performed by the user
with the exercise machine; determining, by the data processing unit
of the exercise machine, an indication of the breathing to be
followed by the user while performing the physical exercise based
on the acquired at least one parameter representative of the
physical exercise; and providing the user, by the data processing
unit of the exercise machine, with the determined indication of the
breathing.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the determined indication of the
breathing comprises an audio message usable by the user through an
audio speaker of the exercise machine, the step of providing
comprising a step of broadcasting, by the data processing unit of
the exercise machine, the determined indication of the breathing in
the form of audio message through the audio speaker of the exercise
machine.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the determined indication of the
breathing comprises a graphic representation usable by the user
through a display module of the exercise machine, the step of
providing comprising a step of displaying, by the data processing
unit of the exercise machine, the determined indication of the
breathing in the form of graphic representation through the display
module of the exercise machine.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of acquiring is
performed directly by the data processing unit of the exercise
machine.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of acquiring comprises a
step of detecting, by a sensor unit operatively connected to the
data processing unit of the exercise machine, the at least one
parameter representative of the physical exercise being performed
by the user with the exercise machine.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of acquiring, if the
exercise machine is a treadmill, comprises a step of detecting, by
the data processing unit, a speed of the treadmill and/or a
running/walking cadence of the user on the treadmill and/or an
inclination of a running/walking surface of the treadmill, the step
of determining comprising a step of determining, by the data
processing unit, the indication of the breathing to be followed by
the user while performing the physical exercise as a function of
the detected speed of the treadmill and/or the detected
running/walking cadence of the user on the treadmill and/or the
detected inclination of the running/walking surface of the
treadmill.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein the acquiring step, if the
exercise machine is a bike or an exercise bike, comprises a step of
detecting, by the data processing unit, a resistance of the bike or
the exercise bike in opposition to the pedaling of the user and/or
a pedaling frequency of the user, the determining step comprising a
step of determining, by the data processing unit, the indication of
the breathing to be followed by the user while performing the
physical exercise as a function of the detected resistance of the
bike or the exercise bike in opposition to the detected pedaling of
the user and/or the detected pedaling frequency of the user.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the acquiring step, if the
exercise machine is a rowing machine, comprises a step of
detecting, by the data processing unit, a resistance of the rowing
machine in opposition to the rowing of the user and/or a rowing
frequency of the user on the rowing machine, the step of
determining comprising a step of determining, by the data
processing unit, the indication of the breathing to be followed by
the user while performing the physical exercise as a function of
the detected resistance of the rowing machine in opposition to the
rowing of the user and/or the detected rowing frequency of the user
on the rowing machine.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein the acquiring step, if the
exercise machine is a strength exercise machine, comprises a step
of detecting, by the data processing unit an eccentric phase and/or
a concentric phase of a movement of the user and/or a load of the
strength exercise machine, the step of determining comprising a
step of determining, by the data processing unit, the indication of
the breathing to be followed by the user while performing the
physical exercise as a function of the detected eccentric phase
and/or concentric phase of the movement of the user and/or the
detected load of the strength exercise machine.
10. An exercise machine comprising: a user interface configured to
allow a user to interact with the exercise machine; a data
processing unit, the user interface being operatively connected to
the data processing unit; and a memory unit operatively connected
to the data processing unit; the data processing unit of the
exercise machine being configured to: acquire at least one
parameter representative of a physical exercise being performed by
the user with the exercise machine; determine an indication of the
breathing to be followed by the user while performing the physical
exercise based on the acquired at least one parameter
representative of the physical exercise; and providing the user
with a determined indication of the breathing.
11. The exercise machine of claim 10, further comprising an audio
speaker operatively connected to the data processing unit, the
determined indication of the breathing comprising an audio message
usable by the user through the audio speaker of the exercise
machine, the data processing unit being configured to broadcast the
determined indication of the breathing in the form of audio message
through the audio speaker of the exercise machine.
12. The exercise machine of claim 11, wherein the audio speaker
comprises a speaker or a hardware component configured to be
operatively connected to a headset with which the user is
provided.
13. The exercise machine of claim 10, further comprising a display
module operatively connected to the data processing unit, the
determined indication of the breathing comprising a graphic
representation viewable through the display module of the exercise
machine, the data processing unit being configured to display the
determined indication of the breathing in the form of graphic
representation through the display module of the exercise
machine.
14. The exercise machine of claim 10, wherein the data processing
unit is configured to directly acquire the at least one parameter
representative of the physical exercise.
15. The exercise machine of claim 10, further comprising a sensor
unit operatively connected to the data processing unit, the data
processing unit being configured to acquire the at least one
parameter representative of the physical exercise from the sensor
unit configured to detect said at least one parameter
representative of the physical exercise.
16. The exercise machine of claim 10, wherein, if the exercise
machine is a treadmill, the data processing unit is configured to:
detect a speed of the treadmill and/or a running/walking cadence of
the user on the treadmill and/or an inclination of a
running/walking surface of the treadmill; and determine the
indication of the breathing to be followed by the user while
performing the physical exercise as a function of the detected
speed of the treadmill and/or the detected running/walking cadence
of the user on the treadmill and/or the detected inclination of the
running/walking surface of the treadmill.
17. The exercise machine of claim 10, wherein, if the exercise
machine is a bike or an exercise bike, the data processing unit is
configured to: detect a resistance of the bike or the exercise bike
in opposition to the pedaling of the user and/or a pedaling
frequency of the user; and determine the indication of the
breathing to be followed by the user while performing the physical
exercise as a function of the detected resistance of the bike or
the exercise bike in opposition to the pedaling of the user and/or
the detected pedaling frequency of the user.
18. The exercise machine of claim 10, wherein, if the exercise
machine is a rowing machine, the data processing unit is configured
to: detect a resistance of the rowing machine in opposition to the
rowing of the user and/or a rowing frequency of the user on the
rowing machine; and determine the indication of the breathing to be
followed by the user while performing the physical exercise as a
function of the detected resistance of the rowing machine in
opposition to the rowing of the user and/or the detected rowing
frequency of the user on the rowing machine.
19. The exercise machine of claim 10, wherein, if the exercise
machine is a strength exercise machine, the data processing unit is
configured to: detect an eccentric phase and/or a concentric phase
of a movement of the user and/or a load of the strength exercise
machine; and determine the indication of the breathing to be
followed by the user while performing the physical exercise as a
function of the detected eccentric phase and/or the detected
concentric phase of the movement of the user and/or the detected
load of the strength exercise machine.
Description
CROSS-REFERECE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority to Italian Patent
Application No. 102021000007334 filed on Mar. 25, 2021, the entire
contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to the fitness sector and, in
particular, to a method for controlling a user's breathing during a
workout with an exercise machine and an exercise machine
thereof.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Correct breathing is a very important aspect during physical
activity for optimal performance of a workout with an exercise
machine during not only the warm-up and/or the performance but also
during the recovery phase.
[0004] Furthermore, correct breathing guarantees better oxygenation
of the brain, lowers the heartbeats with consequent activation of
the parasympathetic nervous system, reduces anxiety and stress
states, and improves the posture (in particular at cervical and
lumbar level).
[0005] While performing a physical exercise, personal trainers
often highlight the importance of associating various phases of
breathing to movements, especially during overload workouts.
[0006] Indeed, during overload workouts, lifting supramaximal loads
while holding one's breath should be avoided because this would
lead to an excessive and dangerous increase in intra-abdominal
pressure.
[0007] Furthermore, breathing acts on blood pressure, regulating
it.
[0008] Additionally, it is important to control a set breathing
rate and/or the air exhaling and inhaling phases according to the
type of workout and/or exercise machine.
[0009] Indeed, the respiratory system is linked to the
cardiovascular system, and the frequency of both increases while
performing a physical exercise.
[0010] Therefore, when a workout becomes more intense, the need is
felt to breathe through one's mouth as well because the body needs
more oxygen and, at the same time, must expel carbon dioxide.
[0011] However, this manner of oxygenating the body is not always
correct and may lead to increased fatigue.
[0012] In light of this, the need is strongly felt to provide users
with timely and reliable indications on how to control breathing
while working out on an exercise machine.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] It is an object of the present invention to provide a method
for controlling a user's breathing during a workout on an exercise
machine which at least partially obviates the drawbacks described
with reference to the prior art, and provides the user with timely
and reliable indications on how to control breathing during the
workout.
[0014] Such object is achieved by the method described and claimed
herein.
[0015] Preferred embodiments are also described.
[0016] The present invention also relates to an exercise machine
implementing the method.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] Further features and advantages of the method and the
exercise machine according to the present invention will be
apparent from the following description which illustrates preferred
embodiments, given by way of indicative, non-limiting examples,
with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:
[0018] FIGS. 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, and 1f illustrate examples of an
exercise machine usable by a user to perform a physical
activity;
[0019] FIG. 2a illustrates, by means of a block diagram, an
exercise machine implementing a method of controlling a user's
breathing during a workout with an exercise machine, according to
an embodiment of the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 2b illustrates, by means of a block diagram, an
exercise machine implementing a method of controlling a user's
breathing during a workout with an exercise machine, according to a
further embodiment of the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 3 illustrates, by means of a block diagram, an exercise
machine implementing a method of controlling a user's breathing
during a workout with an exercise machine, according to an
embodiment of the present invention; and
[0022] FIGS. 4a, 4b, and 5a-5b show graphic representations usable
to indicate the breathing control manners.
[0023] It is worth noting that, in the figures, equivalent or
similar elements are indicated by the same numeric and/or
alphanumeric references.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0024] An exercise machine 1 adapted to implement a method for
controlling a user's breathing during a workout with an exercise
machine according to the present invention will now be described
with reference to the figures.
[0025] The exercise machine 1 may be any exercise machine usable by
a user to perform physical activity remotely (e.g., from home) or
in a gym, either alone or in a workout class.
[0026] Examples of exercise machines 1 are shown in FIG. 1a-1f.
[0027] FIG. 1a shows an example of a treadmill.
[0028] FIG. 1b shows an example of a bike or an exercise bike
(cyclette).
[0029] FIG. 1c shows an example of a rowing machine.
[0030] FIGS. 1d, 1e, and 1f show examples of strength exercise
machines.
[0031] Each strength exercise machine in FIGS. 1d, 1e, and 1f has
movable elements (shown in the figures) actuatable by a user for
performing a strength exercise by moving a respective exercise
load. In particular, the movable elements are actuated by the user
in a first direction of motion (so-called concentric motion), which
simulates the lifting of a gravitational load (exercise load), and
in a second direction of motion (so-called eccentric motion), in
the direction opposite to the first direction of motion, which
simulates the return of the gravitational load (exercise load) to
the starting position.
[0032] In the examples of FIGS. 1d and 1f, the strength exercise
machine comprises a motor (not shown in the figures) operatively
connected, for example, by mechanical kinematic mechanisms, to the
movable elements. The motor is configured to apply on the movable
elements a resistive force representative of the exercise load
which the user can move during the execution of the exercise by
actuating the movable elements.
[0033] Instead, in the example of FIG. 1e, the strength exercise
machine comprises a weight pack (partially shown in the figure)
operatively connected, for example, by mechanical kinematic
mechanisms, to the movable elements. The weight stack represents
the exercise load that the user can move while performing the
exercise by operating the movable elements.
[0034] The following description, with reference in particular to
FIGS. 2a and 2b, applies to any of the exercise machines 1 listed
above.
[0035] The exercise machine 1 comprises a user interface 2
configured to allow a user to interact with the exercise machine
1.
[0036] The exercise machine 1 comprises a data processing unit 3,
for example, a microprocessor or a microcontroller.
[0037] The user interface 2 is operatively connected to the data
processing unit 3 of the exercise machine 1.
[0038] The exercise machine 1 further comprises a memory unit 4,
operatively connected to the data processing unit 3.
[0039] The memory unit 4 may be either internal or external (as
shown in FIGS. 2a and 2b, for example) to the data processing unit
3.
[0040] It is worth noting that the memory unit 4 is configured to
store one or more program codes which can be executed by the data
processing unit 3 and data generated and processed following the
execution of the one or more program codes.
[0041] The data processing unit 3 is configured to control
operation of the exercise machine 1.
[0042] Furthermore, the data processing unit 3 is configured to
execute steps of the method for controlling a user's breathing
during a workout with an exercise machine, according to the present
invention, as better described hereinafter.
[0043] In greater detail, the data processing unit 3 is configured
to acquire at least one parameter representative of a physical
exercise being performed by the user with the exercise machine
1.
[0044] "Parameter representative of a physical exercise being
performed by the user with the exercise machine" means any
parameter relating to the exercise machine, the user and the
workout program which can be acquired during performance of the
physical exercise by the data processing unit 3, the parameter
being detectable by the data processing unit 3 (either directly or
indirectly, as explained hereinafter), determined based on other
acquired or known parameters or automatically or manually set by
the user during the physical exercise according to a set workout
program.
[0045] Examples of a "parameter representative of a physical
exercise being performed by the user with the exercise machine", as
a function of the exercise machine 1 and, if applicable, the
physical exercise being performed with the exercise machine 1, are
provided below.
[0046] If the exercise machine 1 is a treadmill and the physical
exercise is running/walking on the treadmill, the at least one
parameter representative of the physical exercise comprises, either
alternatively or in combination (and/or) with each other:
[0047] the speed of the treadmill;
[0048] the running/walking cadence of the user on the
treadmill;
[0049] the inclination of the running/walking surface of the
treadmill.
[0050] If the exercise machine 1 is a bike or an exercise bike, the
at least one parameter representative of the physical exercise
comprises, either alternatively or in combination (and/or) with
each other:
[0051] the resistance of the bike or the exercise bike in
opposition to the pedaling of the user;
[0052] the pedaling frequency of the user on the bike or the
exercise bike.
[0053] If the exercise machine 1 is a rowing machine, the at least
one parameter representative of the physical exercise comprises,
either alternatively or in combination (and/or) with each
other:
[0054] the resistance of the rowing machine in opposition to the
rowing of the user;
[0055] the rowing frequency of the user on the rowing machine.
[0056] If the exercise machine 1 is a strength exercise machine
(strength machine), the at least one parameter representative of
the physical exercise comprises, either alternatively or in
combination (and/or) with each other:
[0057] the load of the strength exercise machine;
[0058] the percentage of the load relative to the user's maximum
(1RM), for a set exercise;
[0059] the eccentric phase of the movement of the user;
[0060] the concentric phase of the movement of the user;
[0061] the position along the range of motion during the eccentric
phase;
[0062] the position along the range of motion during the concentric
phase;
[0063] the repetition execution cadence of a series within the
physical exercise;
[0064] the recovery time;
[0065] the progressive number of the series during the physical
exercise.
[0066] Additionally, regardless of the type of exercise machine 1
(which can be any type), the at least one parameter representative
of the physical exercise may comprise a set time period of the
workout program, for example, the cool-down period at the end of a
physical exercise (running, walking, cycling or rowing) or the
pre-workout (or warm-up) period needed to better prepare the body
for the workout.
[0067] In an embodiment, the data processing unit 3 is configured
to directly acquire the at least one parameter representative of
the physical exercise (e.g., if such a parameter is a parameter set
either automatically or manually by the user and/or automatically
provided by the workout program).
[0068] In an embodiment, in combination with any of those described
above and shown in FIGS. 2a and 2b, the exercise machine 1 further
comprises a sensor unit 5 operatively connected to the data
processing unit 3.
[0069] It is worth noting that the sensor unit 5 (shown
symbolically in FIGS. 2a and 2b) comprises a plurality of sensors
with which the exercise machine 1 is equipped to detect and provide
the data processing unit 3 with information for managing and
controlling the operation of the exercise machine 1 during
performance of a physical exercise by a user.
[0070] Additionally, the data processing unit 3 has a set
configuration from a hardware/software point of view adapted to
detect information for managing and controlling the operation of
the exercise machine 1 during performance of a physical exercise by
a user.
[0071] By way of example, if the exercise machine 1 is a treadmill
and the physical exercise is a running/walking on the
treadmill:
[0072] the speed of the treadmill may be detected by an encoder (or
other equivalent devices) or by a set configuration of the data
processing unit 3 which is aware of the speed of the treadmill;
[0073] in order to determine the speed of the treadmill, a change
in the electric current drawn by an electric motor adapted to move
the running/walking surface may be detected either explicitly by an
electric current sensor or implicitly by a set configuration of the
data processing unit 3 which is aware of the change in the electric
current drawn by the electric motor;
[0074] in order to determine the running/walking cadence of the
user on the treadmill by the data processing unit 3, an impact of
the user's feet on the running/walking surface is detected by
appropriate sensors, such as accelerometers placed underneath the
running/walking surface.
[0075] If the exercise machine 1 is a bike or an exercise bike:
[0076] the resistance in opposition to the pedaling of the user may
be detected, for example, by a torque transducer or an encoder.
[0077] If the exercise machine 1 is a rowing machine:
[0078] the resistance in opposition to the rowing of the user may
be detected, for example, by a torque meter or an encoder.
[0079] If the exercise machine 1 is a strength exercise machine
(strength machine):
[0080] the load may be detected, for example, by a strain gage, a
torque meter, a magnetic sensor, or a tag identifying the magnitude
of the load selected for the physical exercise;
[0081] the position along the range of motion during the eccentric
phase and/or during the concentric phase may be detected, for
example, by a position sensor;
[0082] the repetition execution cadence of a series within the
physical exercise, the eccentric phase and the concentric phase may
be detected, for example, by an optical sensor or an
accelerometer.
[0083] In an embodiment, in combination with any one of the
embodiments described above, the data processing unit 3 is
configured to acquire the at least one parameter representative of
the physical exercise from the sensor unit 5 adapted to detect said
parameter (e.g., if said parameter is a parameter to be detected
while performing the workout).
[0084] In general, the data processing unit 3 is further configured
to determine an indication of the breathing to be followed by the
user while performing the physical exercise based on the acquired
at least one parameter representative of the physical exercise.
[0085] In an embodiment, the data processing unit 3 of the exercise
machine 1 is configured to directly determine the indication of the
breathing to be followed by the user while performing the physical
exercise.
[0086] Therefore, in this embodiment, the "intelligent" part of the
processing resides entirely in the exercise machine 1.
[0087] According to a further embodiment, alternative to the
preceding one, the data processing unit 3 of the exercise machine 1
is configured to delegate the determination of the indication of
the breathing to be followed by the user while performing the
physical exercise to a remote electronic processor (e.g., a cloud
server, not shown in the figures) operatively connected to the
exercise machine 1 through a data communication network (also not
shown in the figures).
[0088] The remote electronic processor is configured to determine
and provide the exercise machine 1 with an indication of the
breathing to be followed by the user while performing the physical
exercise based on the acquired at least one parameter
representative of the physical exercise and provided to the remote
electronic processor by the exercise machine 1.
[0089] Therefore, in this embodiment, the "intelligent" part of the
processing resides in the remote electronic processor which, in
addition to providing the workout program, can also determine the
indication of the breathing to be followed within the workout
program.
[0090] The following is worth noting with regard to the indication
of the breathing to be followed by the user during physical
exercise.
[0091] Where a workout program is provided, an indication of the
breathing to be followed by the user while performing the physical
exercise is provided in the form of instructions comprised in the
operating instructions of the workout program algorithm, for
example, instructions stored in the pre-workout step and/or in the
cool-down step.
[0092] In this case, instructions (such as the duration of the
phase, the breathing rate, the duration of the breathing phases)
may depend on the type of workout which will be performed or which
has been performed (therefore also on the type of exercise
machine), the level of intensity of the workout, the duration of
the workout and so on.
[0093] During the physical exercise, the indications of the
breathing are related to the acquired at least one parameter
representative of the physical exercise in a manner which depends
on the type of physical exercise (thus also on the type of exercise
machine).
[0094] The correlation can be represented, for example, in the form
of a table or the form of a mathematical function.
[0095] Examples of breathing techniques include pre-workout
breathing techniques, breathing techniques for cardiovascular type
workouts (running or walking, bike or exercise bike), and breathing
techniques for strength workouts.
[0096] Pre-workout breathing techniques prepare the breathing
before starting a physical exercise session, preparing the body for
the workout by maintaining a set level of relaxation.
[0097] An example of a pre-workout breathing technique comprises
the following operational phases:
[0098] performing a set number of deep breaths;
[0099] inhaling through the nose;
[0100] inflating the belly and diaphragm; and
[0101] exhaling slowly through the mouth.
[0102] On the other hand, examples of breathing techniques for
cardiovascular workouts are diaphragmatic breathing and thoracic
breathing.
[0103] Diaphragmatic, or abdominal, breathing allows the maximum
amount of oxygen to be introduced into the body.
[0104] Conversely, thoracic breathing uses only the upper part of
the lungs and the air which is inhaled remains in the lungs for
only a short time, preventing the total turnover and reducing
oxygen supply.
[0105] Another aspect of breathing for which an indication can be
provided while performing a physical exercise during a
cardiovascular workout is the breathing rate, as shown below.
[0106] In the case of a low-intensity run, a correct rate might be
3:3, meaning inhaling every 3 steps, exhaling every 3 steps, and so
on.
[0107] In the case of a medium-intensity run, a correct rate might
be 2:2, meaning inhaling every 2 steps, exhaling every 2 steps, and
so on.
[0108] In the case of a high-intensity run, a correct rate may be
1:1, meaning 1 inhaling step, 1 exhaling step, and so on.
[0109] With reference instead to strength workouts, examples of
breathing techniques are based on the anatomical principle and the
performance principle.
[0110] In the case of a strength workout, according to the
anatomical principle, the breathing technique follows the natural
rate of expansion and closure of the rib cage.
[0111] In this case: in pushing exercises, exhaling in the
concentric phase and inhaling in the eccentric phase;
[0112] in pulling exercises, inhaling in the concentric phase, and
exhaling in the eccentric phase.
[0113] It is worth noting that, in pushing exercises, the rib cage
tends to close in the concentric phase while it tends to open in
the eccentric phase.
[0114] Instead, in pulling exercises, the rib cage tends to open in
the concentric phase while it tends to close in the eccentric
phase.
[0115] Always in the case of strength workouts, according to the
performance principle, the breathing technique involves breathing
in such a manner as to lift the greatest load.
[0116] In all strength exercises (pushing and pulling), the
performance principle implies exhaling in the concentric phase and
inhaling in the eccentric phase.
[0117] It is worth noting that more load is moved when exhaling, so
one is put in the best condition in the most unfavorable phase,
i.e., the concentric phase (there is about 50% more strength in the
eccentric phase).
[0118] Comparing the anatomical principle and the performance
principle:
[0119] it is natural to apply the anatomical principle if the load
is relatively low and not close to yielding (easy load
management);
[0120] the performance principle is used if the load is close to
the maximum or close to yielding (problematic repetitions) (this
comes naturally; otherwise the repetitions cannot be repeated).
[0121] Referring back to FIGS. 2a and 2b, according to an
embodiment, in combination with any one of those described above,
the data processing unit 3, if the exercise machine 1 is a
treadmill, is configured to detect a speed of the treadmill and/or
a running/walking cadence of the user on the treadmill and/or an
inclination of the running/walking surface of the treadmill.
[0122] In this embodiment, the data processing unit 3 is configured
to determine the indication of the breathing to be followed by the
user while performing the physical exercise according to the
detected speed of the treadmill and/or the detected running/walking
cadence of the user on the treadmill and/or the detected
inclination of the running/walking surface of the treadmill.
[0123] According to a further embodiment, alternative to the
preceding embodiments, the data processing unit 3, if the exercise
machine 1 is a bike or an exercise bike, is configured to detect a
resistance in opposition to the pedaling of the user and/or a
pedaling frequency of the user.
[0124] In this embodiment, the data processing unit 3 is configured
to determine the indication of the breathing to be followed by the
user while performing the physical exercise as a function of the
detected resistance in opposition to the pedaling of the user
and/or the detected pedaling frequency of the user.
[0125] According to a further embodiment, alternative to the
preceding ones, the data processing unit 3, if the exercise machine
1 is a rowing machine, is configured to detect a resistance in
opposition to the rowing of the user and/or a rowing frequency of
the user.
[0126] In this embodiment, the data processing unit 3 is configured
to determine the indication of the breathing to be followed by the
user while performing the physical exercise as a function of the
detected resistance in opposition to the rowing of the user and/or
the detected rowing frequency of the user.
[0127] According to a further embodiment, as an alternative to the
preceding embodiments, the data processing unit 3, if the exercise
machine 1 is a strength exercise machine, is configured to detect
an eccentric phase and/or a concentric phase of a movement of the
user and/or a repetition execution cadence of a series within the
physical exercise and/or a load of the exercise machine 1 and/or a
position along the range of motion during the eccentric phase
and/or a position along the range of motion during the concentric
phase and/or to determine the percentage of the load relative to
the user's maximum (1 RM), for a set physical exercise.
[0128] In this embodiment, the data processing unit 3 is configured
to determine the indication of the breathing to be followed by the
user while performing the physical exercise as a function of the
detected eccentric phase and/or concentric phase of the movement of
the user, and/or the detected repetition execution cadence of a
series within the physical exercise, and/or the detected load of
the exercise machine 1.
[0129] According to an embodiment, in combination with any one of
those described above, regardless of the type of the exercise
machine 1, the data processing unit 3 is configured to acquire a
heart rate of the user.
[0130] The heart rate of the user is detectable through a heart
rate monitor, or equivalent devices, worn by the user and connected
to the data processing unit 3 (e.g., through a wireless data
connection type) or comprised in the sensor unit 5 of the exercise
machine 1 or through a set configuration of the data processing
unit 3 which is aware of the heart rate of the user.
[0131] It is worth noting that the detected heart rate represents
information to further refine the indication of the breathing to be
followed by the user during the physical exercise to be provided to
the user.
[0132] In particular, the detected heart rate is comparable to a
set value representative of the user's maximum heart rate to
determine what percentage of the set value representative of the
user's maximum heart rate is being worked by the user to determine
the subjective effort the user is under and the respective workout
zone (e.g., near the anaerobic threshold).
[0133] Indeed, the same physical exercise could induce mutually
different heart rate responses in two users with different physical
characteristics, and thus with set values representative of the
maximum heart rate.
[0134] Therefore, a user who is more fatigued than another may need
a modification of the indication of the breathing to be followed,
such as a different correlation between physical exercise mode and
breathing to be followed.
[0135] In this embodiment, the data processing unit 3 is configured
to provide the user with a modified indication of the breathing to
be followed by the user while performing the physical exercise
according to the detected heart rate of the user (e.g., a different
correlation between physical exercise mode and the breathing to be
followed).
[0136] Referring back in general to the invention and FIGS. 2a and
2b, the data processing unit 3 is further configured to provide the
user with the determined indication of the breathing.
[0137] In an embodiment, in combination with the preceding one and
shown in FIGS. 2a and 2b, the exercise machine 1 comprises an audio
speaker 6 operatively connected to the data processing unit.
[0138] In an embodiment, the determined indication of the breathing
comprises an audio message (e.g., a voice of a personal trainer)
which can be used by the user through the audio speaker 6 of the
exercise machine 1.
[0139] In this embodiment, the data processing unit 3 is configured
to broadcast the determined indication of the breathing in the form
of an audio message through the audio speaker 6 of the exercise
machine 1.
[0140] In an embodiment, in combination with the preceding, the
audio speaker 6 comprises a speaker.
[0141] According to a further embodiment, as an alternative to the
preceding ones, the audio speaker 6 is a hardware component
configured to be operatively connected, for example, wirelessly or
wired, to a headset with which the user is provided.
[0142] According to an embodiment, either alternatively or in
combination with the preceding one, shown in FIGS. 2a and 2b, the
exercise machine 1 further comprises a display module 7, for
example, a display, operatively connected to the data processing
unit 3.
[0143] In an embodiment, either alternatively or in combination
with the preceding one, the determined indication of the breathing
comprises a graphic representation viewable through the display
module 7 of the exercise machine 1.
[0144] In this embodiment, the data processing unit 3 is configured
to display the determined indication of the breathing in the form
of a graphic representation through the display module 7 of the
exercise machine 1.
[0145] According to an embodiment, shown in FIG. 2a, the user
interface 2 is distinct from the data processing unit 3, the memory
unit 4, the sensor unit 5, the audio speaker 6, and the display
module 7 which are therefore external to the user interface 2, for
example, integrated into other parts of the exercise machine 1.
[0146] According to a further embodiment shown in FIG. 2b, the data
processing unit 3, the memory unit 4, the sensor unit 5, the audio
speaker 6, and the display module 7 are comprised and integrated
within the user interface 2.
[0147] The graphic representation is preferably animated because it
shows to the user an indicator I-D (FIGS. 4a and 4b) or an
indicator E-G (FIGS. 5a and 5b), the animation of which helps the
user follow the breathing phases more immediately and
intuitively.
[0148] According to an embodiment, shown in FIGS. 4a and 4b, the
graphic representation comprises a time pattern S-T (e.g., a sine
curve) of the I-S (inhaling) and E-S (exhaling) breathing phases to
be followed while performing the physical exercise.
[0149] With reference to the embodiment in FIG. 4a, if the physical
exercise performed by the user is running on a treadmill, the time
pattern S-T is a sine curve, the ascending phase of which is an
inhaling phase I-S and the descending phase is an exhaling phase
E-S.
[0150] In this embodiment, every two steps P-S of a user, between
two successive foot impacts I-P, the sine curve S-T comprises a
breathing phase (inhaling I-S or exhaling E-S).
[0151] In the case of a medium-intensity run, a correct breathing
rate may be 2:2, meaning inhaling every 2 steps, exhaling every 2
steps, and so on.
[0152] During the physical exercise, an indicator I-D appears on
the time pattern S-T, adapted to move in the direction indicated by
the arrows represented within the time pattern S-T, the position of
which along the time pattern S-T indicates to the user the
breathing phase to be followed, so that the detected cadence while
running is correlated to the breathing rate, as in the example just
illustrated.
[0153] It is worth noting that different correlations with the rate
of the breathing phases can be set up according to the detected
speed of the treadmill or the detected cadence, thus obtaining time
patterns (e.g. sinusoidal curves) with different shapes.
[0154] With reference to the embodiment in FIG. 4b, if the physical
exercise performed by the user is a strength exercise on a strength
exercise machine, the time pattern S-T is again a sine curve, the
ascending phase of which is an inhaling phase I-S and the
descending phase of which is an exhaling phase E-S.
[0155] In this embodiment, each eccentric movement M-E of the user
corresponds to an inhaling phase I-S of the sine curve S-T while
each concentric movement M-C of the user corresponds to an exhaling
phase E-S.
[0156] During the physical exercise, an indicator I-D appears on
the S-T time course, the position of which along the time pattern
S-T tells the user which breathing phase is to be followed.
[0157] According to a further embodiment, either alternatively or
in combination with the preceding ones and shown in FIGS. 5a-5b,
the graphic representation comprises an animated graphic element
E-G, the animation of which represents the breathing phases to be
followed while performing the physical exercise.
[0158] The animated graphic element E-G is a geometric shape (such
as a circle or sphere), the size of which varies with the breathing
phases.
[0159] According to the embodiment in FIGS. 5a-5b, the animated
graphic element E-G is a circle (or a sphere).
[0160] In the inhaling phase I-S (FIG. 5a), the radius of the
animated graphic element E-G (circle) increases from a first value
R1, corresponding to a first circle S-1 (represented with dashed
line) to a second value R2, corresponding to a second circle S-2
(represented with solid line).
[0161] The second value R2 is greater than the first value R1.
[0162] In the exhaling phase E-S (FIG. 5b), the radius of the
animated graphic element E-G (circle) decreases from the second
value R2, corresponding to the second circle S-2 (represented with
dashed line) to the first value R1, corresponding to the first
circle S-1 (represented with solid line).
[0163] With reference now to FIG. 3, a method 300 for controlling a
user's breathing during a workout with an exercise machine,
hereinafter also control method or simply method is now
described.
[0164] The method 300 comprises a symbolic step of starting ST.
[0165] The method 300 comprises a step of acquiring 301, by a data
processing unit 3 with a user interface 2 of an exercise machine 1,
at least one parameter representative of a physical exercise being
performed by the user with the exercise machine 1.
[0166] The exercise machine 1, the user interface 2 and the data
processing unit 3 have been described above.
[0167] The definition and examples of "parameter representative of
a physical exercise being performed by the user with the exercise
machine" have been provided above.
[0168] The method 300 further comprises a step of determining 302,
by the data processing unit 3 of the exercise machine 1, an
indication of the breathing to be followed by the user while
performing the physical exercise based on the acquired at least one
parameter representative of the physical exercise.
[0169] In such regard, technical breathing examples were provided
above.
[0170] In an embodiment, the step of determining 302 is performed
directly by the data processing unit 3 of the exercise machine
1.
[0171] Therefore, in this embodiment, the "intelligent" step of the
method 300 resides entirely in the exercise machine 1.
[0172] According to a further embodiment, alternative to the
previous one, the step of determining 302 is delegated, by the data
processing unit 3 of the exercise machine 1, to a remote electronic
processor (e.g., a cloud server, not shown in the figures)
operatively connected to the exercise machine 1 through a data
communication network (also not shown in the figures) which
determines and provides the exercise machine 1 with an indication
of the breathing to be followed by the user while performing the
physical exercise based on the acquired at least one parameter
representative of the physical exercise and provided to the remote
electronic processor by the exercise machine 1.
[0173] Therefore, in this embodiment, the "intelligent" step of the
method 300 resides in the remote electronic processor which, in
addition to providing the workout program, can also determine and
provide the indication of the breathing to be followed within the
workout program.
[0174] Referring back to the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the method
300 further comprises a step of providing 303 the user, by the data
processing unit 3 of the exercise machine 1, with the determined
indication of the breathing.
[0175] The method 300 comprises a symbolic step of ending ED.
[0176] In an embodiment, in combination with the preceding
embodiment, the determined indication of the breathing comprises an
audio message (e.g., a voice of a personal trainer) usable by the
user through an audio speaker 6 of the exercise machine 1
operatively connected to the data processing unit 3.
[0177] In this embodiment, shown with dashed lines in FIG. 3, the
step of providing 303 comprises a step of broadcasting 304, by the
data processing unit 3 of the exercise machine 1, the determined
indication of the breathing in the form of an audio message through
the audio speaker 6 of the exercise machine 1 operatively connected
to the data processing unit 3.
[0178] In a further embodiment, either alternatively or in
combination with the preceding one, the determined indication of
the breathing comprises a graphic representation usable by the user
through a display module 7 of the exercise machine 1 operatively
connected to the data processing unit 3.
[0179] In this embodiment, shown with dashed lines in FIG. 3, the
step of providing 303 comprises a step of displaying 305, by the
data processing unit 3 of the exercise machine 1, the determined
indication of the breathing in the form of a graphic representation
by the display module 7 of the exercise machine 1 operatively
connected to the data processing unit 3.
[0180] As mentioned above, the graphic representation is preferably
animated because it shows to the user an indicator I-D (FIGS. 4a
and 4b) or an indicator E-G (FIGS. 5a and 5b), the animation of
which helps the user follow the breathing phases more immediately
and intuitively.
[0181] Embodiments of the graphic representation have been provided
previously with particular reference to FIGS. 4a, 4b, 5a, and
5b.
[0182] According to an embodiment, in combination with any one of
those described above, the step of acquiring 301 is performed
directly by the data processing unit 3 of the exercise machine
1.
[0183] According to an embodiment, either in combination or as an
alternative to the preceding one and shown with a dashed line in
FIG. 3, the step of acquiring 301 comprises a step of detecting
306, by a sensor unit 5 operatively connected to the data
processing unit 3 of the exercise machine 1, the at least one
parameter representative of a physical exercise being performed by
the user with the exercise machine 1.
[0184] According to an embodiment, in combination with any one
described above and shown with dashed lines in FIG. 3, the step of
acquiring 301, if the exercise machine 1 is a treadmill, comprises
a step of detecting 307, by the data processing unit 3, a speed of
the treadmill and/or a running/walking cadence of the user on the
treadmill and/or an inclination of the running/walking surface of
the treadmill.
[0185] In this embodiment, the step of determining 302 comprises a
step of determining 307', by the data processing unit 3, the
indication of the breathing to be followed by the user while
performing the physical exercise as a function of the detected
speed of the treadmill and/or the detected running/walking cadence
of the user on the treadmill and/or the detected inclination of the
running/walking surface of the treadmill.
[0186] According to a further embodiment, alternative to the
preceding ones and shown with dashed lines in FIG. 3, the step of
acquiring 301, if the exercise machine 1 is a bike or an exercise
bike, comprises a step of detecting 308, by the data processing
unit 3, a resistance of the bike or the exercise bike in opposition
to the pedaling of the user and/or the pedaling frequency of the
user.
[0187] In this embodiment, the step of determining 302 comprises a
step of determining 308', by the data processing unit 3, the
indication of the breathing to be followed by the user while
performing the physical exercise as a function of the detected
resistance of the bike or the exercise bike in opposition to the
pedaling of the user and/or the detected pedaling frequency of the
user.
[0188] According to a further embodiment, alternative to the
preceding ones and shown with dashed lines in FIG. 3, the step of
acquiring 301, if the exercise machine 1 is a rowing machine,
comprises a step of detecting 309, by the data processing unit 3, a
resistance of the rowing machine in opposition to the rowing of the
user and/or a rowing frequency of the user.
[0189] In this embodiment, the step of determining 302 comprises a
step of determining 309', by the data processing unit 3, the
indication of the breathing to be followed by the user while
performing the physical exercise as a function of the detected
resistance of the rowing machine in opposition to the rowing of the
user and/or the detected rowing frequency of the user.
[0190] According to a further embodiment, as an alternative to the
preceding ones and shown with dashed lines in FIG. 3, the step of
acquiring 301, if the exercise machine 1 is a strength exercise
machine, comprises a step of detecting 310, by the data processing
unit 3, an eccentric phase and/or a concentric phase of a movement
of the user and/or a load of the strength exercise machine.
[0191] In this embodiment, the step of determining 302 comprises a
step of determining 310', by the data processing unit 3, the
indication of the breathing to be followed by the user while
performing the physical exercise according to the detected
eccentric phase and/or concentric phase of the movement of the user
and/or the detected load of the strength exercise machine.
[0192] According to an embodiment, in combination with any one of
those described above and shown with dashed lines in FIG. 3,
regardless of the type of the exercise machine 1, the method 300
further comprises a step of acquiring 311, by the data processing
unit 3, a heart rate of the user.
[0193] In this embodiment, the method 300 further comprises a step
of determining 312, by the data processing unit 3, a modification
of the indication of the breathing to be followed by the user while
performing the physical exercise according to the acquired heart
rate of the user (e.g., a different correlation between physical
exercise mode and the breathing to be followed).
[0194] In this embodiment, the step of providing 303 further
comprises a step of providing 313 the user, by the data processing
unit 3, with the determined modified indication of the breathing to
be followed.
[0195] With reference to an embodiment and the figures, an example
of implementation, by the exercise machine 1, of a method for
controlling a user's breathing during a workout with an exercise
machine is now described.
[0196] A user climbs onto an exercise machine 1, for example, a
treadmill like the one shown in FIG. 1 a, to perform a workout.
[0197] While performing the physical exercise, for example,
running, the data processing unit 3 of the user interface 2 of the
exercise machine 1 acquires at least one parameter representative
of the physical exercise being performed by the user with the
exercise machine 1, for example the speed of the treadmill.
[0198] The data processing unit 3 of the exercise machine 1
determines an indication of the breathing to be followed by the
user while performing the physical exercise based on the acquired
at least one parameter representative of the acquired physical
exercise, i.e. based on the speed of the treadmill.
[0199] The data processing unit 3 of the exercise machine 1
provides the determined indication of the breathing.
[0200] In particular, the data processing unit 3 of the exercise
machine 1 displays the determined indication of the breathing in
the form of a graphic representation (e.g., a sine curve
representing the breathing phases to be followed while performing
the physical exercise) through the display module 7 of the exercise
machine 1.
[0201] It is worth noting that the scope of the invention is fully
achieved.
[0202] Indeed, the user can promptly and reliably receive an
indication of the breathing to be followed while performing a
physical exercise with an exercise machine, ensuring as much as
possible correct and optimal performance of the physical exercise
with the achievement of the required performance.
[0203] A person skilled in the art may make changes and adaptations
to the embodiments of the method and exercise machine described
above or can replace elements with other functionally equivalent
ones to meet contingent needs without thereby departing from the
scope of protection as described and claimed herein. All the
features described above as belonging to a possible embodiment may
be implemented independently of the other described
embodiments.
* * * * *