Abstract:
An exercise device provides first and second foot-support surfaces which are each displaced by an actuator system along an arbitrary path defined in at least two dimensions over a range of at least 25 centimeters by 15 centimeters. A control system is configured to control the actuator system so as to generate an exercise path for each of the first and second foot-support surfaces. The exercise movement may be active or passive, and may be varied dynamically during an uninterrupted exercise session.
Abstract:
Systems, devices, methods and computer program products for providing an exercise device access to information stored on a portable memory device. An exercise device includes a data port which is adapted to receive the portable memory device, regardless of its format. For instance, either a Secure Digital or multimedia format memory card may be accessed through the same data port. To access the portable memory device, the exercise device stores the access protocols for each of the various formats. Upon determining that the format of the memory device, the exercise device then selectively applies the appropriate protocols, which may allow read and optionally write access to the portable memory device. The enabled communication allows the exercise device to access data stored on the memory card. The accessed data may include personal user information, exercise programs, and motivational content. The data can be delivered to the user.
Abstract:
An elliptical exercise machine, including a gearbox, a generally flat contact surface, a first generally linear footrest support member mechanically coupled to the gearbox and extending to the flat contact surface, a second generally linear footrest support member mechanically coupled to the gearbox and extending to the flat contact surface, and an elastic coupler removably connected between the first and second generally linear footrest support member. The contact surface is generally flat and described by a first axis and a second orthogonally oriented axis. The gearbox independently governs the motive resistance and travel path of each footrest support members. The each footrest support member rollingly cooperates with the contact surface, and each first and second generally linear footrest support member may cooperate with the support surface independently of the other respective footrest support member. Each footrest support member is free to move in the plane of the flat contact surface, i.e., each footrest support member is able to move in two dimensions and is not restricted to one dimensional, “back and forth” motion.
Abstract:
The present invention is directed to systems and methods for providing exercise devices with motivational programming. The programming includes motivational content and control signals, synchronized with the motivational content, for controlling operation of the exercise device. The motivational content includes audio and/or video designed to simulate a group exercise setting and optionally instructional and educational content for the benefit of a user. The control signals can be carried in wireless carrier signals and can include bytes of data that define changes to the value of one or more operating parameters of an exercise device. The control signals can control one or more operating parameters of one or more exercise devices, whether at once, or device specific.
Abstract:
An exercise machine with adjustable handles that provide for multiple handle positions. The exercise machine with adjustable handles generally includes a frame with one or more rails, a carriage movably positioned upon the rails, and a pair of adjustable handles positioned near an end of the frame. The adjustable handles each have a handle portion that is movably connected to a corresponding handle stanchion to pivot from a storage position to an extended position.
Abstract:
The invention relates to an elliptical trainer including: a frame having a first end and a second end; a rocker-rod mechanism hingedly connected to the first end of the frame; a pedal mechanism connected to the frame and the rocker-rod mechanism, the pedal mechanism being linked with the rocker-rod mechanism on the frame; a resistance adjustment mechanism provided at the first end of the frame, the resistance adjustment mechanism being connected to the pedal mechanism through a transmission mechanism for adjusting the movement resistance of the pedal mechanism. In the apparatus of the invention, there are two resistance adjustment ways i.e. manual resistance adjustment and electronic-controlled resistance adjustment, the user can select any one or both according to requirements. By combining the manual adjustment and the electronic controlled adjustment, the adjustable range of movement resistance is increased, and not only a wide range resistance control is achieved, but also fine-tuning of the movement resistance can be achieved manually.
Abstract:
An elliptical trainer with variable stride includes a base frame, a swing unit axially mounted at the base frame, a pedal unit axially mounted at the swing unit, a damping unit for providing damping resistance to the swing unit, and a constraining unit including an axle axially mounted at the base frame, a pair of upper cranks respectively affixed to two opposite ends of the axle and a pair of coupling members respectively pivotally coupled between the upper cranks and the swing unit. Mating the constraining unit with the swing unit prevents the swing unit from overswinging, enhancing user safety.
Abstract:
Full body exercise equipment including four elongate rails arranged in a generally side-by-side longitudinal configuration. The four elongate rails are connected together to allow for selected angular arrangements between the rails and also allow for selected longitudinal arrangements between the rails. A slidable shuttle member is provided on each rail with the two inside rails having toe holds and the two outside rails having hand grips. A resilient cord is provided for each shuttle for selectable attachment to either end of the shuttle to provide selected resistance against slidable movement of the shuttle in either direction on a respective rail.
Abstract:
An exercise machine ergonomic handle system for providing hand-holds for the performance of exercises with reduced flexion and/or extension of the hand and wrist and reduced ulnar and/or radial deviation so as to reduce injury and allow application of full strength to the exercise machine. The exercise machine ergonomic handle system generally includes a longitudinally extending frame, a carriage that moves upon a first longitudinal portion of the frame, and at least one pair of ergonomic handles positioned on a second longitudinal portion of the frame. The ergonomic handles rotate about an axis to prevent flexion and/or extension, and can be positioned at a width and/or angle that reduces ulnar and/or radial deviation.
Abstract:
An exercise apparatus that has: a frame; a curved ramp comprised of a non-articulating, non-pivoting curved member that defines a unitary curved path of travel between a selected forward and selected rearward position; a foot support adapted to travel along the unitary curved path from the selected forward position to the selected rearward position and to travel along the same unitary curved path from the selected rearward position to the selected forward position; and a handle interconnected to the foot support and adapted to move in the same direction, forward or rearward, as the foot support via the interconnection to the foot support.