HK1145657B - Exercise device having inelastic straps and interchangeable parts - Google Patents

Abstract

An exercise device having an anchor with multiple components is described. In one embodiment, the anchor includes one or more interlocking components, such as rigid or flexible loops. Rigid loops such as gated rings may advantageously be used to connect the different components. Embodiments permit for replacing, interchanging, or adding components to an exercise device anchor.

Description

Exercise device with inelastic strap and interchangeable parts

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to exercise devices (exercise devices), and in particular, to exercise devices having anchors formed of removable, replaceable, and/or interchangeable components.

Background

Resistance exercise devices allow a user to exercise by providing resistance to the movement of the user's arms, legs, or torso. Thus, for example, these devices allow a user to exercise by working one muscle against another or by working against the user's weight by providing resistance to the movement of the user's arms, legs or torso. Resistance exercise devices typically include an elastic band or a non-elastic band.

Resistance exercise devices having inelastic straps are typically attachable to a structure such as, for example, a door. Generally, anchors for these devices are not very flexible because they can be attached to one type of structure and/or permanently attached to the exercise device.

There is a need to provide anchors for exercise devices that can be connected to a variety of structures. There is also a need to provide an anchor for an exercise device that is easily adaptable for attachment to a variety of structures. There is also a need to provide an anchor for an exercise device having easily replaceable components.

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art by providing an exercise device that is easily configurable and mountable to a variety of structures. For example, certain embodiments described herein include a plurality of interlocking components that support an exercise device to a structure. In certain other embodiments, the anchor member comprises one or more rigid or flexible rings that can be opened or openable.

In some embodiments, anchors are provided for connecting an exercise device to a structure, wherein the exercise device includes an elongated inelastic member (elongated inelastic member) having grips. The anchor comprises a first portion connectable to the structure and a second portion comprising a friction support for the elongated inelastic member. The second portion is removably connected to the first portion when the first portion is connected to the structure.

In certain other embodiments, anchors are provided that are attachable to an exercise device and a structure, wherein the exercise device includes an elongated inelastic member having grips. The anchor comprises a first portion connectable to the structure and a second portion comprising a friction support for the elongated inelastic member. The anchor further includes means for connecting for removably connecting the first portion with the second portion when the second portion is connected to the structure.

In some embodiments, an anchor is provided that supports an exercise device to a structure, wherein the exercise device includes an elongated inelastic member having grips. The anchor includes a first loop including a length of flexible material adapted to receive an elongated inelastic member; and a second ring removably connected to the first ring.

These features, together with various auxiliary arrangements and features which will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, are achieved by way of an exercise apparatus of the invention, embodiments of which are illustrated, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

brief Description of Drawings

FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of a first embodiment of an exercise device anchored between a door and a door jamb;

FIG. 2 is a partial schematic cross-sectional view taken along line 2-2 of FIG. 1, illustrating the exercise device anchored between the door and the door jamb;

FIG. 3 is an illustration of a user performing a high pendulum exercise (high rowexercise) using the exercise embodiment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of an exercise device;

FIGS. 5A and 5B are views of a first embodiment of an anchor of the exercise device of FIG. 4, with FIG. 5A being a perspective view and FIG. 5B being a cross-sectional view taken along 5B-5B;

FIG. 6 is a schematic top view of the elongated member of the embodiment shown in FIG. 4 having two lengthening mechanisms (arms) and two hand grips;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing details of the handle and lengthening mechanism of the embodiment of FIG. 4;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7 showing the hand grip;

fig. 9A is a perspective view showing a detail of the slack collar (slack sleeve) of the embodiment of fig. 4;

FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9B-9B of FIG. 9A showing details of the buckle and the connection of the slack collar thereto;

FIG. 10 is a schematic top view of an alternative embodiment of an elongated member having an extension mechanism and two finger grips;

FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the finger grip embodiment of FIG. 10 taken along line 11-11;

12A-12D are schematic diagrams illustrating use of the exercise device, with FIG. 12A in an initial configuration, FIG. 12B illustrating an elongated member, which is further illustrated in FIGS. 12B 'and 12B', FIG. 12C illustrating application of force to the shorter leg of the elongated member, and FIG. 12D illustrating application of force to the handles during exercise;

13A-13C are schematic illustrations showing the use of exercise devices having different arm lengths, with FIG. 13A being an initial configuration, FIG. 13B showing the application of force to one of a pair of legs, and FIG. 13C showing the application of force to the handles during an exercise;

FIG. 14A is a second embodiment of an anchor that may be used to connect an exercise device to a pole or railing, while FIG. 14B is an exercise device anchored to a pole using the alternative anchoring embodiment of FIG. 14A;

15A-15I illustrate a user's position while performing an exercise using an embodiment of the exercise device, where FIG. 15A is a reverse combination scroll, FIG. 15B is a single-leg L-squat, FIG. 15C is a gymnastic player chin up (gynast dip), FIG. 15D is a kneeling combination scroll, FIG. 15E is a supine leg curl (1ying leg curl), FIG. 15F is a hip lift (hip lift), FIG. 15G is a front shoulder lift (front outer curl), FIG. 15H is a scroll, and FIG. 15I is a triceps extension (triceps extension);

FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate an embodiment of an exercise device for performing one-handed exercises, wherein FIG. 16A illustrates the interlocking of handles for one-handed exercises and FIG. 16B illustrates the use of an exercise device for performing one-armed high-swing exercises;

FIGS. 17A and 17B illustrate an embodiment of a foot handle fitting (foot access) connected to the handles of an exercise device, where FIG. 17A illustrates the foot handle fitting being hooked by the toes of a user, and FIG. 17B illustrates a pair of foot handle fittings, with one fitting on each of a pair of handles of the exercise device and being hooked by one of the heels of the user;

18A, 18B, 18C and 18D show the first embodiment of the foot handle accessory of FIGS. 17A-B, with FIG. 18A being a perspective view of the foot handle accessory, FIG. 18B being a bottom view of the foot handle accessory, FIG. 18C being a side view of a portion of one of the handle attachment portions and FIG. 18D being a top view of a portion of one of the handle accessory attachment portions;

19A, 19B, and 19C illustrate an embodiment of a finger grip accessory (finger grip access) connected to a grip of an exercise device, where FIG. 19A illustrates the placement of one finger through one of the loops, FIG. 19B illustrates the placement of one finger through each of the two loops, and FIG. 19C illustrates the placement of two fingers through each of the two loops;

FIGS. 20A, 20B and 20C illustrate one embodiment of the finger handle accessory of FIGS. 19A-C, with FIG. 20A being a perspective view of the finger handle accessory, FIG. 20B being a top view of the finger handle accessory taken along 20B-20B and FIG. 20C being a cross-sectional side view of the finger handle accessory taken along 20C-20C;

21A, 21B, and 21C illustrate embodiments of a grip accessory attached to a grip of an exercise device, where FIG. 21A illustrates a hand gripping three cords, FIG. 21B illustrates a hand gripping two cords, and FIG. 21C illustrates a hand gripping one cord;

FIGS. 22A, 22B, 22C and 22D illustrate one embodiment of the handle accessory of FIGS. 21A-C, with FIG. 22A being a perspective view of the handle accessory, FIG. 22B being a top view of the handle accessory, FIG. 22C being a bottom view of the handle accessory and FIG. 22D being a cross-sectional side view of FIG. 22C taken along 22D-22D;

fig. 23 shows a third embodiment of an anchor;

FIG. 24 illustrates the use of the anchor of FIG. 23 to anchor an exercise device to a tree;

figures 25 and 26 illustrate an embodiment of a bracket for securing an exercise device with an enlarged first end of an anchor, wherein figure 25 is a perspective front view of the bracket for mounting the exercise device and figure 26 illustrates the use of the bracket to anchor the exercise device;

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the first embodiment combination handle;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the second embodiment combination handle;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of an exercise device including a fourth embodiment of an anchor and a second embodiment of an elongated member;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of an exercise device including a fifth embodiment of an anchor;

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of an exercise device including a sixth embodiment of an anchor; and

32A-32C are views of one embodiment of a support for the exercise device of FIG. 31, where FIG. 32A is a perspective view showing the support connected to a ring, FIG. 32B is a perspective view of the support deployed, and FIG. 32C is an end view of the support ready to receive a ring.

Reference numerals are used in the figures to indicate certain components, aspects or features illustrated herein, wherein reference numerals that are common to more than one figure refer to similar components, aspects or features illustrated therein.

Modes for carrying out the invention

Certain aspects and advantages of the various embodiments are described herein, where appropriate, in order to contrast the various embodiments with the prior art. Of course, it is to be understood that not necessarily all such aspects or advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment. Modifications and variations may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, including but not limited to: the use of inelastic members, described herein as bands that are circular or have some other cross-sectional shape, and/or which are formed of two or more members that are joined together by stitching or using an adhesive; or the use of different mechanisms for adjusting the length of the inelastic member as known in the art including, but not limited to, clasps, hooks, or wrapping the inelastic member around the rigid element. Furthermore, any one or more features of any embodiment may be combined with any one or more other features of any other embodiment without departing from the scope of the invention.

Disclosed herein are non-elastic exercise devices that are supported by, or can be easily connected to, a support structure and allow a user to perform a large number of exercises by easily adjusting the length of the device and then balancing the device as the user's weight is transferred to the device. Several features will now be described with reference to fig. 1-3. Fig. 1 is a schematic front view of a first embodiment of an exercise device 100, the exercise device 100 being anchored at point a between a door D and a door jamb J. Fig. 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of exercise device 100 taken along 2-2 of fig. 1 through door D and shown in cross-section, and fig. 3 is an illustration of a user U exercising using the exercise device of fig. 1.

Exercise device 100 includes an anchor 110 and an elongated member 120 having a pair of arms 122, represented as first arm 122a and second arm 122b on either side of the anchor, as schematically shown in fig. 1 and 2. A pair of handles 123 is provided with one handle 123 at each end 121 of each arm 122, specifically a first arm 122a having a first handle 123a and a second arm 122b having a second handle 123 b. Elongate member 120 having a length S between a pair of handles 123 is substantially inelastic and flexible and includes a band or cord or other inelastic flexible member and an extension mechanism 135 which provides for an increase or decrease in length S as indicated by double arrow Δ S.

As used herein, the term "handle" includes any device that is interlockable with a body part, i.e., that may be connected in such a way that the person is able to transmit a force to the handle, preferably equal to a part or all of the weight of the person, whereas as used herein, the verb "grip" refers to the action of interlocking the device with a body part. When used in an exercise device, the handles are connected to other elements that allow for the transfer of force to another object, including but not limited to a stationary support, a device capable of storing or releasing energy such as an elastic cord or spring, or another body part. The handle includes a device that can be surrounded by a body part, such as a flexible loop or hook, or a device that can be surrounded by a body part, such as an elongated member that can fit within the grip of a hand. In this context, a graspable or graspable member is a member capable of surrounding a body part or a member capable of being surrounded by a body part and has a size and configuration that allows force to be transmitted from a user to the handle. A "hand grip" is a grip sized for gripping with a hand, a "foot grip" is a grip sized for gripping with a foot, and a "finger grip" is a grip sized for gripping with one or more fingers.

Anchor 110 provides support for elongated member 120 that allows for some amount of motion. In particular, the interaction of anchor 110 and elongate member 120 allows the elongate member to be positioned along the anchor on the anchor, and may also provide resistance to movement of the elongate member along the anchor. Preferably, the resistance is sufficient so that under some circumstances the support prevents elongated member 120 from moving along anchor 110, even where there is some mismatch of force on the ends of the elongated member. In this manner, exercise device 100 may be used for a variety of exercises, for example, by varying the length of elongated member 120, and also provides an exercise device capable of providing support to a user while exercising.

Reference is made herein to one type of support, which is referred to herein, without limitation, as a "friction support. Anchors that provide friction support include, but are not limited to, an element or portion of an element that is capable of supporting elongate member 120 during exercise, and over which the elongate member may slide. The resistance to movement of elongate member 120 over anchor 110 may be determined in part by the frictional resistance of the elongate member as it slides over the anchor. In some embodiments of methods of using exercise device 100, elongated member 120 is slid along anchor 110 while the user positions himself. A slight mismatch in tension on the grips during exercise is matched by the static friction of the friction support, and the grips do not move during exercise. That is, the static friction between elongate member 120 and anchor 110 created by the friction support is sufficient to allow exercise, wherein elongate member 120 does not slide past anchor 110 during exercise. The means for providing a frictional support comprises an element or portion of an element forming part of, or connected to, a portion of the anchor, and which is capable of supporting an elongate member (which may, for example, comprise a grip), and which is capable of allowing the elongate member to slide along the support anchor and provide frictional resistance to movement of the elongate member during exercise.

Anchors 110 are used to provide a fixed anchor point for exercise device 100 and to support the weight of the user as it is applied to arms 122, as shown in fig. 3 and indicated by arrow F in fig. 2. As shown in fig. 2, anchor 110 is adapted to position exercise device 100 in a door and provide support to elongated member 120 by way of an approximately triangular shaped loop 115 having an enlarged portion 111, a portion 113 that may be a strap or cord, and a friction support for the elongated member. With enlarged portions 111 from elongated member 120 on opposite sides of door D, anchor 110 supports the weight of the user as grips 123 are pulled. In addition, anchor 110 provides for the setting of the relative lengths of arms 122, as indicated by double arrow C in fig. 1. Thus, the overall length of the elongated member 120 and the distribution of that length between each of the arms 122 can be easily adjusted by lengthening the mechanism 135 and by pulling on the ends of the elongated member. Fig. 2 shows arms 122 each having a length L.

When supported by a structure such as a door D (e.g., as shown in fig. 1-3) or a railing, pole, or other support member (e.g., as shown in fig. 14B and 26), the exercise device of the present invention provides a user with a pair of handles to exercise against her weight depending on the user's position relative to the device and is configured to easily adjust the length of the device. As described below, the apparatus of the present invention may be used to exercise in any of a number of orientations, depending on the selected adjustable length and depending on where and how the user stands relative to the exercise apparatus. Generally, a user sets the exercise device to a desired length, positions herself on the ground near the exercise device, supports a portion of her body weight from the exercise device by her hands or feet, and exercises by moving her body in such a way that her weight is supported by the ground and by the exercise device. Examples of support on the ground and exercise device include, but are not limited to, standing on one or both legs, lying prone or supine, kneeling, or by having the hands on the ground when appropriate, and having the exercise device support the weight of the person by the hands or feet.

In an alternative embodiment (not shown), elongate member 120 does not include lengthening mechanism 135. In this embodiment, elongate member 120 is thus substantially inelastic and has a fixed length S between a pair of grips 123.

Referring to FIG. 3, user U is shown in one of many exercise positions, specifically in a high pendulum exercise, using the user's hands to grip a pair of grips 123 and place the user's feet a horizontal distance X from anchor point A. When anchored to the door, the anchor point a is preferably on the inside of the door (i.e., the door opens away from the user U) so that the side post J can support the weight of the user. User U is shown tilted away from anchor point a and supporting a portion of his or her weight through device 100. It will be apparent that the user U can vary the amount of weight supported, and thus the resistance of the exercise device 100, by adjusting his or her stance (distance X) relative to the anchor point a and the length (length L) of the arms 122. The user U of fig. 3 performs a high-swing exercise by moving his body in a direction E towards and away from the anchor point a. Note that other exercises by the user in this posture are also possible by the user moving in other directions with the user's weight supported by the ground and exercise device 100.

Several embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are intended to illustrate and not to limit the scope of the claims. Fig. 4-9 are various views of a second embodiment of an exercise device 400. Referring first to fig. 4, a perspective view of an exercise device 400 is shown that includes an anchor 410 and a first embodiment of an elongated member 420. Exercise device 400, anchor 410, and elongated member 420 are substantially similar to exercise device 100, anchor 110, and elongated member 120, respectively, except as described in more detail below. Identical reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate similar elements in figures 1-9.

The anchor 410 includes a non-resilient, flexible band 413, the band 413 having an enlarged first end 411 than the band width, and a second end forming a loop 415. An elongated member 420 passes through the loop 415 defining a pair of arms 422, labeled arms 422a and 422 b. Each arm 422 has a respective end 421, indicated as ends 421a and 421b, each forming a loop 425, indicated as loops 425a and 425b, to support one of a pair of handles 423, indicated as handles 423a and 423b, respectively. The elongate member 420 further includes a pair of elongate devices or clasps 435, the elongate devices or clasps 435 being represented as clasps 435a and 435b located at either end of the central strap 429. One or both of the clasps 435 provide for adjustment of the length of the elongate member 420. Specifically, the strap 429 has a pair of ends 431, the ends 431 being labeled 431a and 431b that pass through the clasps 435a and 435b, respectively. As described subsequently, the elongate member 420 is substantially inelastic, while the length of the elongate member may be adjusted by the action of one or both of the pair of clasps 435.

Fig. 4, 5A, and 5B illustrate several views of anchor 410, with fig. 5A being a perspective view of the anchor and fig. 5B being a cross-sectional view of the anchor taken along 5B-5B. As previously mentioned, anchor 410 includes a non-elastic flexible band 413. In one embodiment, the anchors 410 and the elongated members 420 are formed for a majority of their length from materials including, but not limited to, webbing strips of natural or synthetic materials having sufficient strength to support the weight of a user of the device. Webbing materials include, but are not limited to, one or more of nylon, polypropylene, or other polymer fibers. It should be understood that the individual lengths of flexible material may alternatively comprise two or more sections sewn, glued or otherwise connected to each other. In one embodiment, the length of the band 413 is from 6 inches to 18 inches. In another embodiment, the length of the strap 413 is about 12 inches.

The band 413 has an enlarged first end 411 wider than the band and a second end 417 connected to the band to form the loop 415. As shown in fig. 5B, the band 413 has an end 502 forming a core of a first end 411. Since one of the intended uses of anchors 410 is to anchor exercise device 400 between a door and a jamb, it is preferred that end 411 comprise a material that is sufficiently flexible to prevent damage to a wooden door or door frame and sufficiently strong to support the weight of a user. One embodiment of the softness and robustness is shown in fig. 5B. Specifically, the strap end 502 is partially surrounded by an inner concave shell 505 and a pillow 507, the pillow 507 covering the strap end and the shell. Strap end 502 may also be held within end 411 by gluing and sewing the strap end to cover 505 and pillow 507, and by closing the pillow with one or more sutures 509. Strap 413 passes into first end 411 through slot 504 in cover 505 and through slot 501 in pillow 507. In one embodiment, first end 411 is approximately 3.5 "by 2.5" and is oriented approximately perpendicular to strap 413. In another embodiment, the outer cover 505 is formed of high density, closed cell foam, and the pillow 507 is formed of felt and includes stitching 503. Alternatively, a second band or segment of another material may be sewn, glued, or otherwise attached to the end of band 413 to form end 502. In another alternative embodiment, the outer cover 505 may include another rigid member, such as a metal or rigid plastic plate, to increase the rigidity of the strap end 411.

Fig. 6-9 illustrate the elongate member 420 in greater detail, with fig. 6 being a schematic top view of the elongate member, fig. 7 being a perspective view of one of the pair of handles 423 and a corresponding one of the pair of clasps 435, fig. 8 being a cross-sectional view of one of the pair of handles 423 along 8-8, and fig. 9A being a perspective view showing details of one of the pair of clasps and the adjacent strap 429. As shown in fig. 6, the elongated member 420 has a length S and includes two inelastic strap portions 427, indicated as 427a and 427b, a strap 429 and a pair of clasps 435 for adjusting the length S. The portion of the elongate member 420 from each end to the nearest buckle has a fixed length, i.e., each of the two portions from one of the pair of ends 421 to the corresponding one of the pair of buckles 435 has a fixed length. In one embodiment, the length S is adjustable in length to allow for a wide variety of exercises. Thus, for example and without limitation, the length S may vary from a length of about 6 feet to 12 feet. In another embodiment, the elongated member 420 has a width of about 1.5 ". When used for exercise, the straps 429 and loops 415 can slide the elongated member 420 along the anchor 410 while providing sufficient friction that some mismatch in the forces on the two ends 421 can be achieved while the user exercises, without the elongated member sliding through the anchor.

Fig. 7, 9A and 9B show one of the pair of ends 421, including strap 429 to handle 423, and including details of buckle 435. The clasp 435 is a cam clasp (cam clasp), the design and use of which is well known in the art. The clasps 435 are connected to the straps 427 and thus the length of each end 421 is not adjustable. The clasp 435 also slidably receives and retains a strap 429, allowing adjustment of the length S.

The buckle 435 has a frame 709, a first strap 705, a second strap 707, and a user-movable cam 711. The first strap 705 supports a loop of strap 427, which is preferably secured by stitches 703. Alternatively, the strap 427 may be secured to the rod 705 by a second member, such as another annular strap or plastic or metal piece, that surrounds the rod 705 and provides a location for connecting the strap 427. As described subsequently, strap 427 has opposite ends secured with stitches 701 to form loop 425 in order to secure grip 423. The second strap bar 707 and the cam 711 support the strap 429. It will be appreciated that the use of stitches to secure the belt portions, as described herein, may also be accomplished by the use of other fastening methods, such as glue or by fusing the belt portions together.

The cam 711 is spring loaded so that it normally restrains the strap 429 and is moved to allow the strap to move upon user action, such as by pushing or pulling on the cam. The distance between the cam 711 and the rod 707 is adjusted by the user and a spring within the clasp 435 pushing the cam 711, allowing the strap 429 to slide between the cam 711 and the rod 707. Thus, the length S may be adjusted by the user actuating the cam 711 of the clasp 435.

Handle 423 is shown in greater detail in the cross-sectional view of fig. 8. Handle 423, with outer covering 801 and inner cylindrical tubular portion 803, has a substantially tubular shape. The length and outer diameter of cover 801 allow the hand to easily grasp grip 423, and cover 801 is formed of a material that allows the user to grip while exercising. In one embodiment, the material for the cover 801 is a high density foam. Portion 803 provides strength to grip 423 and can be formed from a length and diameter of plastic or other rigid material to match the size of cover 801 and provide space for loop 425 to pass through the center of portion 803. In one embodiment, section 803 is formed from a rigid and light material such as PVC tubing.

One of the free ends 431 is shown in more detail in FIG. 9A. Each end 431 is preferably folded back and held in place, for example by stitches 901, to form an easy to handle end. The elongate member 420 also includes loops, shown as loops 903, 905a, and 905b, that wrap around the band 429 twice to prevent the end 431 from moving around. Specifically, collars 903 and 905 are placed between buckle 435, end 431, and strap 429. Thus, the collars 903 and 905 inhibit the portion of the strap 429 from the buckle 435 to the corresponding end 431 from moving around as the elongate member 420 is moved. As shown in fig. 9A, collar 903 is secured adjacent end 431 and collar 905 can be slid along the length of band 429. Fig. 9B is a cross-sectional view taken along 9B-9B of fig. 9A, showing details of the cam buckle and the attachment of collar 905B. In particular, fig. 9B shows a rod 907 spanning buckle 435 and a strap 909 attached to both the rod and collar 905B. Strap 909 prevents loop 905b from sliding too far down strap 429 during adjustment of the length of the exercise device. Preferably, the collars 905b are resilient so that they can easily move and hold portions of the strap 429 together.

Alternative anchor embodiments

Several anchor embodiments are shown in fig. 14A, 14B, 23-26, and 29-32A-32C. Any of these anchors may be used to support any of the elongated members of the exercise device, except where explicitly stated. In the following discussion, the anchor embodiments are intended to be illustrative and not limiting. Thus, for example and without limitation, embodiments of the exercise device may be anchored in a door, anchored with respect to a pole, railing, or post, anchored from a hook mounted within a wall, or may be permanently affixed to a wall or exercise structure, for example.

Fig. 14A is a second embodiment of an anchor 1410 that may be used to connect an exercise device to a pole or railing, while fig. 14B is an embodiment of an exercise device anchored to a pole using the alternative anchoring embodiment of fig. 14A.

Fig. 14A shows an alternative embodiment anchor 1410 that includes an adjustable loop 1419 and an anchor loop 1415. As described next, anchors 1410 are optional anchors, and anchor loops 1415 may be provided, for example, to receive elongated members 420 to form exercise device 1400. Alternatively, anchors 1410 may support elongate member 120 or be constructed of any other elongate member described herein. Adjustable ring 1419 is formed from flexible band 1411 and cam buckle 1412 as shown below. The cam buckle 1412 may be, for example, the cam buckle 435 shown in detail in fig. 9B. The flexible band 1411 has a free first end 1414, the first end 1414 passing through a cam portion of the cam buckle 1412, for example by threading the band between the second band rod 707 of the cam buckle 435 and the movable cam 711. The flexible band also has a second end 1418, the second end 1418 being connected to the cam buckle 1412, for example, by forming a loop around the first band rod 705 of the cam buckle 435 with the second end and providing a suture 1416 through the double thickness band 1411. This forms an adjustable loop 1419 through the belt 1411 of the clasp 1412, which loop 1419 may be increased or decreased in size by actuating the cam clasp 1412 to release the belt 1411, moving the belt through the cam clasp, and releasing the cam. End 1414 is held against belt 1411 by a loose loop 1413. Anchor ring 1415 is connected to band 1411 by sutures 1417.

Preferably, a majority of the length of anchor 1410 is formed from a material including, but not limited to, webbing of natural or synthetic material having sufficient strength to support the weight of a user of the device. The webbing includes, but is not limited to, webbing made from one or more of nylon, polypropylene, or other polymer fibers. It should be understood that alternative embodiments of the individual lengths of flexible material include, but are not limited to, two or more pieces sewn, glued, or otherwise connected to each other.

Fig. 14B shows exercise device 1400 formed from anchors 1410 and elongated members 420. The adjustable loop 1419 of the anchor 1410 is secured around the pole P, for example by placing the adjustable loop on top of the pole, and secured using the cam buckle 1412. Alternatively, the strap 1411 can be threaded out of the cam buckle 1412, wrapped around the rod P, and then threaded through the cam buckle and secured. In either case, end 1414 is pulled through cam clasp 1412 and adjustable ring 1419 is tightened around rod P with sufficient force to allow exercise device 1400 to support the weight of the user.

In addition to being connected to a pole, anchors 1410 may be tightened around a rail, pole, or other member to support exercise device 1400. Alternatively, the anchor may be connected to a lock (carabineer) that is secured to a wall or other structure.

Fig. 23 shows a third embodiment of an anchor 2300, the anchor 2300 comprising a flexible strap 2301, the strap 2301 having a first end 2305 and a second end 2303, the first end 2305 having a loop 2307 held in place by a suture 2311, the second end 2303 having a ring 2304 held within the loop created by the suture 2309, and fig. 24 shows the use of the anchor 2300 to anchor an elongate member 420 to a tree, the elongate member 420 also being an elongate member 120. In one embodiment, ring 2304 is a gated ring, such as a lock. In another embodiment, ring 2304 is a snap ring. Preferably, a majority of the length of strap 2301 is formed of materials including, but not limited to, webbing straps of natural or synthetic materials having sufficient strength to support the weight of a user of the device. Preferred webbing includes, but is not limited to, webbing made from nylon, polypropylene, or other polymer fibers. Fig. 24 shows exercise device 2400 formed from anchor 2300 and elongate member 420. Strap 2301 is wrapped around the tree with a strap-receiving ring 2304. The loop 2307 receives the strap 429, allowing a user to exercise against a tree or other object small enough to wrap the strap 2301 around.

Fig. 25 and 26 illustrate a bracket 2500 for securing a first end 411 of an anchor, such as anchor 410, where fig. 25 is a perspective front view of the bracket and fig. 26 illustrates the use of the bracket to anchor an exercise device. The bracket 2500 has a first flange 2503 with a mounting hole 2509 and a second flange 2505 with a mounting hole 2511 and a face 2507, the face 2507 extending from the first flange to the second flange and including a slot 2515 extending into the face from a face edge 2513 and including a central slot 2517. In a preferred embodiment, the tray 2500 is formed from a single piece 2501 of sheet metal, e.g., sheet 2501 has a fold 2518 in flange 2503, a fold 2523 in flange 2505, and folds 2519 and 2521 between face 2507 and flanges 2503 and 2505, respectively. In one embodiment, sheet 2501 has a thickness of from 0.05 to 0.10 inches, or more preferably about 0.0625 inches, and creases 2518, 2519, 2521, and 2523 are placed such that face 2507 is parallel to flange 2503 and flange 2505 and separated from flange 2503 and flange 2505 by a distance D of from about 1 to 2 inches, or in another embodiment, about 1.5 inches. In one embodiment, mounting holes 2509 and 2511 are between about 1/4 inches and about 1/2 inches in diameter, and in another embodiment are about 3/8 inches in diameter.

Fig. 26 shows the use of the bracket 2500. Bracket 2500 is mounted to wall W and held in place by a pair of screws 2601 passing through mounting holes 2509 and 2511. A portion of anchor 410 is shown in phantom on the right side of fig. 26, particularly enlarged portion 411 and flexible strap 413. Anchors 410 are placed in tray 2500 as indicated by the arrows. Specifically, the strap 413 slides through the slot 2515 in the face edge 2513 with the enlarged portion between the bracket 2500 and the wall W and into the central slot 2517. The slot 2515 is sized large enough to allow the strap 413 to slide through the slot, but not so large as to allow the enlarged portion 411 to pass through the slot. The use of bracket 2500 allows exercise device 400, previously indicated as mountable in a door jamb, to be mounted against any wall to which the bracket can be mounted.

Several embodiments provide an anchor for an exercise device formed of removably connected components. Thus, for example, embodiments include an anchor having a portion connected to a structure that is removably connected to a portion to support an elongate member. Thus, for example and without limitation, any of anchors 110, 410, or 2300 may include interconnected or interlocked components. This may allow replacement or interchange of anchor components or the addition of additional components, such as straps to lengthen the anchor.

Fig. 29 is a perspective view of exercise device 2900 including a fourth embodiment of anchor 2910 and a second embodiment of elongated member 2920. Exercise device 2900, anchor 2910, and elongated member 2920 are substantially similar to exercise device 100 or 400, anchors 110, 410, or 2300, and elongated member 120 or 420, respectively, except as otherwise described below. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to similar elements.

Anchor 2910 includes a ring 2911 that passes through loop 415 to form an extension of anchor 410. Ring 2911 is a closed or closable loop of material capable of supporting a user while exercising. The material of ring 2911 may be metal or plastic with sufficient strength to support the exercising user. Alternative embodiments of ring 2911 are any ring capable of supporting elongated member 2920 and include, but are not limited to: open loops, hooks, deformations (such as in snap loops) or loops having a movable portion (such as in gated loops) to allow the loop to open or close. Fig. 29 shows, without limitation, an embodiment in which ring 2911 is a ring 2913 having a spring loaded gate 2915. In another alternative embodiment, anchor 410, which need not include loop 415, includes one or more holes, preferably reinforced with metal, through which ring 2911 may pass.

The elongate member 2920 includes a pair of clasps 2935, shown as clasps 2935a and 2935 b. As shown in detail with reference to the buckle 2935a, the buckle 2935 includes a first ring 2931 and a second ring 2933, the second ring 2933 having a central rod 2932 and a bulge 2936. The strap 427 is connected to the rings 2931 and 2933, and the strap 429 passes through the ring 2931, around the rod 2932, and back through the ring 2931. The buckle 2935a shows the buckles of the restraint straps 429 and 427. When the tab 2936 is pulled to separate the rings 2931 and 2933, as shown for the buckle 2935b, the length of the elongated member 2920 may change.

When configured for exercise, anchor 410 can be passed through a door jamb, as described above, and strap 429 of elongated member 2920 passed through ring 2911 of anchor 2910.

Fig. 30 is a perspective view of exercise device 3000 including a fifth embodiment of anchor 3010 and elongated member 2920. Exercise device 3000 is substantially similar to exercise device 100, 400, or 2900, and anchor 3010 is substantially similar to anchor 2910, except as expressly described below. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to similar elements.

Anchor 3010 includes anchor 2300 and ring 2911, with the ring passing through ring 2307. Anchor 3010 may be used to secure exercise device 3000 to one of a variety of supports, with ring 2911 supporting elongated member 2920. In one embodiment, ring 2304 may be connected to a ring affixed to a structure. In another embodiment, strap 2301 may be looped around a structure. Thus, for example, fig. 30 shows ring 2304 positioned to dispose strap 2301 in ring 3001. Ring 3001 may be placed, for example, around a pole to support exercise device 3000.

Fig. 31 is a perspective view of exercise device 3100, which includes a sixth embodiment of anchors 3110 and elongated member 2920. Anchor 3110 includes anchor 2910 and anchor ring 3112. Exercise device 3100 is substantially similar to exercise devices 2900 or 3000, and anchor 3110 is substantially similar to anchors 2910 or 3010, except as expressly described below. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to similar elements.

Anchor ring 3112 has a first portion 3111 for interacting with elongated member 2920 and a second portion 3113 of ring 2911 for connection to anchor 2910. Anchor 2910 is described above with reference to the embodiment of fig. 29. In one embodiment, the material of the anchor ring 3112 may include, but is not limited to, webbing of natural or synthetic material having sufficient strength to support the weight of a user of the device. Webbing materials include, but are not limited to, one or more of nylon, polypropylene, or other polymer fibers. It should be understood that the individual lengths of flexible material may alternatively comprise two or more sections sewn, glued or otherwise connected to one another. In another embodiment, the material of the elongate anchor ring 3112 comprises or is formed entirely of metal or plastic. When configured for exercise, as described above, the anchor 410 may be passed through the door jamb and the strap 429 of the elongated member 2920 is passed through the first portion 3111 of the anchor loop 3112.

Fig. 32A, 32B, and 32C are views of one embodiment of anchor ring 3112 or a portion thereof, with fig. 32A being a perspective view of anchor ring 3112 and ring 2911, fig. 32B being a perspective view of a deployed anchor ring, and fig. 32C being an end view of the anchor ring ready to receive a ring. Anchor ring 3112 of fig. 32A, 32B, and 32C is substantially similar to the anchor ring of fig. 31, except as otherwise described below. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to similar elements.

As shown in fig. 32A, anchor loop 3112 includes a strap 3205, strap 3205 forming first portion 3111 and second portion 3113. Second portion 3113 includes a first loop 3201 and a second loop 3203 formed or connected to strap 3205. As shown in fig. 32B, loops 3201 and 3203 are on opposite ends of strap 3205 and are offset such that loops 3201 and 3203 align when strap 3205 is folded to form second portion 3113 as shown in fig. 32C.

When assembled for exercise, strap 3205 is folded to align loops 3201 and 3203, and ring 2911 is placed through the aligned loops. Ring 2911 is also connected to anchor 410, which anchor 410 may be placed through a door jamb. Elongated member 2920 is placed through second portion 3111 and the user may exercise as described herein.

Although exercise device 100, and more specifically exercise devices 400, 2900, 3000, and 3100, have been described with reference to particular embodiments, there are many alternative embodiments. Thus, for example, there are many embodiments that provide an adjustable length, substantially inelastic strap-like member having an easily adjustable length and a balance of both sides of the strap-like member with respect to the anchor.

Alternative handle embodiments

The use of exercise device 100 is determined by the grips available to the user. The grip allows the user to hold, such as by squeezing with sufficient force to support her weight, and includes a device that can hold the user in a loop or hook as the user pulls on the exercise device. In this context, a "grippable" portion refers to the ability to wrap around a body part and squeeze the grip, or place the body part through loops or hooks of the grip so that the user can pull the exercise device against and hold the body part within the grip.

The handle may be used to apply force to various parts of the body, including the neck, all or part of the hand, the arm, leg, toe or heel. Several embodiments of handles are described herein, such as, but not limited to, handles that can be used by a hand, foot, or finger. The grips described herein may be integral with device 100 or, alternatively, may be connected or connectable to one of a pair of grips that are part of an exercise device, including but not limited to grip 123. The term "accessory" handle is used herein to refer to a handle that may be attached to an existing handle on exercise device 100. It should be understood that the scope of the present invention extends to the information that an accessory grip is integrated into exercise device 100.

The user may choose to exercise using a pair of grips with the same or different attachments, or without grip attachments. In addition, embodiments of exercise devices include grip attachment portions that removably attach the grips of an exercise device, such as exercise device 100 or any exercise device having two grips, and a portion that can be grasped by a hand, foot, finger, or other part of the body. The use of grip accessories allows the user to establish additional strength in the hand or fingers by providing a different type of hand or finger grip and allows additional exercises to be performed, as with foot grip accessories. In addition, the pair of handles may be coupled, as discussed with reference to FIGS. 16A and 16B, allowing a user to perform exercises using one handle accessory.

Fig. 10 and 11 illustrate an alternative embodiment handle, where fig. 10 is a schematic top view of an alternative elongate member 1020, the elongate member 1020 having one cam buckle 435 as an elongated device, and two finger handles 4001, and fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the alternative finger handles taken along 11-11. The use of one buckle 435 provides a lighter exercise device 400, but results in a smaller range of use for the length of the elongated member 1020. The finger grip 4001 includes four holes 4101 for the user's fingers and allows for exercising the muscles of one or more fingers.

One example of a grip accessory is foot grip accessory 1700, which is shown in FIGS. 17A-17B as being attached to grips 123 of exercise device 100. Specifically, FIG. 17A shows foot handle accessory 1700 attached to exercise device 100 and hooked by the toes T, while FIG. 17B shows a pair of foot handle accessories, one on each of the pair of handles 123, and each hooked by one of the user's heels H1 and H2. Each foot grip accessory 1700 has a flexible loop 1710 and a grip connecting portion 1720. Preferably, the portion of loop 1710 extending from handle 123 is approximately 12 inches long to provide sufficient space for the heel or toe of the user to fit through the loop. With foot grip accessory 1700 so secured, a toe (fig. 17A) or heel (fig. 17B) may be placed through loop 1710 and a force may be applied by the foot against exercise device 100.

Preferably, a majority of the foot handle fitting 1700 is formed of a material including, but not limited to, a webbing of natural or synthetic material having sufficient strength to support the weight of a user of the device. Preferably, the webbing includes, but is not limited to, a polymer fiber webbing made of, for example, nylon, polypropylene, or some other polymer fiber. It should be understood that the individual lengths of flexible material may alternatively comprise two or more sections sewn, glued or otherwise connected to each other.

In first embodiment foot grip accessory 1700, flexible loop 1710 is removably attached to one of the pair of grips 123 as discussed next. Fig. 18A-D show an embodiment of a foot handle accessory 1700 where fig. 18A is a perspective view of the foot handle accessory, fig. 18B is a side view of a portion of one of the handle attachment portions, fig. 18C is a top view of a portion of one of the handle accessory attachment portions, and fig. 18D is a top view of a portion of one of the handle accessory attachment portions. As shown in fig. 18A and 18B, the foot handle fitting 1700 is formed from three straps: loop strap 1801 and two attachment straps 1803. As three straps are attached, loop strap 1801 forms loop 1710 and two attachment straps 1803 form grip attachment portion 1720, as described next.

Loop strap 1801 is formed from a length of strapping that is joined together at its ends to form a loop. Loop strap 1801 is preferably a 20 inch long and 1.5 inch wide strip of polymer fiber. In a preferred embodiment, the loop includes two triangular shaped double stitched portions 1815, one of which 1815 engages both ends of loop strap 1801. Each of the two handle attachment straps 1803 is formed from a length of strapping tape having a first end 1807 and a second end 1811, the first end 1807 having a first fastening surface 1809 and the second end 1811 having a second fastening surface 1813. Preferably, attachment straps 1803 are a polymer fiber webbing. In one embodiment, strap 1803 has a length of 7.5 inches and a width of 1.5 inches. In one embodiment, fastening surfaces 1809 and 1813 are attached to loop strap 1801 by double stitching 1817, and handle attachment strap 1803 is preferably joined to the loop strap midway between ends 1807 and 1811 by double stitching 1805.

Each attachment strap 1803 includes fastening surfaces 1809 and 1813 on opposite sides of the strap. In one embodiment, the fastening surfaces 1809 and 1813 are mating surfaces, such as mating hook and loop surfaces of a hook and loop fastening system, such asCard hook and loop fasteners. In one embodiment, the fastening surfaces 1809 and 1813 are each approximately 2 inches by 1.25 inches.

The foot handle fitting 1700 is removably attached and used as follows. Grip attachment portion 1720 of foot grip accessory 1700 is removably attached to one of a pair of grips 123 by wrapping a length of each strap 1803 around grip 123a and contacting fastening surfaces 1809 and 1813 on each strap 1803. Sutures 1815 allow loops 1710 to open without bending and provide a fastening strap for securing the foot.

Another example of a grip accessory is finger grip accessory 1900, which finger grip accessory 1900 is shown in FIGS. 19A-19C along with three different exercises when attached to grips 123 of exercise device 100. Finger grip accessory 1900 has loops 1910 adapted to receive and be gripped by a thumb and one or more fingers and grip attachment portion 1920 for attaching the accessory to a grip of an exercise device. Grip attachment portion 1920 is removably attached to one of the pair of grips 123. In one embodiment, there are two loops 1910: a first loop 1910a and a second loop 1910 b. With the finger grip accessory 1900 thus secured, as shown in fig. 19A, a finger F1 may be placed through one of the loops, e.g., first loop 1910a, as shown in fig. 19B, a finger F1 may be placed through the first loop and a finger F2 placed through the second loop 1910B, or as shown in fig. 19C, two fingers F1 and F2 may be placed through the first loop and fingers F3 and F4 placed through the second loop.

In one embodiment, one finger grip accessory 1900 is provided for each of a pair of grips 123. With a finger placed through at least one loop 1910, a force may be applied by pulling exercise device 100 against. Finger grip accessory 1900 has similar functionality to finger grip 4001.

An embodiment of a finger grip accessory 1900 is shown in fig. 20A-C, where fig. 20A is a perspective view of the finger grip accessory, fig. 20B is a top view of the finger grip accessory taken along 20B-20B, and fig. 20C is a cross-sectional side view of the finger grip accessory taken along 20C-20C. Finger grip accessory 1900 includes two loops 1910, a first loop 1910a and a second loop 1910b, and grip attachment portion 1920 includes three portions 1920a, 1920b and 1920 c. More specifically, finger grip accessory 1900 is formed from five strips: loop strap 2001, three attachment straps 1803, and backing strap 2003. As described next, loop strap 2001 forms first loop 1910a and second loop 1910b as a result of the attachment of five straps, first strap 1910a and second loop 1910b can each receive one or more fingers, and each of the three attachment straps 1803 forms one of handle attachment portions 1920a, 1920b, and 1920 c. Preferably, a majority of the finger grip accessory 1900 is formed of the same material as the foot grip 1700.

In one embodiment, endless belt 2001 is constructed of a polymer fiber webbing that is 21.5 inches long and 1 inch wide, and backing belt 2003 is a polymer fiber webbing that is 2 inches long and 1 inch wide. Finger grip accessory 1900 is assembled from three stitches 2007, each of the three stitches 2007 passing through one of three attachment straps 1803 and through loop strap 2001 and backing strap 2003. In a preferred embodiment, the sutures 2007 are double suture portions. As shown in fig. 20A and 20C, a portion of loop 2001 protrudes between each of the three attachment straps 1803 to form loops 1910A and 1910 b. Preferably, loops 1910a and 1910b are formed from a cuff 1901 having a length of about 8 inches. Preferably, loop strip 2001 extends the length of backing strip 2003 with two loops 1910a and 1910b between adjacent attachment strips 1803.

Finger grip accessory 1900 is removably attachable and usable as follows. Grip attachment portion 1920 of finger grip accessory 1900 is removably attached to one of the pair of grips 123 by the contact of fastening surfaces 1809 and 1813 on each strap 1803. With finger grip accessory 1900 so secured, a finger can be placed through one of the loops, such as loop 1910A shown in fig. 20A, one finger can be placed through each of loops 1910A and 1910B, as shown in fig. 20B, or two fingers can be placed through each of loops 1910A and 1910B, as shown in fig. 20C. With a finger placed through at least one of loops 1910, a force may be applied by a user against exercise device 100.

A third example of a grip accessory is grip accessory 2100, which is shown in FIGS. 21A-21C as being attached to grips 123 of exercise device 100. As explained below, grip accessory 2100 has a plurality of cords 2110, which can be held in different combinations, and a grip attachment portion 2120. In general, the number of cords 2110 can be from one to five or more, with four being the number in one embodiment, and each cord having the same diameter and length. In one embodiment, as shown in fig. 21A-21C, cords 2110 have a grippable length that is large enough for a human hand, for example, from 4 inches to 6 inches in length, and there is sufficient additional length to allow a user to pass her hand between the cords. In one embodiment, handle accessory 2100 has four cords, shown as first cord 2110a, second cord 2110b, third cord 2110c, and fourth cord 2110 d. The cords can be held in almost any combination so that a user can hold any number of cords, from one cord to all four cords. Fig. 21A shows a hand H holding three cords, e.g., first cord 2110a, second cord 2110B, and third cord 2110C, fig. 21B shows a hand holding two cords, e.g., first cord and second cord, and fig. 21C shows a hand holding one cord, e.g., first cord.

As discussed next, handle attachment portion 2120 is removably attached to one of the pair of handles 123. With grip accessory 2100 so secured, one or both of cords 2110 may be gripped between and against, and a force may be applied by pulling exercise device 100 against. In one embodiment, one grip accessory 2100 is provided for each of the pair of grips 123.

Fig. 22A-D illustrate one embodiment of a handle accessory 2100, where fig. 22A is a perspective view of the handle accessory, fig. 22B is a top view of the handle accessory, fig. 22C is a bottom view of the handle accessory, and fig. 22D is a cross-sectional side view of fig. 22C taken along 22D-22D. Grip accessory 2100 is formed from four straps, specifically backing strap 2205, front strap 2207 and two attachment straps 1803, as well as two cords 2201 and 2203. Cord 2110 is formed from two longer cords 2201 and 2203, and grip attachment portion 2120 is formed from straps 2205, 2207 and 1803.

Two straps 1803 forming grip attachment portion 2120 are attached between the ends of backing strap 2205 and front strap 2207 at their respective center portions. Four cords 2110a-d are formed from longer cords 2201 and 2203. Specifically, as shown in fig. 22B, cords 2201 and 2203 are side-by-side and folded in half. Each cord forms a loop 2213 near the middle of cords 2201 and 2203, with the two cords being tied together by cord 2211 and forming loop 2213, and the four ends of cords 2201 and 2203 being tied together by cord 2209. In the cross-sectional view of fig. 22D, the cord 2203 is shown with a first end 2213 and a second end 2217 tied together by a cord 2209, and a central portion 2215 forming a loop 2213 around the strap 2207. Each cord 2201 and 2203 is folded in half, and thus each cord forms two cords between cords 2209 and 2211. In particular, cords 2201 form cords 2210a and 2210b, while cords 2203 form cords 2210c and 2210 d.

In one embodiment, tapes 2205 and 2207 are polymer fiber tape fabric, backing tape 2205 is 5 inches in length and 1 inch in width, and front tape 2207 preferably has a length of 6 inches and a width of 1 inch. In one embodiment, cords 2201 and 2203 are cotton cords having a length of from about 20 inches to about 30 inches, and in another embodiment, from about 22 inches to about 26 inches. In yet another embodiment, the length is about 24 inches. Cords 2201 and 2203 preferably have a diameter of from 1/2 inches to 1 inch in one embodiment, or about 3/4 inches in another embodiment. The engagement between straps 2205 and 2207 and attachment strap 1803 is preferably double-stitched. The resulting grip accessory 2100 has four cords with a grip length of about 10 inches, allowing sufficient space for a human hand to pass between cords 2110 and grip cords 2110.

Handle accessory 2100 is removably connected and used as described below. Grip attachment portion 2120 is removably attached to one of the pair of grips 123 by contact of fastening surfaces 1809 and 1813 on each strap 1803. With finger grip accessory 2100 so secured, one, two, three, or all four cords 2110a-d may be held by a hand. For example, fig. 21A shows cords 2110a, 2110B, and 2110C held by a user, fig. 21B shows cords 2110a and 2110B held by a user, and fig. 21C shows cord 2110a held by a user. With cord 2110 held, a user may apply a force by pulling exercise device 100 thereagainst.

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a handle that can be used as a hand or foot handle and is referred to herein, without limitation, as a "combination" handle 2700. Grip 2700 may be substantially similar to the grips or accessory grips of exercise device 100, except as described clearly below. Wherever possible, like elements in the drawings are referred to by the same reference numerals.

In general, combination grip 2700 includes two elements that can be used as grips, which, as described herein, can be located at one end or both ends of an exercise device, including but not limited to exercise device 100 or 400. Thus, for example, combination grip 2700 may be located at both ends 121, on both ends 421, or on one of ends 421a or 421 b. In the embodiment of fig. 27, grip 2700 includes hand grip 423a supported by loop 425a from strap 427 a. Specifically, the material of strap 427a continues through loop 425a and is secured to the strap by suture 2711. Grip 2700 also includes loop 2710 supported at end 421 a.

In one embodiment, loop 2710 is a strap formed from one or more non-elastic members connected together to form a continuous loop through portion 803, and the loop is thus integrally connected to hand grip 423. Thus, for example, hand grip 423a has first ends 423a-1 and 423a-2 corresponding to first end 803-1 and second end 803-2, respectively, of inner cylindrical tubular portion 803. In one embodiment, loop 2710 is formed from one or more lengths of webbing, and the ends of the webbing are stitched together to form a single loop through portion 803, creating a portion of the loop that hangs below the hand grip.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a combination handle 2800 that may be substantially similar to handle 2700, except as is made clear below. Wherever possible, like elements in the drawings are referred to by the same reference numerals.

The combination handle 2800 includes a flexible loop 2810, the flexible loop 2810 including a strap 2811 having an end 2812 and a length adjustment mechanism 2813. A strap 2811 passes through tubular portion 803 and a length adjustment mechanism 2813 allows the size of ring 2810 to be adjusted by moving end 2812 through the mechanism. For example, it may be a cam buckle or as shownThe mechanism 2813 of the card hook and loop fastener allows the user to adjust the length of the loop 2810 to the size of the user's body. Strap 2811 may be removable from hand grip 423a, or the end of strap 2811 is too large to allow removal of the grip and, therefore, is not removable from the hand grip. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the strap 2811 and end 2812 have mating fasteners, such asCard hook and loop fasteners to prevent the strap ends from rocking.

In one embodiment, the handle 423 is 5 inches long and the loop 2710 is approximately 20 inches long. In another embodiment, a portion of loop 2710 not within portion 803 is lined with 1/8 inches of a soft material including, but not limited to, polychloroprene-based rubber, such as neoprene. In another embodiment, and ring 2810 can be adjusted from about 12 inches long to about 23 inches long.

In yet another embodiment, loops 2710 or 2810 do not form loops through portion 803, but are connected at or near ends 803-1, 803-2.

Exercise method

12A-12D illustrate use of exercise device 120, wherein FIG. 12A is an initial configuration, FIG. 12B illustrates elongated member 420, and further illustrated in FIG. 12B' and FIG. 12B ″, FIG. 12C illustrates application of force to the shorter leg of the elongated member, and FIG. 12D illustrates application of force to the handles during an exercise. Fig. 12A-12D are illustrative, and generally apply to the exercise apparatus of the present invention.

For purposes of illustration, assume that fig. 12A is an initial configuration of the device being anchored, and assume that the user wishes to increase the length S while maintaining the pair of arms 422 at the same length (approximately half of S). First, the user actuates one or both clasps 435. Fig. 12B schematically shows the result of actuating the clasp 435a and lengthening the leg 422a, as indicated by the arrow on the figure. Fig. 12B' shows the user U pushing the cam 711 and grasping the end 431, and fig. 12B "shows the user pulling the end 431 away from the cam to shorten the device as indicated by the arrow.

The user then preferentially pulls the shorter leg 422b as shown by force vector F1 in fig. 12C. Since the pair of legs 422 each have substantially the same longer length, the user may then exercise by applying equal force F2 to each hand grip, as shown in FIG. 12D. Indeed, the two forces of fig. 12D are not necessarily equal, as the application of force to the legs 422 away from the anchors 410 increases friction between the elongated members 420 and the anchors, allowing the length to not change even with some mismatch in the applied force. Alternatively, the exercise device may be adjusted to provide a shorter leg 422 by pulling on end 431 to shorten length S.

In addition to being equally balanced between the two arms, it is possible to provide different arm lengths for exercise using the apparatus of the present invention. Fig. 13A-13C illustrate the use of exercise devices having arms 422 of different lengths, with fig. 13A in an initial configuration, fig. 13B illustrating the application of force to one of the pair of arms 422, and fig. 13C illustrating the application of force to the handles during an exercise. For purposes of illustration, assume that FIG. 13A is the initial configuration of the device being anchored, and assume that the user wishes to adjust the length of the arm 422 to a different length. First, the user preferentially pulls the shorter leg 422B, as shown by force vector F1 in FIG. 13B. The user may then exercise as shown by equal force F2 in fig. 13C. In fact, the two forces of fig. 13C are not necessarily equal because as the force applied to the leg 422 away from the anchor 410 increases, as shown in fig. 12, the friction between the elongated member 420 and the anchor also increases. This limits the possibility of arm length changes even at some mismatch in applied force. Adjusting the arm 422 to different lengths may be combined with lengthening or shortening the length S by actuating one or both of the clasps 435.

The exercise device of the present invention allows for a wide variety of exercises. Examples of many possible exercises for the apparatus of the invention placed over the top of the door are set out in table 1. Fig. 3 and 15 illustrate three of many exercise positions. In each of these positions, the user has selected the length of exercise device 100 or 400 adjusted as explained with reference to fig. 12 or 13 to position himself on the ground at the desired horizontal distance X from anchor point a while a portion of his weight is supported by the exercise device. Since his weight is so supported, as shown in fig. 3 and 15, he moves his body in a direction appropriate to the type of exercise to be performed, for example by moving his body towards or away from the wall or ground, by bending his arms or legs while supporting his weight by the exercise device, or performing other movements that exercise his muscles.

In particular, shown in fig. 3 and 15 are single gestures of the user U performing various exercises including: high swing exercises (fig. 3), reverse combination rolls (fig. 15A), single-leg L-squat (fig. 15B), gymnastics athlete chin-up (fig. 15C), kneeling combination rolls (fig. 15D), supine leg curl (fig. 15E), hip lift (fig. 15F), front shoulder lift (fig. 15G), rolls (fig. 15H), and triceps flexion and extension (fig. 15I). It is apparent from fig. 3 and 15 that many different types of exercises are possible using the exercise apparatus of the present invention, depending on the length of the apparatus, the positioning of the body and how the handles are held. In addition, the apparatus of the present invention may be used to perform a one-handed exercise as shown in fig. 16A and 16B. In particular, fig. 16A shows an exercise device 400 'having interlocking ends 421a and 421B for one-handed exercises, while fig. 16B shows the use of exercise device 400' to perform single-arm high-swing exercises.

Table 1: some basic, intermediate and advanced exercises on the door anchor

Basic exercise intermediate and high level

Pulling function Pulling function Pull/side function

Low pendulum single arm low pendulum side lift

High-pendulum single-arm high-pendulum front shoulder lifting device

Pull-up single-arm pull-up reverse-holding bent lifter

High-bending single-arm high-bending combined pendulum/reverse

Low-bending single-arm low-bending inner shoulder sleeve rotation

Posterior fly low chest/lateral flexion external shoulder sleeve rotation

Bidirectional forearm flexor with reverse-wrist-flexing

Core force Core force Core force

Roll body kneeling and combining roll body station and combining roll body

Abdomen-contracting single leg lifting reverse leg lifting waist/hip lifting

Oblique muscle winding body V sitting up reverse oblique muscle lifting

Reverse roll-up hip lift V balance

Reverse combined rolling body for backward riding bicycle

Back bridge

Leg(s) Leg(s) Leg(s)

Squat, supine hamstring, pedal, supine hamstring

Hip hinge, toe, squatting single leg and hip hinge

Single-leg L-shaped squatting pan capable of retreating squatting pan and walking

Pushing-out squatting single-leg squatting-inclined backward-moving bow step

Left-right sprint single shank lifting cross unbalanced squatting

Skiing PT for lifting and jumping shank

Push function Push function Push function

Standard single-arm oblique-lift triceps reversal

Chest fly low chest press (external holding) single arm centralized fly

Shoulder-pushing-lifting-type anti-push-up and anti-push-up combination

Single arm, triceps, flexor and extensor single arm shoulder tui and Lift

The back of the body is wide and the body of the gymnastics athlete is lifted upwards

Although the invention herein has been disclosed in the context of certain preferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. In addition, the invention may include all of the different combinations included herein. It is therefore intended that the scope of the invention herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above, but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.

Throughout this specification, the term "comprising" shall be taken as an inclusive or open-ended synonym for "including", "containing" or "characterized by", and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps. "comprising" is a term of art that means that the specified elements are essential, but that other elements may be added and still form a structure within the stated ranges.

Claims (25)

1. An exercise device attachable to a structure, the exercise device comprising:

an elongated nonelastomeric member having a first end and a second end, wherein the elongated nonelastomeric member includes a first handle at the first end and a second handle at the second end; and

an anchor, comprising:

a first portion connectable to the structure; and

a second part comprising a support for the elongated inelastic member, wherein

Said elongated non-elastic member being movable through said support,

wherein the second portion is removably connected to the first portion when the first portion is connected to the structure.

2. The exercise device of claim 1, where said anchor comprises a loop, and where said loop removably connects said first portion and said second portion.

3. The exercise device of claim 2, wherein the loop comprises a substantially rigid material.

4. The exercise device of claim 3, wherein said loop comprises a gated loop.

5. The exercise device of claim 3, wherein said loop comprises a snap ring.

6. The exercise device of claim 3, wherein the substantially rigid material comprises metal.

7. The exercise device of claim 3, wherein the substantially rigid material comprises plastic.

8. The exercise device of claim 3, wherein said loops comprise hooks.

9. The exercise apparatus of claim 2, wherein the support is a ring.

10. The exercise device of claim 3, wherein the loop is a first loop, and wherein the support comprises a second loop of flexible material.

11. The exercise device of claim 10, wherein said flexible material comprises a webbing.

12. The exercise device of claim 10, wherein said flexible material includes at least two apertures separated by a length of flexible material, wherein said first loop removably passes through said at least two apertures, and wherein said second loop includes said length of flexible material.

13. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the first portion is attachable to a door jamb.

14. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the first portion comprises a gated loop or hook, wherein the anchor comprises a flexible member between the first portion and the second portion, and wherein the flexible member comprises one or more openings sized to accept the gated loop or hook.

15. An exercise device attachable to a structure, the exercise device comprising:

an elongated nonelastomeric member having a first end and a second end, wherein the elongated nonelastomeric member includes a first handle at the first end and a second handle at the second end; and

an anchor, comprising:

a first portion connectable to the structure;

a second portion comprising a friction support for the elongated inelastic member; and

means for connecting for removably connecting the first portion with the second portion when the second portion is connected to the first portion.

16. The exercise device of claim 15, wherein said means comprises a loop of substantially rigid material.

17. The exercise device of claim 16, wherein said loop comprises a loop or a hook.

18. The exercise device of claim 16, wherein the loop comprises a first loop, and wherein the friction support comprises a second loop of flexible material.

19. The exercise device of claim 18, wherein said flexible material comprises a webbing.

20. The exercise device of claim 18, wherein said flexible material includes at least two apertures separated by a length of flexible material, wherein said first loop removably passes through said at least two apertures, and wherein said second loop includes said length of flexible material.

21. An exercise device attachable to a structure, the exercise device comprising:

an elongated nonelastomeric member having a first end and a second end, wherein the elongated nonelastomeric member includes a first handle at the first end and a second handle at the second end; and

an anchor, comprising:

a first ring comprising a length of flexible material adapted to receive the elongated inelastic member; and

a second ring removably connected to the first ring.

22. The exercise device of claim 21, where said second loop comprises a substantially rigid material.

23. The exercise device of claim 22, where said second loop comprises a gated loop.

24. The exercise device of claim 21, wherein said flexible material comprises a webbing.

25. The exercise device of claim 21, wherein each end of the length of flexible material includes a closed loop of flexible material connected to the length of flexible material, and wherein the second loop removably passes through each closed loop.