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06/22/06 - USPTO Class 482 |  85 views | #20060135330 | Prev - Next | About this Page  482 rss/xml feed  monitor keywords

Apparatus and method for a grip for an exercise device

USPTO Application #: 20060135330
Title: Apparatus and method for a grip for an exercise device
Abstract: A handle grip for an exercise apparatus has a curvilinear body having a shaft and a gripping portion. The gripping portion has a plurality of concave indentations arranged in series. Each of the indentations is adapted to receive an associated finger of a user's hand. The gripping portion is disposed at a distal end of the shaft. The curvilinear body is selectively flexible such that the body bends as force is applied to the gripping portion. The gripping portion further comprises a first exterior surface having a bulbous shape so as to fit an associated contour of a user's palm. The configuration and flexibility of the present invention provides for an ergonomic handle grip for an exercise apparatus, which enables the user to focus on their exercise regiment rather than discomfort. (end of abstract)



Agent: Brouse Mcdowell A Legal Professional Association - Akron, OH, US
Inventors: Michael R. Clark, Detlev F. Smith
USPTO Applicaton #: 20060135330 - Class: 482139000 (USPTO)

Related Patent Categories: Exercise Devices, User Manipulated Force Resisting Apparatus, Component Thereof, Or Accessory Therefor, User Interface Element

Apparatus and method for a grip for an exercise device description/claims


The Patent Description & Claims data below is from USPTO Patent Application 20060135330, Apparatus and method for a grip for an exercise device.

Brief Patent Description - Full Patent Description - Patent Application Claims
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I. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] A. Field of Invention

[0002] This invention pertains to the art of methods and apparatuses for a grip utilized with an exercise device. More specifically, the present invention pertains to grips that are ergonomic to the user and can be used with a variety of exercise devices such as, but not limited to, stationary bicycles and elliptical machines.

[0003] B. Description of the Related Art

[0004] A regular exercise regiment is necessary to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Consumers regularly choose exercise equipment for cardiovascular exercise or other types of training. However, if a piece of exercise equipment is uncomfortable to use, the consumer may become easily discouraged and not use the exercise equipment. Not only is this a loss of the benefit of exercise, but it is a monetary loss as well if the consumer purchased the equipment that will no longer be used, or does not take advantage of equipment at a local gym for which they pay membership fees.

[0005] Comfort is also key to achieve an optimum workout. When parts of the body are comfortable, such as the hands, feet, or back, the consumer can focus on the exercise routine to ensure they have proper posture and body position, rather than being distracted by an uncomfortable hand grip, for example.

[0006] For exercise equipment such as stationary bicycles, elliptical machines, row machines, and others, handles or a handle bar are provided for the user to rest their hands. Often, the user grips the handles or handle bar. Most handles are generally cylindrical in shape with no consideration for optimum hand position, namely, the fingers and palm. Further, most handles and handle bars are rigid. Without any degree of flexibility, the consumer may experience unneeded discomfort during their exercise routine.

[0007] Based upon the foregoing, there is a need in the art for an improved grip for an exercise device that is comfortable to use by providing optimum hand position with the fingers and palm, as well as flexibility.

II. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, a new and improved handle grip for an exercise device is provided which has a curvilinear body having a shaft and a gripping portion. The gripping portion may have a plurality of concave indentations arranged in series. Each of the indentations is adapted to receive an associated finger of a user's hand. The gripping portion may be disposed at a distal end of the shaft. The curvilinear body may be selectively flexible such that the body bends as force is applied to the gripping portion. The gripping portion may further comprise a first exterior surface having a bulbous shape so as to fit an associated contour of a user's palm. The configuration and flexibility of the present invention provides for an ergonomic handle grip for an exercise apparatus, which enables the user to focus on their exercise regiment rather than discomfort.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide a grip, wherein the body may be adapted to flex in a forward direction.

[0010] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a grip, wherein the gripping portion may have a first exterior surface, the first exterior surface may be adapted to fit the contour of an associated user's palm of a hand.

[0011] Further, another object of the present invention is to provide a grip, wherein the body may have a first exterior surface and a second exterior surface, the plurality of concave indentations may extend from the first exterior surface and into the second exterior surface.

[0012] Still yet, another object of the present invention is to provide a grip, wherein the body may have a length l, a first exterior surface and a second exterior surface, the first exterior surface and the second exterior surface may define a body thickness t, wherein the body thickness may vary along the length l.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide a grip, wherein the second exterior surface may have at least two concave portions.

[0014] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a grip, wherein the body may have a first half and a second half, and a handle member may be positioned between the first half and the second half.

[0015] Further, another object of the present invention is to provide a grip, wherein the handle member may be a component of an exercise device.

[0016] Another object of the present invention is to provide a grip, wherein each of the indentations may have a first end, a second end, a first lateral side, and a second lateral side, the first and second lateral sides may extend between the first end and the second end, wherein each indentation may be curvilinear from the first lateral side to the second lateral side and each indentation may be curvilinear from the first end to the second end.

[0017] Still, another object of the present invention to provide a grip wherein the gripping portion may have a width w1, and the shaft may have a width w2, wherein w2<w1.

[0018] Further yet, anther object of the present invention is to provide a grip which may be used on the handle member of a stationary bicycle.

[0019] It is still another object of the present invention to provide a grip which may be used on the handle member of an elliptical machine.

[0020] Still other benefits and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which it pertains upon a reading and understanding of the following detailed specification.

III. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] The invention may take physical form in certain parts and arrangement of parts, a preferred embodiment of which will be described in detail in this specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof and wherein:

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Previous Patent Application:
Universal exercise apparatus
Next Patent Application:
Support for an exercise ball
Industry Class:
Exercise devices

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