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Exercise system and method for its use

Exercise system and method for its use description/claims

This application claims priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/896,512 filed Mar. 23, 2007, entitled “Exercise Device and Method for its Use” which is incorporated herein by reference.

This invention relates generally to exercise equipment, to methods for the use of the equipment, and for instructional programs which incorporate the equipment.

It is often desirable to provide enhanced stability to persons participating in exercise programs including aerobic programs, strength training programs and physical rehabilitative programs. By enhancing user stability, risks of injury are reduced. Also, stabilizing a participant allows for a greater range of motion to be achieved in an exercise program. Many exercise devices such as treadmills, stair steppers, elliptical devices, ski trainers and the like include handgrips or other stabilizing devices. However, many other exercise devices do not include any type of stabilizing-assembly. Exercise programs such as yoga, Pilates, calisthenics, aerobics and the like, generally do not rely upon use of any equipment; but, such exercises would also benefit from providing enhanced stability to their participants.

The prior art has implemented a number of systems for enhancing the stability of a person engaged in exercise. Some of such prior art approaches are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,759,139; 5,244,444; 4,249,727; 7,115,078 and 606,747.

As will be explained in detail here, the present invention comprises a simple, easy to use, low cost and relatively lightweight exercise system which includes a pair of assemblies which can stabilize, and at least partially support, a user, through a large range of motions associated with various types of exercise. The system of the present invention is readily adaptable to a number of different users and may be easily configured for incorporation into a large variety of exercise programs. These and other advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the drawings, discussion and description which follow.

Disclosed herein is an exercise system which is comprised of at least a first and a second pivot pole assembly. Each pivot pole assembly comprises a base plate which is configured to rest on a floor during the use of the system and a pole portion which is pivotally connected to the base plate by a universal joint. In specific instances, the system is configured so that the first and second pivot pole assemblies can be coupled together. Coupling may be through the base plate. In other instances, the poles may be coupled together, and this may be accomplished by the use of a rigid or a resilient member.

In particular embodiments, the poles are longitudinally compressible and may further include a resilient element therein. In other instances, the poles may be configured so that their length may be varied.

The system may further include one or more weights which are affixable to the pole. The system may also include a resistance device associated with the base plate and the pole. In yet other instances, the system may include a device for selectively immobilizing the pole relative to the base plate. The pole may include handgrips, lanyards, reflective features and the like, and in some instances, the pole may be made to be detachable from the base plate. The device of the present invention may be used in a variety of exercise programs, and may be incorporated into a kit which includes instructional materials, additional exercise devices, training aids and the like.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of pivot pole assembly which may be used in the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a detachable weight which may be incorporated into the present system;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention where the base plates of two pivot pole assemblies are configured to be joinable;

FIG. 4 is an illustration of an embodiment of coupling member as used to join the pole portions of two pivot pole assemblies in accord with the present invention;

FIG. 5 is an illustration of another embodiment of coupling member which can be used to join two pivot pole assemblies in accord with the present invention;

• Provisional Patent
• Utility Patent

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