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Patent 2770014 Summary

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(12) Patent Application: (11) CA 2770014
(54) English Title: METHOD AND SYSTEM OF DELIVERING AN INTERACTIVE AND DYNAMIC MULTI-SPORT TRAINING PROGRAM
(54) French Title: PROCEDE ET SYSTEME POUR LA PRESTATION D'UN PROGRAMME D'ENTRAINEMENT MULTI-SPORTS INTERACTIF ET DYNAMIQUE
Status: Dead
Bibliographic Data
(51) International Patent Classification (IPC):
  • A63B 69/00 (2006.01)
  • G16H 10/20 (2018.01)
  • G16H 20/30 (2018.01)
  • G06F 19/00 (2011.01)
(72) Inventors :
  • LECKIE, STEPHEN EDGAR (Canada)
  • PASIN, LISA SYLVIA (Canada)
  • WHITFIELD, SIMON ST. QUENTIN (Canada)
  • MCCONNELL, ANDREW GEORGE GEORDIE (Canada)
  • URBANOWSKI, ROBERT JAMES (Canada)
(73) Owners :
  • TRITON TRIATHLON TRAINING INC. (Canada)
(71) Applicants :
  • TRITON TRIATHLON TRAINING INC. (Canada)
(74) Agent: FASKEN MARTINEAU DUMOULIN LLP
(74) Associate agent:
(45) Issued:
(22) Filed Date: 2012-03-02
(41) Open to Public Inspection: 2012-09-02
Availability of licence: N/A
(25) Language of filing: English

Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT): No

(30) Application Priority Data:
Application No. Country/Territory Date
61/448,537 United States of America 2011-03-02

Abstracts

English Abstract





A system for creating a personalized, dynamic, multi-sport training plan for a
user
comprises a question generating module; a user input module which accepts user

answers to questions generated by the question generating module and accepts
other
inputs relating to the user; and a processing module which collects and
analyzes the
answers to the questions and the inputs and thereafter, based at least in part
on a
calculation of an exponential moving average ("EMA") of said answers, creates
a
training schedule for each sport, which is dynamically linked to all previous
user inputs;
wherein the question generating module, by way of an intelligent link to all
previous user
inputs and feedback direction from the processing module, creates a plurality
of further
questions for the user to enable modifications to be made to training schedule
for each
sport.


Claims

Note: Claims are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.





28

We claim:


1. A system for creating a personalized, dynamic, multi-sport training plan
for a user
which comprises:

a) a question generating module;

b) a user input module which accepts user answers to questions generated by
the
question generating module and accepts other inputs relating to the user; and

c) a processing module which collects and analyzes the answers to the
questions
and inputs and thereafter, based at least in part on a calculation of an
exponential
moving average ("EMA") of said answers, creates a training schedule for each
sport, which is dynamically linked to all previous user inputs;

wherein the question generating module, by way of an intelligent link to all
previous user
inputs and feedback direction from the processing module, creates a plurality
of further
questions for the user to enable modifications to be made to training schedule
for each
sport.


2. The system of claim 1 wherein the question generating module offers to a
user,
upon first use of the system in a given training regime, a set of base
questions to
be processed by the processing module, said processing module then producing
a first training schedule.


3. The system of claim 1 wherein the user, after having completed all or part
of the
first training schedule is prompted by the question generating module to
respond,
via the user input module, to one or more additional questions, the answers to

which are provided to the processing module to generate, based at least in
part
on a calculation of an EMA of said answers, a subsequent training schedule
which is customized to the user and which is fully and dynamically responsive
to
the inputs received.




29


4. The system of claim 1 wherein the user, after having completed all or part
of the
first training schedule is prompted by the question generating module to
respond,
via the user input module, to one or more additional questions, the answers to

which are provided to the processing module to generate, based at least in
part
on a calculation of an EMA of answers to questions relating to each sport
individually and collectively, a subsequent training schedule which is
customized
to the user and which is fully and dynamically responsive to the inputs
received.


5. The system of claim 1 wherein the processing module, in devising subsequent

training schedules, factors one or more the following: the inter-relation
between
the sports, the optimal training requirements of each sport, the age of the
user,
the physical condition of the user, the mental condition of the user, the
goals of
the user, the training time available to the user, the time proximity of the
desired
event and the event distances.


6. The system of claim 2 wherein the base questions include those relating to
user's
available training time, desired workout lengths, the current fitness level,
experience in each sport, alone or combined, distance goals, and target event
dates.


7. The system of claim 5 wherein the additional questions comprise questions
relating to the training completed under a previous training schedule.


8. The system of claim 1 which additionally provides to the user, based on the

processing module's assessment of user inputs and training schedules
completed, a personalized assessment of readiness for an event.


9. The system of claim 1 which additionally provides to the user, based on the

processing module's assessment of user inputs and training schedules
completed, a personalized assessment of readiness for each individual sport in
a
multi-sport event.


30
10. The system of claim 1 which additionally provides to the user, based on
the
processing module's assessment of user inputs and training schedules
completed, a recommendation to trigger a period of rest/non-training to the
user.
11. The system of claim 1 wherein the question generating module and
processing
module are remote to but in communication with user input module via a
communication means.

12.The system of claim 11 wherein the remote question generating module and
processing module comprise a website for hosting an application relating to
multi-sport training.

13. The system of claim 1 comprising a hand held device with a means for the
user
to input answers to base questions and additional questions and means for
displaying information to user, and wherein the question generating module and
processing module are remote to but in communication with said hand held
device via a communication means.

14. The system of claim 13 wherein the means for displaying information can
include
a display of video, animation or graphics.

15. The system of claim 13 where in the hand held device is a mobile device
selected from the group consisting of personal digital assistants (PDAs),
smart
phones, lap tops and hand-held computers.

16. The system of claim 1 for use in triathlon training.
17.The system of claim 1 for use in duathlon training.

18.A computer implemented method of creating a personalized, multi-sport
training
plan for a user comprises which comprises:

a) a question generating module;




31


b) a user input module which accepts user answers to questions generated by
question generating module and accepts other inputs relating to the user;

c) a processing module which collects and analyzes the answers to the
questions and inputs and thereafter, based at least in part on a calculation
of
an exponential moving average ("EMA") of said answers, creates a training
schedule for each sport which is dynamically linked to all previous user
inputs;

wherein the question generating module by way of an intelligent link to all
previous user
inputs and feedback direction from the processing module, creates a plurality
of further
questions for the user to enable modifications to be made to training schedule
for each
sport.

Description

Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.



CA 02770014 2012-03-02

1
TITLE: METHOD AND SYSTEM OF DELIVERING AN INTERACTIVE
AND DYNAMIC MULTI-SPORT TRAINING PROGRAM

INVENTORS: ROBERT URBANOWSKI
STEPHEN LECKIE

LISA PASIN

GEORDIE MCCONNELL
SIMON WHITFIELD


CA 02770014 2012-03-02

2
Field of the Invention

[0001] This invention relates to an interactive, dynamic system for athletic
training.

Background of the Invention

[0002]Triathlon (swim, bike, run) is a vibrant, growing sport. According to a
2009
study, triathletes expect to continue their participation and most also expect
to
increase the number of races in which they compete. There are a number of
industry trends developing that are creating increasing interest in triathlon
and
subsequent demand for triathlon training. The chart below demonstrates the
significant and steady growth in triathlon in the past decade.

Triathlon Growth
1,
............
1

BLCt7 members
4 0

2:i7
X15 5 ~~ v 2010


CA 02770014 2012-03-02

3
[0003] On the event side, the number of races sanctioned through USA Triathlon
(USAT) continues to climb. Those numbers (which include camps and clinics)
have nearly doubled over the last five years, going from 1,541 in 2004 to
3,115 in
2009. The number of actual triathlon races during that time has grown from 897
to 1,891, while duathlon (run-bike-run) races have gone from 277 to 573. Youth
events have more than doubled from 193 to 421. Other multisport disciplines,
such as aquabike (bikeswim-bike) and aquathion (run-swim-run) have also seen
growth in the number of events offered across the United States.

[0004] Looking at the distances of the races, the biggest growth continues to
be
at the shorter sprint distances, which have surged from 818 in 2004 to 1,393
in
2009, but growth at other distances (including Olympic, Ironman 70.3 and
Ironman) has also been consistent during that time.

[0005] For years, the Sporting Good Manufacturing Association ("SGMA") has
been conducting surveys of the U.S. population to see how many people are
participating in what sports and how often. Aerobics, badminton,
skateboarding,
tennis, golf, ice skating, lacrosse, hunting, sailing, football, bowling - the
list goes
on. The SGMA uses the terms "casual" and "core" to divide the main frequency
groups of sport participants. SGMA says the core participants are the main
purchasers of "equipment, services and user fees" for a particular sport or
activity. A casual participant for triathlon is someone who participated in
just one
triathlon in a given year, while a core participant was involved in two or
more
events.

[0006]The most recent SGMA study - released in May 2010 - reveals that
1,208,000 Americans participated in at least one on-road (traditional)
triathlon in
2009. This total represents 11.1 percent growth from 2008 (1,087,000) and 51.4
percent growth from 2007 (798,000).

[0007] Additionally, the SGMA reports that 666,000 Americans participated in
an
off-road (non-traditional) triathlon in 2009. This total marked a 10.6 percent
increase over 2008 (602,000) and a 37.9 percent growth since 2007 (483,000).


CA 02770014 2012-03-02

4
[0008]According to the SGMA, there are 694,000 core on-road triathlon
participants in the United States and another 413,000 core off-road triathlon
participants. The SGMA defined core participants as athletes that competed in
at
least two races per year.

[0009] Without a doubt, the sport is growing and thriving and the number of
core
participants is increasing. However, it is a more complex sport to train
within than
any of the constituent sports alone. As such, participants turn to third party
coaches and other systems to assist them in optimizing their training and
performance. There are pre-packaged for "canned" training schedules available.
The user inputs some information and a suggested workout program is created.
Such plans provide no consideration for the athlete's level of experience,
fitness
or goals. Often, the athlete is left uncertain with the schedule proposed and
loses
confidence in the process due to lack of customization and proper feedback.

[00010] In an attempt to provide training assistance and protocols to a
larger group of participants, various training programs have been offered that
use
a computer to deliver a workout plan. Generalized training programs are also
offered over the internet or in stand-alone software programs. To date, these
known computerized training programs have met with limited acceptance and
success. The known programs typically present a generic training plan that
admits of very little in the way of individual optimization. For example, a
twelve-
week training program for a 10 Km race is presented, offering daily mileage to
be
run. Some versions offer different levels of the program to accommodate
beginning, intermediate and advanced runners, each level offering
progressively
more difficult workouts. Further, some programs offer some additional
customization by detailing the type of workout on each day. A few examples of
different workouts would be hill training and interval training (of various
kinds).
[0007]What these known training programs collectively lack is any true
customization based on an individual's current fitness level, athletic
background
and desired goals. An exercise training program that could offer such


CA 02770014 2012-03-02

individualized training programs through a standard and known internet web
browser would be highly desirable. Furthermore, a program tailored to the
unique
and complex requirements of multi-sport (for example: triathlon or duathion)
training would be even more desired.

[00011] It is an object of the present invention to obviate or mitigate the
above
disadvantages.

Summary of the Invention

[00012] The present invention provides a system for creating a personalized,
dynamic, multi-sport training plan for a user which comprises:

a) a question generating module;

b) a user input module which accepts user answers to questions generated by
the question generating module and accepts other inputs relating to the user;
and

c) a processing module which collects and analyzes the answers to the
questions and thereafter, based at least in part on a calculation of an
exponential moving average ("EMA") of said answers, creates a training
schedule for each sport, which is dynamically linked to all previous user
inputs;

wherein the question generating module, by way of an intelligent link to all
previous user
inputs and feedback direction from the processing module, creates a plurality
of further
questions for the user to enable modifications to be made to training schedule
for each
sport.

[00013] The invention further provides a computer implemented method of
creating a personalized, multi-sport training plan for a user which comprises:


CA 02770014 2012-03-02

6
a) a question generating module;

b) a user input module which accepts user answers to questions generated
by question generating module and accepts other inputs relating to the
user;

c) a processing module which collects and analyzes the answers to the
questions and thereafter, based at least in part on a calculation of an
exponential moving average ("EMA") of said answers, creates a training
schedule for each sport which is dynamically linked to all previous user
inputs;

wherein the question generating module by way of an intelligent link to all
previous user
inputs and feedback direction from the processing module, creates a plurality
of further
questions for the user to enable modifications to be made to training schedule
for each
sport.

[00014] The present invention further comprises a computer-readable storage
medium having computer-executable code encoded therein for i) generating user
questions relating to a multi-sport training program; ii) analyzing user
responses to said
questions and using this analysis to create one or more optimal training
schedules for
each sport, personalized to said user; and iii) modifying said schedule based
on
ongoing user responses/inputs.

[00015] By way of this method and system, users can optimize their multi-sport
training programs in a safe, dynamic, and personalized manner. This is in
complete
contrast to the currently available "canned" programs which provide nothing
more than a
training calendar with suggested work-out times for specific activities on
specific days.
Such plans do not provide for dynamic feedback and the use of such feedback in
the
design of "next" work-outs. This ongoing interaction, dynamism and
personalization are


CA 02770014 2012-03-02
7

critically important in multi-sport training (for triathlons, duathions,
aquathions and the
like) to ensure safety, injury prevention and appropriate endurance and
strength building
across diverse sports. This method and system further addresses the inter-
relatedness
of intelligent training for multi-sport events. It is not sufficient that
performance in each
sport be assessed in an artificial silo. On the contrary, the present system
and method,
by way of the processing module, and a feedback loop between it and both the
question
generating module and the user input module, provides an appropriate training
balance
for and between each specific sport. The system and method 1) intelligently
asks
questions germane to both overall training and sport-specific training and 2)
provides
weighted balance to the answers such that appropriate modifications to a
training
schedule can be made, dynamically and throughout an entire training program.

[00016] The present invention will now be described in greater detail with
reference to the following non-limiting drawings, in which like numerals
represent like
elements.

Detailed Description of the Figures

[00017] Figure 1 is a representation of a page on a website configured to
deliver
the program in accordance with the present invention;

[00018] Figure 2 is a representation of another page on a website configured
to
deliver the program in accordance with the present invention;

[00019] Figure 3 is a representation of another page on a website configured
to
deliver the program in accordance with the present invention;

[00020] Figure 4 is a representation of another page on a website configured
to
deliver the program in accordance with the present invention;

[00021] Figure 5 is a representation of another page on a website configured
to
deliver the program in accordance with the present invention; and


CA 02770014 2012-03-02

8
[00022] Figure 6 is a representation of another page on a website configured
to
deliver the program in accordance with the present invention;

[00023] Figure 7 is a graph depicting Exponential Moving Average Weights
wherein N=15.png;

[00024] Figure 8 is a flow chart showing a typical training schedule and
phases of
training over 18-24 weeks;

[00025] Figure 9 is another page on a website configured to deliver the
program in
accordance with the present invention;

[00026] Figure 10 is another page on a website configured to deliver the
program
in accordance with the present invention;

[00027] Figure 11 is another page on a website configured to deliver the
program
in accordance with the present invention;

[00028] Figure 12 is another page on a website configured to deliver the
program
in accordance with the present invention;

[00029] Figure 13 is another page on a website configured to deliver the
program
in accordance with the present invention;

[00030] Figure 14 is another page on a website configured to deliver the
program
in accordance with the present invention;

[00031] Figure 15 is another page on a website configured to deliver the
program
in accordance with the present invention; and

[00032] Figure 16 is another page on a website configured to deliver the
program
in accordance with the present invention.


CA 02770014 2012-03-02

9
Detailed Description of the Invention

[00033] A detailed description of one or more embodiments of the invention is
provided below along with accompanying figures that illustrate the principles
of the
invention. The invention is described in connection with such embodiments, but
the
invention is not limited to any embodiment. The scope of the invention is
limited only by
the claims and the invention encompasses numerous alternatives, modifications
and
equivalents. Numerous specific details are set forth in the following
description in order
to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. These details are
provided for the
purpose of example and the invention may be practiced according to the claims
without
some or all of these specific details. For the purpose of clarity, technical
material that is
known in the technical fields related to the invention has not been described
in detail so
that the invention is not unnecessarily obscured.

[00034] In other words, the invention is described in connection with such
embodiments, but the invention is not limited to any embodiment. The scope of
the
invention is limited only by the claims and the invention encompasses numerous
alternatives, modifications and equivalents. Numerous specific details are set
forth in
the following description in order to provide a thorough understanding of the
invention.
These details are provided for the purpose of example and the invention may be
practiced according to the claims without some or all of these specific
details. For the
purpose of clarity, technical material that is known in the technical fields
related to the
invention has not been described in detail so that the invention is not
unnecessarily
obscured. Similar reference characters denote similar elements throughout
various
views depicted in the figures.

[00035] In the present disclosure and claims, the word "comprising" and its
derivatives including "comprises" and "comprise" include each of the stated
integers but
does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers or elements.


CA 02770014 2012-03-02

[00036] In the present disclosure and claims, exponential moving average
("EMA")
refers to a calculated means for corrected analysis of recently used "data" in
terms of
weight. In other words, this is a type of moving average that is similar to a
simple
moving average, except that more weight is given to the latest data. The
exponential
moving average is also known as "exponentially weighted moving average".

[00037] In statistics, a moving average, also called rolling average, rolling
mean or running average, is a type of finite impulse response filter used to
analyze a set
of data points by creating a series of averages of different subsets of the
full data set.
Given a series of numbers and a fixed subset size, the first element of the
moving
average is obtained by taking the average of the initial fixed subset of the
number
series. Then the subset is modified by "shifting forward", that is excluding
the first
number of the series and including the next number following the original
subset in the
series. This creates a new subset of numbers, which is averaged. This process
is
repeated over the entire data series. The plot line connecting all the (fixed)
averages is
the moving average. A moving average is a set of numbers, each of which is
the average of the corresponding subset of a larger set of data points. A
moving
average may also use unequal weights for each data value in the subset to
emphasize
particular values in the subset.

[00038] An exponential moving average (EMA), also known as an exponentially
weighted moving average (EWMA), is a type of infinite impulse response filter
that
applies weighting factors which decrease exponentially. The weighting for each
older
data point decreases exponentially, never reaching zero as illustrated in
Figure 7.

[00039] In respect to the system and method of the present invention, the use
of a
EMA calculation means within the processing module allows most the current
question
feedback and inputs to be (depending on question and weight of said question)
given
more importance or criticality as compared to previous answers and inputs. As
these
answers and inputs are delivered to the processing module on an ongoing basis


CA 02770014 2012-03-02

11
during a training program, accurate, dynamic and individually tailored outputs
(updated training schedules for that user) are produced.

[00040] By this means, a large volume of data can be calculated and assigned
importance with accuracy. For example, large scale data which comprises more
than
200 previous days entries can also be exacted calculated and weighted in order
to
produce the most individually efficient subsequent training schedule for each
sport.
[00041] It is to be understood that a user input module accepts not only user
answers to questions generated by question generating module but accepts other
inputs relating to the user. These other inputs include, but are not limited
to data from
collection devices such as heart beat monitors, energy measuring devices,
distance,
speed and movement measuring devices and may include inputs from other known
training devices (for example, Garmin , Timex , Polar , Suunto , Nike ,
etc....)
Such other inputs are not required, and are optional features, providing
additional
information to the user answers at the processing module.

[00042] In one aspect, the present invention provides a system for creating a
personalized, dynamic, multi-sport training plan for a user which comprises:

a) a question generating module;

b) a user input module which accepts user answers to questions generated
by the question generating module and accepts other inputs relating to the
user; and

c) a processing module which collects and analyzes the answers to the
questions and inputs and thereafter, based at least in part on a calculation
of an exponential moving average ("EMA") of said answers, creates a
training schedule for each sport, which is dynamically linked to all previous
user inputs;

wherein the question generating module, by way of an intelligent link to all
previous user
inputs and feedback direction from the processing module, creates a plurality
of further


CA 02770014 2012-03-02

12
questions for the user to enable modifications to be made to training schedule
for each
sport.

[00043] Preferably, the question generating module offers to a user, upon
first use
of the system in a given training regime, a set of base questions to be
processed by the
processing module, said processing module then producing a first training
schedule.
The user, after having completed all or part of the first training schedule is
prompted by
the question generating module to respond, via the user input module, to one
or more
additional questions, the answers to which are provided to the processing
module to
generate one or more subsequent training plan(s) based on the user's periodic
feedback. The base questions may include those relating to user's available
training
time, desired workout lengths, the current fitness level, experience in each
sport, alone
or combined, distance goals, and target event dates. As used herein,
"periodic" may
refer to any time interval which is appropriate to a particular training
regime, including,
but not limited to hourly, daily, or weekly intervals.

[00044] Preferably, the base questions include, but are not limited to those
relating
to user's current fitness level, experience in each sport, distance goals, and
target event
date or dates.

[00045] Preferably, the user, after having completed all or part of the first
training
schedule is prompted by the question generating module to respond, via the
user input
module, to one or more additional questions, the answers to which are provided
to the
processing module to generate, based at least in part on a calculation of an
EMA of said
answers, a subsequent training schedule which is customized to the user and
which is
fully and dynamically responsive to the inputs received.

[00046] Preferably, the user, after having completed all or part of the first
training
schedule is prompted by the question generating module to respond, via the
user input
module, to one or more additional questions, the answers to which are provided
to the
processing module to generate, based at least in part on a calculation of an
EMA of
answers to questions relating to each sport individually and collectively, a
subsequent


CA 02770014 2012-03-02

13
training schedule which is customized to the user and which is fully and
dynamically
responsive to the inputs received.

[00047] Preferably, the processing module, in devising subsequent training
schedules, factors one or more the following: the inter-relation between the
sports, the
optimal training requirements of each sport, the age of the user, the physical
condition
of the user, the mental condition of the user, the goals of the user, the
training time
available to the user, the time proximity of the desired event and the event
distances.
[00048] Preferably, the additional questions comprise questions relating to
the
training completed.

[00049] In accordance with a preferred feature of the present invention, the
user is
provided, based on the processing module's assessment of user inputs and
training
schedules completed, with a personalized assessment of readiness for an event.

[00050] In accordance with another preferred feature of the present invention,
the
user is provided, based on the processing module's assessment of user inputs
and
training schedules completed, with a personalized recommendation as to periods
of
rest/non-training to the user.

[00051] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the question
generating module and processing module are remote to but in communication
with
user input module via a communication means. Preferably, the remote question
generating module and processing module comprise a website for hosting an
application relating to multi-sport training.

[00052] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the system
comprises a hand held device with a means for the user to input answers to
base
questions and additional questions and means for displaying information to
user, and
wherein the question generating module and processing module are remote to but
in
communication with said hand held device via a communication means.


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14
[00053] The means for displaying information can include a display of video,
animation or graphics. The hand held device may be a mobile device selected
from the
group consisting of personal digital assistants (PDAs), smart phones, tablets,
lap tops
and hand-held computing devices.

[00054] The system and method of the present invention may be used for any
multi-sport training regime. Preferably, it may be used in connection with
training for one
or more of triathlon training, duathlon training, aquathlon training and
bikeswim training.
While the term "triathlon" is used in various parts of the disclosure, it is
to be understood
that the system and method of the present invention is equally applicable to
any multi-
sport program.

[00055] The present invention further provides a computer implemented method
of
creating a personalized, multi-sport training plan for a user comprises which
comprises:
a) a question generating module;

b) a user input module which accepts user answers to questions
generated by question generating module and accepts other inputs
relating to the user; and

c) a processing module which collects and analyzes the answers to the
questions and inputs and thereafter creates a training schedule for
each sport which is dynamically linked to all previous user inputs;

wherein the question generating module by way of an intelligent link to all
previous user answers and inputs and feedback direction from the processing
module, creates a plurality of further questions for the user to enable
modifications to be made to training schedule for each sport.

[00056] Website Representations:

[00057] Figures 1-6 and 9-16 represent preferred user interfaces on a website
which delivers the method of the present invention. Figure 1 is an
introductory screen.
Figure 2 shows a scheduling screen with drop down options for weekly workout


CA 02770014 2012-03-02

availabilities. Figure 3 represents a calendar comprising a monthly training
schedule.
Figure 4 is a specific instruction screen for a triathlon workout regime,
wherein the user
is directed to the daily workout plan for March 31, including warm up, drills,
main set
and cool downs with duration and intensity sets for each. Explanatory videos
are
provided as an optional feature if clarification is required by the user.
Figure 5 is a
representation of an event readiness gauge for each sport, based on a
percentage.
Figure 6 is a workout log for March 31, to be completed by the user at the end
of the
day or completed training sessions.

[00058] Figure 9 is a further representation of a home page relating to the
training
system of the present invention, in respect to triathlons specifically. Basic
information is
provided on standard race distances, how the training system works and other
pertinent
information. Figure 10 represents a pre-sign up page with costs and Q&A.
Figures 11-
13 are information entering pages wherein a user provides the system with all
basic
inputs. Figure 14 is similar to Figures 3 and 5 showing a calendar of workouts
and the
event readiness gauge. Figure 15 is similar to Figure 4, with a pop out screen
setting
out a triathlon workout regime, wherein the user is directed to the daily
workout plan for
March 31, including warm up, drills, main set and cool downs with duration and
intensity
sets for each. Figure 16 is similar to Figure 6, a workout log for March 31,
to be
completed by the user at the end of the day or completed training sessions.

[00059] Specific Advantages of the System/Method of the Present Invention
[00060] 1. An affordable and easy to use method for multi-sport training
[00061] 2. A training schedule that is based on the user's available time
between start date and race date.

[00062] 3. A training program that is based on the user's ability and
previous experience.


CA 02770014 2012-03-02

16
[00063] 4. An "Event Readiness Gauge" that monitors the users starting
point and daily progress and displays their level of readiness for the event
they
are training for.

[00064] 5. A "Daily Wellness Log" that monitors the user's training and
health and responds with appropriate exercise or rest periods to avoid injury
or
over-training.

[00065] 6. A dynamic, personalized system that works in a "feedback loop"
to update/amend a training schedule, for the simultaneous training in multiple
sports, such that each "new" schedule reflects both ongoing user input and
best
practises in the training field.

[00066] Preferred System Functionality

[00067] 1. The invention provides, preferably, an online-based multi-sport
specific training system available via the internet, or as an APP on any
current
mobile device such as a Smartphone (for example, iPhone or Android type
product), tablet, mobile or hand-held computer, laptop computer. It is to be
understood that this system is fully adaptable to future interactive media and
devices.

[00068] 2. The present invention provides users with an interactive and
dynamic online training system that optimizes the individual's specific
training
plan based on his/her current level of fitness, his/her event dates, event
goals,
and progress through the prescribed workouts.

[00069] Preferably, new users are triggered to answer a series of questions
(in a current preferred format, for triathlon training, this is accomplished
in fie
base questions) that identify the users available time before race day,
current
level of fitness, previous multi-sport (ex: triathlon) experience, and
specific
distance goals. Based on this initial feedback, the processing module
calculates


CA 02770014 2012-03-02
17

the user's training calendar (based on available time before the event or
"race"
day). The level of training difficulty of the training schedule output from
the
system is based on calculations from his/her answers to the base questions.
[00070] With the information, the processing module produces a training
calendar (also referred to herein also as a "schedule") for the user. The
calendar
consists of specific workout routines for each sport, for each day. Each set
of
workout routines consists of specific workout instructions with related videos
illustrating how the workouts are to be conducted.

[00071] The entire system and process of the present invention (including
the processing module) is completely dynamic. Preferably, one week of specific
workout instructions are provided to the user at a time. Once the user
completes
each workout, the user logs the results of their workout into a daily workout
log or
the calendar via the method described herein. The user answers a series of
questions, (preferably at least three specific questions) that relate to
his/her
progress and wellness within the multi-sport training regime. The processing
module then analyzes the response to these questions and determines the user's
(a) ability to complete the prescribed workout, (b) level of user's perceived
difficulty when performing the workout(s) (c) the user's health. Based on this
calculation the processing module via one or more calculations of EMA of said
answers, the system then intelligently prescribes the user's next workout (for
example, the next week's workout schedule). In this way, the system is
completely dynamic, offering each user the ability to progress through the
multi-
sport training in a way that adapts completely to his/her ability and health.
The
program will insert rest days when the user is unwell, monitor his/her
wellness,
and reintegrate the user once they are ready to begin training again. The
program will advance users through the program at a rate that reflects how
closely they follow the prescribed routine in a healthy fashion. The program
ensures a user completes all necessary "phases" of training before his/her
race
day.


CA 02770014 2012-03-02

18
[00072] Each user has the option to select a specific multi-sport race
distance they wish to train for. Once this is selected the dynamic program
monitoring the users progress through the training program. The training
program
provides the user with a dynamic "Event Readiness Gauge" that visually
illustrates for the user their readiness to compete in the event distance they
have
chosen.

[00073] Multi-sport training is complex and each user will respond to
training differently. The intent and benefit of the system and method provided
herein is that they provide each user with a dynamic training regime that
prescribes each user with specific workout instructions based on their
progress,
health, and specific goals in respect to each sport in not only a feedback
loop but
an intelligently delivered feedback loop. The system is built to use responses
to
particular user answers, and statistics applied to these answers, to "think"
and to
respond specifically to a user's training needs based, in part, on a
collection of
acquired best practises which are built into the system. On this point, it is
to be
understood that the generation of questions, from question generating module,
is
based, at least in part, on the use of accumulated best practises within that
multi-
sport field.

[00074] The present invention can be implemented in numerous ways,
including as a process, an apparatus, a system, a computer readable medium
such as a computer readable storage medium or a computer network wherein
program instructions are sent over optical or communication links. In this
specification, these implementations, or any other form that the invention may
take, may be referred to as systems or techniques. A component such as a
processor or a memory described as being configured to perform a task includes
both a general component that is temporarily configured to perform the task at
a
given time or a specific component that is manufactured to perform the task.
In
general, the order of the steps of disclosed processes may be altered within
the
scope of the invention.


CA 02770014 2012-03-02

19
[00075] The following discussion provides a brief and general description of
a suitable computing environment in which various embodiments of the system
may be implemented. Although not required, embodiments will be described in
the general context of computer-executable instructions, such as program
applications, modules, objects or macros being executed by a computer. Those
skilled in the relevant art will appreciate that the invention can be
practiced with
other computer configurations, including hand-held devices, multiprocessor
systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics,
personal computers ("PCs"), network PCs, mini-computers, mainframe
computers, and the like. The embodiments can be practiced in distributed
computing environments where tasks or modules are performed by remote
processing devices, which are linked through a communications network. In a
distributed computing environment, program modules may be located in both
local and remote memory storage devices.

[00076] A computer system may be used as a server including one or more
processing units, system memories, and system buses that couple various
system components including system memory to a processing unit. Computers
will at times be referred to in the singular herein, but this is not intended
to limit
the application to a single computing system since in typical embodiments,
there
will be more than one computing system or other device involved. Other
computer systems may be employed, such as conventional and personal
computers, where the size or scale of the system allows. The processing unit
may be any logic processing unit, such as one or more central processing units
("CPUs"), digital signal processors ("DSPs"), application-specific integrated
circuits ("ASICs"), etc. Unless described otherwise, the construction and
operation of the various components are of conventional design. As a result,
such components need not be described in further detail herein, as they will
be
understood by those skilled in the relevant art.

[00077] A computer system includes a bus, and can employ any known bus
structures or architectures, including a memory bus with memory controller, a


CA 02770014 2012-03-02

peripheral bus, and a local bus. The computer system memory may include read-
only memory ("ROM") and random access memory ("RAM"). A basic
input/output system ("BIOS"), which can form part of the ROM, contains basic
routines that help transfer information between elements within the computing
system, such as during startup.

[00078] The computer system also includes non-volatile memory. The non-
volatile memory may take a variety of forms, for example a hard disk drive for
reading from and writing to a hard disk, and an optical disk drive and a
magnetic
disk drive for reading from and writing to removable optical disks and
magnetic
disks, respectively. The optical disk can be a CD-ROM, while the magnetic disk
can be a magnetic floppy disk or diskette. The hard disk drive, optical disk
drive
and magnetic disk drive communicate with the processing unit via the system
bus. The hard disk drive, optical disk drive and magnetic disk drive may
include
appropriate interfaces or controllers coupled between such drives and the
system
bus, as is known by those skilled in the relevant art. The drives, and their
associated computer-readable media, provide non-volatile storage of computer
readable instructions, data structures, program modules and other data for the
computing system. Although a computing system may employ hard disks, optical
disks and/or magnetic disks, those skilled in the relevant art will appreciate
that
other types of non-volatile computer-readable media that can store data
accessible by a computer system may be employed, such a magnetic cassettes,
flash memory cards, digital video disks ("DVD"), Bernoulli cartridges, RAMs,
ROMs, smart cards, etc...

[00079] Various program modules or application programs and/or data can
be stored in the computer memory. For example, the system memory may store
an operating system, end user application interfaces, server applications, and
one or more application program interfaces ("APIs").


CA 02770014 2012-03-02

21
[00080] The computer system memory also includes one or more
networking applications, for example a Web server application and/or Web
client
or browser application for permitting the computer to exchange data with
sources
via the Internet, corporate Intranets, or other networks as described below,
as
well as with other server applications on server computers such as those
further
discussed below. The networking application in the preferred embodiment is
markup language based, such as hypertext markup language ("HTML"),
extensible markup language ("XML") or wireless markup language ("WML"), and
operates with markup languages that use syntactically delimited characters
added to the data of a document to represent the structure of the document. A
number of Web server applications and Web client or browser applications are
commercially available, such those available from Mozilla and Microsoft.

[00081] The operating system and various applications/modules and/or
data can be stored on the hard disk of the hard disk drive, the optical disk
of the
optical disk drive and/or the magnetic disk of the magnetic disk drive.

[00082] A computer system can operate in a networked environment using
logical connections to one or more client computers and/or one or more
database
systems, such as one or more remote computers or networks. A computer may
be logically connected to one or more client computers and/or database systems
under any known method of permitting computers to communicate, for example
through a network such as a local area network ("LAN") and/or a wide area
network ("WAN") including, for example, the Internet. Such networking
environments are well known including wired and wireless enterprise-wide
computer networks, intranets, extranets, and the Internet. Other embodiments
include other types of communication networks such as telecommunications
networks, cellular networks, paging networks, and other mobile networks. The
information sent or received via the communications channel may, or may not be
encrypted. When used in a LAN networking environment, a computer is
connected to the LAN through an adapter or network interface card
(communicatively linked to the system bus). When used in a WAN networking


CA 02770014 2012-03-02

22
environment, a computer may include an interface and modem or other device,
such as a network interface card, for establishing communications over the
WAN/Internet.

[00083] In a networked environment, program modules, application
programs, or data, or portions thereof, can be stored in a computer for
provision
to the networked computers. In one embodiment, the computer is
communicatively linked through a network with TCP/IP middle layer network
protocols; however, other similar network protocol layers are used in other
embodiments, such as user datagram protocol ("UDP"). Those skilled in the
relevant art will readily recognize that these network connections are only
some
examples of establishing communications links between computers, and other
links may be used, including wireless links.

[00084] While in most instances a computer will operate automatically,
where an end user application interface is provided, a user can enter commands
and information into the computer through a user application interface
including
input devices, such as a keyboard, and a pointing device, such as a mouse.
Other input devices can include a microphone, joystick, scanner, etc. These
and
other input devices are connected to the processing unit through the user
application interface, such as a serial port interface that couples to the
system
bus, although other interfaces, such as a parallel port, a game port, or a
wireless
interface, or a universal serial bus ("USB") can be used. A monitor or other
display device is coupled to the bus via a video interface, such as a video
adapter (not shown). The computer can include other output devices, such as
speakers, printers, etc...

[00085] The website of the invention is a collection of web pages, hosted on
one or more servers. Users typically connect to website on the Internet using
hyperlinks, also referred to as links. By clicking on a link, a user directs a


CA 02770014 2012-03-02

23
browser operating on computer system to open a window on the monitor of the
computer system showing the website associated with the link.

[00086] Preferably, users will register with website to access the dynamic
interactive training features. Such a registration system may include
obtaining
information about the user such as their name, email address, geographic
information, such as address, or country of residence, and the like. Once
registered, users can log on to website using a user name and password, which
are provided by serve or selected by the user on registration. The user will
also
be provided a personal web page at the website at which they can view their
content and schedules.

[00087] Server has a database which stores the website, the content
thereon, and associated web pages, records about each user and the content,
and information about each link.

[00088] When a user visits the home page, they may have to log in, if they
are a registered user. If they are not a registered user, they may be unable
to
access certain features of the website, but the server records the IP address
of
the unregistered user, and offers the unregistered user an opportunity to
register.
[00089] When a user registers, they obtain an account, and provide, to the
system, their first name, last name, geographic location (by city or town) and
birthday. The system may also request information about the device being used
to access the web page, for example the type of computer, the manufacturer of
the computer, the browser being used, etc. The user then selects a password
and username for accessing the website.

[00090] As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the various
embodiments described above can be combined to provide further embodiments.
Aspects of the present systems, methods and components can be modified, if
necessary, to employ systems, methods, components and concepts to provide
yet further embodiments of the invention. For example, the various methods


CA 02770014 2012-03-02

24
described above may omit some acts, include other acts, and/or execute acts in
a different order than set out in the illustrated embodiments.

[00091] The present methods, systems and articles also may be
implemented as a computer program product that comprises a computer
program mechanism embedded in a computer readable storage medium. For
instance, the computer program product could contain program modules. These
program modules may be stored on CD-ROM, DVD, magnetic disk storage
product, flash media or any other computer readable data or program storage
product. The software modules in the computer program product may also be
distributed electronically, via the Internet or otherwise, by transmission of
a data
signal (in which the software modules are embedded) such as embodied in a
carrier wave.

[00092] For instance, the foregoing detailed description has set forth
various embodiments of the devices and/or processes via the use of examples.
Insofar as such examples contain one or more functions and/or operations, it
will
be understood by those skilled in the art that each function and/or operation
within such examples can be implemented, individually and/or collectively, by
a
wide range of hardware, software, firmware, or virtually any combination
thereof.
In one embodiment, the present subject matter may be implemented via ASICs.
However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments
disclosed
herein, in whole or in part, can be equivalently implemented in standard
integrated circuits, as one or more computer programs running on one or more
computers (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more computer
systems), as one or more programs running on one or more controllers (e.g.,
microcontrollers) as one or more programs running on one or more processors
(e.g., microprocessors), as firmware, or as virtually any combination thereof,
and
that designing the circuitry and/or writing the code for the software and or
firmware would be well within the skill of one of ordinary skill in the art in
light of
this disclosure.


CA 02770014 2012-03-02

[00093] In addition, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the
mechanisms taught herein are capable of being distributed as a program product
in a variety of forms, and that an illustrative embodiment applies equally
regardless of the particular type of signal bearing media used to actually
carry
out the distribution. Examples of signal bearing media include, but are not
limited
to, the following: recordable type media such as floppy disks, hard disk
drives,
CD ROMs, digital tape, flash drives and computer memory; and transmission
type media such as digital and analog communication links using TDM or IP
based communication links (e.g., packet links).

[00094] Further, in the methods taught herein, the various acts may be
performed in a different order than that illustrated and described.
Additionally,
the methods can omit some acts, and/or employ additional acts.

[00095] These and other changes can be made to the present systems,
methods and articles in light of the above description. In general, in the
following
claims, the terms used should not be construed to limit the invention to the
specific embodiments disclosed in the specification and the claims, but should
be
construed to include all possible embodiments along with the full scope of
equivalents to which such claims are entitled. Accordingly, the invention is
not
limited by the disclosure, but instead its scope is to be determined entirely
by the
following claims.

[00096] EXAMPLE
[00097] Example 1

[00098] The following is a description of how a typical triathlete "user" will
employ the system and method to optimize training, with reference to the
phases
of training described in Figure 8:

= The user subscribes to the service online with his computer agreeing to pay
a
monthly fee for the module "triathlon training service".


CA 02770014 2012-03-02

26
= At a first user input phase 10, the user answers the following six
questions, the
answers of which identify the criteria for enabling the system engine to
calculate the
user's initial training plan.

o How would you describe your level of ability in triathlon? (Novice,
intermediate or Advanced).
o Select the date you would like to start the plan
o Select the date of your goal race
o Select the distance of your goal race
o How many secondary races would you like to compete in?
o Select the dates for your secondary races.

= Based on the answers to these questions, the processing module calculates at
12 a
training plan for the unique user, based on the time available for training
(weeks
between start date and goal race date), the distance of the goal race, and his
level
of experience. The plan is displayed in a calendar starting at week one (14).
When
the user selects the day of the training in the calendar the workout
prescription and
video explanation is provided for the user explaining how to perform his
workout for
that day.
= Once the user completes (or does not complete) the workout for that day, he
is
prompted to answer five questions about how well he did at the activity and
how he
was feeling that day and at a user interface, enters a "daily log" at 16. The
daily
questions may comprise the following:
o Did you complete today's workout? (answer is a sliding scale between 0 -
100%)
o Rate today's training. (answer is a sliding scale between 0 - 100%)
o Rate you mood today.
o Rate the quality of last nights sleep.
o Rate your general state of health today.
= Based on the EMA of the answers to these questions, the training processing
module at 18 prescribes the next workout(s). The results of the answers to
these


CA 02770014 2012-03-02

27
questions could mean that the user repeats the current week's workouts,
progresses to the next series of workouts 20, 22, (and pre-race workout 23) is
scheduled a recovery series of workouts, or is scheduled a rest day or days.
The
basis upon which the processing module "recommends" the next workouts is a
combination of comparison to a complied database of best practises and the EMA
of the answers to the previously posed questions
= As the user completes his workouts the training engine calculates the EMA of
his
"readiness" to participate in their event and displays it for the user in an
Event
Readiness Gauge 26 on the user interface of the mobile device or other
computing
device. This helps the user visually and preferably graphically see how ready
he is
to participate in his event (Race Day 28). Upon completion of event at Race
Day 28,
user is further prompted at 30 to enter information regarding either next
event or off-
season training. Based on the EMA of the answers to these questions, the
training
processing module at 32 prescribes the next workout(s) 34 or rests.

[00099] References and Notes:

[000100] Figure 7 is used with permission as follows:

[000101] Permission is granted to copy, distribute and/or modify this document
under the terms of the GNU Free Documentation License, Version 1.2 or
any later version published by the Free Software Foundation; with no
Invariant Sections, no Front-Cover Texts, and no Back-Cover Texts. A
copy of the license is included in the section entitled GNU Free
Documentation License.

Representative Drawing

Sorry, the representative drawing for patent document number 2770014 was not found.

Administrative Status

For a clearer understanding of the status of the application/patent presented on this page, the site Disclaimer , as well as the definitions for Patent , Administrative Status , Maintenance Fee  and Payment History  should be consulted.

Administrative Status

Title Date
Forecasted Issue Date Unavailable
(22) Filed 2012-03-02
(41) Open to Public Inspection 2012-09-02
Dead Application 2015-03-03

Abandonment History

Abandonment Date Reason Reinstatement Date
2014-03-03 FAILURE TO PAY APPLICATION MAINTENANCE FEE

Payment History

Fee Type Anniversary Year Due Date Amount Paid Paid Date
Application Fee $400.00 2012-03-02
Owners on Record

Note: Records showing the ownership history in alphabetical order.

Current Owners on Record
TRITON TRIATHLON TRAINING INC.
Past Owners on Record
None
Past Owners that do not appear in the "Owners on Record" listing will appear in other documentation within the application.
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Document
Description 
Date
(yyyy-mm-dd) 
Number of pages   Size of Image (KB) 
Abstract 2012-03-02 1 22
Description 2012-03-02 27 1,249
Claims 2012-03-02 4 138
Cover Page 2012-08-23 1 37
Assignment 2012-03-02 4 101
Drawings 2012-03-02 16 1,226