Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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DYNAMIC EXERCISE APPARATUS AND METHOD
1. TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates generally to isometric and isotonic exercise
devices and methods. More particularly, the invention includes a manually
operable
resistance apparatus in the form of rubber continuous loop band and method of
using
said apparatus in order to exercise at least six major muscle groups.
2. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Isometric and isotonic fitness apparatus and methods of using such apparatus
have been extensively developed for their ability to improve the muscular
fitness level
of the user by opposing the user's muscles to a resistant device. Physical
exercise
methods, to coincide with such manually operable apparatus, generally require
the use
of more than one appropriate device in order to exercise the six main groups
of human
muscles. Common fitness apparatus are composed of more than one device used in
combination rendering the apparatus non-portable due to their size and weight.
As an
example, multiple apparatus work stations require extensive space and storage
facilities
for such bulky devices.
Considerable effort has been devoted to the development of novel fitness
apparatus and methods of use for exercising main groups of large and small
muscles
without the need for multiple bulky apparatus prone to breakage and repair.
Accordingly, single manually operable exercise apparatus have been established
including resistance exercise apparatus. Some exercise apparatus, such as Dyna-
Band
and Dura-Band , are thin sheets or strips of elastic material which may be
held and
stretched to provide resistance for muscle flexion. The Dyna-Band and Dura-
Band
strips are synthetic and prone to breakage. They are available only in very
minimal
thicknesses and therefore do not provide adequate resistance for users with
well
developed levels of muscular fitness. The strips are not effective when tied
in a loop as
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2
a structural flaw is created which will break at a low level of tension. The
strips are
therefore ineffective for exercising most muscle groups.
Conventional resistance exercise bands are generally composed of non-rubber
materials such as thermoplastic elastomer. An example of a synthetic exercise
band is
U.S. Patent No. 5,945,060 ("'060"). The '060 patent describes two methods of
manufacturing thermoplastic elastomer exercise bands. The bands are extruded
through a die and a gas may be introduced into the extrusion to expand the
material
before cutting. The bands disclosed have a thickness between 0.1 mm and 1.25
mm
and have an elasticity of between 300 and 900 per cent. Disadvantages of
the'060
patent include a low resistance due to the thinness, a short life-span due to
low tensile
strength, and uneven elasticity which is not suited to muscle training. These
disadvantages are inherent in synthetic exercise bands. As the thickness of
the band
disclosed in the '060 patent increases, the elasticity decreases.
Additionally, as a
synthetic band is stretched, the resistance increases over the course of the
movement.
The present invention maintains constant 600% elasticity regardless of
thickness.
U.S. Patent No. 5,860,896 ("'896") discloses a posture-aiding device composed
of a polyester, nylon and latex rubber mixture and formed into a continuous
loop or
band. The user passes her arms through the loop and positions the loop
horizontally
across her back. The '896 patent teaches a posture improvement through the
passive
resistance of the loop. The '896 patent does not teach exercises to improve
muscle
strength, and discloses only one position in which the loop may be employed.
The '896
patent discloses only one thickness and length for the loop, thereby limiting
the ability
of the device to improve muscle strength.
Typically exercise devices employing natural gum rubber are composed of
several parts, making manufacture and use of the band complex. An example is
U.S.
Patent 3,677,543 ("'543"). The '543 patent discloses a single length of rubber
surgical
tubing with loops formed at each end, S-shaped hooks that receive the folded
ends of
the tubing, a ring for anchoring the device, and sleeves over the looped
portion of the
device. Disadvantages of the '543 patent and other multi-component exercise
devices
incorporating a rubber band include the difficulty to assemble the device,
lack of
portability, requirement that the device be attached, and limited range of
muscles that
may be exercised using the device.
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Bally Fitness discloses synthetic aerobic bands on the Internet at
"www.ballyfitness.com". The bands are relatively short, having lengths between
8 and
12 inches, and widths of 3/8, 3/4 and 1 inch. The Bally bands are low
resistance and
are appropriate for a narrow range of exercises requiring minimal strength,
for instance
for people suffering from arthritis. The Bally bands are for specific
applications,
having a very limited number of exercises which can be performed due to the
short
length of the band and the low resistance, and are not suitable for attachment
to objects
other than the human body. Due to the small, narrow dimensions of the Bally
bands,
they will not seat well on human limbs, and are to short to be placed about
the human
torso. The Bally bands are for low intensity aerobic exercises. The present
invention
applies to anaerobic muscle strengthening exercises for a wide range of muscle
groups
and strengths.
The method of use is as important as the apparatus structure and function. If
used incorrectly exercise bands can cause serious injuries to the user. Before
each use,
particularly with synthetic exercise devices, careful examination of the
device must be
performed to ensure that there are no nicks, small tears, or punctures
commonly found
amongst resistance exercise device. These pre or post manufacture faults may
cause the
device to break resulting in injury to the user from the recoiling device
released under
tension. Also, the correct method of use must be employed. Hence, of equal
importance, in relation to the structure and function of the appropriate
exercise
resistance device, are the physical exercise movements of human muscles
including the
six main muscle groups of the chest, back, shoulders, arms, legs and
abdominal.
In light of the above mentioned disadvantages with the prior art exercise
devices
and methods, it is the object of this invention to disclose an isometric and
isotonic
exercise apparatus and method which is portable, lightweight, requires little
or no set-
up time, is capable of working all six major muscle groups of the human body,
is
durable, has constant elasticity of approximately 600%, seats well on the
human body,
and can be employed in different embodiments to provide a resistance
appropriate to
the varying muscular fitness of different individuals for anaerobic
exercising.
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3. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIOIY
This invention is discloses a unique manually operable natural gum rubber
resistance exercise band which can provide, with specific best fit methods of
use, a safe
and efficient, cost efFective way of enhancing the strength of major or minor
muscle
groups, including the main six muscie groups, without the need for multiple
materials
or devices of heavy or over sized exercise apparatus.
An exercise apparatus for the human body comprising an elastic apparatus or
band formed in a closed or continuous loop is provided. The manually operable
resistance apparatus may also comprise one or more sides of said apparatus
having
gloss or matt finished textures.
In one embodiment of the invention, solid rubber can be selected from natural
or synthetic gum rubbers or combinations thereof, preferably from pre-set
industrial
gum rubber for example, red DURASHIELD0 AB -140 or black DUR.ASHIELD
AB-160 gum rubber. More preferably the gum rubber is light in weight, of
durable
strength and has efficient recoiling memory.
The band width is of a wide, flat and strengthened stable platform suitable to
give full support during the method of use. A pre-detenmined band width of the
said
apparatus can be from about 10 mm to about ] 50 mm. Preferably, said band
width is
from about 20 mm to about 100 mm.
The band thickness is of a dimension suitable to give effective resistance
capacity or elasticity during the method of use. A pre-determined band
thickness of the
apparatus is preferably between 1 mm to about 16 mm. Optimally, the band
thickness
between 2 mm and 10 mm.
The band length is of a variable dimension suitable to give effective
resistance
or elasticity capacity during the method of use for users of d ifferent sizes.
A band
length of the apparatus may be between 1000 mm and 3000 mm. The band ends can
be
fixed together with a suitable fixing adhesive, for example, Cyanoacrylate,
forming a
closed loop band of required length. Preferably, said band length is from 500
mm to
about 1500 mm in a fixed or sealed closed looped band. More preferably, the
resistance
capacity of the active band length can be six times its original length when
stretched.
CA 02406149 2006-09-29
apparatus and therefore the strength required to use the apparatus. In this
manner the
user may gradually improve his or her fitness level.
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4. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The method and apparatus of the present invention will now be described with
reference to the accompanying drawing figures, in which:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 1 A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention,
formed with
open hand loops at each end.
FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention,
showing the
invention in use by a man with the device held in both hands in an at rest
position for
the Anterior Deltoid Raise exercise.
FIG. 2B is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention,
showing the
invention in use by a man with the device held in both hands in an extended
position
for the Anterior Deltoid Raise exercise.
FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention,
showing the
invention in use by a man with the device held in both hands and placed under
both feet
in an at rest position for the Standing Bicep Curl exercise.
FIG. 3B is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention,
showing the
invention in use by a man with the device held in both hands and placed under
both feet
in an extended position for the Standing Bicep Curl exercise.
FIG. 4A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention,
showing the
invention in use by a man with the device held in both hands and placed
against his
torso in an at rest position for the Middle Pectoral Press exercise.
FIG. 4B is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention,
showing the
invention in use by a man with the device held in both hands and placed
against his
torso in an extended position for the Middle Pectoral Press exercise.
FIG. 5A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention,
showing the
invention in use by a man with the device placed against his torso and under
one foot in
an at rest position for the Quadriceps Lunge exercise.
FIG. 5B is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention,
showing the
invention in use by a man with the device placed against his torso and under
one foot in
an extended position for the Quadriceps Lunge exercise.
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FIG. 6A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention,
showing the
invention in use by a man with the device held in both hands and placed about
a door in
an at rest position for the Standing Triceps Pressdown exercise.
FIG. 6B is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention,
showing the
invention in use by a man with the device held in both hands and placed about
a door in
an extended position for the Triceps Pressdown exercise.
FIG. 7A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention,
showing the
invention in use by a man with the device wrapped around both feet and placed
about a
door in an at rest position for the Lower Abdominal Raise exercise.
FIG. 7B is a perspective view of an embodirnent of the present invention,
showing the
invention in use by a man with the device wrapped around both feet and placed
about a
door in an extended position for the Lower Abdominal Raise exercise.
5. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTiON
Referring to Figure 1, the preferred embodiment of the present invention is
shown in perspective. The exercise band 10 is a continuous loop of elastic
material.
The band 10 may be comprised of natural or synthetic gum rubber or a
combination
thereof. Preferably the band 10 is comprised of industrial gum rubber for
example,
DURASHIBLD AB -140 or DURASHIELD AB -160 natural red gum rubber.
Relative to synthetic aiternatives, gum rubber is light in weight, durable and
has an
efficient recoiling memory. Structure of the apparatus is pre-determined and
manufaatured to the required specifications. The apparatus length and
thickness can be
fixed in proportion to the desired resistance capacity. Optionall!y, the band
10 may
comprise a matte or roughly textured inner surface 12 and a smoothly or gloss
textured
outer surface 14.
The band 10 is sufficientEy wide to sit on the human body without rolling,
moving laterally or slipping during stretching of the band 10. Preferably, the
width of
the band 10 is between 10 mm and 150 mm. Optimally, the width of the band 14
is
between approximately 25 mm and 100 mm.
The thickness of the band 10 is of a dimension suitable to give effective
resistance capacity or elasticity during the method of use. A pre-determined
thickness
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8
of the band 10 can be between approximately 1 mm and 16 mm. Preferably, the
thickness of the band 10 is between approximately 2 mm and 12 mm. In the
preferred
embodiment, a plurality of bands 10 are provided of increasing thicknesses
such that as
the user's muscular strength increases, bands 10 having a greater thickness
therefore
greater resistance to stretching may be employed to continually increase the
muscular
strength of the user.
The length of the band 10 is of a variable dimension suitable to give
effective
resistance or elastic capacity during use for users having different body
sizes. The
circumferential length of the band 10 is preferably between approximately 500
mm and
3000 mm. Typically, the band 10 is formed from an extrusion of natural gum
rubber
(not shown) provided by the manufacturer in a range of thicknesses. Strips
(not shown)
may be cut from the extrusion to the desired width. The two ends of the strips
may
then be fixed together with a suitable fixing adhesive, for example,
Cyanoacrylate,
forming a closed loop band 10 of a chosen length with a seam 16. Preferably,
the open
ends of the strip, prior to fixing, may be diagonally at approximately a 90
degree angle
from the edge of the band 10. The two open ends of the strip are then
overlapped and
sealed with any common, commercially available adhesive suitable for natural
gum
rubber. The width of the overlapped portion of the strip need not be large,
and may be
between an infinitesimal overlap and approximately 30 mm. Alternatively, the
open
ends of the strip of the strip may be diagonally sliced angle at an less than
45 degrees
from the edge of the strip, thereby increasing the surface area of the first
open end of
the strip available for contact with the other end and for gluing, making a
more
controlled fixed seam. Alternatively, a butt jointed seam 16 may be created by
gluing
the ends of the strip directly to each other such that there is no overlap and
a smoother
seam is achieved.
The outer surface 14 of the band 10 may be textured with a cross-hatched,
ribbed or other raised or relief pattern such that the band 10 grips firmly
either to the
human body, clothing or fixed objects such as doors with lateral movement or
rolling,
even when, for instance, the user is perspiring which can lead to slippage of
the band
10.
The inner surface of the band 10 can be smooth to facilitate a comfortable
grip
with the hands of the user without abrading or chaffing the user's hands.
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The natural gum rubber band 10 can be stretched to approximately six times its
original length and has a recoil memory and durable strength sufficient to
retain the
resistance capacity after prolonged usage.
Another aspect of the invention provides a method of using the exercise band
10
as a resistance apparatus to human muscles to increase strength of the
particular
muscles. The natural rubber band 10 can be used to target specific muscles and
muscle
groups of the user to increase muscular strength in the desired area or areas.
Combined
with using bands 10 of increasing thickness to gradually increase the
resistance
capacity of the exercise band 10 as the strength of the particular user
increases, the
method provides for a long term, low impact exercising for muscular fitness
which
avoids injury.
The exercise method involves placing the band 10 on or around the user's body
and at least one other contact point, either on the user's body or a fixed
object such as a
door. No attachment means are required, other than the band 10 itself. The
user then
flexes the muscle or muscle group desired to be exercised against the
resistance of the
band 10, thereby lengthening the band 10. Once the particular muscle is fully
or
partially flexed, to the comfort of the user, the muscle is then gradually
relaxed back to
the neutral position of the body thereby returning the band 10 to its original
length.
Repetitions of the same exercise are recommended. The user may wish to pause
at the
point when the muscle is fully extended, as the resistance of the band 10
against the
muscle being exercised provides the benefit of continual exertion and exercise
for the
user.
A plurality of band 101engths may be used individually or combined. The band
can be used in the form of an open loop around the user's body, or folded or
layered
together such that the inner surface 12 of the band 10 is largely contiguous.
The user
may place the smooth inner surface 12 of the band 10 against their body, or
the matte
outer surface 14, as is desired. The matter surface 14 provide greater
friction therefore
is useful against points of contact to reduce or eliminate slippage. The
smooth surface
12 prevents chaffing when placed against the user's hands, for instance.
As a further means for safe usage of the apparatus, the method may optionally
comprise attaching or placing the inner surface 12 of the band 10 on the
user's body and
attaching or placing the matte outer surface 14 on a stationary or immovable
object,
CA 02406149 2002-10-02
thereby, restricting movement of the apparatus on the stationary or immovable
object.
A preferred choice of immovable object may be, for example, a hinged and
framed
open or closed door, desk, or an object raised above ground level. The method
of
placing the apparatus on or about a stationary object may further comprise an
additional
fastening device, for example, a retaining device secured to an immovable
object, for
example, a wall bracket retainer, secured to a wall.
It will be seen that the method of the present invention uses points of
contact on
the body including, but not limited to, one or both hands, hands and feet,
torso and
hands, torso and one or both feet, a stationary object and one or both hands,
a stationary
object and one or both feet.
The exercise method provides exercises for the six muscle groups of the human
body. An advantage of the present method is that a wide range of muscles in
the
human body can be exercised using the apparatus. For ease of reference, each
muscle
group is denoted with one or more of the following abbreviations: (c) for
chest muscle
groups; (b) for back muscle groups; (s) for shoulder muscle groups; (r) for
muscle
groups of the arms; (1) for leg muscle groups and (a) for the abdominal muscle
groups.
The muscle group abbreviation shall follow the name of the exercise in the
following
description. The user may be referred to as "he", and is intended to include
both
genders.
Prior to the initiation of the exercise movement, tension adjustments may be
made by shortening or lengthening the active length of the apparatus depending
on the
size and strength of the individual user. The active length is the distance
between any
two contact points on the band 10, for instance, the two hands of the user.
The user
simply grasps the band 10 at substantially opposite ends of the band 10 to
create a
relatively low resistance. To increase the resistance, the user grasps the
band 10 at two
points which are closer, thereby requiring more force to stretch the band 10.
Another
method of increasing the resistance is to fold the band together so that the
inner surface
12 is contiguous, creating a closed loop. An open loop will provide less
resistance to
the user. The band 10 is of course a continuous loop, but may be employed in
an open
or closed position.
Figure 2A depicts a man with the apparatus held in both hands in an at rest
position for the Anterior Deltoid Raise exercise. This exercise affects the
shoulder
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11
muscle group. In the at rest position, the user stands in a neutral position
with a first
hand against his hip. The apparatus is placed with the inner surface 12
against the palm
of the user's hands. The user's second hand is placed in front of the first
hand and
abutting it, with straight arms. The second hand is extended in a smooth
motion away
from the user's body in a forward and upward motion without bending the elbow,
such
that the users muscles are contracting against the resistance of the band 10.
Figure 2B depicts a man with the band 10 held in both hands in an active
position for the Anterior Deltoid Raise exercise. The user's second hand is
fully
extended and held in front of the user's shoulder and slightly above it, and
the user's
shoulder muscles are contracted of flexed in opposition to the tension of the
band 10
thereby providing exercise for the shoulder muscle group. From this position,
the user
lowers his second hand in a smooth, straight arm motion such that the second
hand
again abuts the first hand still firmly placed against the user's hip. By
changing the
hand position on the one hip for the opposite hip alternative arm action of a
forward
movement is achieved. The exercise should be repeated a number of times which
is
challenging to the user and may be tailored to the individual by consulting a
relevant
professional such as a personal trainer or fitness expert.
Other exercises performed when using the band 10 held in both hands include
the Medial Deltoid Raise, the Posterior Deltoid Raise, Rotator Cuff Pulls,
Front
Latissimus Dorsi ("Lat.") Pull, and Rear Lat. Pull.
The Medial Deltoid Raise (s) performed in the same manner as the Anterior
Deltoid Raise, with the exception the users second hand is extended outwards
to the
side of the body.
The Posterior Deltoid Raise (s) is initiated from either a standing or sitting
position. The user's arms are extended forward at shoulder level, palms facing
downward with the elbows slightly bent. A lateral pulling motion of both arms
outwards towards the sides of the user's body is continued until full flexion
movement
cannot be continued.
The Rotator Cuff Pull (s) is initiated from a standing position with
stationary
elbows at the sides of the torso and hands extended forward from the elbows.
With
constant tension, one hand moves laterally as the other hand follows toward
the mid-
line of the body. The reverse motion is completed to exercise the opposite
shoulder.
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The Front Lat. Pull (b) is initiated from a sitting or standing position, with
the
user's arms extended straight upwards and overhead with the hands grasping
opposite
ends of the band 10. The user then stretches the band 10 in a downward lateral
motion
until maximum arm flexion is achieved. The elbows should remain slightly bent
throughout the exercise, palms facing away from the body or pronated.
The Rear Lat. Pull (b) is initiated from a sitting or standing position, with
the
user's arms extended straight upwards and overhead, with the hands grasping
opposite
ends of the band 10. The band 10 is stretched tight such that the inner
surface 12 is
substantially contiguous with itself. The band 10 is held transversely to the
medial line
of the user's body and slightly behind the head. The user then stretches the
band 10 in a
downward lateral motion such that the band 10 passes behind the user's head to
the
posterior plane of the body until maximum arm flexion is achieved. The elbows
should
remain bent throughout the exercise, palms facing away from the body or
pronated.
Figure 3A depicts a man with the band 10 held in both hands and placed under
both feet in an at rest position for the Standing Bicep Curl (r) exercise. The
user's
hands are pronated or facing downwards and gripping the band 10, and the
elbows are
slightly bent. The Standing Bicep Curl is initiated from a standing position
with
apparatus contact between both the hands and both feet. The palms of the
hands,
shoulder width apart, are facing downwards or pronated. With elbows stationary
at the
sides of the torso the hands are moved upwards to full flexion with the hands
supine,
and back down to full extension. Figure 3B depicts the user with arms at full
flexion.
Other exercises performed when using the band 10 held by one or both hands or
feet using one or more varying lengths of apparatus include the Sitting Bicep
Curl, the
Reverse Curl, Hammer Curl, Isolation Curl, Wrist Curl, Upright Row, Shrugs,
Outer
Low Row, Inner Low Row, and the Quadricep Squat.
The Sitting Bicep Curl (r) is performed in the same manner as the Standing
Bicep Curl, except that the user is seated in a chair, and may be leaning
slightly
backwards. The palms of the hands may begin and finish the movement facing the
body.
The Reverse Curl (r) is performed in the same manner as the Standing Bicep
Curl, except that the palms of the hands are facing inward towards the body or
pronated.
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13
The Hammer Curl (r) is performed with the same motion as the Standing Bicep
Curl, except the band 10 is looped under one foot and grasped with the hand on
the
same side, with the palm of the hand facing the mid-line of the body in the at
rest
position. The user then flexes his arm in the same manner as the Standing
Bicep Curl.
The Isolation Curl (r) is initiated from a sitting position. For this
exercise, the
band 10 is folded such that the inner surface 12 is contiguous. The user
places the non-
extended band 10 under the heels of both feet, which are placed in a wide
stance on the
floor. A stationary elbow contacts the inner thigh. With one hand, palm
supine, an
upward motion continues until full flexion, then reversed for full extension.
An
alternate method for this exercise for this exercise is performed using the
band 10 as an
open loop with one foot placed in the loop and the heel of the foot pressing
the band 10
to the floor.
The Wrist Curl (r) is initiated from a standing or sitting position with the
band
grasped in both hands and held against the floor by the user's heels, in an
open loop
position. The elbows remain stationary at an approximately 90% angle as the
hands, at
shoulder width apart, curl upwards to full flexion. For the sitting position,
the elbows
rest on the thighs, wrists extend over the knees, the palms are facing
upwards. The
hand motion is upward to full flexion then downward to full extension or
hyperextension, as desired.
The Upright Row (b) is initiated from a standing position with apparatus
contact
between the hands and feet, the palms of the hands are close together facing
inwards
toward the body, the arms are extended at the hip level. The user raises his
arms
upwards with the elbows leading the hands to achieve full flexion when the
elbows are
at or above ear level, then lowers his arms for full extension.
Shrugs (b) are initiated from a standing position. For this exercise, the band
10
is folded such that the inner surface 12 is contiguous, except for the two
ends of the
band 10 where loops are formed by placing the hands through the loop and
grasping the
inner surface 12 such that two small sub-loops 18 are formed around the user's
hands.
The layered band 10 or closed loop is placed beneath both feet. With arms
extended
downwards, palms facing towards the mid-line of the body with limited elbow
bend,
the motion is an upward shoulder lift until full flexion is achieved. The
reverse may be
CA 02406149 2002-10-02
14
used for full extension. This exercise may also be performed with the feet
placed in the
two small sub-loops 18 and the hands grasping the mid-point of the layered
band 10.
The Outer Low Row (b) is initiated from a seated position with both legs
extended. The closed loop band 10 is placed underneath the feet, hands hold
the looped
ends 18 of the band, and the palms are pronated. The user pulls the band 10
toward the
torso until full flexion is reached. The reverse may be used for full
extension.
The Inner Low Row (b) is performed in the same manner as the Outer Low Roll
except that the looped ends 18 are positioned over each foot and the layered
or closed
loop band 10 is hand held, the palms are facing downwards.
The Quadricep Squat (1) is performed in the same manner as the Shrugs except
that the user's arms remain motionless and the user squats to a seated
position, then
stands up and extends the legs in opposition to the resistance of the band 10
Figure 4A depicts the user with the band 10 in a closed loop position held in
both hands at the ends of the band 10 and placed against the middle of his
back in an at
rest position for the Middle Pectoral Press (c) exercise. With palms supine in
the
looped ends 18 the user extends his arms forward until the arms are fully
extended, as
depicted in figure 4B. The reverse motion is completed for full extension.
Other exercises performed when using the band 10 is placed against the torso
and held in one or both hands using one or more lengths of the band 10 in a
closed loop
position are the Lower Pectoral Press, the Upper Pectoral Press, the Pectoral
Crossover,
the Pectoral Fly, the Inner Pectoral Push-up, the Middle Pectoral Push-up, the
Outer
Pectoral Push-up, Dips, the Tricep Press, the Overhead Tricep Extension, and
the
Shoulder Press.
The Lower Pectoral Press (c) is performed in the same manner as the Middle
Pectoral Press except that the closed loop band 10 is placed on the upper back
and the
user pushes his hands on an approximately 45 degree downward angle from the
horizontal.
The Upper Pectoral Press (c) is performed in the same manner as the Middle
Pectoral Press except that the closed loop band 10 is placed on the middle to
lower back
and the user pushes his hands on an approximately 45 degree upward angle from
the
horizontal.
CA 02406149 2002-10-02
The Pectoral Crossover (c) is performed in the same manner as the Middle
Pectoral Press except that the hands are positioned widely at chest height.
The arms,
with limited elbow bend, move in a forward, inward lateral direction until the
hands
cross over each other and full flexion is complete.
The Pectoral Fly (c) is performed in the same manner as the Pectoral Crossover
except that the hands do not cross over each other.
The Inner Pectoral Push-up (c) is performed in the same manner as the Middle
Pectoral Press except that the initial position is prone, as for a traditional
push-up. The
hands are placed close together and below the chest.
The Middle Pectoral Push-up (c) is performed in the same manner as the Inner
Pectoral Push-up except that the hands are placed shoulder width apart.
The Outer Pectoral Push-up (c) is performed in the same manner as the Inner
Pectoral Push-up except that the hands are placed wider than shoulder width
apart.
Dips (c) are performed in the same manner as the Lower Pectoral Press, except
that the user lowers his arms with them adjacent to his body.
The Tricep Press (r) is performed in the same manner as the Middle Pectoral
Press except that the arms begin from a chest level, in a forwardly extended
position.
The elbows remain stationary as the user's forearms are flexed towards the
head or
upper torso. The reverse is required for full extension.
The Overhead Tricep Extension (r) is initiated from a sitting position. The
band
10 is placed under the lower torso or buttocks and held with one or both hands
positioned high and behind the back of the neck. The motion of the hand or
hands is
upward above the head until full extension is complete. The reverse is
required for full
flexion.
The Shoulder Press (s) is initiated from a sitting position, with the open
loop
band 10 placed under the lower torso or buttocks and gripped in each hand,
positioned
at shoulder level, the palms are facing upwards or supine. The motion of the
hands is
upwards until full extension is complete. The reverse is required for full
flexion.
Figure 5A depicts the band 10 in an open loop and placed against the user's
torso and under one foot in an at rest position for the Quadricep Lunge
exercise. The
Quadricep Lunge (1) is initiated from a standing position with band 10 under
the user's
left foot and over the user's right shoulder or alternatively, under the
user's right foot
CA 02406149 2002-10-02
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and over the left shoulder. The foot resting on the band 10 is positioned
ahead of the
opposite foot. The torso is lowered downward until the upper and lower leg are
at an
angle of approximately 90 degrees. For full extension, the leg must be
straightened.
Figure 5B depicts the user with his leg in full flexion during the Quadricep
Lunge.
Other exercises performed when using the band 10 is placed on the user's torso
and one or both feet using one or more varying lengths of apparatus include
Quadricep
Squats, the Calf Raise.
The Quadricep Squat (1) is performed in the same manner as the Quadricep
Lunge except the placement of the open loop band 10 is under both feet placed
parallel
on the floor.
The Calf raise (1) is performed in the same manner as the Quadricep Lunge
except that one foot is placed on the edge of an object raised above ground
level, for
example, a stair step, whereby the raised level supports the user. The knee
remains
straight as the heel of the foot is raised until full dorsiextension is
complete. For full
dorsiflexion the heel is lowered below the raised supporting object.
Figure 6A depicts the band 10 held in both hands and placed about a door in an
at rest position for the Standing Triceps Pressdown (r) exercise. This
exercise is
initiated from a standing position directly in front of a fixed object, such
as the top
outer edge of an open door or a metal wall bracket. The exercises are
described in
relation to a door, but it should be understood that various fixed objects may
be used,
provided the band 10 can be placed on or about the object. The open loop of
the band
is placed on the top edge of the door, and the user grasps the band 10 on each
side of
the door. The open loop band 10 is held in position against the object by
friction. In
this manner, the textured inner surface 12 of the band 10 is useful for
increasing
friction. The user holds his elbows stationary at his side. The user's hands
are placed
at shoulder height with palms facing toward the mid-line of the body. The user
moves
his hands downward until full extension is complete. The exercise is completed
by the
user raising his arms until fully flexed.
Figure 6B depicts the user performing the Triceps Pressdown exercise with
arms in the fully extended position.
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Other exercises performed with the band 10 is attached to or placed about a
stationary object and gripped in the user's hands include the Kneeling Tricep
Press, the
Kneeling Lat. Pull, the Kneeling Wide Lat. Pull, the Reclined Lat. Pullover,
and the
Reclined Pectoral Pullover.
The Kneeling Tricep Press (r) is performed in the same manner as the Triceps
Pressdown except that the user kneels down and places his back against the
edge of the
door facing away from the door and the motion is at a downward 45 degree angle
from
the horizontal.
The Kneeling Lat. Pull (b) is performed in the same manner as the Triceps
Pressdown except that the user kneels facing the edge of the door, and the
closed loop
band 10 placed on the top of the door. The user grips the looped ends 18 of
the band
10. Overhead extended arms pull downward until full flexion is complete. The
exercise is completed by extending the arms to the at rest position.
The Reclined Lat. Pullover (b) is initiated with the user lying supine with
his
arms extended overhead and behind. The open loop of the band 10 is placed
under the
lower edge of the door in a closed or open position, then grasped by the user
with both
hands. Alternatively the band 10 may be secured to metal bracket at a low
level affixed
to an immovable object. The user keeps his elbows bent at a constant angle, of
approximately 40 degrees, and rotates his arms downward until the elbows
contact the
floor. The exercise is completed by extending the arms over the head.
The Reclining Pectoral Pullover (c) is performed in the same manner as the
Reclined Lat. Pullover except that the user's arms remain relatively straight
and the
pulling motion ends above the chest.
Figure 7A depicts a man with the band 10 wrapped around both feet with the
inner surface 12 contacting the top of the user's feet, and placed about the
bottom edge
of a door in an at rest position for the Lower Abdominal Raise (a) exercise.
This
exercise is initiated from a semi-reclined sitting position with the legs
fully extended.
The user moves his legs upwards and inward toward the torso until full flexion
is
complete. The user then extends his legs to complete the exercise.
Figure 7B depicts the user with his legs fully flexed, in the active position
of the
Lower Abdominal Raise exercise.
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Other exercises performed when using the band 10 placed on a stationary object
and about one or both feet include the Upper Abdominal Curl, the Side Oblique
Raise,
the Back Extension, the Hamstring Curl, the Leg Extension, the Gluteal
Extension, the
Hamstring Extension, the Hip Raise, the Anterior Hip Extension, the Outer
Thigh Push,
and the Inner Thigh Pull.
The Upper Abdominal Curl (a) is performed in the same manner as the Lower
Abdominal Raise except the end user moves closer to the secured door, elevates
their
legs to create apparatus tension, then curls upward their shoulders until full
flexion is
complete.
The Side Abdominal Raise (a) is performed in the same manner as the Lower
Abdominal Raise except that the user lies on his side, lowers his knees,
elevates his
heels, then elevates his shoulder upward. If lying on the right side, the user
places his
right hand on his left hip and left hand at head level, and vice-versa to
exercise the left
side.
The Back Extension (b) is performed in the same manner as the Lower
Abdominal Raise except that the user lies prone with the open loop band 10 on
his rear
heels, then elevates his heels creating, stretching the band 10.
Simultaneously, the user
places his hands in front of his torso, and hyperextends his back.
The Hamstring Curl (1) is performed in the same manner as the Back Extension
except there is no extension of the back. The torso remains low to the floor
and the
legs begin in an extended position.
The Leg Extension (1) is initiated from a standing position. The user faces
away
from the door. The open loop band 10 is placed abutting the lower edge of the
door.
Bending from one knee, the user flexes his lower leg backwards and hooks the
apparatus around his ankle. The user then extends his lower leg downward and
forward. The distance between the door and the user's ankle in the at rest
position can
be used as a means of presetting the tension in the band 10 prior to the
exercise. The
exercise is completed by flexing the leg.
The Gluteal Extension (1) is performed in the same manner as the Leg Extension
except that the user faces the door, hooks the apparatus with their lower
heel, then
extends their leg in a backward motion. The user's knee does not bend during
this
motion.
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The Hamstring Extension (1) is performed in the same manner as the Gluteal
Extension except that the user raises his knee to hip level then extends their
leg in a
downward and backward motion. The band 10 is positioned on the bottom of the
selected foot.
The Hip Raise (1) is performed in the same manner as the Leg Extension except
that the user lifts his leg in a forward and upward motion until the knee is
level with the
users hip.
The Anterior Hip Extension (1) is performed in the same manner as the Leg
Extension except that the user initiates a low level forward, single leg
motion, starting
with both legs parallel with each other.
The Outer Thigh Abduction (1) is performed in the same manner as the Anterior
Hip Extension except that the user positions his body sideways to the
immoveable
object, in this case a firmly secured door, and hooks the open loop band 10
onto the
side of one heel, limiting knee bending, then extends the leg outwardly in a
lateral
direction.
The Inner Thigh Adduction (1) is performed in the same manner as the Outer
Thigh Abduction except that the user hooks the band 10 around the heel of a
laterally
extended leg. With limited knee bend, the lateral extended leg is pulled into
the mid-
line of the body or until both legs are in contact.
The preferred embodiments herein described are not intended to be exhaustive
nor to limit the scope of the invention to the precise forms disclosed. They
are chosen
and described to best explain the principles of the invention and its
application and
practical use to allow others skilled in the art to comprehend its teachings.
As will be apparent to those skilled in the art in the light of the foregoing
disclosure, many alterations and modifications are possible in the practice of
this
invention without departing from the spirit or scope thereof. Accordingly, the
scope of
the invention is to be construed in accordance with the substance defined by
the
following claims.
