Note : Les descriptions sont présentées dans la langue officielle dans laquelle elles ont été soumises.
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EXERCISE SUIT
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
TECHNICAL FIELD
The invention relates generally to exercise equipment and apparel worn
during fitness activities. More particularly, the invention relates to a suit
worn while
exercising which provides additional resistance for a more intense workout.
Specifically, the invention relates to an exercise suit that has at least one
resilient
band which extends along one of the pant legs or sleeves, is passed through a
direction changing means, is releasably engaged with a tension adjustment
mechanism and covered by a cover. The resilient band is situated so that it is
readily and easily adjusted before the suit is put on, when the suit is being
worn and
while the wearer is actively exercising.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Exercise and fitness equipment is a major industry including exercise apparel
and devices to encourage and facilitate healthy lives. Exercise apparel
includes
team related merchandise as well as moisture-wicking and heat retaining
apparel.
Still further, exercise apparel can also be used to stimulate and increase the
intensity of an exercise. Exercise suits are prime examples of exercise
apparel that
can increase the intensity of a workout.
A number of exercise suits have been proposed in the prior art for aiding
people in increasing the intensity of their workout. An example of such a suit
is that
disclosed in US Patent No. 4,065,814 to Fox. The suit is designed to cover the
user's whole body. The suit is made up of an inner layer and an outer layer of
fabric and includes a number of elastic bands that are disposed between these
layers. A first elastic band is provided around the waist region of the suit.
A pair of
substantially parallel, spaced apart elastic bands is fixed adjacent the front
of an
ankle region on each pant leg 56, extend upwardly along the front of the suit,
over
the shoulder region and downwardly along the back of the suit, and are fixed
adjacent the back of the ankle region of each pant leg 56. An elastic
triangular
region is also provided to extend beneath the user's feet. The elastic bands
are
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placed under tension when the suit is put on and thereby apply positive
pressure to
the legs, back and shoulders of the user. The elastic bands are not adjustable
to
change the tension applied to the user's body.
A second exercise suit disclosed in the prior art is found in US Patent No.
4,910,802 to Malloy. Again, this suit is a one piece suit that is designed to
cover the
entire body. A number of elastic bands are utilized in the suit. A pair of
substantially
parallel elastic bands is provided in each sleeve and leg. One of the pair
extends
down the interior side region of each sleeve and each leg and the other of the
pair
extends down the exterior side region of each sleeve and each leg. In the
sleeves,
those bands are disposed in conduits that extend from the shoulder region to
the
wrist region. In the legs, those bands extend from the waist region to the
ankle
region. Additional bands extend horizontally around the chest and the waist
regions
of the suit. Each band s positioned within an enclosed conduit on the exterior
surface of the suit and the conduits each include an access region. Buckles
are
provided on the bands in these access regions to permit the user to adjust the
tension in the bands. The sleeve sections each include a fingerless glove and
the
leg sections each include a sock portion to maintain the orientation of the
suit on
the user's body.
US Patent No. 5,109,546 to Dicker discloses an elastic exercise suit that is
made of a separate pant section and top. The top has a stretchable reinforcing
collar and includes reinforcing bands that extend from the collar to the waist
opening. The pants include a reinforced waist region and a reinforcing band
that is
fixedly secured to one side of the waist region, winds helically around a
first pant
leg 56, extends under a foot opening and back up along that first leg, along
the
crotch region, winds helically around a second pant leg 56, under the foot
opening
and back up along the second leg, finally being fixedly secured to the other
side of
the waist region. All of the reinforcing regions, i.e., the collar, top side
bands, pant
waist region and helical leg band are all made from an elastic fabric that is
sewn
into the rest of the elastic suit but differs therefrom. The elastic fabric
used to make
the reinforcing panels is more difficult to stretch than the surrounding
fabric and
these panels therefore require extra effort on the part of the user to
exercise in the
suit. The reinforced waist region also includes hook and loop tape that allows
the
user to adjust the tension in the waist region. Similarly, a length of hook
and loop
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fastener is secured to portions of a reinforcing knee pad. The hook and loop
fastener is threaded through one of a plurality of loops to adjust the tension
in the
knee pad. The adjustment of the knee pad somewhat increases or decreases the
tension in the reinforcing leg band.
US Patents Nos. 5,186,701 and 5,306,222 to Wilkinson disclose an exercise
outfit that includes a one-piece exercise suit that has anchors at its limb
extremities,
such as the gloves or loops on the hands and boots or loops on the feet. Other
anchors are provided at other locations such as at the shoulders and the
middle of
the chest and back. Elastic resistance bands are connected between these
various
anchors and may be passed through guide pockets provided on the suit. The suit
enables the user to position the resistance cords over the suit, attached to
the suit
or threaded through the suit. In one embodiment of the suit, the resistance
cords
are passed through channels and are secured to the anchors at the limb
extremities.
US Patent No. 5,308,305 to Romney discloses close-fitting exercise apparel
that includes several passageways on its exterior surface. A resistance member
is
able to be threaded through each passageway and is releasably secured at
either
end to a belt or harness by way of a suitable means such as a snap connector.
The
harness or belt does not form part of the exercise apparel. The length of the
resistance bands is adjustable at the snap connector.
US Patent No. 5,708,976 to Dicker discloses an exercise suit that has an
elastic block secured to the chest region or back region of the suit.
Resistive bands
are adjustably connected at a first end to the elastic block and at a second
end to
an adjustable thumb stirrup. Bottom ends of the shirt are secured together in
the
crotch region to ensure that the suit stays more or less in place on the
wearer's
body. A separate pair of exercise pants is also disclosed. The pants include
foot
stirrups and adjustable suspenders that pass over the wearer's shoulders. A
plurality of resistive bands extend through the legs and between the
suspenders
and the foot stirrups.
There is therefore need in the art for an improved exercise suit that is
easily
adjusted by the wearer when worn and during workouts, which provides for a
wide
range of adjustment and which prevents accidental dislodgement of the tension
adjustment mechanisms during exercise.
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SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The device of the present invention is an exercise suit which includes a
resilient band extending through a guide pocket in a first direction along a
pant leg
or sleeve of the suit. The band engages a direction changing means near the
end
of the leg or sleeve and at least a portion of the band extends there beyond
in a
second direction. A free end of the band is releasably engaged with a tension
adjustment mechanism provided on the exterior of the leg or sleeve a distance
away from the direction changing means. The wearer adjusts the tension in the
band by moving a length of the band through the direction changing means and
repositioning the free end on the tension adjustment mechanism. A cover is
removably disposed over the tension adjustment mechanism to prevent accidental
dislodgement of the free end of the band.
In accordance with a invention the exercise suit comprises a front and a back
adapted to cover a torso of a wearer; a pair of first tubular members
extending
outwardly from the front and back and adapted to receive the wearer's arms
therethrough; a pair of second tubular members extending outwardly from the
front
and back and adapted to receive the wearer's legs therethrough; a resilient
band
extending in a first direction along one of the first and second tubular
members from
the front and back and toward a first end thereof, said band having a first
free end
and a second free end; a first direction changing means disposed proximate the
first end of the one of the first and second tubular members; wherein said
band
engages the first direction changing means and at least a portion of the band
extends there beyond in a second direction; and a first tension adjustment
mechanism disposed a distance inwardly from the first end of the one of the
first
and second tubular members; and wherein the first free end of the band is
releasably engageable with said first tension adjustment mechanism.
A resilient band may be provided on each of the legs and sleeves of the suit
and a guide pockets for retaining the band is situated on the interior surface
of the
suit or on the exterior surface thereof. Each guide pocket is either a single
elongated member that extends from one end of the leg or sleeve to the other
or is
comprised of smaller segments that are separated from each other but are
generally aligned with each other. Still further, the guide pocket may be two
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separate segments, one of which extends down the entire length of either an
inner
side or outer side of the leg or sleeve and the other of which extends only
partially
down the length of the other of the inner side and outer side of the leg or
sleeve. In
this latter instance, the resilient band will extend across an opening in the
leg or
sleeve through which the foot or hand will extend. Consequently, the band
comes
into engaging contact with the foot or hand and aids in keeping the suit in a
generally fixed position on the wearer's body. Other anchoring components may
be
utilized instead of bringing the band into contact with the wearer's hand or
foot.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A preferred embodiment of the invention, illustrated of the best mode in
which Applicant contemplates applying the principles, is set forth in the
following
description and is shown in the drawings and is particularly and distinctly
pointed
out and set forth in the appended claims.
Similar numbers refer to similar parts throughout the drawings.
Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a first embodiment of an exercise suit
in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of the exercise suit of Fig. 1;
Figure 3 is an enlarged left side perspective view of a bottom end of a left
pant leg 56 of the exercise suit and showing an arch support being positioned
beneath a wearer's foot;
Figure 4 is an enlarged right side perspective view of the bottom end of the
left pant leg 56 showing the adjustment mechanism being adjusted;
Figure 5 is an enlarged top perspective view of a right sleeve of the suit
shirt
with the adjustment mechanism disengaged and the length of the resilient band
being adjusted;
Figure 6 is an enlarged bottom perspective view of the right sleeve of the
suit
shirt showing a stabilizing strap being adjusted;
Figure 7 is a cross-sectional left side view of the right sleeve of the suit
shirt
taken along line 7-7 of Fig. 5 and showing the sleeve resilient band in both
an
adjusted and a secured position;
Figure 8 is an enlarged front view of a mid-section of the exercise suit
illustrating an upper and lower girdle belt disposed thereon;
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Figure 9 is a front perspective view of a second embodiment of an exercise
suit in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 10 is a rear perspective view of the exercise suit of Fig. 9;
Figure 11 is an enlarged left side perspective view of a bottom end of a left
pant leg 56 of the exercise suit of Fig. 9 and showing the resilient band
forming a
foot stirrup and being positioned beneath a wearer's foot;
Figure 12 is an enlarged right side perspective view of the bottom end of the
left pant leg 56 showing the adjustment mechanism in a secured position and
showing a removable cover disposed adjacent the closed adjustment mechanism;
Figure 13 is an enlarged top perspective view of a right sleeve of the suit
shirt with the adjustment mechanism in a closed position and with the cover
disposed thereof in a secured position;
Figure 14a is an enlarged top perspective view of the right sleeve of the suit
shirt with the adjustment mechanism engaged in a first position;
Figure 14b is an enlarged top perspective view of the right sleeve of the suit
shirt with the adjustment mechanism engaged in a second position; and
Figure 15 is a cross-sectional left side view of the right sleeve of the suit
shirt
taken along line 15-15 of Fig. 13 and showing the sleeve resilient band in
both an
adjusted and a secured position.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
At the outset, it should be appreciated that like drawing numbers on different
drawing views identify identical, or functionally similar, structural elements
of the
invention. While the present invention is described with respect to what is
presently
considered to be the preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that the
invention as claimed is not limited to the disclosed aspects.
Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have
the same meaning as commonly understood to one of the ordinary skill in the
art to
which this invention belongs. Although any methods, devices or materials
similar or
equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of
the
invention, the preferred methods, devices, and materials are now described.
A first embodiment of an exercise suit in accordance with the present
invention is indicated generally at 10, and is particularly shown in Figures 1
through
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8. As particularly shown in Figures 1 and 2, exercise suit 10 preferably
comprises a
separate shirt 12 and pants 14 but could also be a unitary device that
essentially
covers the wearer's entire body.
Shirt 12 is preferably manufactured as a single piece with a front side 16 and
a rear side 18. A pair of tubular sleeves 20 extend from a core 22 made from
front
and rear sides 16, 18. Shirt 12 includes openings for the neck, wrists and
waist of
the wearer. The shirt preferably is manufactured from two materials, a more
flexible, elastic material 24 and a less flexible, less elastic or what will
be termed
herein as a "rigid" material 26. Suitable flexible materials 24 include
polyesters,
spandex or materials sold under the registered trademark LYCRA. Material 24
may
also be moisture wicking or compressive in nature. Ridged material 26 provides
stability in the suit as well as ensures a constant fit for the wearer.
Elastic material
24 is preferably used to make core 22 and foresleeve panels 28, while ridged
material 26 is preferably located along the suit's shoulder regions, the
regions of the
sleeves other than foresleeve panels 28, and the side panels. A reflective
piping 30
may be utilized along the seams between the panels made from elastic material
24
and those made from rigid material 26. It will be understood by those of
ordinary
skill in the art that a wide variety of different fabrics and materials may be
used in
the construction of exercise suit 10 without departing from the scope of the
invention and the materials identified herein should not be considered
limiting.
Additionally, while exercise suit 10 is illustrated as a form-fitting suit, it
will be
understood that this too is not to be considered a limiting factor and that
looser or
loose fitting apparel is also considered to fall within the scope of the
present
invention.
In accordance with a specific feature of the present invention, shirt 12
includes a resilient band 32 that is positioned to extend in from the left
wrist region
94 of suit 10, along the left sleeve, across the upper region of rear side 18
(Fig. 2),
along the right sleeve and terminate at the right wrist region 94 of suit 10.
A portion
of resilient band 32 extends outwardly for a distance beyond each wrist region
94
and is foldable back upon itself by being passed through a direction changing
means and is then secured to a tension adjustment mechanism provided on the
exterior surface of the suit 10. The direction changing means and tension
adjustment mechanism will be described in greater depth hereafter.
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Resilient band 32 is provided to increase resistance to the wearer moving
their limbs and preferably is an elastic strip or cord of any cross-sectional
shape.
Preferably, resilient band 32 is manufactured from a material such as natural
rubber
that can be increased in length by pulling or pushing on the same but which
will
return substantially to its original length when released. Resilient band 32
has a
length and a width and includes first and second free ends 98 with an
intermediate
region disposed between ends 98. First free end 98 is disposed adjacent left
wrist
region 94 and second free end 98 is disposed adjacent right wrist region. As
is
evident from Fig. 5, each free end 98 of resilient band 32 preferably is
reinforced in
some manner such as by including a housing 99 disposed thereover. This makes
it
easier for the wearer to grasp free end 98 to adjust resilient band 32 as will
be
hereinafter described.
Suit 10 further includes one or more guide pockets through which resilient
band 32 is threaded. These guide pockets comprise pockets of fabric that are
sewn
or otherwise secured to the exterior surface of suit 10 and include wrist
guide
pockets 106 disposed adjacent each of the left and right wrist regions 94,
sleeve
guide pockets 34, and back guide pockets 36. Guide pockets 34, 36 and 106
correctly position resilient band 32 for exercising. It will of course be
understood
that instead of wrist guide pockets 94, sleeve guide pockets 34 and back guide
pockets 36, resilient band 32 may alternatively be threaded through a single
continuous guide pocket that extends from proximate left wrist region 94 to
proximate right wrist region 94, without departing from the scope of the
present
invention.
As indicated above and in accordance with a specific feature of the present
invention, suit 10 is provided with a direction changing means that is
disposed a
spaced distance from wrist region 94 and from an end of a wrist guide pocket
106.
The direction changing means causes band 32 to be redirected from extending in
a
first direction to extending in an opposed second direction. On left or right
sleeves,
the direction changing means comprises a ring 100 that is secured to the
exterior
surface of the suit by a strap 104. Ring 100 is disposed adjacent the wrist
region
94 of the sleeve and a spaced distance from a tension adjustment mechanism
that
will be described hereafter. Ring 100 defines an aperture therethrough (not
numbered) that preferably is oriented generally at right angles to the
direction of
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extension of the resilient band 32 and resilient band 32 extends movably
through
this aperture. Preferably, band 32 is able to slide in one of the first and
second
directions through the aperture by either being pulled or by being released.
Ring
100 preferably is a strong, rigid member made out of metal or plastic which
enables
the wearer to pull resilient band 32 tighter without causing undue stress and
damage to the fabric of suit 10. It will be understood, however, that ring 100
may
also be comprised of a loop of fabric or some other less rigid material
without
departing from the scope of the invention. Additionally, while ring 100 is
shown as
being secured to the sleeve by strap 104 that generally holds it at right
angles to the
direction of extension of band 32, it may also be mounted to suit 10 in such a
way
that it is able to swivel or pivot so that it is held at angles other than 90
relative to
the direction of extension of band 32.
As indicated previously and in accordance with a specific feature of the
present invention, suit 10 is provided with a tension adjustment mechanism 101
disposed at one, but preferably at both, free ends 98 of resilient band 32.
This
tension adjustment mechanism 101 is provided to enable the wearer to adjust
the
tension in resilient band 32 and to then lock the resilient band 32 in that
adjusted
condition. In accordance with a specific feature of the invention, the tension
adjustment mechanism 101 comprises a first fastener component that is secured
to
an exterior surface of suit 10 and a second fastener component that is secured
to
free end 98 of resilient band 32. First and second fastener components are
selectively engageable with each other to lock the resilient band 32 in a
particular
tensioned state. First and second fastener components are selectively
disengageable from each other to allow the wearer to adjust the tension in
resilient
band 32.
In the first embodiment of suit 10 illustrated in Figs. 1-8, the first
fastener
component of the tension adjustment mechanism 101 comprises a first piece of
one of a hook and loop fastener 108 that is secured to an exterior surface of
wrist
guide pocket 106. The second fastener component of the tension adjustment
mechanism 101 comprises a second piece of the other of a hook and loop
fastener
102 that is secured to free end 98 of resilient band 32. Hook and loop
fasteners 108
and 102 are pushed together to lock resilient band 32 in a particular
tensioned
condition and are separated from each other to permit adjustment in the
tension
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therein. In order to adjust the tension in resilient band 32, the wearer will
disengage
second fastener component 102 from first fastener component 108 and if they
wish
to increase the tension in resilient band 32, they will pull free end 98 in
the direction
indicated by arrow 112 in Fig. 5. This pulling motion slides an additional
length of
resilient band 32 through ring 100, thereby increasing the tensile forces in
resilient
band 32. Once the desired tension is attained, second fastener component 102
on
free end 98 of band 32 is engaged with first fastener component 108 by moving
the
same in the direction of arrow 116. As will be obvious, increasing the length
of that
piece of the resilient band 32 which extends outwardly beyond ring 100, will
result in
second fastener component 102 being engaged on first fastener component 108 in
a different location to the initial location of its engagement thereon. That
different
location will be located further from wrist region 94 that the initial
location. The
direction changing means, ring 100, enables the wearer to apply leverage to
resilient band 32 and thereby enables the wearer to apply less force to
increase the
tension in band 32. The positioning of ring 100 also enhances the action of
the ring
in that it is easier to apply force at the extremities of the limbs than it is
to apply
force closer to the torso.
If the wearer decides they wish to decrease the tension in resilient band 32,
they disengage second fastener component 102 from first fastener component
108.
The wearer then moves free end 98 in such a manner that a length of resilient
band
32 will slide back through ring 100 in the direction indicated by arrow 114.
Thus, the
piece of resilient band 32 that extends outwardly beyond ring 100 is shortened
and,
once again, when the desired tension is attained, second fastener component
102
is engaged with first fastener component 108, and the location of that
engagement
will be different to the initial location of engagement. In particular, the
different
location will be disposed closer to wrist region 94 than was the initial
location.
Since a tension adjustment mechanism 101 is provided at both ends of
resilient band 32, the wearer of exercise suit 10 will be able to make
adjustments to
the tension in resilient band 32 at both free ends 98 thereof. Furthermore,
the
location of the tension adjustment mechanism 101 on the outside of the suit
and
specifically in an area that is disposed between where the wearer's hand and
elbow
are situated, also enables the wearer to make these tension adjustments while
they
are wearing the suit 10 and even while they are actively exercising in the
suit 10.
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It should be understood that while tension adjustment mechanism 101 is
described and illustrated herein as being two regions of hook and loop
fastener
108, 102, any suitable type of cooperating and adjustable fastener components
can
be utilized to change the tension in resilient band 32 without departing from
the
scope of the present invention. Thus, the tension adjustment mechanism 101 can
instead utilize mating ratcheting-type connectors, interlocking buckles,
snaps,
zippers, hooks, ties, buttons and mating button holes, magnets, mating male
and
female connectors, mating roller blade style zip clips, etc.
In accordance with another feature of the present invention, shirt 12 also
includes an additional pair of core resilient bands 38. Core resilient bands
38 are
anchored into rear side 18 of shirt 12 and extend generally vertically between
the
waist region of shirt 12 and a position that will fall generally adjacent one
of the
shoulder blades of a person wearing suit 10. A first end of each resilient
band 38 is
fixedly secured to rear side 18 by stitching 40. Each resilient band 38 is
passed
through spaced apart back guide pockets 44, 50 and then a second end of
resilient
band 38 is threaded through a direction changing means in the form of ring 48.
Ring 48 is disposed adjacent the waist region of shirt 12 and changes the
direction
of a portion of resilient band 38 so that the free end 46 thereof is disposed
a short
distance above ring 48 and further away from the waist region. A tension
adjustment mechanism 42 is provided to engage each resilient band 38 so that
the
wearer is able to adjust the tension in resilient bands 38. As with tension
adjustment
mechanism 101, tension adjustment mechanism 42 includes a first and a second
fastener component that are engageable with each other. The first fastener
component 52 is secured to an exterior surface of exercise suit 10 and the
second
fastener component (not shown) is secured to free end 46 of resilient band 38.
Preferably, first fastener component 52 is secured to an exterior surface of
back
guide pocket 50. In the preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in
Figs. 1-
8, the first and second fastener components are, once again, preferably hook
and
loop fasteners that are selective engageable with and disengageable from each
other. Tension adjustment mechanism 42 functions in essentially the same
manner
as the tension adjustment mechanisms 101 on sleeves 20 with the exception that
the wearer will likely make the necessary adjustments to the tension in
resilient
band 38 before they put the shirt on. Alternatively, another person will need
to
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make the tension adjustments when the wearer is wearing suit 10 as the wearer
simply cannot reach tension adjustment mechanisms 42 easily. It will of course
be
understood that any suitable type of first and second fastener components can
be
utilized in tension adjustment mechanism 42 without departing from the scope
of
the present invention.
As indicated previously, exercise suit 10 further comprises a pair of pants 14
made from a combination of the elastic material 24 and rigid material 26.
Pants 14
are comprised of a front side and a rear side and include a waist opening at
the top
end thereof and two tubular pant legs 56 extending downwardly from the bottom
thereof. Pant legs 56 further define two ankle openings at the bottom of pant
legs
56.
In accordance with the present invention, pants 14 are provided with a pair of
resilient bands 54. Each resilient band 54 extends from proximate one side of
the
waist region of pants 14, down the outer side of one of the pant legs 56 that
would
be disposed along the outer side of the wearer's leg, across the ankle opening
at
the bottom of the pant leg 56 and for a short distance up the inside of the
pant leg
56 that would be disposed adjacent the inner side of the wearer's leg.
Resilient
band 54 extends upwardly along the inside of pant leg 56 to an area that would
be
generally mid-way between the wearer's knee and ankle. As was the case with
resilient bands 32 and 38, resilient band 54 is threaded through a plurality
of guide
pockets 58, 60, 76 that are secured to the exterior surface of pant legs 56. A
first
tension adjustment mechanism 61 is provided proximate the waist region of
pants
14 and a second tension adjustment mechanism 81 is provided proximate the
ankle
region of pant legs 56 on the inner side thereof. First tension adjustment
mechanism 81 is designed to be engaged by first free end 64 of resilient band
54
and second tension adjustment mechanism 81 is designed to be engaged second
free end 80 of resilient band 54.
A direction changing means in the form of ring 64 is provided adjacent first
tension adjustment mechanism 61 to change the direction of resilient band 54
as it
extends upwardly toward the waist region and to redirect it so that it extends
downwardly toward first tension adjustment mechanism 61. The first free end 62
of
resilient band 54 includes a first fastener component of tension adjustment
mechanism 61 and a second fastener component thereof is provided on guide
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pocket 58. Although not illustrated in detail herein, first and second
fastener
components of tension adjustment mechanism 61 comprise the mating portions of
a hook and loop fastener. Tension adjustment mechanism 61 is of a
substantially
identical structure and function to tension adjustment mechanisms 101 and 42
described previously herein.
Similarly, a direction changing means in the form of a ring 84 is provided
adjacent second tension adjustment mechanism 81. Ring 84 is secured to a strap
86 that is sewn to the exterior surface of pants 14. Preferably, the fabric
that is
used to construct the area surrounding ring 84 and strap 86 is of the more-
rigid,
non-stretch type as this aids in anchoring that region of suit 10 on the
wearer's
body. Preferably, this region of more-rigid fabric is provided in a location
of the pant
legs to completely encircle the wearer's calf. Resilient band 54 is threaded
through
ring 84 so that it is redirected in that it no longer extends upwardly toward
the waist
region of pants 14 but instead extends downwardly toward the ankle region
thereof.
Band 54 is therefore essentially folded back on itself Second tension
adjustment
mechanism 81 comprises a first and second fastener component that are
selectively engageable with each other. In particular, first fastener
component 82 of
tension adjustment mechanism 81 comprises one of a hook and loop fastener that
is secured to free end 80 of resilient band 54 and second fastener component
78
comprises the other of the hook and loop fastener and is secured to an
exterior
surface of guide pocket 76. Once again, tension adjustment mechanism 81
functions in substantially an identical manner to tension adjustment
mechanisms
101, 42, and 61. Tension adjustment mechanism 81 is disengaged by moving free
end 80 in the direction indicated by arrow 88 and is engaged by moving free
end 80
in the direction indicated by arrow 93. To increase the tension in resilient
band 54,
the free end 80 thereof is moved in the direction indicated by arrow 90 and to
decrease the tension therein, the free end 80 is moved in the direction
indicated by
arrow 91.
Inasmuch as tension adjustment mechanisms 61, 81 are provided at free
ends 62, 80 of resilient band 54, the wearer of exercise suit 10 is able to
adjust the
tension in resilient band 54 by adjusting one or both tension adjustment
mechanisms 61, 81 when the suit is worn. The positioning of tension adjustment
mechanisms 61, 81 is advantageous in that these locations are easy for the
wearer
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to reach. Particularly, the tension adjustment mechanisms 61 on the hip
regions of
the pants 14 are readily adjustable during an exercise routine. Once again, it
should be understood that tension adjustment mechanisms 61 and 81 do not have
to comprise mating hook and loop fasteners but can be of any other type or
configuration that will allow the wearer of the suit to easily disengage the
free ends
62, 80 of resilient bands 54, change the tension in the same and then engage
the
ends once again to lock the resilient bands 54 in the adjusted position.
Figures 3 and 4 illustrate inner and outer views of a wearer's lower left leg
region showing other component parts of exercise suit 10 in greater detail. In
accordance with yet another feature of the present invention, a foot and ankle
wrap
66 extends downwardly from pant leg 56. Wrap 66 preferably surrounds the
wearer's foot and ankle and acts as an anchor to increase stability. A calf
strap 68
preferably is provided to maintain the wrap 66 in the desired location. Both
wrap 66
and strap 68 aid in preventing suit 10 from shifting on the body as tension is
increased in the various resilient bands.
Exercise suit 10 further includes an arch support 70 that is engaged on
resilient band 54. Resilient band 54 is threaded through a pair of holes 72
disposed
on opposing sides of arch support 70 so that arch support 70 is slidable along
resilient band 54 when the resilient band is tightened or released by the
wearer. In
this way, arch support 70 is always able to be positioned in the appropriate
location
beneath the lower surface of wrap 66 and in the correct position to support
the
wearer's foot arch. Additionally, any pulling motion on resilient band 54 when
the
wearer of exercise suit 10 is standing with their weight on arch support 70
will cause
a portion of resilient band 54 to slide through the two spaced apart holes 72
while
permitting arch support 70 to remain in place. In this way, the wearer of suit
10 is
able to adjust the tension in resilient band 54 without having to remove their
shoes
or to sit down and fiddle with the positioning of arch support 70. It should
also be
noted that arch support 70 preferably has gently rounded edges 74 so that it
is
comfortable for the wearer to use. Instead of being an active arch support,
component 70 may instead simply be a soft durometer plastic pad that aids in
distributing the pressure of resilient band 54 under the wearer's heel.
Figures 5 through 7 illustrate an enlarged view of the right sleeve 20. In
accordance with another feature of the invention, each sleeve 20 preferably
include
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a glove 92 to aid in anchoring wrist region 94 and preventing the sleeve from
shifting on the wearer's body as the tension in resilient band 32 is changed.
Glove
92 may include openings to allow the wearer's fingers to extend there through
and
may be formed integral with wrist region 94. Although not illustrated herein,
in an
alternative embodiment, glove 92 may be separable from sleeve 20 and may
further include a ring or other attachment device to allow sleeve resilient
band 32 to
extend there through. Advantageously, this arrangement allows the user to
selectively utilize glove 92 to increase resistance without requiring the
glove to be
used at all times.
In accordance with another feature of the present invention and referring
specifically to Figure 6, a wrist stabilizer 118 includes a strap 120 having a
ring 122
and a hook and loop fastener 124. Strap 120 terminates with an end 126 having
a
hook and loop fastener 128. End 126 passes through ring 122 and is then folded
backwards to connect hook and fasteners 124 and 128. Specifically, the wearer
pulls end 126 in the direction associated with arrows 130 until the proper
tension is
achieved and the end is then folded in the direction associated with arrow 131
to
latch the wrist stabilizer and in the direction associated with arrow 133 to
unlatch
the wrist stabilizer. In a preferred embodiment, a wrist stabilizer is
utilized at both
wrists and helps reduce any strain on the wearer's hands at glove 92 which may
be
caused by resilient band 32 pulling the glove. Further, wrist stabilizer 118
insures
that the tension in resilient band 32 remains substantially consistent by
maintaining
the position of ring 100 thereby aiding in maintaining tension in resilient
band 32.
Figure 8 illustrates a belt girdle 132 located at the bottom of shirt 12 and a
second belt girdle 134 located at the top of pants 14. While exercise suit 10
may
be formed as a single unit, a preferred embodiment separates shirt 12 and
pants
14. Separating shirt 12 and pants 14 requires that each be maintained in a
constant position to maintain the amount of resistance in the various
resilient bands
32, 38. 54 as set by the wearer of the suit. Due to the fact that belt girdle
132 and
second belt girdle 134 are structurally and functionally identical, only the
belt girdle
132 will be described in detail.
Belt girdle 132 includes an intermediate belt 136 extending from one side of
the shirt and an inner belt 138 and an outer belt 140 extending from the
opposite
side of the shirt. In a preferred embodiment, intermediate belt 136 extends
from
CA 02732818 2011-02-25
the wearer's left side and connects to ridged material 26 near elastic
material 24
and piping 30. Intermediate belt 136 has a hook and loop fastener 142 on both
sides of the belt. Inner belt 138 includes a hook and loop fastener 144 on a
front
side 146, while outer belt 140 has a hook and loop fastener 148 on a back side
150.
Having described the structure of the preferred embodiment belt girdles, a
preferred method of operation will now be described in detail. Inner belt 138
of belt
girdle 132 is laid across the wearer's core in the direction associated with
arrow
152. Intermediate belt 136 is moved in the direction associated with arrow 154
and
is secured to inner belt 138 so that hook and loop fastener 142 of one side of
the
intermediate belt is secured to hook and loop fastener 144. Next, outer belt
150 is
folded in the direction associated with arrow 156 to secure hook and loop
fastener
142 on the back side of intermediate belt 136 to hook and loop fastener 148.
Accordingly, the belt girdles provide a tight fit around the wearer's core to
insure
that the shirt and pants remain in a constant position to provide increase
resistance
during exercise.
Thus, exercise suit 10 provides a separable shirt 12 and pants 14 which
include adjustable exercise resilient bands to allow the wearer to increase
the
intensity of his/her exercising. Advantageously, the sleeve and shoulder
resistance
includes a single resilient band 32 that can be adjusted at either free end
and is
further stabilized by a glove and/or wrist stabilizer. Further, the user can
increase
core workout intensity by increasing the tension at the core resilient bands
38 and
lower body resistance by increasing the tension of resilient bands 54.
It will be evident to one skilled in the art that a variety of changes can be
made that are within the spirit and scope of the present invention. For
instance, the
flexible and ridged material can be replaced with only flexible material, or
multiple
adjustment points can be incorporated instead of only single tension
adjustment
mechanisms. Still further, tension adjustment mechanisms may be located at the
knees or other joints to specifically target certain muscle groups. While the
preferred embodiment fasteners are hook and loop style, any suitable fastener
which is removably securable may be used without departing from the spirit and
scope of the present invention.
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Referring to Figs. 9-15 there is shown a second embodiment of exercise suit
in accordance with the present invention and generally indicated at 210. Suit
210
preferably is comprised of a separate shirt 212 and pants 214 but may instead
be a
unitary suit that substantially covers the entire body. Shirt 212 and pants
214 are
substantially identical to shirt 12 and pants 14 except for the features that
are
described hereafter.
In accordance with a first feature of exercise suit 210, all of the resilient
bands are disposed within elongate pockets located on shirt 212 and pants 214.
Each pocket is formed by sewing or otherwise securing a strip of fabric to the
interior surface of shirt 212 and pants 214 in such a manner that a hollow
channel
is formed between the layer of fabric and the interior surface of suit 10. The
strip of
fabric can be of any desired width but preferably will be around 1 inch wide.
The
resilient band is threaded through the channel and can be inserted and removed
therefrom with relative ease.
Shirt 210 preferably is provided with a single pocket 215 therein. Pocket 215
extends from adjacent a left wrist region 217 of left sleeve 219, along a back
region
of left sleeve 219, across the rear side 221 of shirt 212, along a back region
of right
sleeve 223 to a position adjacent a right wrist region 225. A resilient band
232 is
disposed within this pocket. Resilient band 232 is similar in nature to
resilient band
32 and will therefore not be described in any additional detail herein.
Referring to Fig. 13, the features of exercise suit 210 at right wrist region
225
are shown in greater detail. It will be understood that left wrist region 217
is a mirror
image hereof. In accordance with a specific feature of the present invention,
a
direction changing means is provided on suit 210. This direction changing
means is
an aperture 227 that is defined in right sleeve 223 a spaced distance from
right
wrist region 225. Preferably, aperture 227 is spaced between 1 and 2 inches
away
from the opening 229 therein. Aperture 227 extends between the interior
surface
223b (Fig. 15) and exterior surface 223a of sleeve 223. Wrist region 225 may
include a layer of tacky or gripping material 231 that aids in keeping right
sleeve
223 generally fixed in position on the wearer's arm 233. Such gripping
material 231
may include a silicone layer that is applied to the interior surface of the
wrist region
of the sleeves. Alternatively, wrist regions maybe provided with an elastic
cuff that
grips the wearer's wrists. (A similar gripping region may be provided on the
ankle
17
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region of the pant legs.) Preferably, aperture 227 is surrounded by a
reinforcement
235 that aids in preventing resilient band 232 from damaging the fabric of
right
sleeve 223. Resilient band 232 exits pocket 215 and is threaded through
aperture
227 so that it passes from an interior region of right sleeve 223 to a region
outside
of the suit 210. As with resilient band 32, resilient band 232 is provided
with a free
end 298 that may include a housing 299 so that free end 298 may be easily
grasped by the wearer.
In accordance with another feature of the present invention, suit 210 is
provided with a tension adjustment mechanism 301 that is used to alter the
tension
in resilient band 232. Tension adjustment mechanism 301 comprises a first
fastener
component 237 and a second fastener component 239 that are configured to
engage each other. First fastener component 237 comprises one of a hook and
loop fastener that is secured to exterior surface 223a of right sleeve 223.
Particularly, first fastener component 237 comprises an elongate strip of the
one of
the hook and loop fastener that extends for a distance along right sleeve 223
and
substantially aligned with pocket 215 in the interior thereof. Second fastener
component 239 comprises the other of a hook and loop fastener that is secured
to
free end 298 of resilient band 232. It should also be noted that first
fastener
component 237 is substantially longer and wider than is first fastener
component
239.
Figs. 13, 14a and 14b illustrate adjusting the tension in resilient band 232.
Initially, free end 298 of resilient band 232 may be located in a first
position on first
fastener component 237, as shown in Fig. 14a. When the wearer wishes to adjust
the tension in resilient band 232 they disengage second fastener component 239
from first fastener component 237 by pulling upwardly in the direction
indicated by
arrow 241 (Fig. 13). If they wish to increase tension in resilient band 232
they pull
free end 298 of resilient band 232 outwardly in the direction indicated by
arrow 243.
Aperture 227 enables the user to apply leverage to resilient band 232 and
thereby
use less force to increase the tension therein than would otherwise be needed
if the
direction in band 232 was not changed. As the wearer pulls on band 232, an
additional length thereof is drawn through aperture 227. When the desired
tension
is achieved in resilient band 232, the wearer moves free end 298 back toward
first
fastener component 237 in the direction indicated by arrow 245. Second
fastener
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CA 02732818 2011-02-25
component 239 is then engaged with first fastener component in a second
location
that essentially causes that portion of the resilient band disposed between
aperture
227 and free end 298 to lay substantially flat against a portion of the
exterior
surface of sleeve and first fastener component. Such a second location is
illustrated
in Fig. 14b.
If, on the other hand, the free end 298 was originally in this second location
and the wearer wished to reduce tension in resilient band 232, they would
disengage second fastener component 239 from first fastener component 237 by
moving free end 298 in the direction indicated by arrow 241. That would then
permit
free end 298 to slide downwardly toward aperture 227 in the direction of arrow
247
under the spring action of resilient band 232. This motion would cause tension
in
resilient band 232 to be released. When the desired tension in resilient band
232 is
achieved, the wearer will move free end 298 downwardly in the direction of
arrow
245 and engage second fastener component 239 to first fastener component 237.
In this instance, the new location of free end 298 will be closer to wrist
region 225,
such as the location represented in Fig. 14a. It will be understood that the
wearer
can position free end 298 anywhere along second fastener component 237 that
achieves the desired tension in resilient band 232. It will further be
understood that
the left wrist region 217 includes a substantially identical tension
adjustment
mechanism and that resilient band 232 can therefore be adjusted at one or both
wrist regions 217, 225.
In accordance with yet another feature of the present invention, exercise suit
210 is provided with a cover member 249 that is sized to engage first fastener
component 237 when free end 298 of resilient band 232 is engaged therewith.
Cover member 249 includes an interior surface that is provided with the same
one
of the hook and loop fastener as is provided on second fastener component 239.
Cover member 249 is positioned over the engaged free end 298 and second
fastener component 237 to protect the same and substantially prevent free end
298
from accidentally disengaging from second fastener component 237. A sudden
disengagement of the same could potentially lead to the wearer accidentally
injuring
themselves because they are exerting a force sufficient to overcome the
resistance
provided by resilient band 232 and that force is suddenly no longer necessary.
When the wearer wishes to adjust the tension in resilient band 232, cover
member
19
CA 02732818 2011-02-25
249 is pulled free from engagement with first fastener component 237 by
pulling it
upwardly in the direction of arrow 241 (Fig. 13).
It will be understood, as was the case with previous tension adjustment
mechanisms described with reference to exercise suit 10, tension adjustment
mechanism 301 may be comprised of suitable connection members other that the
hook and loop type fasteners illustrated and described therein. If the type of
connection member is changed, cover member 249 would also include a different
type of securement other than a hook and loop fastener. That different
securement
would be able to engage the selected style of first and second fastener
components
used in the suit 210. Alternatively, right sleeve 223 could be provided with a
separate mechanism other than the first connection member 237 for engagement
of cover member 249. So, for example, irrespective of the connection
components
selected for the first and second fastener components, cover member 249 could
be
configured to include hook and loop fasteners, snaps, zippers, ties etc that
would
mate with complementary components situated on exterior surface of right
sleeve
223. All suitable variations in these component elements of exercise suit 210
are
considered to fall within the scope of the present invention.
Pants 214 are shown in greater detail in Figs. 9-12 and include a waist band
region 251 which defines an opening for the wearer's waist and a pair of
elongate
tubular pant legs 253 and 255 that extend downwardly therefrom. Although not
illustrated herein, waist region 251 preferably is provided with a mechanism
for
securing pants 214 about the wearer's waist and the mechanism may comprise one
or more of a drawstring, elastic band, buttons, snaps, hook and loop fasteners
or
any other suitable components that cooperate to keep pants 214 on the wearer's
body and, if necessary, anchored against movement during exercise.
Pant legs 253, 255 terminate in ankle regions 257, 259, respectively, each of
which defines an opening through which the wearer will insert their feet. Each
pant
leg 253, 255 is provided with elongate pockets on its interior surface that
are
manufactured in the same manner as described with respect to pocket 215 in
shirt
212. Both pant legs 253, 255 substantially identically constructed and are
configured to be mirror images of each other.
In accordance with a feature of the present invention, each pant leg 253, 255
is provided with an elongate first pocket 261 that extends longitudinally from
CA 02732818 2011-02-25
proximate the waist region 251 to proximate the respective ankle region 257,
259
on the interior surface of the legs. Each pant leg 253, 255 also includes a
second
pocket 263 that extends upwardly from proximate the respective ankle region
257,
259 for a distance to an area that will be disposed generally one third of the
distance to mid-way between the wearer's ankle and knee. This area on pant
legs
253, 255 is indicated by the number 265. Again, second pocket 263 is secured
to
the interior surface of the pant legs. First pocket 261 is positioned so that
it is
adjacent the outer side of the pant leg and second pocket 263 is positioned so
that
is adjacent the inner side of the pant leg. The outer side of pant leg 253,
255 will be
disposed adjacent the outside of the wearer's leg and the inner side will be
disposed adjacent the inside of the wearer's leg. In other words, neither of
first and
second pockets 261, 263 will be positioned along the front or the back of the
wearer's knee.
In accordance with another specific feature of the present invention, a single
resilient band 267 extends through first pocket 261 in one of pant legs 253,
355
from adjacent waist region 251 to the associated ankle region 257, 259, across
the
opening in the associated ankle region, and through pocket second 263 to area
265. A first aperture 269 is defined between a top end of pocket 261 and waist
region 251 and a second aperture 271 is defined adjacent a top end of pocket
264.
First and second apertures 269, 271 serve as direction changing means to alter
the
direction of resilient band 267. The fabric surrounding first and second
apertures269, 271 may be reinforced in a similar manner to the apertures 227
on
shirt 212. Additionally, although not illustrated herein, a ring for aiding in
altering the
direction of the resilient band 267 may also be provided adjacent one or both
of first
and second apertures 269, 271. A first free end 273 of resilient band 267
exits
pocket 261 in the interior of suit 310, extends through first aperture 269 and
is
thereby disposed on the outside of suit 310. A second free end 275 of
resilient
band 267 exits pocket 263 in the interior of suit 310, extends through second
aperture 271 and is thereby disposed on the outside of suit 310.
In accordance with yet another specific feature of the present invention, a
first and second tension adjustment mechanism 277, 279 is provided on the
exterior surface of suit 310 to engage first and second free ends 273, 275,
respectively. First and second tension adjustment mechanisms 277, 279 each
21
CA 02732818 2011-02-25
comprise a first fastener component that is provided on the exterior surface
of the
suit and a second fastener component that is secured to the associated one of
the
first and second free ends 273, 275 of the resilient band 267. In each
instance, the
first fastener component comprises one of a hook and loop fastener 283 and the
second fastener component comprises the other of the hook and loop fastener
281.
The structure and functioning of these tension adjustment mechanisms 277, 279
is
substantially identical to the structure and functioning of tension adjustment
mechanisms 301 on sleeves 219, 223 and will therefore not be discussed further
herein.
The positioning of the uppermost end of second pocket 263 is advantageous
in that its placement makes it easy for the wearer to bend over and access
free end
275 of resilient band 267. The position is much easier to reach than would be
the
case if the pocket extended above the knee or closer to the groin region.
Additionally, the positioning of second pocket 263 gives the wearer and
improved
mechanical advantage when it comes to adjusting the band 267. It is easier for
the
wearer to apply some force from a position where they are bending down and
then
straightening up than it is to pull upwardly when in essentially a standing
position.
Although not illustrated herein for the sake of clarity, it should be
understood
that all of the first and second tension adjustment mechanisms 277, 279 on
pants
214 are provided with a cover member that is substantially identical in
structure and
function to cover member 249 described with reference to shirt 212.
Referring to Fig. 11, it will be seen that each resilient band 267 is
configured
to extend for a distance beneath the opening to pant legs 253, 255 adjacent
ankle
regions 257, 259 thereof. Once the wearer has pulled the pants 214 on and
inserted their feet through the openings adjacent ankle regions 257, 259, the
will
position each resilient band 267 against the arch in their foot 285 and then
will
adjust the tension in band 267 by engaging tension adjustment mechanism 279.
Once the desired tension in resilient band 267 has been attained, the wearer
can
position a cover similar to cover 249 over tension adjustment mechanism 279
and
then put on their shoe 287. After this initial adjustment, if the wearer
wishes to
adjust the tension in resilient band 267, is it relatively easy for them to
adjust the
same using tension adjustment mechanism 277 after removing the cover
therefrom.
This adjustment can be made even while exercising and does not require that
the
22
CA 02732818 2011-02-25
shoe 287 be removed. The cover will simply be replaced when the adjustment is
completed.
It will be understood that while it has been disclosed herein that both of the
free ends of the resilient bands utilized in suits 10 and 210 are adjustable,
one of
the free ends of each resilient band may be fixedly secured to the fabric of
the suit
and be non-adjustable without departing from the scope of the present
invention.
Those of ordinary skill in the art will also appreciate that any one of the
resilient bands that extend along the sleeve or leg of the suit can be
situated so that
it extends along the entire length of either an inner side or an outer side of
the leg
or sleeve, extends across the opening through which the foot or hand will
extend
and then extends along only a portion of the other of the inner side and outer
side
of the leg or sleeve. In this manner, the free end of the band that is
adjustable is
positioned so that it lies between the knee and ankle on the leg or between
the
hand and elbow on the arm. These locations make it relatively easy to adjust
the
tension in the band and the locations are accessible.
Although not illustrated herein, it should further be understood that while it
has been disclosed that the direction changing means and the tension
adjustment
mechanisms are disposed so that they are generally aligned with the first
direction
of extension of the resilient bands, at least the tension adjustment mechanism
could be positioned offset from the first direction of extension of the
resilient band.
The direction changing means would then be oriented to direct the band toward
that
offset tension adjustment mechanism and, in this instance, the aperture in the
ring
or in the fabric of the suit that serves as the direction changing means would
most
likely be oriented at an angle of other than 90 to the first direction of
extension.
Alternatively, if the direction changing means is the ring, it could be
mounted to the
suit in such a way that it swivels to permit the wearer to engage the free end
of the
resilient band with the tension adjustment mechanism in the offset location.
It should further be understood that while the exercise suit herein has been
disclosed as having full-length sleeves and full length pant legs, it could
instead be
provided with one or both of shorter sleeves or shorter pant legs that are
provided
with tension adjusting mechanisms on the outermost regions of the shorter
sleeves
or pants. Additionally, the suit can comprise a shirt that is sleeveless with
pants that
have either full-length or shorter pant legs, or pants that have very short
pants legs
23
CA 02732818 2011-02-25
with a shirt that has either full length or shorter sleeves. The resilient
bands
provided on these different variations of the exercise suit can then include
tension
adjustment mechanisms on appropriate regions of the suit adjacent the
outermost
ends of the sleeves or pant legs. The bands themselves may extend beyond the
outermost ends and around regions of the wearer's hands or feet if that is
desired
and then extend back toward the outermost ends of the sleeves or pant legs and
be
secured thereto in the manner described herein. Additionally, the resilient
bands do
not have to extend longitudinally along the sleeves or pant legs but can also
be
configured to helically wrap around the sleeves or pant legs.
Although not illustrated herein, it is also possible that the resilient bands
used in sleeves and pant legs of the exercise suit be provided an anchoring
region
intermediate its free ends, where the anchoring region aids in securing a
portion of
the resilient band adjacent the elbows or the knees of the wearer. The
resilient
bands may also be of varying cross sectional shapes along their lengths. So,
for
example, the bands utilized in the pant legs may include enlarged resilient
regions
or split resilient regions that will be disposed so as to be positioned
adjacent the
user's knee to add support thereto. In this instance, a region of the band
disposed
adjacent the outer side of the pant legs and a region of the band disposed
adjacent
the inner side of the pant leg may be operationally connected to the region
adjacent
the wearer's knee.
It will also be understood that if the exercise suit is of a type that is
unitary
instead of a separate shirt and pants, at least some of the resistance bands
may be
positioned so that a first free end thereof is positioned on a shirt portion
of the suit
and the second free end thereof is positioned on a pants portion of the suit.
Thus,
the associated direction changing means and tension adjustment mechanism for
the first free end of the resilient band is provided on the shirt portion and
the
associated direction changing means and tension adjustment mechanism for the
second free end of the resilient band is provided on the pants portion of the
suit.
It will also be understood that the direction changing means and the tension
adjustment mechanism may be incorporated into a single component that is
secured to at least one end of the resilient bands utilized in the exercise
suit of the
present invention. For example, a ratcheting type mechanism could be provided
on
24
CA 02732818 2011-02-25
the suit that will wind a length of the resilient band onto and off of a
rotatable dial to
increase or decrease the tension therein.
Still further, a number of other modifications may be made to the exercise
suit and these modifications are considered to fall within the scope of the
present
invention. For example, the pant legs may be provided with a stirrup that is
similar
to the stirrups found in baseball pants and the resilient band can be threaded
through a channel in the stirrup. Additionally, the guide pockets may include
one or
two additional layers of fabric that will be disposed in direct contact with
the resilient
band and these additional layers of fabric can be of a suitable friction-
reducing type
of material that permits the resilient band to slide easily within the guide
pockets.
Reflective material may be incorporated into the fabrics used to construct the
exercise suit. So, for example, the guide pockets on the exterior of the suit
could be
constructed of a reflective material or such a material could be provided on
the
exterior surface of the guide pockets. Any piping provided on the suit could
also be
made from a reflective material. Furthermore, the exercise suit could be
provided
with an interior lining, especially in the waist region of the shirt, that
includes or
comprises a thermal-type of material that causes the user to sweat in the
areas of
their body that contact that material. The provision of a thermal-type lining
around
the waist region could aid the user in increasing their energy expenditure
while
wearing the suit, and specifically aid in reducing their waistline.
Accordingly, the exercise suit is an effective, safe, inexpensive, and
efficient
device that achieves all the enumerated objectives of the invention, provides
for
eliminating difficulties encountered with prior art devices, systems, and
methods,
and solves problems and obtains new results in the art.
In the foregoing description, certain terms have been used for brevity,
clearness, and understanding. No unnecessary limitations are to be implied
therefrom beyond the requirement of the prior art because such terms are used
for
descriptive purposes and are intended to be broadly construed.
Moreover, the description and illustration of the invention are an example
and the invention is not limited to the exact details shown or described.
Having now described the features discoveries, and principles of the
invention, the manner in which the exercise suit is construed and used, the
characteristics of the construction, and the advantageous new and useful
results
CA 02732818 2011-02-25
obtained; the new and useful structures, devices, elements, arrangement,
parts,
and combinations are set forth in the appended claims.
26
