Methods and apparatus for muscle specific resistance training

Abstract

Disclosed is a muscle specific exercise device. The device may provide passive or active resistance training throughout an angular range of motion. The device may be low profile, and worn by a wearer, such as beneath conventional clothing. Exercise of selective joints or motion of the body may thereby be accomplished throughout the wearer's normal daily activities, without the need for access to conventional exercise equipment. Alternatively, the device may be worn as a supplemental training tool during conventional training techniques.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 218,607, filed Jun. 19, 2009, the entirety of this application is hereby incorporated by reference herein.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Resistance training, sometimes known as weight training or strength training, is a specialized method of conditioning designed to increase muscle strength, muscle endurance, and muscle power. Resistance training refers to the use of any one or a combination of training methods which may include resistance machines, dumbbells, barbells, body weight, and rubber tubing.[0003]The goal of resistance training, according to the American Sports Medicine Institute (ASMI), is to “gradually and progressively overload the musculoskeletal system so it gets stronger.” This is accomplished by exerting effort against a specific opposing force generated by elastic resistance (i.e. resistance to being stretched or bent). Exercises are isotonic if...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention is a resistance training system that allows for portable, adjustable resistance modes and levels. The system includes an exercise assembly that can be used without the need for other types of equipment and can be attached to a support structure or article of clothing. The system uses resistance bands or tubing that can be adjusted to provide different resistance modes and levels. The resistance training helps to strengthen and tone muscles, increase bone mass, and improve overall health and well-being. The invention is designed to work the quadriceps and hamstring muscles, but other versions can be used for other muscle groups as well."

Problems solved by technology

Various limitations exist with the prior art exercise devices.

For example, many types of exercise equipment, such as free weights and most exercise machines, are not portable.

With respect to exercise bands and tubing, they may need to be attached to a stationary object, such as a closed door or a heavy piece of furniture, and require sufficient space.

This becomes a problem when, for example, the user wishes to perform resistance exercises in a location where such stationary objects or sufficient space are not readily found.

Resistance bands are also limited to a single resistance profile in which the amount of resistance changes as a function of angular displacement of the joint under load.

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