Interactive and Dynamic Fitness System

Abstract

A fitness system includes a training area with exercise equipment and a positional tracking system to record and evaluate a participant. The system optionally includes a virtual or augmented reality headset, standalone display, computer, additional feedback sensors, accessories, and communication components. The positional tracking system preferably includes one or more laser-based base stations and a plurality of positional tracking sensors placed on or near the participant and equipment. The participant can play games, interact with others, and track performance, and the system dynamically adapts in response to information provided by the tracking system, user inputs, and other sensors or inputs.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of co-pending provisional U.S. Application 62 / 364,802 filed Jul. 20, 2016.FIELD OF INVENTION[0002]This invention relates to fitness systems and methods for providing interactive and dynamic fitness or gaming programs. More particularly, this invention relates to a fitness or gaming environment incorporating virtual, augmented, or mixed reality, tracking systems, and dynamically-controlled exercise equipment to improve a participant's fitness performance and overall enjoyment.BACKGROUND[0003]Fitness enthusiasts, athletes, bodybuilders, firefighters, servicemen, servicewomen, dancers, physical therapy patients, and many others find themselves working out at home or at gyms and using a variety of equipment. They may follow an individualized plan developed by professional trainers or therapists, may be working as part of a team or with a partner, or may be following some general advice mined from a book or ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent describes a fitness system that uses technology to improve and enhance a gaming or fitness environment. It includes an exercise area with various resistance devices, a virtual reality headset, and a computer. The system also has sensors and tracking technology to track and evaluate the position and behavior of the user and the equipment. This allows for dynamic adjustments to the exercise equipment based on the user's information, making the fitness session more personalized and effective. Overall, this system provides a more immersive and engaging experience for users.

Problems solved by technology

Some become bored, others stop improving, and yet others become frustrated or confused.

In an attempt to end the daily struggle that millions of people go through to get the exercise that they need to achieve the body and health that they desire, current approaches such as providing a personal coach, offering a variety of classes, and setting up competitions among participants are helpful but not enough.

Typically, these approaches provide only a short-term solution; a new method or system of training is needed.

Additional issues also arise with current systems of training due to limitations of conventional exercise equipment.

For some fitness enthusiasts, the equipment can be intimidating or confusing.

Additionally, many misuse the equipment due to inexperience or because they misjudge what settings or weights are appropriate.

For other fitness enthusiasts and especially for elite athletes, the equipment limits progress because it fails to dynamically adjust as a participant progresses through a movement or limits the participant's ability to customize an exercise to maximize results.

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