Systems and methods for simultaneously contracting body core muscles and computerised instructional unit for facilitating same

[0001] This application reserves the benefit of priority in accordance with 35 USC § 119 (e) Provisional

U.S. Patent Application No. 61 / 015,607, filed on December 20, 2007.

Field of the invention [0002] The present invention generally relates to gym, lower back physical therapy and home exercise equipment. Some embodiments of the present invention pertain to methods and devices for simultaneously exercising torso muscles; in particular, shrinking and isolating abdominal and back muscle groups. In addition, some embodiments may include multiple resistance activities and exercises that may be performed in one simultaneous operation; led by an electronic computerized instructional device.

Background Art [0003] The annual cost of lower back injuries in the US is over $ 110 billion (doubling over the past 20 years) and is the second most common reason for patient visits to doctors. One of the main reasons for lower back pain is weak torso muscles. Until now, there were no effective home torso exercise devices that would simultaneously isolate all torso muscles in one simultaneous movement during exercise.

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[0004] A method of exercise and a device that can effectively strengthen all or many of the 30 segmental torso muscles that would be portable, easy to use and compact, and provide electronic instruction could provide many benefits. Exercise of the abdominal muscles (also known as "abdominal") and back can improve lower back stability, sports performance, posture, and physical condition / appearance. Even sitting at a computer or desk several hours a day causes a significant load on the torso. Strengthening the torso can have a huge impact in the workplace and physical therapy of the lower back. Typically, the first muscles to be started during sports such as golf, running, basketball, tennis, etc .; are the muscles of the torso. Strengthening the muscles of the torso can significantly increase the efficiency of the body and reduces potential injuries. The protrusion of the abdomen (allowing free forward movement of body organs and fat in the waist) or "large abdomen" can be caused by weak muscles in the torso, causing an unattractive appearance. Even if a person is thin, the abdomen cannot in many cases be eliminated by diet alone. The solution may be to strengthen your torso muscles. Strengthening the torso muscles can provide an anatomical torso corset that can be more effective than any artificial belt. Because fat is low density, a strong torso corset can significantly reduce the forward projection around the waist.

[0005] There are nine abdominal muscle groups and each abdominal muscle group can have multiple segmental muscles. For example, the rectus abdominis group (anterior abdominal muscles) has eight segmented muscles, the oblique group (lateral abdominal muscles) has twelve segmental muscles, and the striated group has six segmental muscles. These muscles connect with the help of muscles

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EP 2 231 286 B1 flat and dorsal flexors together forming a torso muscle group composed of 30 segment muscles.

[0006] On the other hand, the majority of abdominal exercise devices currently used in home and gyms are single resistance devices that indirectly provide resistance to a single group of abdominal muscles and do not exert pressure on the muscles of the dorsal flexor and dorsal muscles. The entire torso consists of the anterior / lateral abdominal muscle groups, the back flexor and the broadest muscles of the back. There are currently no home exercise equipment that simultaneously contracts all trunk muscles in one operation; with minimal lower back movement. In addition, if the abdominal muscles are not contracted during mechanical or non-mechanical abdominal exercises, the results are usually minimal. In addition, the separate work of the torso muscles can significantly reduce the intensity of contraction and resistance, in contrast to many simultaneous contractions. Typically, the higher the level of torso muscle contraction, the higher the level of increase in fast-twitch muscle fibers. That is why greater resistance, fewer repetitions and slower anaerobic movements may be more conducive to strengthening the muscles of the torso. Quick-shrink fibers provide anaerobic strength, in contrast to slow-shrink aerobic fibers that provide strength. Many abdominal / back exercises cause rapid movements resulting in very little muscle strengthening with the fast-twitch fibers of the abdomen and / or back. As a result, a person could better do eighteen abdominal exercises slowly with a 30-pound medicine ball, in contrast to 300 quick abdominal exercises.

[0007] In addition, most abdominal exercise programs may require 5, 10 or even more different exercises to achieve

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Extract all upper abdominal muscle groups. Most gyms have seven different abdominal exercises or oblique abdominal boards. The process of carrying out many exercises can take 20 to 60 minutes and involves heavy loads on the back and shoulder joints due to the extensive movements required by many exercises and exercise equipment. In addition, he or she may require the assistance of one or two trainers to perform some abdominal exercises.

[0008] Anatomically, the upper abdominal muscles differ from other torso muscles, like biceps or leg muscles, in two different ways.

[0009] First, the abdominal or torso muscles resist movement, while most other muscles set the person in motion. For this reason, contracting or flexing your abdominal muscles during exercise may be beneficial as this may cause muscle resistance. This can promote the muscles that resist, as opposed to the muscles that set in motion, which results in an additional challenge for muscle fibers or a load on the muscles. Most people don't know how to properly tighten or contract their abdominal muscles during abdominal exercises, which can reduce their results by 70% to 80%. Muscles that resist usually need minimal movement for contraction, while muscles that move, such as biceps, usually need a full range of motion. It is for this reason that many people in the sports and academic community consider exercising abdominals by flexing the torso as more effective than exercising abdominal muscles through squats. Seventy percent of the squat movement affects muscles other than the abdominal muscles, such as the hip flexor muscles. Scientific journals found that devices for exercising abdominal muscles,

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EP 2 231 286 B1 which contain a wide range of motion from twisting to bending, are ineffective or less effective than abdominal exercises by flexing the torso. Exercises and / or devices that put up direct resistance to the abdominal muscles, comparable to the effects of a 30-50 pound abdominal exercise ball, commonly used by professional boxers, when moving during exercises called crunches can advantageously result in a person contracting and tightening the abdominal muscles.

[0010] Secondly, the development of abdominal muscles may be impeded due to their action different from that of the joint. By comparison, muscles attached to the joint, such as biceps, are easier to contract: simply by moving the elbow. The abdominal muscles are not attached directly to a specific joint. That is why abdominal exercises with large joint movement may be inefficient and ineffective. In order to overcome this anatomical obstacle, you need a device to train your abdominal muscles that can activate muscle groups that are interconnected with your abdominal muscles. Two specific examples of such muscles are the broadest muscles of the back (attached to the lateral striated muscles that attach to the anterior abdominal muscles) and the posterior flexor muscles (attached to the front of the spine, which includes the abdominal muscles; allowing the lower back to bend and flex). By contracting or activating the widest muscles of the back and back muscles, you can indirectly activate the lateral and anterior abdominal muscles.

[0011] The abdominal muscles may consist mainly of both slow-contracting and fast-contracting fibers. Fast-shrink fibers (as opposed to slow-shrink fibers,

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(Endurance type), consist of muscle fibers that provide strength and are therefore intended for short exercise sessions with the simultaneous release of high resistance and high intensity (anaerobic or non-cardio). In contrast, slow-shrink fibers are usually adapted to provide strength. Proper muscle exercise with slow-twitch fibers may require long exercise sessions and low muscle intensity (aerobic or cardio type). Because of these differences between muscle types, fast-twitch fibers can respond best to heavy resistance and low repeatability for muscle strength and development. Therefore, for many people doing 50 to 100 exercises called crunches, or using other abdominal exercises or abdominal exercise devices that include minimal resistance and wide body movement per set (rapid movements), this may result in more cardio exercises, as opposed to strengthening muscle. Therefore, the subject of a new abdominal muscle exercise device may be to isolate fast-twitch fibers in the shortest period of time, including the highest levels of multiple intensity and resistance.

[0012] US 2007/0265148 A1 discloses a pneumatically assisted exercise equipment comprising a common piston base in a piston made of a protruding pipe of a second handle which includes a protruding column and a piston, and which protruding column can be inserted and attached in the protruding pipe of a second handle. The piston can slide inside the horizontal tube of the first handle. The limiting clamping ring has a clamping portion and a retraction hole.

[0013] What is needed is an improved device for exercising abdominal muscles. Such a device may have

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EP 2 231 286 B1 one or more of the following attributes:

(1) A device that can simultaneously contract many or all twenty-four segment abdominal muscles (in the groups of straight, oblique and striated muscles), flat and dorsal flexor muscles, which together constitute the torso muscle groups. This could eliminate the need for many different abdominal / back muscles and / or abdominal / back muscles exercises that are currently widely used. This type of device can simultaneously contract many or all torso muscles, using many exercises and resistances in one device, so that you can do several exercises at the same time.

(2) Equipment that may include multiple adjustable thrust assemblies. Each thrust assembly can be adjusted to, for example, up to 150 pounds of resistance. This can ensure high intensity exercise in a short time.

(3) A device that can provide direct resistance to the front abdominal muscles comparable to using a medicine ball for abdominal exercises. Because the abdominal muscles resist, as opposed to the motivating ones, such a device can support the contraction of the abdominal muscles during exercise.

(4) A device that can provide adjustable resistance to the muscles of the abdominal, flat and dorsal side flexors.

(5) A device that can provide adjustable resistance during exercise, called bellies, in the front of the abdomen.

(6) A device that can be equipped with an electronic personal computer trainer. Such a trainer could help the user in implementing the new methodology and

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EP 2 231 286 B1 to design exercises that the user has never performed before. For example, this trainer could guide the user through the right form and technique with correct or optimal repetition and set time frames.

Summary of Embodiments of the Invention [0014] In response to the above and other needs, some embodiments of the present invention may provide three torso resistance exercises; implemented during one simultaneous movement. The first exercise can be directly resistance for the front abdominal muscles, comparable to the use of a medicine ball for abdominal exercises, the second exercise can be an abdominal resistance exercise, and the third can be a lateral resistance exercise for pulling (sometimes also referred to as "lateral row") . In one embodiment, the device can provide adjustable resistance for some or all of these exercises. Adjustable resistance can be provided by using resistance compartments with interchangeable straps, weights, tension straps, hydraulic components and the like.

[0015] Therefore, in some embodiments, three torso resistance exercises can be combined that can simultaneously train the torso muscles and the upper body muscles.

[0016] Various embodiments may also include an electronic (audio and video) personal trainer that helps in the technique and time of the exercise. Users can choose the beginner or intermediate / advanced version. The total session times can be, for example, from 3-4 minutes. The user can choose four different ones

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Location depending on the state of fitness and capabilities. The home appliance can be folded into a complex portable configuration. In operating mode, the device is unfolded.

[0017] One embodiment of the exercise device may have a body forming a first yoke. The first yoke includes a first longitudinal channel extending through them and a first sliding element is arranged in this first channel. The first sliding element can be reciprocated and has a ventral engaging end protruding from the channel. The exercise device may further include a second yoke pivotally attached to the body and has a second longitudinal channel running through it. The second sliding element is placed in the second channel and can be reciprocated in it. The second sliding element has an upper engaging end of the torso extending from the second channel. The exercise device may include a vibrating assembly operating to cause all or part of the exercise device to vibrate.

[0018] Another embodiment of the present invention is a device for performing user's muscle exercise having a main body and an abdominal exercise element in the abdominal muscles, pivotally attached to the main body. The abdominal muscle workout element is pressed in to resist its concentric movement. The exercise machine also includes a socket attached to the main body, configured to assist the user. The exercise apparatus also includes an electronic vibration assembly functionally attached to the main body and configured so that the user of the exercise apparatus induces vibrations of the exercise apparatus.

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Brief Description of the Figures [0019] FIGURES 1a-1d are different perspective views of the exercise device in a composite configuration in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

FIGURES 2a-2c are different views of the exercise apparatus of FIGURES 1a-1d in an operational configuration.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the exercise device of FIGURES 2a-2c.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the exercise device of FIGURES 2a-2c with another abdominal cushion in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

FIGURES 5a-5c are different views of an exemplary "four packet" abdominal cushion according to various embodiments of the present invention.

FIGURES 6A-6C show different views of an exemplary "six-pack" abdominal cushion, according to various embodiments of the present invention.

FIGURES 7a-7d are schematic views of using the exercise device in a sitting position according to various embodiments of the present invention.

FIGURES 8a-8d are schematic views of using the exercise device in a prone position according to various embodiments of the present invention.

using a hybrid embodiment of the present invention.

FIGURES 9a-9d are schematic views of the exercise device in a sitting / lying position according to various examples

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FIGURES 10-17 illustrate the use of an electronic trainer device according to various embodiments of the present invention.

FIGURE 18 illustrates an exemplary exercise device 5 according to various embodiments of the present invention.

FIGURE 19 illustrates another exemplary exercise apparatus according to various embodiments of the present invention.

FIGURE 20 illustrates another exemplary exercise device according to various embodiments of the present invention.

Description of embodiments of the invention [0020] In the following description of preferred embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form part thereof and in which they are shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be implemented. It should be understood that other embodiments may be used and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0021] If three abdominal exercises are performed at the same time, twenty-six abdominal muscles, broadest dorsal muscles, arms, and back muscles can be contracted together, which can lead to complete exercise of the torso and upper torso in less than four minutes. The mechanical and methodical processes of embodiments of the present invention can provide for the correct positioning of the torso, resistance and isolation of many muscles to cope with the complexity of groups

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Abdominal and back muscles. The attached drawings and charts provide a description of embodiments of the present invention.

[0022] FIGURES 1-3 show an embodiment of a portable home appliance 100 for exercising abdominal muscles. FIGURES 1a-1d show the device 100 in a compact, complex configuration, and FIGURES 2a-2c show the device 100 in an exploded operational configuration. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the device in the operating configuration.

[0023] With reference to FIGURES 1a and 2a, the exercise device 100 may include a substantially rectangular body 22 forming a first yoke that connects a pair of hand grips 24a and 24b. These hand grips may be located at opposite locations of the first yoke 22 and extend from the yoke at angles to the X axis and Y axis. A substantially circular ring 28 may substantially surround the body 22 and the hand grips 24a and 24b. A handle 29 (FIG. 1a) adapted to be grasped by the user and wear the device 100 as shown in FIG. May be formed at one end of the ring 28. 1d.

[0024] With reference to FIGURES 2a and 2b, the first sliding member 30 may be slidably maintained in a channel (not shown) which may extend through the center of the yoke of the body 22 in the direction defining the y axis and substantially or completely perpendicular to the x axis. The first slide 30 may reciprocate back and forth in the longitudinal direction of the channel. The first base 32 can be releasably attached to the first coupling end 34 of the first slider 30. The first coupling end 34 may extend from the channel to engage with a targeted muscle area, such as a muscle area

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Abdominal user. The first base 32 (also referred to herein as the "abdominal cushion") may have a first engaging surface 36, which may be sized to provide a large contact surface with the user's body to increase stability and reduce pressure in the contact area. The base 32 may also be provided with a foam cushion to line the contact area.

[0025] In some embodiments, in the operating configuration, at a certain angle from the body 22, a second yoke 40 may extend, as shown in FIG. 2b. In a folded configuration, the second yoke 40 may be folded onto the body 22, lying substantially parallel to the first yoke, as shown in FIGURES 1a and 1b. With reference to FIG 2b, the second sliding element 42 may be slidably held in a channel (not shown) that can pass through the center of the second yoke 40. The yoke 40 may extend from the body 22 in the range of 20 to 70 degrees and in one embodiment, the range is from 30 to 60 degrees. The second slide 42 can reciprocate back and forth in the longitudinal direction of the channel.

[0026] The second base 44 (which may also be referred to herein as "chest cushion" or "upper torso cushion") may be releasably connected to the second coupling end 46 of the second slider 42. The second coupling end 46 may extend from the channel in to engage with the target muscle area. The base 44 may have a engaging surface 48 with the user, which may be sized to provide a large contact surface with the user's body to increase stability and reduce pressure in the contact area. The coupling surface 48 may also be provided with a cushion

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Foam for lining the contact area. The second base 44 can also rotate or swing on the second slider 42 to compensate for the user's rotational movement when performing exercises called crunches. The yoke 40, the slider 42 and the base 44, together, can be regarded as the upper torso resistance mechanism 102.

[0027] The body 22, handles 24a, 24b and ring 28 may be formed as an integral part of plastic. The second yoke 40 can be pivotally connected at one end to the upper body portion 22. In addition, a pair of support legs 64 and 66 can be pivotally connected to the lower body portion 22. In a folded configuration, the support legs 64 and 66 can be folded onto the body 22 to providing a low profile as shown in FIG. 1b. In the extended configuration, the support legs 64 and 66 may extend from the body and at an angle, as shown in FIG. 2b. In operation, the support legs 64 and 66 may rest on the user's legs when the user performs the exercise using the device 100, as shown, for example, in FIG. 7.

[0028] The hand grips 24a and 24b may extend from the x axis at equal angles, with the size and direction of the angles selected so that the user's arms are positioned in a natural position during exercise to increase stability. With the handles placed at an angle, the user's knees can comfortably rest in a natural position off the torso. In order to add further stability, the handles may extend at least to the height of the upper body 22 of the device 100, and preferably above it.

[0029] With reference to FIG. 3, body 22 may also include at least one depression 56 centrally located in the transverse direction. Rectangular recess

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EP 2 231 286 B1 may be positioned to engage the electronic trainer 104. The electronic trainer 104 may be pivotally mounted at one end in the recess so that it can be "extended" out of the recess 56 at an angle. Thus, the electronic trainer 104 may advantageously extend from the body of the device 100 in an operational configuration and may be folded into a recess in the folded configuration shown, for example, in FIG. 1. In addition, graphical and text instructions may be provided in the bottom surface (not shown) of the cavity 56 for providing detailed instructions to the user when the trainer 104 is in its working configuration.

[0030]

FIG. 3 provides a description of the components of the abdominal device 100 according to some embodiments. biomechanical equipment for conventional gyms.

The use of 1 0 0 may be comparable to some of the exercises performed with some of the gymnastic exercise equipment in [0031] For example, pulling a handle by a user

24a and 24b for hands towards the wearer's body may correspond to an exercise traditionally performed on a row / lateral pulling device. When performing side pull on the device 100, the user can hold the handles with their hands pointing up or down, which can train different muscles. Grasping grips 22 and 24 and pulling grips 22 and 24 toward the wearer's body can be comparable to the operation of an in-line machine that contracts and resists lateral abdominal muscles, lateral muscles, back flexors and arms. In addition, cushion 32 and support legs 64 and 66 can provide stability during this exercise.

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[0032] The use of the upper resistance mechanism 102 may be associated with the use of an exercise device called bellies. In some embodiments, the resistance mechanism 102 may provide an angular movement line, as opposed to the curved movement line used in conventional abdominal exercise machines. The upper insert 44 may be contoured to the upper chest area of ​​the human body in use, be positioned in the upper chest area of ​​the user. The second yoke 40 can be adjusted to suit the body types of the user. In this way, the second yoke 40 can be positioned at a different angle to the first yoke of the body 22 so as to adapt it to different users. In other words, mechanical adjustments are provided to allow height and / or length adjustment for different sizes and strengths for individual users. In some embodiments, endurance exercise exercises can be adjusted by a chamber 60 that includes various adjustable resistance mechanisms, including tensioning straps, ropes, hydraulic hoses, weights, etc.

[0033] The use of a cushion 32 placed in the abdominal part of the wearer may correspond to the use of a medicine ball for exercising abdominal muscles when the device is pulled towards the wearer during the transverse pulling movement described above. A conventional medicine ball for abdominal muscles may require an assistant to lower the ball, there is no resistance adjustment, and it provides resistance to impacts. In contrast, some embodiments of the device 100 may advantageously provide adjustable, direct resistance when force is applied to the abdominal cushion 32 in the user's abdominal region.

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[0034] Furthermore, some embodiments simultaneously contract many, if not all, of the torso muscles of the human body in one movement during exercise. During use, and as shown in more detail on

FIGURES 7-9, the upper cushion 44 can be placed on the user's front shoulders by performing a forward exercise, called a tummy, the lower cushion 32 can be placed between the middle and lower anterior abdominal areas and the user can grip hand grips 24a and 24b with their palms facing up or down.

[0035] As discussed above, the support legs 64 and 66 may be placed on the upper part of the user's thighs. Support legs can be adjusted based on the user's upper body height. The adjustment mechanism may allow adjustment in the up or down direction. For example, in one embodiment, the leg cushion, located at the ends of the supporting legs 64 and 66, can be padded and shaped to accommodate a user's thigh area.

[0036] FIG. 4 illustrates a device 100 in which a detachable four packet abdominal pad 132 is used instead of the single, more rounded abdominal pad 32 shown in FIG. 3. In one embodiment, a four-pack abdominal cushion

132 is designed to specifically isolate the four separated middle and lower anterior abdominal muscles. Pillow segments can be designed with a radius of curvature to more closely match the contour to the shape of the human abdomen.

[0037] FIGURES 5 and 6 show different views of further embodiments of the lower abdominal cushions, including the "four packet" abdominal cushion 500 (FIGURES 5a-5c) and

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"Six packet" abdominal pad 600 (FIGURES 6a-6c). According to various embodiments of the present invention, an electronic vibration device (not shown) may be added to the device 100, which may provide additional benefits when exercising abdominal muscles. As shown in FIG. 6, the six-packet lower abdominal cushion 600 includes a vibrating assembly 610 that may cause vibration of the abdominal cushion 600 during use. It is understood that such a vibrating assembly may be combined with other types of abdominal pads described herein or with other parts of the device 100 to provide the vibrations described above, and is not limited to use only with the lower abdominal pad. For example, vibrations 610 may cause other parts of the device 100 to vibrate, including hand grips 24a and 24b for the upper torso. In addition, embodiments of the present invention need not be limited to a single vibration assembly, since a plurality of separate assemblies may be used to cause vibration of different parts of the device 100.

[0038] FIGURES 7-9 show various ways of using the device 100 according to embodiments of the present invention. These methods allow optimal shrinkage and high application efficiency to be demonstrated in the use of the sitting device 100, FIGURES 8a-8c show the use of the device 100 in a supine position, and FIGURES 9a-9c show the use of the device 100 in a hybrid sitting position.

FIGURES 7-9 in position [0039] The device 100 can be used in that the device 100 is pulled towards the user, the user gripping the handle of the device 100 with his or her palms facing up. It can exercise bottom

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Abdominal muscles, middle abdominal muscles, lateral abdominal muscles, flat muscles, back and shoulders. The user can alternatively grip the hand grips with his palms facing down, which may exercise different muscles or the same muscles differently. For example, in the case of hands pointing downwards, this device can mainly train the triceps and shoulder muscles.

[0040] Progressive pulling, bending and holding action is a triple action method that can isolate most or all of the torso muscles. In addition, the pulling tension of the device acting on the front abdominal muscles can prevent lordosis or lower back curvature. This can reduce the pressure on the lower back, which is critical for people with lower back pain. As discussed above, the user can perform "crunches" by pressing against the upper pillow 44. This can train the muscles of the upper abdomen. It should also be noted that the figures illustrate the movement while exercising the crunches in a rotational manner; however, the tummy exercise can also be done at a right angle. In other words, the user can press his chest so that the upper cushion 44 moves straight into the body of the device 100, as discussed above.

[0041] According to some embodiments, the user may implement a new methodology for exercising core abdominal and back muscles based on the simultaneous use of multiple back and resistance exercises. This can be beneficial due to the configuration of many major muscles and the unique muscle function. The user's action of pulling and exercising the crunches can be a concentric or positive resistance movement. At this point you can activate all three exercises. Then the user can keep the device for some time, for example 1

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Up to 5 seconds, which can additionally exercise the upper, middle and lower abdominal and back muscles, as well as flat muscles and arms. The user slowly releases the device, which results in eccentric or negative resistance movement.

Then the user can relax and repeat the above steps. The above steps do not have to be carried out in the order described above, nor do all these steps need to be carried out sequentially. For example, one or more stages can be performed simultaneously, for example the stages of tummy exercises and pulling can be performed at the same time.

[0042] According to various embodiments, using the device 100 in a sitting position (see FIGURES 7a-7c) can provide beginner training, using the device 100 in a lying position (see FIGURES 8a-8c) can provide intermediate exercises, and using the device in a sitting position / lying down (see FIGURES 9a-9c) can provide advanced exercises.

[0043] FIGURES 10-17 illustrate the use of a sound and visual personal electronic trainer 104 according to an embodiment of the present invention. An example of a personal electronic trainer is described in published US Patent No. 2005/0124474 entitled "Abdominal trainer with electronic training device"

("Abdominal exerciser with Electronic Coaching Device"). Generally, the personal electronic trainer 104 can provide the user with instructions on how to do exercises with the device 100. With the personal electronic trainer 100, the user can choose between initial and advanced workouts. The right time between repetitions, stops and rest periods can be beneficial for isolating fast-contracting muscles; especially muscles that are resistant to resistance. Examples

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Embodiments of the present invention can be set to conform to scientifically established optimal times and levels.

[0044] Most people do not know the correct time intervals and the process of abdominal muscle contraction, breathing, stops, repetitions, optimal exercise time. Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention may include introductory instructions and activities during daily exercises. The user can also choose the level of opportunity.

During operation, the device can provide visual lighting and text, as well as voice instructions. Typically, this would require two to three personal trainers to achieve what the current electronic instructional team can do.

[0045] Various embodiments may include a computer memory for storing information related, for example, to the user's use of the device 100 for a specified period of time. The counting device residing in device 100, such as an electronic trainer or other computer device, may use information stored in computer memory to provide reporting on the use of device 100, including displaying information in graphic form on the display of the counting device. The device 100 may also include an interface for connecting to computer memory with a separate computer for transmitting information related to the use of the device 100 to a separate computer.

[0046] With reference to FIGURES 10-17, in some embodiments, an electronic trainer may assist the user in achieving a multi-muscle phase exercise by determining whether the first muscle phase (e.g. concentric phase) can be performed,

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EP 2 231 286 B1 and providing the user with perceptible output information that encourages and instructs the user how to perform this phase correctly. The electronic trainer can determine if a second muscle phase can be performed (e.g., the isometric phase shown in FIG. 14) and provides the user with a second palpable output information, which is different from the first, which encourages and instructs the user how to properly implement this phase. The electronic trainer can then determine if a third muscle phase can be performed, the eccentric phase (shown in FIGURES 15-17) and then provides the user with third palpable output information, which is different from the first and second, which encourages and instructs the user on how to properly implement this phase. The electronic trainer can instruct the user through both acoustic and visual outputs to properly synchronize the time and method of performing each stage of activity during exercise. In addition, the computerized trainer 400 side or back memory slot may accept a memory card. The memory card may store data regarding the user's physical fitness, biological data, use and the like for, for example, subsequent analysis by a physician or for occupational physical therapy.

[0047] Figure 18 shows a commercial abdominal muscle training device 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The exercise device may include a mechanism 210 for exercising breast muscles, an abdominal pad mechanism 220 and a lateral order mechanism 230. The device 200 may include a mechanical vibration assembly 240 which causes the user to vibrate in three dimensions and is driven by two motors. Oscillatory actions can be combined with performing resistance exercises using embodiments

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EP 2 231 286 B1 according to the present invention, such as device 100 and device 200. Thus, embodiments of the present invention can combine three basic torso resistance exercises with accelerated internal vibration. This can significantly increase torso muscle development. One such vibrating assembly is commercially available as Power-Plate® my5 from Power Plate North America, Inc., based in Chicago, Illinois. In one embodiment, the vibrating assembly 240 is located under the seat of the exercise device 200 and causes the seat to vibrate, while other parts of the exercise device may vibrate instead of or in addition to the seat, such as mechanism 210 for chest muscle exercise, mechanism 220 for muscle exercise abdominal and / or mechanism 230 for lateral muscle training.

[0048] FIG. 19 illustrates a further embodiment of an abdominal muscle training device 300 according to the present invention. The abdominal muscle exercise device 300 has similar components to the exercise apparatus 200, including the mechanism 310 for chest muscle exercise, the abdominal muscle 320, the lateral muscle 330, and vibration unit 340. In addition, the exercise device 300 includes a user interface 350 that may include the functions of the electronic trainer assembly described above. The interface 350 may also include controllers for the vibration assembly 340, such as vibration on and off and the amount of vibration.

[0049] FIG. 20 illustrates yet another embodiment of the abdominal muscle training device 400 of the present invention. Embodiment 400 is similar to embodiment 300, but with the crunch pad 410 connected directly to the pillow

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Abdominal 420.

[0050] Advantageously, the use of the embodiments of the abdominal muscle training devices disclosed in the present invention can simultaneously contract many, if not all, of the various types of abdominal muscles. Thus, the user can exercise his or her abdominal muscles with one device in less time than using traditional devices.

[0051] It should also be noted that there are many alternative ways to implement the methods and devices of the present invention. Therefore, it is the intention to interpret the claims of one or more patents claiming priority of the present application as including all such changes, permutations and equivalents that fall within the scope of the present invention.

E-Coach Usa, LLC

Proxy:

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