GB2293896A - Programming training on exercise apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

A system for programming training on exercise apparatus with a series of exercises defining a personalised program includes a central unit (M) with first processing means (MM) and bi-directional data transfer means (DM), a portable medium (K) with a portable memory for data storage, a plurality of stations (S) located at the exercise machines (A, A') with second processing means (MS) and means (DS) for bi-directional data transfer from and to the portable medium (K) so as to receive as input the data in the portable memory relative to the exercise to be performed, for programming the apparatus (A, A') and so as to transfer as output to the portable memory upon completion of the exercise, data relative to the performance of the exercise so as to allow such data to be controlled. <IMAGE>

Description

A system for programming training on exercise apparatus and machines The present invention relates to a system for programming training on exercise apparatus and machines.

In particular, the system disclosed can be used to advantage in sport-recreational structures such as gymnasiums, fitness centres, sports clubs, rehabilitation centres, clinics and similar locations.

In such structures (for the purpose of simplicity hereinafter referred to as gyms) users are supposed to perform a series of exercises or rehabilitative movements differentiated according to parameters relative to the type of training or rehabilitation, the user's physique and state of health, the objectives to be reached, etc.

Each user or athlete is assigned a specific program to be followed during the various training sessions. The programs differ according to the number of exercises, the order in which they are to be performed, their length and intensity.

To this end, at the gym, once the instructor has evaluated the athlete's physical characteristics and the objectives to be reached, he or she prepares an exercise "routine", clearly indicating to the athlete the way in which these exercises must be performed.

The said routine is the athlete's program, and is accompanied by a written schedule which the athlete must carry during training for the necessary consultation during performance of the exercises.

The programs normally prepared relate to lengthy periods of attendance at the gym and, in any case, cannot be altered upon each visit for obvious organisational reasons, so that, in brief, for each cycle the athlete substantially repeats the same exercises.

The program is generally set as a kind of average between the initial training stage (during which the athlete is more likely to be less trained) and the final result for each cycle.

For this reason, it is possible that during the initial stage the athlete trains more intensively than necessary, whilst during the final stage of each cycle, the exercises do not stretch the athlete's actual physical abilities to the full.

With programs of this type it is, therefore, impossible to constantly correlate the intensity of the training and the athlete's actual condition: this being of fundamental importance, since training which is hyper or hypo intensive may not be of use to the athlete and, in some cases, may even have negative consequences.

Exercise machines are currently available which are able to interact with feedback from the athlete relative to the latter's physiological parameters (e.g.: heart rate) varying the intensity of an exercise in accordance with the said feedback.

However, the repeated use of such machines does not provide identical results.

Moreover, there is no link between exercises performed on different machines, because it is impossible to compare the data relative to exercises performed on more than one machine.

At present, it is impossible to prepare a program for a series of exercises based on the athlete's actual reactions to the training, relative to the exercise and physical effort invclved.

The aim of the present invention is to overcome the afore-mentioned disadvantages with a system for programming training on exercise apparatus and machines, designed to provide a training or rehabilitation program which may be varied in accordance with the results achieved, that is to say, according to the performance of the various series of exercises to be performed during training sessions; the system disclosed connects all of the machines present in a gym to a central unit for the programming of the training to be effected, and allows the storage and even a graphic display of previous training.

The present invention, as described in the claims, includes a central unit for the development of a training program to be performed on a plurality of exercise apparatus and/or machines, the latter having a plurality of stations to allow the exercises to be set on them, as well as to receive feedback relative to the exercises performed.

The interface between the central unit and the stations is a portable memory contained in a medium designed to interact with the central unit and stations with suitable bi-directional data transmission means.

The use of the portable memory as the training program's portable medium may also determine various means of access to other activities linked to the gym or sports centre. For example, the portable memory may be used to control access, as a means of payment, as a key for library references, to check attendance, etc.

The technical features of the present invention, in accordance with the said aims, are clearly described in the claims herein and the advantages of the invention are more clearly shown in the detailed description below, with reference to the accompanying drawings which illustrate an embodiment by way of example only, and in which: - figure 1 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of the present invention; - figures 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 are schematic illustrations of possible graphic representations of the set-up and layout of a training program in accordance with the present invention.

With reference to the accompanying drawings, the system for programming training on exercise apparatus and machines disclosed is of the type which may be used for training or rehabilitation based on the performance, using a plurality of exercise apparatus and/or machines, of a series of exercises defining a personalised program.

In figure 1, where the various elements of the system are not shown in proportion for the purpose of greater clarity, such exercise apparatus and machines are schematically represented by machines A for the performance of exercises which may be compared, respectively, to cycling, running, stepping (technically known as "bike", jogging machine and "step"), as well as a conventional bench A' for weight lifting with bar.

The system includes a central unit M with first processing means MM and bi-directional data transfer means DM; the central unit M has means which may be used to write and read data relative to the personalised program, as well as to modify the program itself.

The processing means MM may be a personal computer with suitable software for the programming of personalised training. The bi-directional data transfer means DM, connected to the processing means MM, are suitable devices for writing to and reading from a portable memory, designed to transfer data between machines or units which are not directly connected.

The portable memory is on a portable medium K and stores the data relative to the afore-mentioned personalised program.

The system also includes a plurality of stations S, located at the corresponding plurality of exercise apparatus and/or machines A, A'.

The stations S, like the central unit, have second processing means MS and means DS for the bidirectional transfer of data from and to the portable medium K, so that they receive, as input, the data present in the memory relative to the exercise to be performed in order to define the programming of the apparatus and/or machine, and to transfer as output to the portable memory, upon completion of the exercise, data relative to the exercises and physical effort exerted in order that they be controlled.

The first processing means and bi-directional data transfer means DM, otherwise known as the central unit, can modify the personalised program according to the data received when the exercises are performed.

Obviously, the second processing means MS in the stations S need not process or reset the personalised program, since it is sufficient that they be able to read the data from the portable medium K and transmit to the latter the data relative to the exercises and physical effort exerted.

The central unit M is best installed in an easily accessible area of the gym and may take the form of a multi-media station, of the type used, for example, in arts centres, stations or airports, equipped, for example, with "touch screen" type user interface devices to facilitate reference.

The various exercise apparatus or machines A, A' are not connected directly to the central unit M: this avoids the need for electrical or other connections, allowing the machines to be placed at any distance from the central unit, so that the system can be used in gyms or centres spread over more than one storey, or over an extensive area.

The connection between the central unit M and apparatus and machines A, A', created by means of the portable medium K, may consist of an electronic key K (for example, with an E2PROM type memory) which allows communication between the central unit M and the stations S.

The electronic key K may have a plastic cover designed to render it waterproof. The combination of a memory programmed through magnetic induction and a waterproof cover allows, on one hand, memory programming without the need for contacts, and on the other, allows easy use of the electronic key K even in environmental conditions which have negative effects on other program media, e.g.: the presence of humidity.

The stations S may have a monitor V to display the exercises to be performed, and may vary according to the corresponding machines or apparatus.

For example, exercise machines which require electronic programming (such as the bike, jogging machine and step, denoted by A in figure 1) can be linked to stations S connected directly to the machine controls, or the stations S may form part of the machine controls. In this way, the machines are "set" directly with the data obtained from the portable memory.

There may also be means which automatically detect the exercise and physical effort exerted, designed to control the exercise and physical effort exerted, providing the said data as output which may be used by the central unit M.

The displays VA envisaged on the machine may be used to display the program instead of the monitors V on the stations S.

In figure 1 the stations S linked to electronically programmed machines are shown by a broken line, since they may, as described above, be incorporated in the exercise machines.

For the machines which do not require automatic programming, such as the isotonic machines or weights (in figure 1 represented by the bench A'), the data relative to the exercise and physical effort exerted can be entered "manually" using the keyboard T', or using the touch screen type monitor V.

At or connected to the central unit M by means, for example, of a local area network (LAN) , are manual data entry means T, which may consist of a keyboard. The keyboard T can be used by the instructor I to provide the first processing means MM (and, therefore, also the bi-directional data transfer means DM) with data about the athlete for the composition of the personalised program.

The description below illustrates some possible ways of using the system disclosed.

The first time a person goes to a gym, following the initial interview (if necessary, with medical examination) during which the objectives of the training are established, the portable memory K is "loaded" with a training schedule defined by the afore-mentioned data which form a set of instructions that can be read by the stations S positioned at the exercise apparatus and machines A, A'.

During subsequent training sessions, the portable medium K is inserted in the reading device defined by the first bi-directional data transfer means DM so as to receive instructions relative to the training for that particular day.

When the user arrives at the machine, if it is of the type with automatic programming, he/she inserts the electronic key K in the purpose-designed reading device on the station S linked to the machine, thus "setting" the machine, so that he/she then simply goes ahead with the training. Upon completion of the training, the station S "unloads" the data relative to the exercise and physical effort exerted onto the key K.

In the case of machines with manual programming (see bench A' in figure 1) the user inserts the electronic key K in the station S reading device and the monitor V displays the type of exercises, their order, repetitions and relative weights. Upon completion, the user must confirm whether the training corresponded to that suggested, or specify any variations, so that all data may be stored on the electronic key K.

In both cases, for machines with automatic or manual control, following storage of data about the exercise and physical effort exerted, the station S monitor V may indicate the next exercise to be performed.

At the end of the training session, the individual goes to the central unit M to "unload" the electronic key K and enter in a memory, with first processing means MM, the feedback on the exercise and physical effort exerted. The final operation may envisage an indication which immediately reveals the quality of the exercise and physical effort exerted, thus assessing the benefits of the training session.

When the data is entered in the central unit, as well as facilitating the management of various schedules for a number of days' training, it is possible to control the training sessions effected by a user, set out timetables, types of exercises, analyse user attendance, etc.

The user interacts with the central unit by means of the electronic key K, as described above, loading the data relative to training and unloading the data about the exercise and physical effort exerted, and may, in some cases, interact using a touch screen type device.

Following the insertion of the electronic key K and/or the pressure of a fingertip on the screen VM (in the case of "touch screen" devices) on the central unit M, a screen page showing the main menu appears, similar to that illustrated in figure 2.

The main menu is divided into a series of icons 210, 220, 230, 240, 250 which correspond with the various functions of the main program; when the user touches one of the icons displayed on the screen, the program allows access to the selected environment which is described below.

The iast icon or box 250 in figure 2 reiates to the programs used only by the instructors to set training routines and enter various data.

One of the functions of the main program is the training load program (corresponds to box 210 in figure 2) which allows the training to be performed by the user to be loaded onto the electronic key K.

The user employs this function each time he/she enters the gym and decides to begin training. While the electronic key K is loaded, the training schedule and/or the user's progress relative to the objective set may appear on the display.

The training schedule may resemble that shown in figure 3, where the athlete's name appears in one sector 211 of the screen, whilst another two sectors 212 and 213 respectively show the various exercises for the training session and the way in which they must be performed.

As well as being displayed on the central unit M screen VM, the training schedule can be printed on a printer P connected to the central unit.

The user's progress may be displayed as shown in figure 4, where a graph 214 is used, the X-axis representing the time, and the Y-axis the level of fitness.

Cn the graph 2.4, a straght line r connects a first point 215, corresponding to the condition at the start of the training period, and a second point 216, relative to the athlete's ultimate objective. A curve c is superImposed on the straight line r, and shows the athlete's actual progress over the same period of time.

Another function of the main program is the unloading of training data. The user accesses this environment (corresponding to box 220 in figure 2) at the end of each training session; during this stage, the results of training, stored by the stations S on the electronic key K, are unloaded to the console and a graph may appear on the screen VM, allowing immediate evaluation of the exercise and physical effort exerted.

The image may resemble that shown in figure 5 and can be displayed using the command denoted by 230 in figure 2, which is a training schedule display function.

In figure 5, where the athlete's name appears in the top sector 211, the training schedule loaded on the electronic key K is displayed, and for each type of exercise in the schedule (there being two in the example) there is an indication as to whether it has been performed (222) or not (221).

The next exercise to be performed may also be indicated. The training schedule may be displayed at any moment and can be printed by the user if so required.

Another option in the main menu is to display the exercise and physical effort exerted by selecting box 240 in figure 2, allowing the display of data which has been archived, the image resembling that shown in figure 6.

The graph 214 on the top right is the same as that in figure 4 previously described, which shows the user's progress toward the objective set, with the relative reference straight line r and the curve c showing the actual exercises and physical effort exerted.

The individual's name and surname appear in the top left corner of box 211, together with other data such as his/her date of birth and weight. By selecting this icon it is possible to access a window which allows modification of the weight if necessary.

Box 241, lower down, is available for user information.

The remaining icons 242, 243, 244, 245, 246, 247 can be used to display data relative to the various exercises performed, or for various kinds of comparisons.

For example, boxes 242, 243, 244, 245, 246 may display, respectively, the kilometres totalled on the "bike", the total number of floors covered on the "step", the kilometres totalled on the "jogging machine", the total kilograms lifted on isotonic machines, the total kilo calories used.

When an icon is selected, a screen page appears, showing the relative data with graphics similar to those illustrated in figure 7, for example, for "bike" training.

Similarly to the illustrations in figures 3, 4 and 5, the graphics in figure 7 show the athlete's name at the top in area 211, whilst the kilometres totalled during training are shown at the side in area 248, said kilometres being divided into training periods, there being, at the side, a graphic indication in area 249 of the kilometres totalled relative to a known reference value (e.g.: a map of Italy, upon which the kilometres totalled are shown by a line starting at a known location).

Box 247, for comparisons, allows the graphic comparison of the user's performance relative to all other members of the gym and/or a given reference group.

Obviously, as already stated, the present description illustrates only some of the possible uses of the system disclosed, without limiting other possible applications which may be obtained through modification of the main program software, or the possibilities offered by the menu.

The present invention, thus designed for the said objects, may be subject to numerous variations, all encompassed by the original design concept, and all components may be replaced with technically equivalent parts.

Claims (7)

Claims

1) A system for programming training on exercise apparatus and machines, which may be used for training or rehabilitation based on the performance, using a plurality of exercise apparatus and/or machines, of a series of exercises defining a personalised program, characterised in that it includes:: - a central unit with first processing means and bi-directional data transfer means, that is to say, means which may be used to write and read data relative to the personalised program, as well as to modify the program itself; - a portable medium, having a portable memory for the storage of the said data; - a plurality of stations, located at the said plurality of exercise apparatus and/or machines, having second processing means and means for the bi-directional transfer of data from and to the portable medium, so that they receive, as input, the data present in the memory relative to the exercise to be performed in order to program the apparatus and/or machine, and to transfer as output to the portable memory, upon completion of the exercise, data relative to the exercises and physical effort exerted in order that they be controlled; said central unit first processing means and bi-directional data transfer means being designed to modify the program in accordance with the said data.

2) The system for programming training on exercise apparatus and machines as described in claim 1, characterised in that at least one of the said exercise machines is electronically programmable, being designed to be controlled by the said data received as input by the second processing means and bi-directional data transfer means, having automatic means which detect the exercise and physical effort exerted and are designed to define the said control, providing the said data as output.

3) The system for programming training on exercise apparatus and machines as described in claim 1, characterised in that the said portable medium has an electrically erasable programmable read only memory (E2PROM).

4) The system for programming training on exercise apparatus and machines as described in claim 1, characterised in that the said portable medium consists of a cover that is at least waterproof, containing a memory which is programmed by means of magnetic induction.

5) The system for programming training on exercise apparatus and machines as described in claim 1, characterised in that the said central unit is connected to manual data entry means, designed to supply the first processing means and bi directional data transfer means with data about the individual for the composition of the personalised program.

6) The system for programming training on exercise apparatus and machines as described in claim 1, characterised in that the said plurality of stations, at least at the apparatus for manually programmed exercises, has manual data entry means, designed to supply the second processing means and bi-directional data transfer means with data relative to the exercise performed.

7) The system for programming training on exercise apparatus and machines for the objects indicated, as described in the previous claims and with reference to the accompanying drawings.