CA2659943A1 - Yoga mat - Google Patents
Yoga mat Download PDFInfo
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- CA2659943A1 CA2659943A1 CA002659943A CA2659943A CA2659943A1 CA 2659943 A1 CA2659943 A1 CA 2659943A1 CA 002659943 A CA002659943 A CA 002659943A CA 2659943 A CA2659943 A CA 2659943A CA 2659943 A1 CA2659943 A1 CA 2659943A1
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- Prior art keywords
- yoga mat
- mat
- yoga
- top layer
- heating
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/40—Interfaces with the user related to strength training; Details thereof
- A63B21/4027—Specific exercise interfaces
- A63B21/4037—Exercise mats for personal use, with or without hand-grips or foot-grips, e.g. for Yoga or supine floor exercises
Abstract
The invention relates to a yoga mat that promotes a yoga practitioner's ability to warm his or her body prior to and during yoga practice.
Description
YOGA MAT
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The invention relates to a yoga mat that promotes a yoga practitioner's ability to warm their body prior to and during their yoga practice.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The invention relates to a yoga mat that promotes a yoga practitioner's ability to warm their body prior to and during their yoga practice.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] A shortcoming in the increasingly popular yoga industry is the inadequate methods yoga practitioners have to sufficiently heat their bodies before and during practice, particularly when the ambient temperature of their practice area is low. That is, many practitioners begin their practice by lying on their backs for several minutes at the start of their practice to calm and control their breathing prior to commencing their practice. During this time, in a warm room their bodies' naturally begin to warm. Normally after several minutes of relaxation, the practitioner will actively start their practice.
[0003] In order to assist the rapid warming of the body, many yoga studios maintain a room temperature of 84 F+ primarily to promote rapid body heating. However, many yoga classes also take places in environments that do not maintain these higher temperatures, such as gyms, recreation centers and physio-therapists offices.
In these locations, some practitioners may find it difficult to acquire rapid body heating to quickly obtain the internal body temperature that promotes the deepening of particular yoga stretches or the relaxation state. Similarly, for those who practice at home, most practitioners do not have spaces where a high room temperatures can be rapidly achieved.
In these locations, some practitioners may find it difficult to acquire rapid body heating to quickly obtain the internal body temperature that promotes the deepening of particular yoga stretches or the relaxation state. Similarly, for those who practice at home, most practitioners do not have spaces where a high room temperatures can be rapidly achieved.
[0004] Further still, during a yoga practice session, there are often particular stretches or postures that a class may be following that are uncomfortable due to excess pressure to a particular joint or area of the body. For example, in many people, the knees can be particularly sensitive to pressure. As a result, during such postures, many practitioners may choose or require some form of additional padding beyond a thin yoga mat to minimize the discomfort during such a posture. One solution that practitioners choose in order to address this issue is doubling over their mat under their knees to provide additional padding. Others may choose to use a secondary mat or blanket to provide the additional cushioning. While both solutions may be effective, practitioners do not know whether additional cushioning may be required in a particular class and as a result, it is often disruptive to a class when practitioners are moving about the studio to retrieve additional padding that may located in other locations in the studio.
[0005] Further still, different practitioners will also choose to use to varying degrees, various props that may assist them in holding a posture with proper alignment to promote stretching a particular part of the body. For example, various hip or pelvic stretches may be benefited if the practitioner uses a prop to support one side of their pelvis during a specific posture. Again, the use of blankets or foam or wooden blocks, may be used to provide this support which may or may not be available in a particular studio or practice area.
[0006] Further still, at the end of a practice, many practitioners will complete their session with a relaxation posture where they lie quietly on their mat to close their practice. For most people during this relaxation posture, it is desired to maintain a warm, but not excessive body temperature. Similarly, it is desired to minimize excessive cooling during relaxation. To address this problem, many studios will supply blankets that the practitioner will place over them during relaxation.
[0007] As a result of the foregoing, there has been a need for a yoga mat system that addresses the above. In particular, there has been a need for a yoga mat that promotes the rapid heating of the body at the beginning of a practice. More specifically, there has been a need for a yoga mat having an internal heat source that allows heat to radiate to a practitioner primarily at the beginning of their practice to promote the internal heating of their bodies. In addition, there has been a need for a yoga mat system that can be used as a prop during practice as well as a need for a yoga mat system that may assist the practitioner with relaxation at the end of their practice.
[0008] A review of the prior art reveals that the above has not been addressed.
(0009] For example, US Publication 2007/0198070 describes a foam pad with having far infra-red generating properties, said properties being derived from fine particles mixed into or otherwise formed as part of the foam pad. The materials may be specific stone powders.
[0010] Other references include US Publication 2004/0250346 which describes an anti-slip yoga mat including multiple layers of different materials including fabric and foam;
US Publication 2004/0229535 which describes an anti-slide mat that incorporates layers of both absorbent and non-slip materials; and, US Patent 7,074,166 which describes an exercise apparatus having at least three inflatable cells specifically for providing support for the lower back for treating back pain through stretching and/or heating or cooling with heating elements that can include gel packs.
[0011 ] US Publication 2007/0277312 describes an electrically heated sleeping mat for camping that embeds electrical heating elements into an inflatable body. This system includes a compressible inner mat which may be an open cell foam (specifically to allow air to be driven from the inner mat), and electrical heating elements.
[0012] Other references such as US Publication 2005/0271857 describe a therapeutic sports towel having the ability to hold a cooling pack. US Publication describes a towel to tote bag system that can include hot packs. US Patent 5,833,309 describes a heated child car seat. US Patent 5,528,779 describes an air-cushioned sleeping bag having an electrical heating element. US Patent 5,388,295 describes an adjustable seat and back support pad and mattress that may include hot packs.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] In accordance with the invention, a yoga mat system is provided comprising: a top layer comprised of at least one moisture sealing layer, the top layer having a thickness and resilience suitable for enabling a person to conduct a yoga practice, the top layer having a topside and an underside; and a heating system operatively connected to the underside for providing thermal heating to the top layer.
[0014] In various embodiments, the moisture sealing layer preferably includes a closed cell foam in sealing contact with the heating system as a moisture barrier between the heating system and the upper surface of the mat. The mat system may inciude a second top layer operatively connected to the top of the moisture sealing layer to provide desired surface properties to the upper surface of the mat.
[0015] In one embodiment, the heating system is operatively contained within an intermediate layer having a plurality of channels for containing a passive or active heating system between a plurality of top layer supporting ridges. It is preferred that the top layer supporting ridges have sufficient rigidity and thickness to support a yoga practitioner's weight on the top layer without the practitioner contacting the heating system.
[0016] The heating system in one embodiment is an active heating system comprising a plurality of heating cables contained within the channels, the active heating having a power supply and thermostat and optional timer.
[0017] The system may also be provided with a base layer attached to the underside of the intermediate layer.
[0018] In one embodiment, the power supply is a battery and the battery is operatively contained within a foam or wooden block.
[0019] In another embodiment, the system includes at least one connection system for attaching a cloth accessory to the yoga mat.
[0020] In yet another embodiment, the heating system is a passive heating system comprising a plurality of thermal heating elements contained within the channels.
[0021] In another embodiment, the top layer is removable from the intermediate layer to enable the removal of the thermal heating elements.
[0022] In another aspect of the invention, the invention provides a yoga mat kit comprising a yoga mat as described above having a connection system and at least one cloth accessory.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0023] The invention is described with reference to the accompanying figures in which:
Figure 1 is a schematic plan view of a yoga mat in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;
Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a yoga mat in accordance with a one embodiment of the invention;
Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a combined battery and foam support prop in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;
Figure 4 is a schematic plan view of a yoga mat having gel pockets in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;
Figure 4A is a schematic cross-sectional view of a yoga mat having gel pockets in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;
Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a heating system in accordance with one embodiment of the invention; and Figure 6 is a schematic exploded cross sectional view of a layered yoga mat in accordance with the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0024] With reference to the figures, various embodiments of a yoga mat system having an integral heating system are described.
[0025] In a first embodiment and with reference to Figures 1 and 2, a heated yoga mat system 10 is described. The system generally includes a top layer 12 and a heating system 14 on the underside of the top layer. The top layer is preferably a closed cell foam having a desired degree of cushioning, abrasion resistance/robustness and surface tack to permit a practitioner to conduct their yoga practice on the top surface of the mat. The heating system may be any suitable active or passive heating system as will be described in greater detail below. In addition, the yoga mat may have a number of different structures in accordance with specific heating system utilized.
[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the heating system is an electrical heating system having one or more series of heating elements 16 configured to the underside of the top layer 12. In this embodiment, it is preferred that the heating elements are generally flat metallic strips or small diameter wires so as to not impart a "lumpiness" to the top layer during use. The heating elements are connected to appropriate cables 18 passing through appropriate channels to a thermostat 20 and a power supply 22. The power supply may be a battery and/or a cable and connector to an AC mains supply and may include a timer 24. In preferred embodiments, the AC mains supply may be used to directly charge the battery. In other embodiments, the heating system may be powered directly from the AC mains supply without a battery.
[0027] The structure of the top layer 12 and other layers may be varied in accordance with the specific underlying heating system used and the desired surface properties of the top layer 12. For example, in order to accommodate different heating cables (for example, round or flat), an intermediate supporting structure 26 may be included to ensure that the "feel" of the mat is similar to a standard unheated yoga mat.
In this case, as shown in Figure 2, the intermediate supporting structure may include a higher density/resiliency foam that is less compressible than the top layer so as to prevent compression of the top layer substantially into the intermediate supporting structure. As a result, the heating elements 16 within the intermediate supporting structure will not be felt by the practitioner standing on the mat. Preferably, the intermediate supporting structure 26 will provide a series of narrow channels 28 that allow either a round cable or flat metal strips of the heating system to be inter-layered. The absolute thickness of the intermediate layer will be determined by the specific heating system and the relative densities of each layer. However, generally, it is preferred that the selection of each layer is made such that the overall structure of the mat enables the mat to be rolled.
[0028] In addition, it may be required based on the heating elements selected that appropriate volumes of space be provided within the channels or at the end of each channel to allow a heating cable to move within the channel to allow the mat to be rolled.
[0029] As shown in Figure 2, while not essential, the mat will preferably be provided with an underlayer 30 for sealing the heating cables within the channels 28. In this case, it is also preferred that this layer be a closed cell insulation to provide both water protection and heat transfer resiliency with the ground. This layer may be substantially thinner than either the intermediate or top layers.
[0030] Suitable materials that may be used for the top layer as single layers or multiple layers include closed cell foam polyvinylchloride (PVC), open cell natural rubber/latex, thermal plastic elastomers (TPE), and polymer environmental resin (PER). These materials may be modified to include high tack surfaces for grip, embedded fabric mesh for resiliency and surface texturing for comfort. Ideally, the top layer 12 will include at least one water-resistant/proof layer (ie a closed cell foam or other sealing layer ) to minimize the risk of moisture primarily from perspiration contacting the heating elements.
The top layer may also be comprised of multiple layers of materials to impart desired properties to the top layer. For example, a closed cell sealing layer may be provided immediately adjacent the intermediate layer with a different surface layer having different properties. The surface layer may also be removable from the sealing layer using fastening or attachment systems as described below.
[0031] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the yoga mat system may also be provided with an attachment system for actively attaching other accessories such as one or more blankets 32 to the mat. For example, during both warm-up for a yoga session or relaxation at the end of the yoga session, the practitioner may choose to attach a blanket to their mat in order that the blanket can be readily wrapped around them at the beginning or end of their practice. Such blankets may be attached at any of the top, bottom or sides of the mat or a combination thereof. A combined mat and blanket ensures that the practitioner can conveniently travel with both as well as enhancing the heating efficiency of the invention by providing insulated air immediately around the practitioner when both the heating system and the blanket are being utilized.
[0032] In yet a further embodiment, the practitioner may also choose to configure different accessories to the yoga mat on different sides. For example, the practitioner may use a blanket on one side for use as a warming/insulation/cushioning aid and a cotton mat on the opposite side as an alternate mat surface. That is, some practitioners prefer to use different mat surfaces during different stages of their practice depending on whether a particular set of sequences of poses are predominantly standing or sitting. In this case, a practitioner may prefer to stand on a standard yoga mat surface (ie closed cell polymer) during standing poses but on a cotton surface during sitting moves. By having two surfaces available that can be readily substituted for one another both can be utilized. Further still, some practitioners may prefer to use one surface over the other depending on the amount of sweat that they may be producing to take advantage of the absorbency of a cotton surface.
[0033] Any accessories may be removably configured to the yoga mat system by any conventional connection means including but not limited to snaps, Velcro, zippers, buttons, or the like. The embodiment shown in Figure 2 shows the accessories attached to the underside of the mat but it is understood that the point of attachment may be on any of the end, side, bottom or top surfaces of the mat system. Removability is preferred to enable any accessories to be washed.
[0034] With reference to Figure 3, one embodiment of a battery system is shown. As noted above, many practitioners may use a foam or wooden prop as part of their practice. In this embodiment, a battery power supply is contained within a hollowed foam or wooden block 40. The block 40 includes a base 40a and a lid 40b having a flange 40c for containing the battery. Power cable 40d may extend through an appropriate opening to a connector 40e. Alternatively, the connector may be located on the base 40a.
[0035] In this embodiment, the practitioner may use the power supply at the start of their practice and then unplug the power supply thus using the hollowed block 40 as a prop for the remainder of their practice.
[0036] With reference to Figures 4 and 4a, an alternate embodiment of the yoga mat system is described in which passive heating elements may be incorporated into the mat. In this case, the intermediate layer is configured to contain compartments 50 for retaining passive thermal elements 52 such as gel packs. In this embodiment, as those described above, the structure of the intermediate layer must provide an appropriate balance between the feel of the mat and strength by the positioning, size and location of the supporting structures 54 and compartments 50. For example, the compartments may be generally square as shown in Figure 4 or may be long and narrow (not shown).
[0037] Generally, for this type of yoga mat, the passive thermal elements will be heated within the yoga mat or heated outside of the yoga mat (eg. in a microwave) and placed inside the mat when required. Accordingly, in a further embodiment, the top layer 12 may be removed from the intermediate layer to insert the passive heating elements. In this case, a connection system 56, 56a such as Velcro may be utilized to allow the top layer to be secured to the intermediate layer. The specific heating element selected may include gel packs, thermal tiles and other forms of materials having an acceptable thermal mass. The passive heating elements may also be actively heated by an active heating system incorporated beneath the gel pack.
[0038] As shown in Figure 5, a yoga mat having passive heating elements may be combined with an active heater into which a rolled or folded mat may be inserted to heat the passive heating elements. An example of an active heater may be an insulated cylindrical body 62 with a base 64 and lid 66. The base may include an appropriate heating element 68 for connection to a power supply. In this embodiment, the yoga mat system may be sold in a kit form.
[0039] With reference to Figure 6, additional layers may be incorporated into the system such as a reflective foil layer 70 to minimize heat transfer to the ground and/or a heat dissipative layer 72 to assist in even heating of the top layer.
[0040] The mat may be used in other applications as well such as:
= a stretching/warm-up mat for athletes before a competition, match, game, race etc, or to stay warm between times being active (for example, gymnasts at a competition, football, baseball, or soccer players while on the bench, triathletes or marathon racers after warm up, before their start time in the cold early morning);
= a cool down mat used after competition or race, enable the athlete to warm down without cooling down too quickly;
= as a physiotherapy aid when stretching or exercising sensitive injured areas of the body;
= as a heated camping mattress when camping in the cold or winter camping and a power supply/source is available;
= within the massage industry as an addition to the massage table to heat the customer before or during the massage;
= as a car seat warmer.
[0041] Although the present invention has been described and illustrated with respect to preferred embodiments and preferred uses thereof, it is not to be so limited since modifications and changes can be made therein which are within the full, intended scope of the invention.
US Publication 2004/0229535 which describes an anti-slide mat that incorporates layers of both absorbent and non-slip materials; and, US Patent 7,074,166 which describes an exercise apparatus having at least three inflatable cells specifically for providing support for the lower back for treating back pain through stretching and/or heating or cooling with heating elements that can include gel packs.
[0011 ] US Publication 2007/0277312 describes an electrically heated sleeping mat for camping that embeds electrical heating elements into an inflatable body. This system includes a compressible inner mat which may be an open cell foam (specifically to allow air to be driven from the inner mat), and electrical heating elements.
[0012] Other references such as US Publication 2005/0271857 describe a therapeutic sports towel having the ability to hold a cooling pack. US Publication describes a towel to tote bag system that can include hot packs. US Patent 5,833,309 describes a heated child car seat. US Patent 5,528,779 describes an air-cushioned sleeping bag having an electrical heating element. US Patent 5,388,295 describes an adjustable seat and back support pad and mattress that may include hot packs.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] In accordance with the invention, a yoga mat system is provided comprising: a top layer comprised of at least one moisture sealing layer, the top layer having a thickness and resilience suitable for enabling a person to conduct a yoga practice, the top layer having a topside and an underside; and a heating system operatively connected to the underside for providing thermal heating to the top layer.
[0014] In various embodiments, the moisture sealing layer preferably includes a closed cell foam in sealing contact with the heating system as a moisture barrier between the heating system and the upper surface of the mat. The mat system may inciude a second top layer operatively connected to the top of the moisture sealing layer to provide desired surface properties to the upper surface of the mat.
[0015] In one embodiment, the heating system is operatively contained within an intermediate layer having a plurality of channels for containing a passive or active heating system between a plurality of top layer supporting ridges. It is preferred that the top layer supporting ridges have sufficient rigidity and thickness to support a yoga practitioner's weight on the top layer without the practitioner contacting the heating system.
[0016] The heating system in one embodiment is an active heating system comprising a plurality of heating cables contained within the channels, the active heating having a power supply and thermostat and optional timer.
[0017] The system may also be provided with a base layer attached to the underside of the intermediate layer.
[0018] In one embodiment, the power supply is a battery and the battery is operatively contained within a foam or wooden block.
[0019] In another embodiment, the system includes at least one connection system for attaching a cloth accessory to the yoga mat.
[0020] In yet another embodiment, the heating system is a passive heating system comprising a plurality of thermal heating elements contained within the channels.
[0021] In another embodiment, the top layer is removable from the intermediate layer to enable the removal of the thermal heating elements.
[0022] In another aspect of the invention, the invention provides a yoga mat kit comprising a yoga mat as described above having a connection system and at least one cloth accessory.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0023] The invention is described with reference to the accompanying figures in which:
Figure 1 is a schematic plan view of a yoga mat in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;
Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a yoga mat in accordance with a one embodiment of the invention;
Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a combined battery and foam support prop in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;
Figure 4 is a schematic plan view of a yoga mat having gel pockets in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;
Figure 4A is a schematic cross-sectional view of a yoga mat having gel pockets in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;
Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a heating system in accordance with one embodiment of the invention; and Figure 6 is a schematic exploded cross sectional view of a layered yoga mat in accordance with the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0024] With reference to the figures, various embodiments of a yoga mat system having an integral heating system are described.
[0025] In a first embodiment and with reference to Figures 1 and 2, a heated yoga mat system 10 is described. The system generally includes a top layer 12 and a heating system 14 on the underside of the top layer. The top layer is preferably a closed cell foam having a desired degree of cushioning, abrasion resistance/robustness and surface tack to permit a practitioner to conduct their yoga practice on the top surface of the mat. The heating system may be any suitable active or passive heating system as will be described in greater detail below. In addition, the yoga mat may have a number of different structures in accordance with specific heating system utilized.
[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the heating system is an electrical heating system having one or more series of heating elements 16 configured to the underside of the top layer 12. In this embodiment, it is preferred that the heating elements are generally flat metallic strips or small diameter wires so as to not impart a "lumpiness" to the top layer during use. The heating elements are connected to appropriate cables 18 passing through appropriate channels to a thermostat 20 and a power supply 22. The power supply may be a battery and/or a cable and connector to an AC mains supply and may include a timer 24. In preferred embodiments, the AC mains supply may be used to directly charge the battery. In other embodiments, the heating system may be powered directly from the AC mains supply without a battery.
[0027] The structure of the top layer 12 and other layers may be varied in accordance with the specific underlying heating system used and the desired surface properties of the top layer 12. For example, in order to accommodate different heating cables (for example, round or flat), an intermediate supporting structure 26 may be included to ensure that the "feel" of the mat is similar to a standard unheated yoga mat.
In this case, as shown in Figure 2, the intermediate supporting structure may include a higher density/resiliency foam that is less compressible than the top layer so as to prevent compression of the top layer substantially into the intermediate supporting structure. As a result, the heating elements 16 within the intermediate supporting structure will not be felt by the practitioner standing on the mat. Preferably, the intermediate supporting structure 26 will provide a series of narrow channels 28 that allow either a round cable or flat metal strips of the heating system to be inter-layered. The absolute thickness of the intermediate layer will be determined by the specific heating system and the relative densities of each layer. However, generally, it is preferred that the selection of each layer is made such that the overall structure of the mat enables the mat to be rolled.
[0028] In addition, it may be required based on the heating elements selected that appropriate volumes of space be provided within the channels or at the end of each channel to allow a heating cable to move within the channel to allow the mat to be rolled.
[0029] As shown in Figure 2, while not essential, the mat will preferably be provided with an underlayer 30 for sealing the heating cables within the channels 28. In this case, it is also preferred that this layer be a closed cell insulation to provide both water protection and heat transfer resiliency with the ground. This layer may be substantially thinner than either the intermediate or top layers.
[0030] Suitable materials that may be used for the top layer as single layers or multiple layers include closed cell foam polyvinylchloride (PVC), open cell natural rubber/latex, thermal plastic elastomers (TPE), and polymer environmental resin (PER). These materials may be modified to include high tack surfaces for grip, embedded fabric mesh for resiliency and surface texturing for comfort. Ideally, the top layer 12 will include at least one water-resistant/proof layer (ie a closed cell foam or other sealing layer ) to minimize the risk of moisture primarily from perspiration contacting the heating elements.
The top layer may also be comprised of multiple layers of materials to impart desired properties to the top layer. For example, a closed cell sealing layer may be provided immediately adjacent the intermediate layer with a different surface layer having different properties. The surface layer may also be removable from the sealing layer using fastening or attachment systems as described below.
[0031] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the yoga mat system may also be provided with an attachment system for actively attaching other accessories such as one or more blankets 32 to the mat. For example, during both warm-up for a yoga session or relaxation at the end of the yoga session, the practitioner may choose to attach a blanket to their mat in order that the blanket can be readily wrapped around them at the beginning or end of their practice. Such blankets may be attached at any of the top, bottom or sides of the mat or a combination thereof. A combined mat and blanket ensures that the practitioner can conveniently travel with both as well as enhancing the heating efficiency of the invention by providing insulated air immediately around the practitioner when both the heating system and the blanket are being utilized.
[0032] In yet a further embodiment, the practitioner may also choose to configure different accessories to the yoga mat on different sides. For example, the practitioner may use a blanket on one side for use as a warming/insulation/cushioning aid and a cotton mat on the opposite side as an alternate mat surface. That is, some practitioners prefer to use different mat surfaces during different stages of their practice depending on whether a particular set of sequences of poses are predominantly standing or sitting. In this case, a practitioner may prefer to stand on a standard yoga mat surface (ie closed cell polymer) during standing poses but on a cotton surface during sitting moves. By having two surfaces available that can be readily substituted for one another both can be utilized. Further still, some practitioners may prefer to use one surface over the other depending on the amount of sweat that they may be producing to take advantage of the absorbency of a cotton surface.
[0033] Any accessories may be removably configured to the yoga mat system by any conventional connection means including but not limited to snaps, Velcro, zippers, buttons, or the like. The embodiment shown in Figure 2 shows the accessories attached to the underside of the mat but it is understood that the point of attachment may be on any of the end, side, bottom or top surfaces of the mat system. Removability is preferred to enable any accessories to be washed.
[0034] With reference to Figure 3, one embodiment of a battery system is shown. As noted above, many practitioners may use a foam or wooden prop as part of their practice. In this embodiment, a battery power supply is contained within a hollowed foam or wooden block 40. The block 40 includes a base 40a and a lid 40b having a flange 40c for containing the battery. Power cable 40d may extend through an appropriate opening to a connector 40e. Alternatively, the connector may be located on the base 40a.
[0035] In this embodiment, the practitioner may use the power supply at the start of their practice and then unplug the power supply thus using the hollowed block 40 as a prop for the remainder of their practice.
[0036] With reference to Figures 4 and 4a, an alternate embodiment of the yoga mat system is described in which passive heating elements may be incorporated into the mat. In this case, the intermediate layer is configured to contain compartments 50 for retaining passive thermal elements 52 such as gel packs. In this embodiment, as those described above, the structure of the intermediate layer must provide an appropriate balance between the feel of the mat and strength by the positioning, size and location of the supporting structures 54 and compartments 50. For example, the compartments may be generally square as shown in Figure 4 or may be long and narrow (not shown).
[0037] Generally, for this type of yoga mat, the passive thermal elements will be heated within the yoga mat or heated outside of the yoga mat (eg. in a microwave) and placed inside the mat when required. Accordingly, in a further embodiment, the top layer 12 may be removed from the intermediate layer to insert the passive heating elements. In this case, a connection system 56, 56a such as Velcro may be utilized to allow the top layer to be secured to the intermediate layer. The specific heating element selected may include gel packs, thermal tiles and other forms of materials having an acceptable thermal mass. The passive heating elements may also be actively heated by an active heating system incorporated beneath the gel pack.
[0038] As shown in Figure 5, a yoga mat having passive heating elements may be combined with an active heater into which a rolled or folded mat may be inserted to heat the passive heating elements. An example of an active heater may be an insulated cylindrical body 62 with a base 64 and lid 66. The base may include an appropriate heating element 68 for connection to a power supply. In this embodiment, the yoga mat system may be sold in a kit form.
[0039] With reference to Figure 6, additional layers may be incorporated into the system such as a reflective foil layer 70 to minimize heat transfer to the ground and/or a heat dissipative layer 72 to assist in even heating of the top layer.
[0040] The mat may be used in other applications as well such as:
= a stretching/warm-up mat for athletes before a competition, match, game, race etc, or to stay warm between times being active (for example, gymnasts at a competition, football, baseball, or soccer players while on the bench, triathletes or marathon racers after warm up, before their start time in the cold early morning);
= a cool down mat used after competition or race, enable the athlete to warm down without cooling down too quickly;
= as a physiotherapy aid when stretching or exercising sensitive injured areas of the body;
= as a heated camping mattress when camping in the cold or winter camping and a power supply/source is available;
= within the massage industry as an addition to the massage table to heat the customer before or during the massage;
= as a car seat warmer.
[0041] Although the present invention has been described and illustrated with respect to preferred embodiments and preferred uses thereof, it is not to be so limited since modifications and changes can be made therein which are within the full, intended scope of the invention.
Claims (14)
1. A yoga mat system comprising:
a top layer comprised of at least one moisture sealing layer, the top layer having a thickness and resilience suitable for enabling a person to conduct a yoga practice, the top layer having a topside and an underside; and a heating system operatively connected to the underside for providing thermal heating to the top layer.
a top layer comprised of at least one moisture sealing layer, the top layer having a thickness and resilience suitable for enabling a person to conduct a yoga practice, the top layer having a topside and an underside; and a heating system operatively connected to the underside for providing thermal heating to the top layer.
2. A yoga mat system as in claim 1 wherein the moisture sealing layer includes a closed cell foam in sealing contact with the heating system.
3. A yoga mat system as in claim 2 wherein the top layer includes a second top layer operatively connected to the top of the moisture sealing layer.
4. A yoga mat system as in claim 1 wherein the heating system is operatively contained within an intermediate layer having a plurality of channels for containing a passive or active heating system between a plurality of top layer supporting ridges, the top layer supporting ridges having sufficient rigidity and thickness to support a yoga practitioner's weight on the top layer without contacting the heating system.
5. A yoga mat system as in claim 2 wherein the heating system is an active heating system comprising a plurality of heating cables contained within the channels, the active heating having a power supply and thermostat.
6. A yoga mat system as in claim 2 further comprising a base layer attached to the underside of the intermediate layer.
7. A yoga mat system as in claim 3 wherein the power supply is a battery and the battery is operatively contained within a foam or wooden block.
8. A yoga mat system as in claim 2 further comprising at least one connection system for attaching a cloth accessory to the yoga mat.
9. A yoga mat as in claim 6 further comprising a cloth accessory selected from any one of or a combination of a blanket and cotton mat.
10. A yoga mat as in claim 2 wherein the heating system is a passive heating system comprising a plurality of thermal heating elements contained within the channels.
11. A yoga mat as in claim 9 wherein the thermal heating elements are gel packs.
12. A yoga mat as in claim 9 wherein the top layer is removable from the intermediate layer to enable the removal of the thermal heating elements.
13. A yoga mat as in claim 2 wherein the underside of the intermediate layer includes a reflective layer.
14. A yoga mat kit comprising a yoga mat as in claim 9 and at least one cloth accessory.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US4021108P | 2008-03-28 | 2008-03-28 | |
| US61/040,211 | 2008-03-28 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2659943A1 true CA2659943A1 (en) | 2009-09-28 |
Family
ID=41161242
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002659943A Abandoned CA2659943A1 (en) | 2008-03-28 | 2009-03-25 | Yoga mat |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2659943A1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2012067529A1 (en) * | 2010-11-19 | 2012-05-24 | Practic Sp. Z O.O. Sp.Komandytowa | Recreation mat |
| GB2580932A (en) * | 2019-01-30 | 2020-08-05 | Inner Glow Yoga Ltd | Portable exercise mat |
| CN113577640A (en) * | 2021-07-31 | 2021-11-02 | 湖南汽车工程职业学院 | Gymnastics floor mat |
-
2009
- 2009-03-25 CA CA002659943A patent/CA2659943A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2012067529A1 (en) * | 2010-11-19 | 2012-05-24 | Practic Sp. Z O.O. Sp.Komandytowa | Recreation mat |
| GB2580932A (en) * | 2019-01-30 | 2020-08-05 | Inner Glow Yoga Ltd | Portable exercise mat |
| CN113577640A (en) * | 2021-07-31 | 2021-11-02 | 湖南汽车工程职业学院 | Gymnastics floor mat |
| CN113577640B (en) * | 2021-07-31 | 2022-05-13 | 湖南汽车工程职业学院 | Gymnastics floor mat |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |
Effective date: 20150325 |
|
| FZDE | Discontinued |
Effective date: 20150325 |
|
| FZDE | Discontinued |
Effective date: 20150325 |