CN112601470A

CN112601470A - Grip strength auxiliary device with plug-in

Info

Publication number: CN112601470A
Application number: CN201880096760.3A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 迈克尔·斯·帕克
Original assignee: American Power Handle Co ltd
Current assignee: American Power Handle Co ltd
Priority date: 2018-08-02
Filing date: 2018-08-02
Publication date: 2021-04-02
Also published as: EP3829371A1; WO2020027838A1; AU2018434907B2; SG11202100731XA; JP7090205B2; CA3107626A1; PH12021550179A1; RU2765078C1; KR20210120973A; ZA202101188B; BR112021001913A2; KR102569152B1; AU2018434907A1; JP2021531903A

Abstract

The present invention provides a grip assist device wearable on either hand comprising a grip portion including an insert designed to prevent a weight lifting bar from contacting a vulnerable area of the palm center that is prone to injury.

Description

Grip strength auxiliary device with plug-in

Technical Field

The present invention relates to the field of strength training and weight lifting, and in particular to grip strength aids for use in this field.

Background

Strength training has become a widespread exercise activity directed to both men and women. In addition to being athletic in nature and being a sport, strength training is also used as a conditioning and strengthening exercise for other sports, such as football, basketball, and baseball. In addition, players that rely on agility, such as tennis players, also benefit from strength training.

In sports, to prevent injuries to participants, protective devices are used. In the case of strength training, protection of the device is also required, since all joints of the body may be subjected to extreme forces. In particular, during a strength training session, the wrist joint is subject to these extreme forces at all times while the barbell bar is being used by the trainee's hand.

Palm protection is also important during weight lifting. This is particularly true during weight lifting exercises, during which the weight lifter (such as using a bench) pushes the weight plate away from the body. Fig. 1 is a skeletal view of a hand. The bones of the slashed-shaded portion form a metacarpal, which is composed of a first metacarpal 608, a second metacarpal 606, a third metacarpal 604, a fourth metacarpal 602, and a fifth metacarpal 600. The shaded portion near the wrist is the carpal bone 614.

Lines

612, 610 show the approximate dimensions of the deep and shallow arch, respectively. The palm is formed by the metacarpal bones on the skeleton, and the metacarpal bones are composed of the metacarpal bones 600-608. The metacarpal bones are the middle part of the hand bones, between the phalanges (or finger bones) and the carpal bones 614, which form the connection with the forearm. The metacarpal bones form a transverse arch to which an array of stiff distal carpal bones are secured. This concavity is deepened by the sides of the cup that form the metacarpal sulcus when the surrounding metacarpals (those of thumb 608 and pinky finger 600) are brought together. The palmar shape on these bones is primarily formed by the radial and ulnar arteries that form the deep 612 and shallow 610 arches of the palm. On the metacarpal, the superficial arch 610 culminates at about the middle of the metacarpal, and the deep arch 612 culminates at about one-quarter of the distance between the carpal bones 614 and the phalanges. In particular, the ulnar nerve, as well as the radial and median nerves, are affected by the pressure experienced by the palms of the hands. Exercises that put a lot of stress on these nerves leave the weight lifter vulnerable to injuries and produce syndromes such as carpal tunnel syndrome and carpal's canal syndrome.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a schematic illustration of a human hand is provided. Wherein the highlighting indicates the approximate location of the thumb fat pad 200, the little finger fat pad 202, and the palm fat pad series 204. These fat pads are subcutaneous fat deposits that effectively form the palm framework. The thumb fat pad 200 is located under the thumb, extending down almost to the wrist. The term "thumb fat pad" as used herein is understood to be located as shown in the figures. The series of palm fat pads 204 are a series of smaller fat pads that substantially cover the tops of the

metacarpals

600, 602, 604, 606 (shown in fig. 1) that collectively extend across the top of the palm under the fingers. The term "palm fat pad series" as used herein is understood to be located as shown in the figures. Little finger fat pad 202 is located below palm fat pad series 204, and little finger or little finger, such as thumb fat pad 200, extends down almost to the wrist. The term "little finger fat pad" as used herein is understood to be located as shown in the figures. These

fat pads

200, 202, 204 surround a frangible region 206 shown in dashed lines. The vulnerable region 206 does not contain fat deposits, such as the

fat pads

200, 202, 204, and is therefore relatively unprotected compared to the rest of the palm. Comparing fig. 1 and 2, this area of weakness 206 corresponds approximately to the area defined within

lines

612, 610 corresponding to the superficial and deep arch of the palm. The term "frangible region" as used herein is understood to mean a region defined between the

fat pads

200, 202, 204 as shown and generally corresponding to the

line

612, 610. It is this relatively unprotected portion of the palm that is most vulnerable to injury during weight lifting, particularly during a putting practice.

U.S. patent No.5,813,950, issued to the inventor of the present invention, describes a new development of a grip assist device in which the flexible gripping portion covering the palm of the weight lifter's hand is formed of an adhesive non-slip material that is sewn in a particular manner to allow the weight lifter's hands to move freely when not gripping the barbell bar. The grip assist device includes a gripping portion that extends from the weight lifter's wrist to the fingertips and covers the base of the hand, and is connected to a wrist strap that is a funnel-shaped design that provides wrist support. A feature and advantage of the grip assist device invention described in U.S. patent No.5,813,950 is that the grip strap must be able to stand freely in front of the hand to allow easy wrapping of the weight bar by the fingertips of the same hand. The grip portion of the above described invention can be used for both push and pull exercises and protects the palm from rubbing. The inventors of the present invention found that the grip strength assisting device described in us patent No.5,813,950 has valuable applications in the medical field of orthopedic rehabilitation and health-related applications. In these applications, further protection against any referral action is required.

Us patent No.5,771,901 discloses an arch support for the hand, which is a plate made to conform to the palm of the hand and having a supporting edge. Although capable of supporting the palm, the invention of this patent does not protect the hand or any other portion of the wrist that may be affected during strength training, nor does it provide any grip assistance that is preferred during strength training. In addition, the invention is hand specific and therefore must be purchased for each hand.

Us patent No.4,374,439 discloses a bowler's wrist support including a flexible body adapted to wrap around a hand, a wrist strap for securing the flexible body in place, and a recess for fitting over a pad located at the palm of the hand. The padding serves to fill the space between the palm and the surface of the ball to provide better contact with the ball for better control. The pad is formed of a foam material having a certain elasticity. The pad is shaped so as to have two relatively straight edges that meet at the thickest rounded corner of the pad. This portion of the pad fits against the root of the palm root. The arcuate edge of the pad that tapers to its smallest dimension extends from the end of one of the straight edges and, when the wrist support is in use, is located directly below the base of the fingers on the palm of the hand. A short straight edge from the other end of the arcuate edge is adjacent the side of the hand that is connected to another straight edge that extends near the base of the thumb. Although capable of assisting bowling, the invention is not suitable for providing palm support for weight lifting purposes. In particular, the flexible nature of the pad will adjust with pressure changes, making it difficult to change the grip on the rod. Furthermore, it varies from hand to hand as it is contoured to the palm of the hand. This is not a problem in bowling games where most bowlers use only one hand, but in a weightlifting game this would require the user to again determine which grip device to use on which hand, which would make it impossible for two people to use the same grip device.

U.S. patent No.8,065,749 discloses a protective sheet for hands having a hypoallergenic adhesive. The rectangular sheet is folded in half with an opening for a finger to pass through. The side of the invention is open for smooth thumb movement. The invention includes an aperture at the base of the hand for preventing any creasing of the material when the hand is flexed in the process of forming the grip. Furthermore, the invention can also be worn under a glove and can be used in any activity where surface damage may occur to the palm of the hand. While hypoallergenic sheets protect the hand (more specifically, the palm of the hand) from skin damage due to friction, the invention does not protect the fragile parts of the hand from internal damage or from carpal tunnel syndrome.

Us patent No.6,154,882 discloses a protective device intended to reduce the risk and impact of hand and arm injuries during strong impacts. The device consists of two elements (knuckle protector and grip element). The grip element is located in the palm of the hand, which supports a variety of designs. All designs of the grip portion of us patent No.6,154,882 involve the use of a layer of material that is intended to be bendable, slidably movable upon a fall. All designs facilitate the grip of the hand around the grip portion upon impact. All grip part designs follow the same understanding, i.e. if the hand is in the grip position during a fall (i.e. a ski accident), the risk of injury to the forearm, wrist and small bones of the hand or fingers is significantly reduced. Although the invention protects the user from strong impact due to a fall, the invention does not prevent injury in the pushing action and does not provide assistance for orthopedic therapy for exercising strength.

U.S. patent No.4,546,495 discloses a weight lifting glove device that includes a tapered wedge extending inwardly from the base of the palm toward the interior of the palm for use in weight lifting in the case of a bench press. The wedge of the invention has a certain flexibility so that it will bend or bend with the hand when the hand grips the rod. The wedge includes a generally planar base extending upward from the base of the palm toward the palm. A circular edge defining an outer periphery of the wedge extends between opposite ends of the base. The top or upper portion of the wedge is a generally smooth continuous concave area. There is a smooth continuous gradual convex bottom connected to the wedge, extending distally outwardly from the base. The distal end is distal to the base. The wedge has a thickness that varies from a maximum at the base to a minimum at the distal end. The concave top and convex bottom are somewhat parallel to each other, but there is a gradual transition towards each other from the base to the distal end, and both the concave top and convex bottom taper distally. Although the wedge of this patent is weight-lifting oriented, it still has drawbacks. In particular, its flexible nature will adjust with pressure changes, making it difficult to change the grip on the rod. Furthermore, since it covers a relatively large area of the hand and is contoured to the hand, it varies from hand to hand and must be purchased for each hand.

Devices for hands exist in the prior art that can be worn on either hand. For example, U.S. patent No.6,102,880 discloses a lightweight cuff having a flexible base extending along the palm of the hand and receiving a stiffening member within a recess, and capable of being worn on either the right or left hand. Although useful for some applications, the cuff is not suitable for use in weight lifting. In particular, it is designed to inhibit the activity of the wrist and the ability to perform the preferred various wrist motions during weight lifting. Furthermore, it only protects a very small part of the hand, while many areas of the hand that may be affected by lifting are still exposed. In addition, since it includes two hand straps that wrap around the hands and connect to each other across the dorsum area of the hands, it may unduly restrict the gripping action of the hands, while unobstructed gripping is of paramount importance in weight lifting.

Us patent No.5,620,399 discloses a grip sleeve for tightly gripping an object by hand. The grip sleeve is formed from a sheet of material that is constructed of a material that is tightly gripped or adhered, the sheet being connected to the wristband by a connecting web. The grip sleeve may be placed on the user's wrist by a wristband so that the plate is in the user's palm. The plate is preferably circular in shape. Although capable of providing grip assistance and being worn on either hand, the invention also has its drawbacks. It does not provide additional palm support, other than the board itself. The invention covers only the base of the hand with a narrow mesh, while a large portion of the base of the hand remains exposed and susceptible to irritation and/or injury.

U.S. patent No.5,581,809 to Mah (hereinafter "Mah") discloses a protective glove having a back portion, a palm portion and a plurality of finger cuffs projecting distally from between the back and palm portions for use on a wearer's hand. The protective glove provides a plurality of flexible, resilient pads for absorbing shock positioned on the palm portion of the glove in spaced, non-overlapping relation relative to one another and adjacent and substantially non-overlapping relation relative to the proximal finger fold, the distal transverse palm fold and the longitudinal thenar fold such that the plurality of flexible, resilient pads abut one another in edge contacting relation after flexing of the hand to form a substantially continuous, wrinkle-free shock absorbing layer covering the palm region of the hand. The glove is therefore designed to absorb shocks on the palm, rather than completely avoiding pressure on certain parts of the palm. The glove also specifically teaches that the elastic pad should not span any palm folds, but rather be specifically located around various palm folds so that the pad will fold into the palm folds when the hand is in flexion.

According to Mah, column 6, lines 43-45, "

elastic inserts

34, 46, 48, 50 and 52 are held between palm portion 24 and liner 64". Thus, wherever one of the Mah pads is located, there are three layers-the pad itself, the palm portion and the liner. A plurality of such pads are provided on the frangible region 206 as shown in figure 2. Mah's pad covers primarily the palm portion thereof, and the palm portion includes at least three layers on which the pad is disposed.

Mah's wrist pad 34 is an insert that is at least slightly U-shaped. The top of this micro U-shaped wrist pad is not placed anywhere near the series 204 of palm fat pads. Mah teaches to avoid modifying its wrist pad 34 so that the top of the pad will extend up to be disposed over the palm fat pad series. Mah emphasizes that "the improvement … … of the present invention resides in the positioning and composition … … of a plurality of flexible members positioned in spaced relation adjacent to but substantially non-overlapping with the major fold of the hand" [ emphasis, Mah, column 4, lines 9-19 ]. Mah proceeds to explain that each pad is specifically positioned around each palm fold so that when the hand is in flexion, the pad will fold into the palm fold [ Mah, column 4, line 47 to column 5, line 20 ]. In order for the wrist pad 34 of Mah to extend far enough above the palm so that its micro U-shaped wrist pad is disposed over the series of palm fat pads, the wrist pad would have to cover multiple folds of the hand, which Mah teaches away from.

It is worth noting that if Mah's crescent-shaped elastic wrist pad 34 is placed higher up in the glove so that the top of the micro U-shaped insert is placed over the palm fat pad, then the connection portion of the pad will not be placed near the wrist end in order to meet Mah's requirement that the pad not overlap the palm crease. The above discussion applies regardless of the size of the user's hand. Each hand has palm folds between the series of palm fat pads and the wrist area, Mah will always require no overlap of these palm folds.

The palm portion of Mah has no edges because Mah discloses a glove. Since the palm portion of Mah surrounds the palm and extends up and between the fingers, there are no structural cuts or edges to this palm portion. Furthermore, since Mah's glove wraps the user's hand all the way around, the glove cannot be contoured on the edges on either side of the palm portion, as Mah's glove does not have such edges.

Thus, there is a need for a grip assist device that can be worn on either hand; the grip assisting device includes a palm protector; the grip assist device substantially protects the portion of the hand affected during lifting; and the grip assist device does not unduly restrict the gripping action of the hand.

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention is a grip assist device with a built-in arch support insert that will protect the vulnerable area of the hand against any lifting action advocated in the field of orthopedic rehabilitation. A preferred grip assist device of the present invention includes a grip portion extending from a wrist portion, and a releasable wrist fastener. The related inventions of the inventor of the present invention disclosed in U.S. patent No.8,581,950 and U.S. patent application No.12/660,856 are hereby incorporated by reference. At least one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that certain aspects or details discussed in each of these disclosures, but not discussed herein, can be applied to the present invention.

The preferred grip assist device includes a gripping portion that covers at least the palm of the hand when worn as intended, and a wrist portion attached to the gripping portion. The wrist portion comprises a strap and a securing means for securing the wrist portion around a user's wrist, thereby allowing a grip portion attached to the wrist portion to rest against the user's hand. The preferred gripping portion is comprised of at least two halves or layers. The grip portion of the preferred grip assist device is preferably comprised of a single flat piece of material folded along a first line of symmetry. However, it should be understood that the grip portion may be comprised of two separate pieces of material that are attached to each other so as to be flush with each other except where one or more inserts may be included between the two halves. The grip portion of the preferred grip assist device has a finger end at the top, a wrist end opposite the finger end, an attachment edge near the wrist end for attaching a strap of the wrist portion, and first and second sides between the finger end and the attachment edge.

The grip portion of the preferred grip assist device further includes an insert, which is an arch support structure, inserted between the two halves, wherein the insert includes a gap. When placed between the two halves, the insert provides the grip portion with three layers everywhere except in the gap where the grip portion will still have only two layers. The gap is located within the insert such that when the grip assist device is worn by a user, the insert will cover the vulnerable area of the user's hand. The insert may be of any shape so long as the gap is located such that the gap will be located on at least a portion of the frangible region of the user's hand and the insert is disposed on at least a portion of the series of thumb, little finger and palm fat pads of the user's hand when the grip assist device is donned. The shape may be circular (e.g. doughnut shaped) or rectangular, provided that the gap in the middle is in the correct position as described above. The insert may also be two inserts in the form of parallel strips with a gap between them, the strips being located above and below, or on either side of, the frangible region when the grip assist device is worn. At least one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the insert may have many shapes and configurations in order to form a gap in the frangible region.

Preferably, however, the insert disposed between the two halves is U-shaped. The U-shaped insert covers at least a portion of the series of thumb, little finger and palm fat pads. A gap between the two sides of the U-shaped insert covers a frangible region adjacent the series of palm fat pads, which extends from the series of palm fat pads toward the little finger fat pads and the thumb fat pads when the grip assist device is worn on the palm portion of the hand in the intended manner. The additional support of the U-shaped insert will withstand the additional pressure during any lifting action so that the frangible region will not come into contact with the rod being lifted, thereby preventing the frangible region from being stressed and injured and promoting smooth blood circulation.

The U-shaped insert has a first U-side adjacent the first side of the grip portion, a second U-side adjacent the second side of the grip portion, and a connecting portion connecting the first U-side and the second U-side and adjacent the wrist end of the grip portion. Where the U-shaped insert is provided, the grip portion has at least three layers-the U-shaped insert and the two halves. Between the first U-side and the second U-side is a gap where the grip portion is only two layers, i.e. the two halves. The U-shaped insert is positioned within the gripping portion such that the U-shaped insert covers at least a portion of the series of thumb fat pad, little finger fat pad and palm fat pad when the grip assist device is worn. The gap covers the area of weakness. The additional support of the U-shaped insert will withstand the extra pressure during lifting so that the area of weakness will not come into contact with the weight lifting bar, thereby preventing the area of weakness from being stressed and injured. The U-shaped insert reinforces and supports the series of little finger fat pad, thumb fat pad and palm fat pad so that pressure on the palm is not in contact with the fragile area.

The grip assist device with built-in arch support insert is suitable for therapeutic rehabilitation. Preferably, the grip portion is made of a non-slip material and includes an end block at the finger end of the grip portion between the two halves of the material. The first and second attachment edges of the grip portion of the present invention are angled such that when the first and second straps of the wrist portion are secured on the wrist of the user via the wrist fastener, the first and second straps and the grip portion form a funnel-shaped enclosure around the wrist and base of the hand, wherein the enclosure has an opening at a distal end greater than at a proximal end thereof. The first and second bands of the wrist portion are substantially rectangular, "substantially" here means that the corners may be rounded, rather than perfectly right-angled. Preferably, the means for securing the strap of the grip assist device of the present invention about the wrist comprises a loop on the end of the first strap, and a hook-and-loop type fastener segment on the second strap, such that the second strap can be secured to itself through the hook of the first strap and then through its hook-and-loop type fastener segment. The grip portion of the grip assist device is rigid such that it is self-supporting and remains extended in front of the palm and fingers of the user to allow manipulation of the grip portion by the hand with which it is worn. The grip portion of the grip assist device is sufficiently flexible to allow itself to easily wrap around the rod and the two halves forming the grip section of the grip assist device are secured by sewing together.

The U-shaped built-in arch support structure insert of the grip assist device claimed herein will protect the delicate area of the user's palm in any lifting action, protecting the user from injury and carpal tunnel syndrome, and will be useful in orthopedic procedures where the user must augment the upper body while taking care not to suffer any other injuries. Physicians have conducted several studies that agree that the endo-arch support insert has a positive effect on the recovery of the wrist and hand injuries of the patient. The U-shaped built-in arch support is made of a solid flexible material that protects the delicate area of the palm by strengthening the series of little finger fat pad, thumb fat pad and palm fat pad. In addition, the endo-arch support promotes blood circulation by preventing the median nerve from being subjected to pressure.

In a preferred embodiment, the grip assist device is symmetrical and therefore can be worn on either hand. In this preferred embodiment, each of the halves or layers that are flush with each other has a second line of symmetry. It is this second line of symmetry that allows the grip assist device to be worn on either hand. The first and second sides include mirror image profiles to allow the thumb to move on either side.

Preferably, the grip portion is made of a non-slip material. Preferably, an end block is included at the finger end of the gripping portion of the preferred grip assist device between the two halves of material. Preferably, the first and second attachment edges of the grip portion of the grip assist device are angled such that when the first and second straps of the wrist portion are secured on the wrist of the user via the wrist fastener, the first and second straps and the grip portion form a funnel-shaped enclosure around the wrist and the base of the hand, wherein the enclosure has an opening at a distal end greater than at a proximal end thereof. Preferably, the first and second bands of the wrist portion are substantially rectangular, "substantially" here means that the corners may be rounded, rather than perfectly right-angled. Preferably, the means for securing the strap of the preferred grip assist device around the wrist comprises a loop on the end of the first strap and a hook-and-loop type fastener segment on the second strap, such that the second strap can be secured to itself through the hook of the first strap and then through its hook-and-loop type fastener segment. Preferably, the grip portion of the grip assist device is rigid such that it is self-supporting and remains extended in front of the palm and fingers of the user to allow manipulation of the grip portion by the hand with which it is worn. Further, it is preferred that the grip portion of the grip assist device is sufficiently flexible to allow the weight lifting rod to be easily wrapped by itself using only the fingertips of a hand with the grip portion. Preferably, the two halves of material forming the gripping section of the preferred grip assist device are secured by sewing together. It is also preferred that the stitching helps to hold the U-shaped insert in place and define the gap.

In an alternative embodiment of the grip strength aid, the grip portion is integrated into a weight lifting glove. In such embodiments, the wrist portion is eliminated and replaced with a glove made of a flexible material, the glove having a shape and size to cover the palm of the user's hand and at least a portion of each finger. As with all other embodiments, the grip portion covers at least a portion of the palm when worn as intended and includes two layers of material and an insert disposed between the layers.

In some such embodiments, the glove material covering the palm of the user forms a first layer of the gripping portion, the insert is located on this layer such that it covers at least a portion of the series of thumb, little finger and palm fat pads, and the insert is secured to the glove material by a separate layer of material that forms an outer layer of the gripping portion when the grip assist device is donned. However, in other embodiments, the grip portion comprises two separate layers secured together by an insert located at a desired position therebetween, the grip portion being secured to the glove material covering the palm of the user's hand.

The means for grip assist is designed to enhance the grip of the weightlifter by providing support to the wrist and hand. The flexible gripping portion covers and protects the palm of the hand. The gripping portion is typically comprised of one symmetrical piece of material folded in half. The wristband is attached to the base of the gripping material and provides wrist support. Preferably, the grip portion of the grip assist device further comprises an arch support structure interposed between the two halves of the grip material. Preferably, the internal arch support insert disposed between the two halves of the grip portion is U-shaped. The internal arch support insert provides additional protection to the vulnerable areas of the user's palm. The internal arch support insert will withstand additional pressure during any lifting action so that the weight is evenly distributed and the area of weakness of the user's palm will not come into contact with the rod being lifted, thereby preventing the area of weakness from being stressed and injured. The clevis support insert may be designed for a wide range of therapeutic applications in physiotherapy.

The arch support insert is used in a grip assist device and protects a user from injury or carpal tunnel syndrome. The invention is suitable for the lifting action advocated in the field of orthopedics rehabilitation, for example. Any lifting action involving direct pressure bearing on the delicate area of the palm may cause carpal tunnel syndrome. Prolonged pressure will cause compression of the median nerve and reduced blood flow.

The U-shaped arch support insert of the preferred grip assist device is designed to enhance the density of the flexor and abductor muscles located directly below the thumb and forefinger. By strengthening both sides of the hand, the U-shaped insert acts as an arch support and helps prevent the delicate area of the palm from bearing directly, thereby achieving smooth blood circulation and protection of the median nerve.

For orthopedic rehabilitation, the pushing action will typically include a barbell bar for exercising the strength of the user's upper body. The U-shaped insert of the preferred grip assist device balances and distributes weight evenly across the hand and creates a unique arch support that allows the user to maintain the hand in a natural open hand extended position as compared to a traditional fist. The open hand (non-grasping) position allows the barbell bar to rest lower on the hand and closer to the wrist. This position of the hand places the barbell bar on the bones of the forearm, which in turn makes the disc easier to push, thereby improving force transmission. The unique design of the U-shaped arch support reinforces both sides of the user's palm, creating space and biasing the pressure of the barbell bar away from the area of weakness to protect the median nerve. The built-in arch support of the U-shaped arch support insert becomes a "bridge" structure that carries the barbell bar over the fragile carpal tunnel region while protecting the median nerve and allowing blood to circulate smoothly to the hand.

The preferred glove is a weight lifting glove of half-finger design and is made at least in part of a breathable material. However, in some embodiments, the glove is a full finger design suitable for work or cold weather use.

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a grip assist device having an arch support structure for preventing injuries, and protecting the vulnerable area of the user's palm and preventing carpal tunnel syndrome.

It is another object of the present invention to provide additional protection to the palm area of the user's hand when performing any of the pushing actions.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide protection for the ulnar, radial and median nerves to promote blood circulation from the user's wrist to his fingertips when performing any lifting actions.

These aspects of the invention are not meant to be exclusive, as other features, aspects, and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art upon review of the following description in conjunction with the accompanying figures.

Drawings

FIG. 1 is a skeletal view of a human hand.

FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of a human hand showing the approximate location of the fat pad of the hand.

Fig. 3A is a front perspective view of the grip strength aid of the present invention.

Fig. 3B is an isolated view of the U-shaped insert shown in fig. 3A.

Fig. 4 is a view of the deployed grip portion.

Fig. 5 is a view of the grip portion overlying a hand.

Fig. 6 is a detailed view of the stitching of the grip portion.

Fig. 7 is an isometric view showing the funnel-shaped opening of the grip assist device of the present invention.

FIG. 8A is a front view of a human hand having a grip relaxed by the grip assist device of the present invention positioned between the lever and the user's hand.

FIG. 8B is a front view of a human hand relaxing the grip, the grip positioned between the user's hand and the grip assist device of the present invention.

Fig. 9A is a side view of a human hand shown in fig. 8B with the finger end of the grip assist device of the present invention bent around the shaft toward the hand.

Fig. 9B is a perspective view of a human hand grasping the grip assisting device of the present invention shown in fig. 9A.

Fig. 10 is a front view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which the grip portion is integrated into a weight lifting glove worn on a human hand.

Fig. 11A is an assembly view of a grip portion formed by attaching two layers of material together using an insert positioned between the two layers of material.

FIG. 11B is an unassembled exploded view of a grip portion formed by attaching two material layers together using an insert located between the two material layers.

Detailed Description

Referring first to fig. 3A, there is shown a preferred grip assist device 10 of the present invention which embodies the best mode of the invention as contemplated by the inventor of the present invention. The grip assist device 10 preferably includes a grip portion 12, a wrist portion 28, and a wrist fastener 36. It is to be understood that the embodiments shown are preferred embodiments, but that not all of the features shown are essential to the basic embodiments of the invention.

The gripping portion 12 is sized to cover the portion of the human hand from the fingers to below the wrist joint without impeding the motion of the thumb. Although the gripping portion 12 is flexible enough to easily wrap around the weight bar only by the fingers of the hand wearing the grip assist device 10, it is preferably somewhat rigid so that it is self-supporting and will remain extended in front of the palm and fingers without manipulation by the hand wearing the grip assist device 10.

In the preferred embodiment of fig. 3A, the grip portion 12 includes a finger end 18, a wrist end 70, a first attachment edge 72, a second attachment edge 74, a first side 76, and a second side 78. Finger tip 18, first side 76, and second side 78 are also labeled as first grip portion edge 706, second grip portion edge 708, and third grip portion edge 710, meaning that these are the edges of grip portion 12, i.e., grip portion 12 does not extend beyond these

edges

706, 708, 710 and is not connected to other structures at these

edges

706, 708, 710. It is worth noting that any kind of glove will not comprise such edges, as the glove, by its nature, will wrap the hand all around. The finger end 18 and the wrist end 70 are opposite each other at the top and bottom of the grip portion 12, respectively. The wrist end 70 has a first wrist end wing 500 on the side of the wrist end facing the first strap 30 and a second wrist end wing 502 on the other side of the wrist end facing the second strap 31. It should be understood that first wrist end flap 500 and second wrist end flap 502 represent either side of wrist end 70. "flap" is used in this context as a synonym for "side", but the inventor of the present invention, for his own lexical usage, chooses to use "flap" here in order not to be confused with the term "side" as used in other contexts herein. The first and second attachment edges 72, 74 are disposed adjacent the first and second wrist end flaps 500, 502 of the wrist end 70. The first and

second side portions

76, 78 extend between the finger end 18 and the first and second attachment edges 72, 74. First side 76 and second side 78 each include a contour 16 that receives a user's thumb. The concave profile 16 causes a narrowing 702 in the first and

second sides

76, 78; a first widened portion 700 between the narrowed portion 702 and the finger end 18; and a second widened portion 704 located between the narrowed portion 702 and the wrist end 70; as will be discussed in more detail below, the first attachment edge 72 and the second attachment edge 74 are where the first strap 30 and the second strap 31 extend from the grip portion 12.

In embodiments that may be worn on either hand, the grip portion 12 includes a second line of symmetry 14. The second line of symmetry 14 is not a structure that would be apparent by viewing the grip portion 12, but is an imaginary line extending along the length of the grip portion 12. The symmetry of the grip portion 12 allows the preferred grip assist device 10 to be worn on either hand. Although it should be understood that there are at least two symmetries along the second line of symmetry 14, including symmetry about the plane of the grip portion 12, it should be understood that, as used herein, "second line of symmetry" refers only to the symmetry that would be apparent if the grip portion 12 were folded along the second line of symmetry 14. It should also be understood that although the "first" feature of the grip portion 12 is shown on the right side and the "second" feature of the grip portion 12 is shown on the left side, these designations are arbitrary in that the grip portion 12 is symmetrical and all of the "first" and "second" features of the grip portion 12 are mirror images of the other about the second line of symmetry 14.

The grip portion 12 includes a U-shaped insert 80 shown in detail in fig. 3B. While the U-shaped insert 80 is the preferred shape of the present invention, it should be understood that any insert that includes a gap 104 to be disposed over at least a portion of the frangible region of the wearer of the grip assist device 10 is sufficient for the present invention. The U-shaped insert 80 is disposed between the halves 71, 73 (best shown in fig. 4) of the grip portion 12. The U-shaped insert 80 includes a first U-side 82 and a second U-side 90, both of which include outer U-sides 84, 92; inner

U-side portions

86, 94; and U-top 88, 96. The first U-side 82 and the second U-side 90 are connected by a connecting portion 98 having a wrist end side 100 proximate the wrist end 70 of the grip portion 12 and a gap side 102 proximate a gap 104. The wrist end side portion 100 connects the outer

U side portions

84, 92 of the first and second

U side portions

82, 90. The gap side 102 connects the inner U-sides 86, 94 of the first U-side 82 and the second U-side 90. Gap 104 is the space between first and second

U-side portions

82, 90 and connecting portion 98. The first outer U-side 84 and the second outer U-side 92 are contoured to follow the contour 16 of the first side 76 and the second side 78 of the grip portion 12. The first U-side 82, the second U-side 90 and the connecting portion 98 form the U-shaped insert 80 such that the grip portion 12 comprises three layers of material at the first U-side 82, the second U-side 90 and the connecting portion 98 when the U-shaped insert 80 is disposed between the

halves

71, 73. At the gap 104, the grip portion 12 comprises only two layers of material, namely the

halves

71, 73.

The grip portion 12 includes a finger end 18, which is the end of the grip portion 12 that covers the fingers of the user. An end block 20 is provided at the finger end 18 of the preferred gripping portion 12. The end block 20 is preferably rigid but flexible and is preferably rectangular. The end-block 20 is arranged in the grip portion 12 by any means commonly used in the art, but preferably arranged by being fixed in place between the layers of the grip portion 12 by stitching around the end-block 20 and attaching it in place using an adhesive. However, in a molded embodiment of the invention, such as discussed below with reference to fig. 4, the end block 20 is integrally formed with the grip portion 12.

When the grip assist device 10 is in use, the wrist portion 28 may be fixedly and releasably wrapped around the user's wrist. The wrist portion 28 comprises a first strap 30 and a second strap 31, both of which are preferably rectangular in shape. The first strap 30 has a free end 34 and an attachment end 32 that is attached to a first attachment edge 72 of the grip portion 12. The second strap 31 has a free end 35 and an attached end 33 that is attached to a second attachment edge 74 of the grip portion 12. The belt attachment ends 32, 33 may be attached to the attachment edges 72, 74 by any means commonly used in the art, but the preferred attachment means is to insert the belt attachment ends 32, 33 between the

halves

71, 73 of the grip portion 12 at the attachment edges 72, 74 and to attach the belt attachment ends 32, 33 thereto by stitching and/or adhesive or other attachment means.

The

straps

30, 31 are attached to the grip portion 12 at an angle a, which is preferably about 120 °. However, angle a may be greater or less than 120 ° depending on the user's hand. Angle a may be customized to best fit the user's hand and ensure a comfortable fit on either hand. Although in the preferred embodiment the

straps

30, 31 are not identical, either

strap

30, 31 may be attached to either

attachment edge

72, 74 due to the symmetry of the grip portion 12. In a preferred embodiment, the

straps

30, 31 include cushioning pads 38 for user comfort. The cushion pad 38 is preferably made of foam rubber covered with a low friction fabric. This is preferred because the fabric overlying the foam rubber allows the

straps

30, 31 to slide over the cushioning pad 38 and prevent their gripping onto the foam rubber.

The

bands

30, 31 further comprise wrist fasteners 36 for fastening the wrist portion 28 against the user's wrist. The wrist fastener 36 preferably includes a first segment 42 including a loop 44 at the strap free end 34 of one of the first straps 30. Wrist fastener 36 also preferably includes a second segment 46 on second strap 31 that is insertable through ring 44 to secure wrist portion 28. The second segment 46 preferably includes a first length 48 of loop-type fasteners and a second length 50 of hook-type fasteners such that the first length 48 and the second length 50 can be engaged and releasably secured when the second strap 31 with the second segment 46 disposed thereon is inserted through the loop member 44.

Referring now to fig. 4, the preferred grip portion 12 is shown prior to folding. The grip portion 12 is preferably made of a piece of non-slip material 40, such as chlorinated butyl rubber, that provides a tacky (sticky) surface to allow the grip portion 12 to adhere to the palm of a user's hand, rather than slide around during use. The material 40 includes a first flat material side 504 and a second flat material side, which is understood to be the opposite side of the side 504 and thus faces away from the viewer. When the material 40 is folded, the piece of material 40 is non-slip at least on the side facing outwards. That is, the side of the material 40 that will be folded and flush against itself may or may not be a non-slip material, but the side that faces outward and will come into contact with the user's hand and/or the bar 66 (as shown in fig. 8A and 8B) is preferably non-slip. The grip portion 12 is preferably formed by attaching two

layers

71, 73 of anti-slip material of suitable size and shape together, preferably by folding the piece 40 of anti-slip material at the first line of symmetry 41 and sewing the two

halves

71, 73 together. When the first flat material side 504 is folded along the first line of symmetry 41, both

layers

71, 73 will face outwards and the second flat material side will face towards itself and not be visible. In such a scenario, the first flat material side 504 facing outward is preferably non-slip. However, in one embodiment, the material is a moldable material, such as urethane, molded rubber, or the like, that is molded into the shape of at least the anti-slip grip portion 12. When folded along the first line of symmetry 41, the grip portion 12 has a certain rigidity such that it is self-supporting and will remain extended in front of the palm and fingers to allow the grip portion 12 to be manipulated by a human hand wearing the grip assist device 10. Despite this rigidity, the grip portion 12 is sufficiently flexible to allow itself to easily wrap the weight lifting bar 66 using only the tip of a finger.

Referring now to fig. 5, the grip portion 12 is shown overlying the hand. For clarity, wrist portion 28 is not included in FIG. 5, but is understood to be present, as shown in FIG. 3A. Although it is understood that the U-shaped insert 80 is disposed between the

halves

71, 73, its position within the grip portion 12 is indicated in the figures. Comparing fig. 2 and 5, it is apparent that when the grip portion 12 is placed on the palm of the hand in the intended manner, the following will occur: at least a portion of first U-top 88 and second U-top 96 will be disposed over at least a portion of palm fat pad series 204; at least a portion of the first U-side 82 is disposed over at least a portion of the little finger fat pad 202; at least a portion of the second U-side 90 is disposed over at least a portion of the thumb fat pad 200; and at least a portion of the connecting portion 98 is disposed over at least a portion of both the little finger fat pad 202 and the thumb fat pad 200. Also, it is arbitrary as to whether the first U-side 82 or the second U-side 90 is disposed above the thumb fat pad 200 or the little finger fat pad 202, since the grip portion 12 (including the U-shaped insert 80) is symmetrical along the second line of symmetry 14. Additionally and importantly, at least a portion of the gap 104 is disposed over at least a portion of the frangible region 206. These placements of the components of the U-shaped insert 80 ensure that more pressure is placed on the fat-rich portions of the hand (i.e., thumb fat pad 200, little finger fat pad 202, and palm fat pad series 204). The gap 104 surrounded by the area reinforced by the U-shaped insert 80 will keep the bar 66 out of contact with the frangible region 206, thereby eliminating pressure on this unprotected and unpadded portion of the hand and preventing injury.

Referring now to FIG. 6, a preferred stitch 106 is shown. Stitching 106 is the preferred method of securely attaching

halves

71, 73 to each other. Other conventional attachment methods, such as bonding or the use of other adhesives, may also be used. In embodiments where the grip portion 12 is a one-piece molding, such attachment need not be performed. In fig. 6, the solid lines indicate lines of the stitches 106 in addition to the perimeter of the grip portion 12. The dashed lines indicate the second line of symmetry 14, the position of the end-block 20, the position of the U-shaped insert 80, and the first strap 30 and the second strap 31. Suture 106 includes at least a first outer section 108, a second outer section 110, a first inner section 112, a second inner section 114, a first top section 116, a second top section 118, and a gap-defining section 120. As shown, it is also preferred that the first and second outer segments 108, 110 extend downwardly and meet proximate the wrist end 70 of the grip portion 12, and additional stitching is included to secure the

straps

30, 31 to the first and second attachment edges 72, 74. The first and second outer segments 108, 110 follow the concave contour 16 of the first and

second sides

76, 78 of the grip portion 12, extending upwardly toward the finger end 18 and downwardly toward the first, second, and wrist ends 72, 74, 70. The first outer segment 108 is located between the first side 76 of the grip portion 12 and the first outer U-side 84 of the U-shaped insert 80. Thus, the first outer segment 108 is stitched only through the first and

second halves

71, 73. The second outer segment 110 is located between the second side 78 of the grip portion 12 and the second outer U-side 92 of the U-shaped insert 80. Thus, the second outer segment 110 is stitched only through the first and

second halves

71, 73. The first inner segment 112 is located inside the first outer U-side 84 of the U-shaped insert 80. Thus, first inner segment 112 is stitched through first half 71, second half 73, and U-shaped insert 80. The second inner segment 114 is located inside the second outer U-side 92 of the U-shaped insert 80. Thus, the second inner segment 114 is stitched through the first half 71, the second half 73, and the U-shaped insert 80. The first and second top segments 116, 118 are sewn directly over the tops of the first and second U-tops 88, 96, respectively, and thus are sewn only through the first and

second halves

71, 73. Finally, gap-defining segment 120 follows first inner U-side 86, gap-side 102, and second inner U-side 94 just within gap 104, such that gap-defining segment 120 is also stitched only through first half 71 and second half 73. By the combination of the suture segments 108 and 120, particularly where the first and second

inner segments

112 and 114 pass through the U-shaped insert 80 and the

halves

71, 73, while all other segments pass through only the

halves

71, 73, the U-shaped insert 80 can be secured in place, the

halves

71, 73 are securely fixed against each other, and the gap 104 is clearly defined.

Referring now to fig. 7, as the

straps

30, 31 are attached to the grip portion 12 (shown in fig. 3A) at an angle a, they form a funnel-shaped opening 60 when attached to each other. Funnel opening 60 is used to secure the user's wrist in order to provide firm support during strength training. The funnel opening 60 has a distal end 62 positioned around the base of the user's hand and a proximal end 64 positioned around the user's wrist. Since the distal end 62 is larger than the proximal end 64, the base of the hand is protected from friction. Furthermore, the nature of the funnel-shaped opening 60 prevents blood circulation in the user's hand from being restricted, while allowing the grip assist device 10 to be securely attached to the user's wrist. It is noted that when using the gripping device during a pulling exercise, it is preferable to position the funnel opening 60 around the base of the hand. However, when doing a pushing exercise, the funnel opening 60 is preferably positioned around the user's wrist and secured to provide wrist support.

Referring now to fig. 8A and 8B, a front view of a human hand having a grip relaxed by the grip assist device 10 is provided. In fig. 8A, the grip portion 12 is located between the lever 66 and the user's hand 68. In fig. 8B, the lever 66 is positioned between the grip portion 12 and the user's hand 68. Thus, the user can customize his or her use of the grip assist device 10 in the manner that is most comfortable for himself or herself. In particular, the use shown in fig. 8A may be more comfortable for a pushing exercise, such as a supine or chest push. The use shown in fig. 8B may be more comfortable for pull exercises, such as pull-up or high pull-down exercises.

Referring now to fig. 9A and 9B, a usage continuation from fig. 8B is provided. In fig. 9B, a side view of a human hand 68 is provided in which the finger end 18 of the gripping portion 12 is bent around the rod 66 toward the hand 68. In fig. 9B, a perspective view of a human hand 68 grasping the grip portion 12 around the rod 66 after the position shown in fig. 9A is provided. It will be appreciated that a similar succession of uses may occur for the grip portion 12 between the lever 66 and the hand 68, starting from the use shown in fig. 9A. In other words, the user may choose to grasp the lever 66 by the gripping portion 12 in a manner that curves away from the hand 68 (as suggested in fig. 8A) or in a manner that curves toward the hand 68 (as suggested in fig. 9A and 9B).

Referring now to fig. 10, there is shown an alternative embodiment of the present invention wherein the grip portion 12 is integrated into a weight lifting glove 300. In such embodiments, the wrist portion of other embodiments is eliminated and replaced with a glove 300 made of a flexible material shaped and sized to cover at least a portion of the palm and each finger of the user. In the embodiment of fig. 10, a glove

In the embodiment of fig. 10, the glove material 302 covering the palm of the user's hand forms a first layer of the grip portion 12, the insert 80 is shown to indicate its position within the grip portion 12, and the insert is located on and secured in place on this layer of glove material 302 by the outer layer 43. Comparing fig. 2 and 10, it is apparent that when glove 300 is donned, grip portion 12 is disposed on the palm of the hand such that at least a portion of first U-top 88 and second U-top 96 will be disposed on at least a portion of palm fat pad series 204; at least a portion of the first U-side 82 is disposed over at least a portion of the little finger fat pad 202; at least a portion of the second U-side 90 is disposed over at least a portion of the thumb fat pad 200; and at least a portion of the connecting portion 98 is disposed over at least a portion of both the little finger fat pad 202 and the thumb fat pad 200, and at least a portion of the gap 104 is disposed over at least a portion of the frangible region 206. These placements of the components of the U-shaped insert 80 ensure that more pressure is placed on the fat-rich portions of the hand (i.e., thumb fat pad 200, little finger fat pad 202, and palm fat pad series 204). The gap 104 surrounded by the area reinforced by the U-shaped insert 80 will keep the bar 66 out of contact with the frangible region 206, thereby eliminating pressure on this unprotected and unpadded portion of the hand and preventing injury.

Referring now to fig. 11A and 11B, in some embodiments in which the grip portion 12 is integrated into a weight lifting glove 300, the grip portion 12 is formed by attaching two appropriately sized and shaped layers of

anti-slip material

71, 73 with an insert 80 disposed therebetween. As shown in fig. 11B, the outer layer 73 is made from a wider sheet of material to allow the outer layer to be wrapped over the insert 80 and secured to the inner layer 71. Once secured in this manner, grip portion 12 is attached to glove material 302 at the location shown in fig. 10. Note that fig. 10 and 11A show a U-shaped insert 80. However, it should be understood that any of the insert shapes disclosed herein may be substituted to achieve a similar effect.

Applicability of the technique

As is apparent from the above description, the present invention is a grip assist device with a built-in arch support insert that can be developed in the industry. The manner of making and using the grip strength assisting device of the present invention will be apparent from the above description. Although the present invention has been described in considerable detail with reference to certain preferred versions thereof, other versions will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the specification and claims should not be limited to the description of the preferred versions contained herein.

The claims (modification according to treaty clause 19)

1. A grip assist device for weight lifting, wherein the grip assist device is sized to cover a portion of a palm of a user's hand from at least one finger to below a wrist joint such that movement of the user's thumb is not impeded, wherein the hand includes a thumb fat pad, a little finger fat pad, a series of palm fat pads, and a frangible region therebetween, the grip assist device comprising:

a grip portion formed in a manner that: attaching a first half flat material and a second half flat material having the same shape and size to each other such that the first half and the second half are flush, the grip portion comprising:

a finger end;

a wrist end opposite the finger end, the wrist end including a first wrist end side wing and a second wrist end side wing;

a first attachment edge disposed adjacent the first wrist end side wing of the wrist end;

a second attachment edge disposed adjacent the second wrist end side flap of the wrist end;

a first side and a second side extending between the first attachment edge, the second attachment edge, and the finger end, wherein the first side and the second side each include a concave profile proximate the first attachment edge and the second attachment edge such that movement of the thumb of the user is not impeded when the grip assist device is worn on the palm in an intended manner;

a U-shaped insert including a gap disposed between the first half and the second half, wherein when the U-shaped insert is disposed between the first half and the second half:

at all locations of the grip portion except where the gap of the insert is disposed between the first half and the second half, the grip portion comprising three layers including the first half, the insert, and the second half;

where the gap of the insert is disposed between the first half and the second half, the grip portion comprises only two layers, the two layers comprising the first half and the second half; and is

The gap is disposed over at least a portion of the frangible region proximate to and extending from the series of palm fat pads toward the little finger fat pad and the thumb fat pad when the grip facilitation device is worn on the palm as intended; and is

Wherein the U-shaped insert comprises:

a first U side, comprising:

a first outer U side;

a first inner U side opposite the first outer U side; and

a first connecting the first outer U side part and the first inner U side part

A U top;

a second U side comprising:

a second outer U side;

a second inner U side opposite the second outer U side; and

a second connecting the second outer U side part and the second inner U side part

The top of the second U;

a connecting portion connecting the first U side portion and the second U side portion,

it includes:

a wrist end side portion, wherein the wrist end side portion is in contact with the first U

The first and second outer U-sides of the side and the second U-side

The outer U side parts are crossed; and

a gap side, wherein the gap side is in communication with the first U side and

the first and second inner U sides of the second U side

The side parts are crossed; and

a post formed between the first U side and the second U side

The gap;

wherein when the grip strength assisting device is worn on the hand in an expected manner

When in palm:

the wrist end side portion of the connecting portion is close to the grip portion

The wrist end of the band;

the first outer U side follows the contour of the first side of the grip portion;

the second outer U side follows the contour of the second side of the grip portion;

at least a portion of the first U top and the second U top are disposed over at least a portion of the series of palm fat pads;

at least a portion of one of the first U side and the second U side is disposed over at least a portion of the little finger fat pad;

at least a portion of the other of the first U side and the second U side is disposed over at least a portion of the thumb fat pad; and is

At least a portion of the connecting portion is disposed over at least a portion of the little finger fat pad and the thumb fat pad;

a wrist portion comprising a first strap and a second strap, wherein:

the first strap and the second strap each comprise an attached end and a free end;

the attachment end of the first strap extends from the first attachment edge of the grip portion; and is

The attachment end of the second strap extends from the second attachment edge of the grip portion; and

a releasable wrist fastener attached to the first strap and the second strap, the wrist fastener being sized and shaped to fasten the first strap to the second strap to secure the grip assist device around the wrist of the user.

2. The grip assist device of claim 1, wherein the flat material forming the grip portion includes a first flat material side and a second flat material side, and at least one of the first flat material side and the second flat material side is non-slip.

3. The grip strength assist device of claim 1, further comprising an end block disposed between the first half and the second half at the finger end of the grip portion.

4. The grip strength assist device of claim 1, further comprising stitching to secure the first and second halves against each other and to secure the U-shaped insert in place between the first and second halves, wherein the stitching comprises at least:

a first outer section located between the first side of the gripping portion and the first outer U-side of the first U-side of the U-shaped insert, wherein the first outer section follows the contour of the first side of the gripping portion and is stitched only through the first half and the second half;

a second outer section located between the second side of the grip portion and the second outer U-side of the second U-side of the U-shaped insert, wherein the second outer section follows the contour of the second side of the grip portion and is sewn only through the first half and the second half;

a first inner section parallel to the first outer section, wherein at least a portion of the first inner section is stitched through the first half, the second half, and the first outer U-side of the first U-side of the U-shaped insert;

a second inner section parallel to the second outer section, wherein at least a portion of the second inner section is stitched through the first half, the second half, and the second outer U-side of the second U-side of the U-shaped insert;

first and second top sections over the first and second U tops of the first and second U sides of the U-shaped insert, wherein the first and second top sections are stitched only through the first and second halves; and

a gap defining section adjacent the first and second inner U sides of the first and second U sides and adjacent the gap side of the connecting portion of the U-shaped insert, wherein the gap defining section is sewn through only the first and second halves.

5. The grip strength aid of claim 1, wherein the first and second attachment edges of the grip portion are each angled such that when the first and second straps of the wrist portion are secured on the user's wrist by the wrist fastener, the first and second straps and the grip portion form a funnel-shaped enclosure around the wrist and base of the hand, the enclosure having an opening at a distal end thereof that is larger than a proximal end thereof.

6. The grip assist device of claim 1, wherein the first strap and the second strap of the wrist portion are each substantially rectangular in shape.

7. The grip strength aid of claim 1, wherein the grip portion has a rigidity such that it is self-supporting and remains extended in front of the palm and fingers to allow the grip portion to be manipulated by the human hand with the grip strength aid worn thereon, and wherein the grip portion has sufficient flexibility to allow the grip portion to easily wrap a weight bar using only the fingertips of the at least one finger of the human hand with the grip strength aid worn thereon.

8. The grip strength assist device of claim 1, wherein the contour is such that the grip portion comprises:

a narrowing between the finger end and the wrist end;

a first widened portion located between the narrowed portion and the finger end;

and a second widened portion located between the narrowed portion and the wrist end.

Claims

a finger end;

Wherein the U-shaped insert comprises:

a first U side, comprising:

a first outer U side;

a first inner U side opposite the first outer U side; and

a first U top connecting the first outer U side and the first inner U side;

a second U side comprising:

a second outer U side;

a second inner U side opposite the second outer U side; and

a second U top connecting the second outer U side and the second inner U side;

a connecting portion connecting the first U side and the second U side, comprising:

a wrist end side, wherein the wrist end side intersects the first and second outer U sides of the first and second U sides; and

a gap side, wherein the gap side intersects the first and second inner U sides of the first and second U sides; and

the gap formed between the first U side and the second U side;

wherein, when the grip strength assisting device is worn on the palm as intended:

the wrist end side portion of the connecting portion is close to the wrist end of the grip portion;

a wrist portion comprising a first strap and a second strap, wherein:

8. A grip assist device for pulling and lifting actions, wherein the grip assist device is sized to cover a portion of a palm of a user's hand from at least one finger to below a wrist joint such that movement of the user's thumb is not impeded, wherein the grip assist device comprises:

a finger end, wherein the finger end comprises a first grip portion edge of the grip portion;

a first side and a second side extending between the first attachment edge, the second attachment edge, and the finger end, wherein the first side and the second side comprise a second grip portion edge and a third grip portion edge of the grip portion;

a U-shaped insert disposed between the first half and the second half, wherein:

where the U-shaped insert is disposed between the first half and the second half, the grip portion comprises three layers, the three layers comprising the first half, the U-shaped insert, and the second half;

the U-shaped insert comprises:

a first U-side;

a second U side; and

a connecting portion connecting the first U side and the second U side, wherein the connecting portion is disposed proximate the wrist end of the grip portion and the first U side and the second U side extend between the connecting portion and the finger end of the grip portion such that the first U side follows the first side of the grip portion and the second U side follows the second side of the grip portion;

a gap disposed between the first U side, the second U side, and the finger end, wherein where the gap is disposed, the grip portion comprises only two layers, the two layers comprising the first half and the second half; a wrist portion comprising a first strap and a second strap, wherein:

9. The grip strength assist device of claim 8, wherein the first side portion and the second side portion each comprise a concave profile.

10. The grip strength assist device of claim 9, wherein the contour is such that the grip portion comprises:

a narrowing between the finger end and the wrist end;

a first widened portion located between the narrowed portion and the finger end; and

a second widened portion located between the narrowed portion and the wrist end.

11. The grip assist device of claim 8, wherein the flat material forming the grip portion includes a first flat material side and a second flat material side, and at least one of the first flat material side and the second flat material side is non-slip.

12. The grip strength assist device of claim 8, further comprising an end block disposed between the first half and the second half at the finger end of the grip portion.

13. The grip strength assist device of claim 8, further comprising stitching to secure the first and second halves against each other and to secure the U-shaped insert in place between the first and second halves, wherein the stitching comprises at least:

14. The grip strength aid of claim 8, wherein the grip portion has a rigidity such that it is self-supporting and remains extended in front of the palm and fingers to allow the grip portion to be manipulated by the human hand with the grip strength aid worn thereon, and wherein the grip portion has sufficient flexibility to allow the grip portion to easily wrap a weight bar using only the fingertips of the at least one finger of the human hand with the grip strength aid worn thereon.