GB2432795A

GB2432795A - Electronic fitness test

Info

Publication number: GB2432795A
Application number: GB0524323A
Authority: GB
Inventors: John Scanlin; Eric Henderson; Craig Phillips
Original assignee: SCANEK ENTPR Ltd
Current assignee: SCANEK ENTPR Ltd
Priority date: 2005-11-30
Filing date: 2005-11-30
Publication date: 2007-06-06
Also published as: GB0524323D0

Abstract

An electronic fitness test which can also be used as a fitness training device. The test contains preset tests for several disciplines and at several levels. Preferably, the test can also be programmed with further user-defined tests. The test preferably consists of exercise sets and repetitions of these sets. As the repetitions increase, the test becomes more difficult and this enables a student to test and train his fitness against a defined level. Preferably, the test comprises visual displays 1,2,3 to report progress of the exercise program and running time. Preferably the test also includes visual and audio cues for exercise checkpoints 4,5,6.

Description

ELECTRONIC FITNESS TEST & TRAINING DEVICE The invention relates to a

training device, particularly, though not exclusively, an electronic training device capable of assisting a fitness test.

It is common for fitness tests to be performed, for example to assess a person's suitability in a particular job, such as the police force or fire servce. In addition, people generally wishing to improve their fitness often measure their cumulative performance in an activity over time to assess improvement.

In general, fitness tests are performed manually by an instructor using a stop watch and performance diary. A known automated test is the bleep test', which is a standard fitness test consisting of a pre-recorded audio track of bleeps. The bleep test is not particularly user-friendly or flexible.

It is desirable to provide an improved training device that enables a user to assess their fitness level.

In one sense, the invention relates to a training device storing data representing one or more activities. For a given activity, a plurality of levels are defined, each one having an associated training period, the training period becoming gradually shorter for each level. The device is arranged to provide an indication, e.g. a noise or visual indication, when a timer indicates the training period for a selected level is complete. In use, the user commences an activity and attempts to complete the predefined activity, or repetition of activities, before the device indicates the completion of the training period.

Preferably, the device automatically commences a second, slightly shorter, training period. In this way, if the user completes the predefined activity within the first period, they have a short rest period before indication of completion, after which they start again but against a shorter training period. Over time, the user can assess their continuing fitness by determining the level within which they have difficulty completing the activity within the time period.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a training device comprising: a memory storing a set of fitness data associated with each of one or more activities, each set comprising a plurality of fitness levels for that activity and a respective training period associated with each fitness level; control means operable to (I) enable selection of a fitness level for an activity and (ii) to cause commencement of a timer; and processing means arranged to provide an indication when the timer is equal to the training period associated with the selected fitness activity.

Preferably, when the timer is equal to the training period associated with the selected fitness activity, the control means is further operable automatically to select a further fitness level for the same activity and the processing means is arranged to provide a further indication when the timer is equal to the training period associated with the further fitness level. The training period associated with the further fitness level may be shorter in duration than that associated with the first selected fitness level.

The processing means can be connected to a visual indicator thereby to provide said indication. The visual indicator can be, for example, a light, lamp or LED.

Alternatively, or additionally, the processing means can be connected to an audio indicator thereby to provide said indication. In this case, the audio indicator might be a buzzer or bell, although any audio transducer could be used. The device might further comprise display means arranged to indicate the status of the timer or even a training period display means arranged to indicate the status of the training period.

The device may further comprise data interface means capable of receiving fitness data from an external data source. This provides a means by which application or fitness data updates can be downloaded from a computer, e.g. a server via the Internet.

Alternatively, or additionally, fitness data updates can be entered into the unit manually using codes from a reference such as a manual or the Internet, or calculated by the user using a set of pre-defined rules.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a training device storing data representing first and second activity levels and, associated therewith, respective first and second target periods, the second target period being shorter in duration than the first, the device being arranged, when initialised, to operate a timer, to provide an indication when the first target period is completed, and then to provide a subsequent indication when the second target period is completed.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a computer program stored on a computer usable medium and arranged, when operated under the control of a processor, to perform the steps of: accessing a memory storing a set of fitness data associated with each of one or more activities, each set comprising a plurality of fitness levels for that activity and a respective training period associated with each fitness level; enabling selection of a fitness level for an activity; in response to a command signal, commencing a timer; and generating an indication signal/message when the timer is equal to the training period associated with the selected fitness activity.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of updating a training device comprising transferring fitness data associated with each of one or more activities, each set comprising a plurality of fitness levels for that activity and a respective training period associated with each fitness level, from a computer to a client over a remote link, or manually using codes.

A preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: FIGURE 1 shows the front view of the preferred embodiment; FIGURE 2 shows a side view of the preferred embodiment; FIGURE 3 shows a side view of the preferred embodiment, opposite to that shown in Figure 2; FIGURE 4 shows the rear view of the preferred embodiment; FIGURE 5 shows an optional remote-control suitable for use with the preferred embodiment; FIGURE 6 shows the schematic diagram of the electronic circuit of the preferred embodiment; and FIGURE 7 shows the possible interfaces to the preferred embodiment used to upload additional fitness or application data.

The object of this invention is to provide a programmable fitness test that can be set for a particular discipline and ability and then executed. The invention can also be used to train for a certain fitness level. During execution, the instructor is free to train the students.

The preferred embodiment described herein comprises a fitness device operable to run an application program. The program provides preset standard tests a user can select from a variety of disciplines and a variety of levels within the disciplines.

A standard test may have a number of SETs and REPSs (repetitions). For instance, swimming at District level has 4 sets of 50 metres for each REP and 13 REPs in total.

The device provides SET and REP digit counters and audio and visual alerts for the checkpoints.

At the end of each REP, the exercise time is reduced by a set amount to give the student less time to rest and push them harder in the exercise. For instance, Swimming at District level has a start set time of 65 seconds and after each REP (or number of SETs) this exercise time is reduced by 3 seconds. This exercise plan is shown below: Disipline. Swimming (50 metres) Prog Name District Total Reps. 13 Sets Per RepS 4 Set Start Time(s) 65 Rep Decrement(s). 3 Set Total Level Time & Rep Running Running (Rep) Sets Time Sets Time 1 65s (x4) 04m20s 4 04m20s 2 62s (x4) 04m08s 8 08m28s 3 59s (x4) 03m56s 12 12m24s 4 56s (x4) 03m44s 16 16m08s 53s (x4) 03m32s 20 19m40s 6 50s (x4) 03m20s 24 23m00s 7 47s (x4) 03m08s 28 26m08s 8 44s (x4) 02m56s 32 29m04s 9 41s(x4) 02m44s 36 31m48s 38s (x4) 02m32s 40 34m20s 11 35s (x4) 02m20s 44 36m40s 12 32s (x4) 02m08s 48 38m48s 13 29s(x4) 01m56s 52 40m44s When the student is unable to meet the SET time, they fail at that level, passing the level below. The pass level is equal to the number of REPs completed.

By training against this test, a student can increase their fitness. For more examples of exercise plans, see Appendix A. As shown in figure I, the device comprises a unit having digital displays 3 for REP and SET. For each SET, there is a countdown timer I in seconds to show how much time is left of the current SET.

Figure I also shows GO 4 and STEP 5 lights. The GO signal indicates the start of each SET. The inclusion of a STEP light allows to train students of different abilities at once, or larger groups of students, if desired. For example, the STEP light would illuminate at five second increments after the GO light, so that students can start their exercising at an offset time.

The buzzer 6 shown in Figure 1 is used at GO and STEP checkpoints to provide an audio signal to start exercising. The total running time 2 indicates time elapsed for the whole exercise program.

Figure 2 shows the side of the invention where a battery compartment 7 can be seen. A mains power socket 8 is shown as well as a power switch 9.

Figure 3 shows a keypad 10 used to select preset exercise programs and enter custom exercise programs and start the exercise programs. Figure 3 also shows the LCD display 11 to report the state of the system and provide menu choices.

Dependent on dimensions and packaging, the invention can be provided free-standing, wall-mounting or hand-held. It can be used indoors or outdoors. Figure 4 shows optional features of the unit; 12 carrying handle, 13 wall-mounting holes, 14 stand-mount fixing. Figure 5 shows an optional remote-control unit with the repeated features from Figure 3 of 10 keypad and 11 LCD display. The remote control unit would be most useful when the unit is mounted at a height too high to operate.

Figure 6 shows a possible architecture diagram of the internal electronic circuit. This circuit is based around one or more microcontroller boards 15, connected with a serial data line to a LCD display II and one or more LED display driver boards 17. The microcontroller board or boards IS would also connect to a buzzer 6 and connect to a serial keyboard 10. The circuit power 19 would be provided by a voltage regulator and a rechargeable battery 7 or mains power adapter 8. The microcontroller would receive input from the keypad and output to the LCD interactively and run the exercise programs. The software including the pre-programmed exercises would be downloaded onto the microcontroller. In order that custom exercise programs persist in the invention between power cycles, EEPROM would be necessary either within the microcontroller or elsewhere on the circuit.

The operation of the software would follow the below steps.

1. User selects Activity (or Discipline).

2. User selects Grade (or Program).

3. User optionally selects starting level (level I being the default).

4. User Selects Run to execute the program.

5. SET indicator shows I. REP indicator shows the start level. The running time starts at zero.

6. The countdown clock is started at the exercise period.

7. The GO light flashes and the buzzer sounds to instruct exercise start.

8. The running time increments and the countdown timer decrements.

9. If the STEP function is selected, the STEP indication shows every 5 seconds for a maximum of 5 repetitions with an accompanying buzzer sound.

10. When the countdown clock time equals zero, the SET is incremented. If the SET is higher than the total sets go to step 11, else go to step 6.

I I. The SET is returned to I and the REP is incremented. The exercise period is updated from the program for this new REP. This will typically be a reduction in time. If the maximum number of REPs is not exceeded, go to step 6, otherwise end the program.

For a more detailed example of operation see Appendix B. APPENDIX A -Pulsefit Programs Preset programs The pulsefit unit comes preset with 13 preset programs. These are specifically designed for disciplines of Swimming, Athletics and Wipeout (or Circuit Training). These are the three main activities used by athletes to keep fit. The programs are aimed at improving stamina and fitness levels. These programs can also be used to train for other disciplines and can be adapted to suit other exercises of similar durations.

When you become familiar with the preset programs, you may wish to create you own custom programs to use. This is a very simple process and will extend the usefulness of pulsefit further. You will be able to tailor a program to your particular fitness ability or customise a program for a specific discipline. To start with it is recommended you get used to the inbuilt programs. No matter what sport you engage in, you'll find your ability in it will improve, with greater fitness and stamina, all achievable with these pulsefit programs.

Preset Programs Reference F Swimming (50m) Wipeout (14m Athletics (400m) Jjpternationai 11 Junior 21 National 31 ational 12 Senior 22 District 32 District 13 Adult 23 County 33 County 14 30+ 24 Club 34 Club 15 Swimming (50m) The swimming program is designed for swimmers of all abilities and can be used as a standard test as well as a training program. Each set is designed for a 50 metre length.

Every rep contains 4 sets and after every rep completes, the set time is slightly reduced for the next. Each level of program is designed around an optimal 20 minutes of exercise time. Select your own standard from International, National, District, County and Club and then start the program. In addition to the GO signal, there will be a STEP signal that will sound each 5 seconds after the GO signal (to a maximum of 5). This is to allow laned swimmers to start at offset times.

og Name: International Values 1 Reps: J13 IA: 13 Sets Per Rep: JB: 4 Set Start Time(s): 50]C: 5000 Rep Decrement(s): 1D: 200 Level Set Time & Total RepRunning Running (Rep) Sets_____ Time Sets Time 1 50s (x4) Jfrios 4 03m20s 2 48s (x4) j93m12s 8 06m32s 3 _46s(x4) -09m36s 4 44s (x4) J02m56s 16 12m32s 42s (x4) _ J02m48s J 1 5m20s 6 40s (x4) L02m40s 24 l8mOOs 7 -38s (x4) 28 -20rn32s 8 36s (x4) __Jm24s 32 22m56s 9 34s (x4) J236 ?ii2 32s (x4) 40 27m20s 11 30s(x4) jm0os 44 29m20s 12 285(x4) _952s 48 31m12s 13 26s(x4) _J01m44s 52 32m56s Prog Name: National Values Total Reps: 13 A: 13 Sets Per Rep: 4 B: 4 Set Start Time(s): 60 C: 6000 Rep Decrement(s): 2.5 D: 250 ievei 1et TimTotal RepRunning Running {Rep) & Sets Time Sets Time ____ 60s (x4) O4mOOs 4 O4mOOs L2 57.5s (x4) 03m50s 8 07m50s 55s (x4) 03m40s llm3Os 4 52.5s(x4)O3m3Os 16 l5mOOs SOs (x4) 03m20s 20 18m20s -47.5s (x4) O3mlOs 24 21m30s L 45s(x4) O3mOOs 28 24m30s 8 42 5s (x4) 02m50s 32 27m20s 40s (x4) 02m40s 36 -3OmOOs 37.5s (x4) 9n30s 40 32m30s 11 j35s (x4) J92m20s 44 _Jjm50s 32.5s(x4)jO2mlos 48 Jç0s LJ9s52 9m00s L1I1 District Values -Reps: 13 IA: 113 [ Per Rep: 4 JB: 4 Set Start Time(s): 65 C: 00 Rep Decrement(s): 3 jD: J300 Level Set Time Total Rep Running Runnng p) & Sets Time Sets JTIme 65s (x4) 04m2Os [O4m2Os 62s (x4) 04m08s 8 08m28s 59s (x4) 03m56s 12 J12m24s L...Is16 53s (x4) 03m32s 20 1 9m40s 6 50s (x4) 03m20s 24 23m00s 7 47s (x4) 03m08s 28 26m08s 8 __4s (x4) 02m56s 32 29m04s 9 41s(x4) 02m44s36 31m48s [10 38s (x4) 02m32s 40 34m20s 35s (x4) 02m20s 44 36m40s [ 32s (x4) 02m08s 48 38m48s 29s(x4) 01m56s!52 40m44s Set Start Time(s): 80 C: 8000 Rep Decrement(s): 4 D: 400 Level et Timtitai RepRunning Running (Rep) & Sets Time Sets Time 1 80s (x4) 05m20s 4 05m20s 2 76s (x4) 05m04s 8 10m24s 3 72s(x4) 04m48s 12 15m12s 4 68s (x4) 04m32s:16 419m44s 64s (x4) 04m16s 20 24m00s 6 _____ 60s (x4) O4mOOs 24 28m00s J 7 56s (x4) 03m44s 28 31m44s] 8 52s(x4) 32 35m12s 9 js (x4) Jq2s 36 38m24s 44s(x4) 40 41m20s J40s)jp2rn40s 44 _____ 44m00s Wipeout (14m) The wipeout programs are very similar to the old bleep test exercise or the familiar circuit training found in gyms up and down the country. The exercise is a sprint performed between cones or lines 14 metres apart. Select your level of ability based on your age range and then run the program. You must sprint the distance, making it back to start before the GO signal each time. As the time shortens and you become more tired you will find it harder to get back in time for a rest before the GO signal sounds again.

When you can no longer make it back to the start before the GO signal, you are wiped out'. The program is made up of 12 reps of 6 sets per reps. The level or standard you obtain is that of the REP you can complete before the time runs out.

Prog Name: Juniors Values Total Reps: 12 A: ____ 12 Sets Per Rep: 6 B: 6 Set Start Time(s): 8 C: 800 Rep Decrement(s): 0.25 D: 25 Level Set Time & Total RePRunningfnning (Rep) Sets Time Sets Time 1 8s (x6) 00m48s 6 00m48s 2 7.75s (x6) 00m47s 12 01m35s 3 7.5s (x6) 00m45s 18 02m20s 4 _____ 7.25s (x6) 00m44s 24 03m03s 7s (x6) 00m42s 30 _____ 03m45s 6 6. 75s (x6) 100m41s 36 04m26s 7 6.5s (x6) 00m39s 42 05m05s _____-6.25s (x6) 00m38s 48 05m42s _____ 6s(x6) 0m36s 54 -O6nil8s 5.75s (x6) I935s 60 06m52s [IL 5.5s (x6) !00m33s 66 -07m25s [2 J5 25s (x6) J00m32s 72 07m57s

__ -

SetsPerRep: -6 B: -Set Start Time(s): 8 C: 800 Rep Decrement(s): 0 4 D: 40 Level Set Time Total RepRunning {nning (Rep) & Sets Time Sets JIlme 1 8s (x6) 00m48s 6 00m48s 2 7.6s (x6) 00m46s 12 01m34s 3 7.2s (x6) 00m43s 18 02m17s 4 6.8s (x6) OOm4ls 24 02m58sj 6 4s (x6) 00m38s 30 03m36s 6s (x6) 00m36s 36 04m12s J(X6)Ii134s 42 ___ 04m46s 8 52s(x6) OOm3ls 48 05m17s 9 4 8s (x6) 00m29s 54 05m46s !44s (x6) 00m26s 60 06m12s 11 4s (x6) 00m24s 66 06m36s 12 j6s (x6) 00m22s 72 06m58s Prog Name: Adult Values Total Reps: 12 A: 12 Sets Per Rep: 6 B: --6 Set Start Time(s): 8 C: 800 Rep Decrement(s): 0 4 D: 40 Level Set Time Total RepRunning Running (Rep) & Sets Time Sets Time I 8s (x6) 00m48s 6 00m48s 2 7.6s (x6) 00m46s 12 01m34s 3 7.2s (x6) 00m43s 18 02m17s 4 6.8s (x6) OOm4ls 24 02m58s 6 4s (x6) 00m38s 30 03m36s 6 6s (x6) 00m36s 36 _____ 04m12s 7 _____ 5.6s (x6) 00m34s 42 04m46s 8 5 2s (x6) OOm3ls 4ä 05m17s 9 4 8s (x6) 00m29s 54 05m46s 4.4s (x6) 00m26s 60 06m12s 11 4s (x6) 00m24s 66 -_____ 06m36s _____ 36s (x6) OOrn22s 72 --06m58s Prog Name: Jô+ Values Total Reps: 12 A: 12 Sets PerRep: 6 B: 6 Set Start Time(s): 8 C: 800 Rep Decrement(s): 0.25 D: 25 Level Set Time Total RepRunning Running (Rep) & Sets Time Sets Time 1 8s (x6) 00m48s 6 00m48s 2 7 75s (x6) 00m47s 12 01m35s 3 _____ 7 5s (x6) 00m45s 18 02m20s 4 7.25s (x6) 00m44s 24 03m03s 7s (x6) 00m42s 30 --03m45s 6 _____-6 75s (x6) OOm4ls 36 04m26s 7 6.5s (x6) 00m39s 42 05m05s 8 6 25s (x6) 00m38s 48 05m42s 9 6s (x6) 00m36s 54 06m18s 5.75s (x6) 00m35s 60 06m52s 11 5 5s (x6) 00m33s 66 j07m25s 12 5.25s (x6) 00m32s 72 07m57s Athletics (400 metres) This discipline is particularly useful for increasing stamina and fitness over longer time & distances. Marathon runners may find these programs especially useful but so too will all Sportspersons. For example, Soccer, 1-lockey, Rugby, Basketball players will also benefit from this exercise. The programs are all designed around a 400 metres running track. If you cannot find a running track, then use a park. The perimeter of a soccer field is also roughly 400 metres. Select the program to suit your standard of fitness and start the exercise. If you are exercising a large group, you may want to use the STEP signal. This enables different participants to start the exercise at 5 second intervals from the GO signal, up to a maximum of five.

[rog Name: INatonal Values 1 LToth!eps: IA: 8 Sets Per Rep: I2 7B: 2 Set Start Time(s); JQ C: 9000 Rep Decrement(s): D: 500 Level Set Time & Total RepRunning Running (pJfets_____ Time Sets Time O3mOOs 2 ______ O3mOOs 2 85s (x2) 02m50s 4 -05m50s 3 80s (x2) 02m40s 6 08m30s 4 _____ 75s(x2) 02m30s 8 ilmOOs 70s (x2) 02m20s 10 13m20s 6 65s (x2) O2mlOs 12 15m30s 7 60s(x2) O2mOOs 14 17m30s 8 55s (x2) Olm5Os 16 _____ 19m20s LProg Name: -District Values -Total Reps: -8 A: 8 Sets Per Rep: 2 B: 2 Set Start Time(s): 95 C: 9500 Rep Decrement(s): 5 0: 500 Lvei Set Runnfrj (Rep) & Sets Time Sets Time 1 ______ 95s (x2) O3mlOs 2 O3mlOsJ 2 90s (x2) O3mOOs 4 O6mlOs 3 85s (x2) 02m50s 6 09m00 4 80s (x2) 02m40s 8 1 lm4Os 75s (x2) 02m30s 10 l4mlOs LIii!HEi [og Name; County Values [Total Reps: 8 IA: 8 Per Rep: 2 B: 2 Set Start Time(s): 100 C: 10000 Rep Decrement(s): 5 D: 500 Level Jet Time Total RepRunning fRunning (Rep) & Sets Time Sets Time 1 lOOs (x2) 03m20s 2 03m20s 2 95s (x2) 03m10s4 06m30s 3 90s (x2) O3mOOs 6 09m30s 4 85s (x2) -02m50s 12m20s 80s (x2) 02m40s 10 l5mOOs 6 75s (x2) 02m30s 12 17m30s 7 70s (x2) 02m20s 14 19m50s 65s (x2) O2mlOs 16 22m00s Prog Name: Club Values Total Reps: 8 A: 8 Sets Per Rep: 2 B: 2 Set Start Time(s): 105 C: 10500 Rep Decrement(s): 5 D: 500 Level Set Time Total RepRunning Running (Rep) & Sets Time Sets Time 1 lOSs (x2) 03m30s 2 03m30s 2 lOOs (x2) 03m20s,4 06m50s 3 95s (x2) O3mlOs 6 lOmOOs 4 90s (x2) O3mOOs 8 l3mOOs 85s (x2) 02m50s r10 15m50s 6 ____ 80s (x2) 02m40s 12 18m30s 7 75s(x2) 02m30s 14 2lmOOs 8 ____ 70s (x2) 02m20s 16 23m20s Custom Program Planner When planning a custom program please be aware of the system limits. The running clock will reset at 100 minutes of exercise. Also, the following limits apply to the main program variables.

Variable Minimum Maximum Total Reps 1 99 Sets per Rep 1 19 Set Start Time 1 second 30 minutes Rep Decrement 0.01 second 10 minutes The A & B values are Total Reps and Sets per Rep respectively. The C & D values are multiplied by the Set Start Time and Rep Decrement respectively as they are in lOOths of a second. Use the blank template on the spreadsheet (or below) to plan your custom program out first.

You can use the same templates to plan a coach custom program. You have full control over each rep in a coach custom program so fill each rep on the grid but the A to D values do not apply. For each rep an amount of sets and a set duration is specified (up to a maximum of 10 reps). The set duration must be specified in hundredths of seconds (seconds multiplied by 100).

Prog Name: -Custom Values 1 Total Reps: A: = Sets PerRep: B: = SetStartTime(s): C: ________ xlOO Rep Decrement(s): D: _______ xlOO Level Set Time Total RepRunning Running (Rep) & Sets (s) Time (m) Sets Time (m) 2 _____ 4 ___ 6 ___ ____ 1 ___ 7 ___ 8 __ _____ 9 ___ ________ ___ 11 __________ ________________ 12 _____ ______ ______ 13 _____ _____ 14 ______ _____ 16 _____ APPENDIX B -Operating Instructions To run a preset program The pulsefit unit comes with several preset programs. Any of these can be easily accessed and run immediately. Please refer to the Pulsefit Programs section of this manual for full details. There is also a Preset Programs Reference table in this manual which lists all preset programs.

I. Ensure the unit is charged or the mains adaptor is plugged in. Turn the ON/OFF switch to the ON setting. The Control Panel is situated on the right side of the Pulsefit unit. Using either the Control panel or the remote control use the LCD display and arrow keys to navigate the menu system.

2. Using the menu system, select Preset Program'.

3. Using the menu system again, select the Discipline you require and then select the Program within that discipline.

4. Next you will be prompted Level. If you wish to skip to a particular level, select the level. If not, select I. 5. When the READY light is lit, the program is ready to be run. Press the START button and the program will start.

6. If you wish to end the program at any point press the RESET button. This takes the system back to the default state.

To program a custom program There are 10 slots in which to save custom programs. In custom programs, the user can define the A to D values themselves; total reps, sets per rep, set start time and rep decrement. A custom program can be used to increase or decrease the toughness of a standard program or used to create a program for a completely different activity.

I. Use one of the Custom Program Sheets to plan your program first. This allows you to see how the program will perform and generate the values required for entry into the pulsefit unit. Some Custom Program sheets are included in this manual. If you have the Excel spreadsheet / website, you can use this to generate your program values instead.

2. Ensure the unit is charged or the mains adaptor is plugged in. Turn the ON/OFF switch to the ON setting. The Control Panel is situated on the right side of the Pulsefit unit. Using either the Control panel or the remote control use the LCD display and arrow keys to navigate the menu system.

3. Using the menu system, select Custom Program'.

4. As prompted, enter the values for total reps, sets per rep, set start time (in hundredths of seconds) and rep decrement (in hundredths of seconds) using the keypad and the ENTER key.

5. Once complete, the system will prompt you to enter a name. If you wish to overwrite a previous program or there are no blank slots left, navigate up or down to retrieve the name of a previously entered program. Select ENTER to save in the slot, overwriting the previous program. This takes the system back to the default state.

To program a coach custom program In a coach custom program, every rep is separately specified and can have a different number of sets and a different time for each. This makes the program completely custoniisable so, for example, stamina and sprint can be trained for within the same program. A coach who knows his students well can tailor a complete program to suit their training needs and save it to the pulsefit device.

There can be up to I 0 custom programs. Please also note that the parameters for coach custom programs are the same as that for custom programs and can not be exceeded.

A swimming coach may wish to have a warm up 3 reps of the 4x50m and then have two longer stretches. Say 2x250m, adjusting the exercise (and rest) time accordingly.

I. Use one of the Custom Program Sheets to plan your program first. This allows you to see how the program will perform. Some Custom Program sheets are included in this manual.

3. Using the menu system, select Coach Custom Program'.

4. When prompted, enter the sets per rep' for your first rep using the keypad and press the ENTER button.

5. Then at the prompt, Enter the set duration' on the keypad and then press ENTER. As in a custom program, the set duration is in hundredths of seconds, so multiply the amount of seconds you require by 100 before entering the set duration.

6. Repeat steps 5 and 6 for all reps required up to a maximum of 10 (The system will not allow you to key in anymore values after 10 reps). If you make a mistake entering a value, you can press the C key to cancel that value and start again. If you require less slots than 10, entering nothing at the sets per rep' prompt will finish the programming.

7. When you have entered the final set duration of your program, the system will prompt you to enter a name. If you wish to overwrite a previous program or there are no blank slots left, navigate up or down to retrieve the name of a previously entered program. Select ENTER to save in the slot, overwriting the previous program. This takes the system back tothe default state.

To run a custom I coach custom program Once a coach custom program has been programmed, follow the instructions for running a preset program to access and run it in the same way you would a preset program. The Discipline will be Custom' or Coach Custom' and the Program will be the name used to store the program.

Sequence of events during a program I. When the operator presses the START button the program begins. The GREEN LED cluster on the front display momentarily lights and the buzzer sounds for half a second to indicate the start of the program. The participants start exercising now. The REP display will show I and the SET display will show I to indicate the first set of the first rep has begun.

2. If the start set duration of the exercise is 50 seconds or more, a step indicator is provided for each set. The STEP LED cluster will light momentarily and the buzzer will sound for a fraction of a second to indicate a step. This will happen at +5 seconds, +10 seconds, +15 seconds, +20 seconds and +25 seconds. This is so that a large group of participants can be catered for. For example, if only a certain amount of swimming lanes are available, certain swimmers can commence their exercise at staggered start times 3. The participants complete that part of the exercise (whether it be a 14 metres sprint or a 50 metres swim) and wait at the start line again for the next GO light.

4. When the set duration completes, the GO LED cluster will light again and the buzzer will sound for half a second to indicate the start of the next set. The SET display will increment to show that the program is in the next set. The participants will start the exercise again. If the start set duration of the exercise is seconds or more, a step indicator is provided as before.

5. When the sets in the current rep complete, the next rep starts. The REP display increments. The SET display returns to 1. The first set of the next rep, having started, the GO LED cluster illuminates and the buzzer sounds for haIfa second to indicate start of the exercise set as before. If the start set duration of the exercise is 50 seconds or more, a step indicator is provided as before.

6. This cycle continues until the last set of the last rep. At this point the buzzer sounds twice in succession to indicate the end of the program. Both LED clusters momentarily light.

If at any point during the exercise, a participant doesn't return to the start in time for the beginning of the next set then that participant is out of the program. Within this discipline and program, she/he has achieved the level at which the completed REP is displayed. I.e. level 4 if she/he has completed all the sets in rep 4 but was unable to finish the sets in rep 5 within time.

Claims

CLAIMS

1. A training device comprising: a memory storing a set of fitness data associated with each of one or more activities, each set comprising a plurality of fitness levels for that activity and a respective training period associated with each fitness level; control means operable to (i) enable selection of a fitness level for an activity and (ii) to cause commencement of a timer; and processing means arranged to provide an indication when the timer is equal to the training period associated with the selected fimess activity.

2. A training device according to claim 1, wherein, when the timer is equal to the training period associated with the selected fitness activity, the control means is further operable automatically to select a further fitness level for the same activit' and the processing means is arranged to provide a further indication when the timer is equal to the training period associated with the further fitness level.

3. A training device according to claim 2, wherein the training period associated with the further fimess level is shorter in duration than that associated with the first selected fitness level.

4. A training device according to any preceding claim, wherein the processing means is connected to a visual indicator thereby to provide said indication.

5, A training device according to claim 4, wherein the visual indicator is a light, lamp or LED.

6 A training device according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the processing means is connected to an audio indicator thereby to provide said lndicatlon.

7. A training device according to claim 6, wherein the audio indicator is a buzzer or bell.

8. A training device according to any preceding claim1 further comprising display means arranged to indicate the status of the timer.

9. A training device according to any preceding claim, further comprising training period display means arranged to indicate the status of the training period.

10. A training device according to any preceding claim, further comprising data interface means capable of receiving fitness data from an external data source.

11 A training device storing data representing first and second activity levels and, associated therewith, respective first and second target periods, the second target period being shorter in duration than the first, the device being arranged, when initialised, to operate a timer, to provide an indication when the first target period is completed, and then to provide a subsequent indication when the second target period is completed.

12. A computer program stored on a computer usable medium and arranged, when operated under the controL of a processor, to perform the steps ofi accessing a memory storing a set of fitness data associated with each of one or more activities, each set comprising a plurality of fitness levels for that activity and a respective training period associated with each fitness level; enabling selection of a fitness level for an activity; in response to a command signal, commencing a timer; and generating an indication signal/message when the timer is equal to the training period associated with the selected fitness activity 13. A method of updating a training device comprising transferring fitness data associated with each of one or more activities, each set comprising a plurality of fitness levels for that activity and a respective training period associated with each fitness level, from a computer to a client over a remote link.

14. A training device constructed and arranged substantially as herein shown and described with reference to the accompanying drawings 15. A training device according to any of the claims I to 3, wherein the embodiment is an application program on a portable electronic device such as a mobile phone of personal digital assistant (PDA) 16. A method of updating a training device substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Amendments to the claims have been filed as follows

CLAIMS

1. A portable training device comprising: a memory storing a set of fitness data associated with each of one or more activities, each set comprising a plurality of fitness levels for that activity and a respective training period associated with each fitness level; control means operable to (i) enable selection of a fitness level for an activity and (ii) to cause commencement of a timer; and processing means arranged to provide an indication when the timer is equal to the training period associated with the selected fitness activity.

2. A portable training device according to claim 1, wherein, when the timer is equal to the training period associated with the selected fitness activity, the control means is further operable automatically to select a further fitness level for the same activity and the processing means is arranged to provide a further indication when the timer is equal to the training period associated with the further fitness level.

3. A portable training device according to claim 2, wherein the training period associated with the further fitness level is shorter in duration than that associated with the first selected fitness level.

4. A portable training device according to any preceding claim, wherein the processing means is connected to a visual indicator thereby to provide said indication.

5. A portable training device according to claim 4, wherein the visual indicator is a light, lamp or LED.

6. A portable training device according to any of claims I to 3, wherein the processing means is connected to an audio indicator thereby to provide said indication.

7. A portable training device according to claim 6, wherein the audio indicator is a buzzer or bell. 2-3

8. A portable training device according to any preceding claim, further comprising display means arranged to indicate the status of the timer.

9. A portable training device according to any preceding claim, further comprising training period display means arranged to indicate the status of the training period.

10. A portable training device according to any preceding claim, further comprising data interface means capable of receiving fitness data from an external data source.

11. A portable training device storing data representing first and second activity levels and, associated therewith, respective first and second target periods, the second target period being shorter in duration than the first, the device being arranged, when initialised, to operate a timer, to provide an indication when the first target period is completed, and then to provide a subsequent indication when the second target period is completed.

12. A computer program stored on a computer usable medium and arranged, when operated under the control of a processor, to perform the steps of: accessing a memory storing a set of fitness data associated with each of one or more activities, each set comprising a plurality of fitness levels for that activity and a respective training period associated with each fitness level; enabling selection of a fitness level for an activity; in response to a command signal, commencing a timer; and generating an indication signal/message when the timer is equal to the training period associated with the selected fitness activity.

13. A method of updating a portable training device comprising transferring fitness data associated with each of one or more activities, each set comprising a plurality of fitness levels for that activity and a respective training period associated with each fitness level, from a computer to a client over a remote link. 2fr

14. A portable training device constructed and arranged substantially as herein shown and described with reference to the accompanying drawings 15. A portable training device according to any of the claims 1 to 3, wherein the embodiment is an application program on a portable electronic device such as a mobile phone of personal digital assistant (PDA).

16. A method of updating a training device substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.