JP2008544768A - Weight loss system, weight loss method and weighted limb distal sleeve - Google Patents

Abstract

  Various weight loss systems and methods and weighted limb distal sleeves are provided to promote non-motor activity heat generation (NEAT). One embodiment is an anatomically weighted limb distal sleeve used in a weight loss program. One such anatomically weighted limb distal sleeve is adapted and sized to be comfortably fitted to the distal portion of a person's limb relative to a limb joint. The limb distal sleeve with anatomical weight comprises a predetermined amount of external weight placed on the limb sleeve so as to mimic the anatomical distribution of biological soft tissue in the distal portion of the limb.

Description

[Cross-reference of related applications]
This application is a copending application of co-pending US application Ser. No. 11 / 013,530 entitled “Distally / Proximally-Weighted Joint Sleeve” filed Dec. 16, 2004, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. This is a continuation-in-part patent application and claims the priority of the application. This application is a US Provisional Application No. 60/60, entitled “System, Method, and Weighted Limb Sleeve for Promoting Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis” filed May 12, 2005, the entire text of which is incorporated herein by reference. He also claims the benefit of the priority of 680,463.

  Obesity is spreading worldwide. Studies suggest that over 60% of Americans are overweight or obese. In the United States, approximately 300,000 deaths from obesity occur annually. Obesity can include coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes, breast cancer, colon cancer, ulcer-related disease, gallbladder disease, osteoarthritis, prostate cancer, major depressive disorder, and to name a few It has been established to be a major risk factor for many serious illnesses, including chronic pain disorders.

  The basic principles of an obesity intervention and / or weight loss program include reducing caloric intake (meal) and increasing caloric utilization (exercise). In other words, to lose weight, there must be more calories burned than calories consumed in a given period. The theory of weight loss is known, but the fact remains that most people fail to try to lose weight and maintain it by an appropriate amount. One notable reason for the low success rate is that diet and / or exercise require significant lifestyle changes and dedication. Not all people who want to lose weight (and maintain weight loss) have self-control, aspirations, etc. to the extent that they adhere to a specific diet and / or exercise regimen. The theory of weight loss may be simple, but according to statistics, it is a different story when it comes to carrying out and maintaining the plan.

  Various weight loss systems and methods and weighted limb distal sleeves are provided to promote non-motor activity heat generation (NEAT). One embodiment is a weight loss system, a pair of anatomically weighted arm distal sleeves that are comfortably fitted and sized to a human forearm, one of which is the left forearm And the other is for the right forearm, each having a first predetermined amount of external weight disposed on the arm distal sleeve to mimic the anatomical distribution of the main biological soft tissue of the forearm. A pair of anatomically weighted distal arm sleeves and a pair of anatomically weighted leg distal sleeves adapted and sized to be comfortably attached to the lower leg of a person's knee; A second predetermined amount, one for the left leg and the other for the right leg, each placed on the leg distal sleeve to mimic the anatomical distribution of the main biological soft tissue of the lower leg Pair of anatomical weighted legs with two external weights And a sleeve.

  Another embodiment is a weight loss method comprising mounting a pair of anatomically weighted leg distal sleeves that are comfortably and sized to be mounted on the lower leg of a person's knee. Including the distal leg sleeve, one for the left leg and the other for the right leg, each placed on the leg distal sleeve to mimic the anatomical distribution of the main biological soft tissue of the lower leg Having a first predetermined amount of external weight.

  Another embodiment is a method for promoting weight loss. One such method includes mounting at least one weighted limb sleeve on the distal portion of the limb below the corresponding limb joint.

  Yet another embodiment is a distal leg sleeve that is used in a weight loss program and is comfortably fitted and sized to the lower leg of a person's knee, and anatomy of living soft tissue of the lower leg A predetermined amount of external weight placed on the leg distal sleeve to mimic the geometric distribution.

  A further embodiment is a distal arm sleeve that is used in a weight loss program and is comfortably fitted and sized to a forearm between a person's elbow and wrist, A predetermined amount of external weight is disposed on the arm distal sleeve to mimic the anatomical distribution of tissue.

  Other aspects, advantages and novel features of the invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the invention when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

  The present disclosure provides various embodiments of weight loss systems and methods, and weighted limb distal sleeves, such as anatomical weighted limb distal sleeves (AWDLS), to promote non-motor activity heat generation NEAT. explain. In general, NEAT refers to calorie consumption due to daily activities or involuntary movements rather than voluntary movements. A more detailed description of weight loss management science and theory and the basic principles of NEAT is provided in the following references, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety: (1) The Skinny Book: The 6-Step Methodology for Weight Management, Verona Publishing, Inc., 2004, co-inventor Dr. Ayaz Virji, and (2) Virji, A., Philips, SE, Activities of Daily Living Resistance (ADLR) Study. NAASO Annual Scientific Assembly 2005; P-319.

  FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a weight loss system and weight loss method for promoting NEAT. As shown generally in FIG. 1, this weight loss system and method uses one or more weighted extremity distal sleeves such as, for example, AWDLS. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, a weight loss patient 100 is wearing two pairs of AWDLS. One pair of AWDLS is worn on the patient's arm (left arm AWDLS 102 and right arm AWDLS 104), and the second pair of AWDLS is worn on the patient's leg (left leg AWDLS 106 and right leg AWDLS 108). As will be described in more detail below, each AWDLS is comfortably fitted and sized to the distal portion of the patient's limb relative to the corresponding limb joint. In order to enhance comfort and facilitate long-term wearing, especially when not exercising, the AWDLS is only worn on the distal portion of the limb and does not substantially cover the limb joint or the proximal portion of the limb. For example, in the arm embodiment (AWDLS 102 and 104), the arm distal sleeve is adapted and sized to fit comfortably in the forearm region between the elbow joint and the wrist. In use, the distal arm sleeve is positioned just below the elbow joint and extends distally toward the wrist. The distal arm sleeve does not substantially cover the elbow joint and does not extend to the proximal portion of the arm. In the leg embodiment (AWDLS 106 and 108), the leg distal sleeve is adapted and sized to fit comfortably on the lower leg between the knee joint and the ankle. In use, the leg distal sleeve is positioned just below the knee joint (eg, below the tibial nodule) and extends distally toward the ankle. The leg distal sleeve does not substantially cover the knee joint and does not extend to the proximal portion of the leg.

  Also to increase comfort and encourage long-term wear, in one embodiment, the AWDLS is made of a relatively thin, lightweight, flexible breathable fabric. This type of fabric, as well as other types of materials, and AWDLS configurations may allow a sleeve to be secretly worn under existing clothing during daily life activities (see FIG. 1). One skilled in the art will appreciate that AWDLS may include any of the following materials or other materials: neoprene, spandex fiber, polyester microfiber, polyester / nylon blend, high performance fabric material / blend, etc. Let's go.

  As the name suggests, AWDSL is anatomically weighted with a predetermined amount of external weight or pseudo-weight. The external weight is placed on the extremity distal sleeve, for example, to mimic the anatomical distribution of the soft tissue or major muscle groups (or most of it) in the distal portion of the limb. In other words, the external weight is distributed around the living soft tissue or the main muscle group in the distal part of the limb in the same manner as the distribution of the external weight that people are accustomed to feel. For example, in a leg embodiment, an external weight may be placed on the leg distal sleeve to cover a major muscle group of the lower leg or living soft tissue (eg, gastrocnemius and / or soleus) or most of it. In the arm embodiment, the external weight may be placed on the arm distal sleeve to cover the main muscle group or biological soft tissue (eg, flexor and / or extensor) or most of the forearm.

  The external weight can be omitted from the limb sleeve that does not cover the main muscle groups or the soft tissue of the living body. For example, it may be advantageous to omit the external weight of the limb distal sleeve that primarily covers the skeletal structure. In a leg embodiment, it may be advantageous to omit the external weight from the anterior region (or portion thereof) of the leg distal sleeve that covers the anterior tibial line of the lower leg. In the arm embodiment, the external weight can be omitted from the area of the distal arm sleeve that covers the ribs (or portion thereof). These and other types of placement of external weights in weighted limb sleeves, in particular, minimize unpleasant pressure on certain skeletal structures (eg, tibial nodules) and more accurately distribute the endogenous weight. Can be imitated. Appropriate padding may be provided to minimize pressure from the sleeve against these areas.

  In certain embodiments, the placement of the external weight generally mimics the anatomical distribution of biological soft tissue or major muscle groups (or the majority) of the distal portion of the limb. The distribution of the external weight can be performed in various ways and need not represent an exact anatomical distribution. For example, in the leg embodiment, the external weight is generally the posterior portion of the leg distal sleeve, the inner portion of the leg distal sleeve in a suitable distal taper or converging configuration as well as tapering or converging the gluteal muscle when squatting. And / or wrap around the outer portion.

  The amount of external weight added to AWDLS (and the distribution of weights around AWDLS) can be defined clinically to adequately mimic normal weight. One skilled in the art will understand with reference to the present disclosure that the anatomical distribution of external weights in AWDLS more accurately represents additional weight and more accurately mimics the obese environment. A relatively thin and lightweight extremity distal sleeve and an anatomically correct external weight can enhance comfort, which encourages long-term and / or more frequent use. Furthermore, it should be understood that an increase in calorie consumption can be promoted by performing a systematic weight loss program in this way based on the addition of an external weight to the human body during activities of daily life.

  2-6 illustrate one of several possible embodiments of a leg distal sleeve with reference to a leg distal sleeve for the right leg (AWDLS 108). The AWDLS 108 includes a generally cylindrical sleeve sized and configured to be comfortably worn on a person's lower leg between the knee and ankle. The AWDLS 108 forms a relatively flexible surface (FIG. 2) having opposed open ends, a proximal end 110 and a distal end 112. The spatial terms proximal and distal relate to the AWDLS 108 when properly attached to the patient's right lower leg in an anatomically correct position. In use, the distal end 112 is farther from the trunk than the proximal end 110. In other words, the proximal end 110 is closer to the torso than the distal end 112.

  Since the AWDLS 108 defines a generally cylindrical surface, it can be said that when worn on the right lower leg, the surface of the sleeve generally has a particular portion or region that substantially corresponds to the region or portion of the leg covered by it. It should be understood that these “regions” or “portions” are not specific individual portions of the sleeve, but refer to general regions on the surface of the sleeve for general identification. This general reference terminology is an appropriate reference point to indicate the proper placement of the AWDLS 108 on the lower leg and to indicate the pseudo-anatomical placement of the external weight in the sleeve relative to the lower leg anatomy. Is to provide. In this regard, the AWDLS 108 can be said to have a front or front portion, a rear or rear portion, and two side portions (an outer portion and an inner portion). The outer part refers to the side farther from the midline of the body (ie, the outside of the limb), and the inner part refers to the side closer to the midline of the body (ie, the inside of the limb).

  As mentioned above, the AWDLS 108 is a comfortable design that encourages frequent and / or long-term wearing during daily activities. Thus, in some embodiments, AWDLS 108 is made of a relatively thin, lightweight, and flexible breathable fabric. This type of fabric and other types of materials allow AWDLS to be secretly worn under existing clothing during daily life activities (see FIG. 1). The AWDLS 108 may include any of the following materials or other materials: neoprene, spandex fibers, polyester microfibers, polyester / nylon blends, high performance fabric materials / blends, and the like. The AWDLS 108 may be integrally formed, or may be formed from two or more cloths, materials, and the like. In one embodiment, AWDLS 108 is conventionally formed from a piece of fabric that is sewn together with yarn 114, such as, for example, polyester yarn or continuous filament processed yarn.

  The AWDLS 108 supports a predetermined amount of pseudo or external weights. The external weight is placed on the AWDLS 108 to approximately mimic the anatomical distribution of, for example, the living soft tissue of the lower leg or the major muscle group (or most of it). The external weight can be supported on the AWDLS 108 in various ways. The AWDLS 108 may be a flexible design that allows for the addition and removal of weight with a removable external weight. In some embodiments, the external weight can be placed in a matrix pocket. The pocket can be formed from the suture boundary of the thread 114. The pockets may be integrally formed with the AWDLS 108, attached to the outer and / or inner surface of the sleeve, or otherwise supported by the sleeve.

  In one of several possible embodiments, the external weight is implemented with a plurality of weight members 116. The weight member 116 may be supported on the AWDLS 108 by stitching them between two layers of fabric or other material. However, it should be understood that in other embodiments, external weights may be implemented with solid materials, liquid or gel filled capsules, solid granules, and the like. In one embodiment, the weight member (s) 116 are designed to have a thin cross-sectional shape and are supported close to the body to minimize uncomfortable displacement when the patient 100 moves.

  Regardless of the embodiment, the external weight can be distributed to the AWDLS 108 to substantially mimic, ie, mimic, the relative anatomical weight distribution of the lower leg. External weights are distributed around living soft tissue or major muscle groups in the distal part of the lower leg in the same way that the body weight distribution that people are accustomed to feel. For example, in one embodiment, an external weight can be placed on the AWDLS 108 to cover the main muscle groups of the lower leg or living soft tissue. As best shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the external weight (indicated by weight member 116 for purposes of illustration) is the gastrocnemius (reference number 118 for purposes of explanation) when in the proper orientation on the lower leg. ) And / or over the soleus (generally indicated by reference numeral 120 for purposes of illustration) and may be positioned in the AWDLS 108.

  In order to obtain the desired level of anatomical accuracy, the external weight may be omitted from the portion of the AWDLS 108 that does not, for example, cover or overlay the major muscle groups or living soft tissue. An external weight (represented by weight member 116 for purposes of illustration) may be omitted from the portion of AWDLS 108 that covers a particular skeletal structure. Referring to FIG. 5, the external weight may be omitted from the front part (or part thereof) of the AWDLS that covers the anterior tibial line of the lower leg. In order to assist the patient 100 in properly aligning the external weight distributed on the sleeve with the corresponding body weight in the lower leg, the AWDLS 108 can include an alignment aid (eg, alignment indication 122). For example, a pair of alignment indicators 122 (eg, tags, product labels, etc.) can be vertically aligned with the proximal end 110 and the distal end 112 of the portion of the AWDSL 108 corresponding to the anterior tibial line. In this way, the patient 100 need only align the display 122 with the anterior tibial line of the lower leg to ensure that the external weight is in the proper anatomical arrangement.

  As shown in the embodiment of FIGS. 5 and 6, an external weight (shown by weight member 116 for purposes of illustration) may be entirely wrapped around the rear, inner and outer portions of AWDSL 108. This overall taper or convergent configuration generally mimics the manner in which the gluteal muscle tapers or converges when squatting. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the amount of external weight can be pre-defined to accommodate various clinical symptoms, individuals, etc.

  The AWDLS 108 may include various types of support mechanisms to minimize movement of the sleeve relative to the patient's skin. For example, the proximal end 110 and / or the distal end 112 can be reinforced with elastic bands to provide additional support to the respective sleeve ends. In some embodiments, AWDLS 108 may include a peelable support fastener. Referring to FIG. 2, the proximal end 110 and the distal end 112 can include Velcro® type straps having mating portions 124 and 126. The interlocking portion 124 can be positioned on the top surface of the strap and the interlocking portion 126 can be positioned on the back surface of the strap. For further support, the AWDLS 108 may include a separation fastener 128 located at the distal end 112, for example. The isolation fastener 128 includes a generally vertical cut extending proximally at the distal end 112 of the AWDLS 108. Separating fastener 128 may use a Velcro® type or other interlocking strap to allow patient 100 to more easily attach and detach AWDSL 108 and to provide additional support for external weights.

  7-11 illustrate one of several possible embodiments of the arm distal sleeve with reference to the arm distal sleeve for the right arm (AWDLS 104). The AWDLS 104 includes a generally cylindrical sleeve sized and configured to be comfortably worn on a person's forearm between the elbow and wrist. Like the AWDLS 108, the arm embodiment of the AWDLS 104 forms a relatively flexible surface (FIG. 7) having opposing open ends, a proximal end 130 and a distal end 132. Similar to AWDLS 108, the arm embodiment uses the same general reference terms to indicate proper placement for wearing the AWDLS 104 and to simulate the external weight on the sleeve relative to the forearm anatomy. Provide appropriate reference points to indicate anatomical placement.

  The AWDLD 104 is configured in much the same way as the leg embodiment, with appropriate modifications to account for anatomical differences between the forearm and the lower leg. AWDLS 104 may have a tapered, generally cylindrical shape (proximal end 130 has a larger diameter than distal end 132). AWDLS 104 may include a suitable support mechanism as described above.

  The external weight of the AWDLS 104 (shown by the weight member 116 for purposes of illustration) approximates the anatomical distribution of major muscle groups or living soft tissue (eg, flexors and / or extensors) in the forearm region, or a large portion thereof. Arranged to imitate. The external weight can be omitted from the portion of the AWDLS 104 that does not cover major muscle groups or living soft tissue. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 10, it is advantageous to omit an external weight of a portion of the sleeve that covers a skeletal structure such as the rib 136 (FIG. 10) (generally indicated by reference numeral 134 for explanation). possible. The AWDLS 104 may also include a suitable alignment display 122 to ensure that the external weight is in the proper anatomical arrangement.

  One skilled in the art will appreciate that routine use of a weighted extremity distal sleeve (in one or more limbs) can increase calorie consumption due to externally added simulated body weight. . It should be noted that although exercise is an important part of overall health, for most people it accounts for a relatively small percentage of daily calorie consumption. Due to factors such as health condition, family, occupation, lifestyle, etc., the time that can be practically dedicated to exercise is limited. For example, the calorie consumption that a typical individual consumes through exercise is only about 20% of the daily calorie consumption. The majority of daily calorie consumption is due to basal metabolism (BMR). BMR (accounting for about 70% of daily calorie consumption) is the daily energy your body needs to survive and maintain minimal function. This includes energy required for breathing, blood circulation, maintaining core temperature, and the like.

  In this regard, with reference to the present disclosure, various embodiments of weighted extremity distal sleeves (eg, AWDLS) are directed to BMR rather than consumption by exercise (although increased calorie consumption) And can be used during exercise to further promote the formation of normal muscle tone). High calorie consumption is achieved through the unique concept of weight loss systems and methods described above and Activities of Daily Living Resistance (ADLR), one of the core principles of the weighted limb distal sleeve. Can do. As mentioned above, NEAT is the daily energy consumption made by physical activity with involuntary movements, also known as daily living activities (ADL). These include activities such as opening the door, walking to the car, walking around the phone, walking the dog, chores, and housework. NEAT is a study conducted at Mayo Clinic (Levin JA, et al., Am J Clin Nutr 2000, Dec; 72 (6): 1451-4, Levine, JA, et al. Science 1999, Jan; 283 (5399 ): 212-4) proves that it may be an important source of resistance to non-resting (exercise) energy consumption (NREE) and weight gain. The entirety is incorporated herein by reference. The weight loss system and method and weighted distal limb sleeve described above significantly increase NEAT by adding ADLR to the daily routine, thereby significantly increasing the total daily energy consumption with a simple design. Designed to. They are designed to be used during regular daily activities and / or exercise. They are designed to be thin and comfortable enough to be worn under various types of garments and enough to be worn unconscious every day.

  It should be understood that the various embodiments described above may also be effective in combating obesity by mimicking an obese environment. The weight is anatomically distributed around the major muscle groups. When the weight of an obese person is reduced, the weight burdened in daily life is much less, so the lean body mass is also reduced, thereby lowering the BMR. Furthermore, calories are more difficult to burn for the same reason. Therefore, in many cases, weight loss stops and rebounds may occur. Loss of lean body weight and weight loss during dietary restriction leads to a decrease in BMR, which essentially results in metabolic decline.

  The weight loss system and method and weighted limb distal sleeve described above uses an external weight that is added to the body in an anatomical manner following the main muscle groups of the body. This systematic application of external weights facilitates the calorie burning process by requiring extra calories for any physical action. In addition, this adds resistance as a result of virtually all physical movements, thereby maintaining BMR by maintaining the lean body mass of the extremity limb skeletal muscle (which holds the largest part of the body's lean tissue). To increase. The weight loss system and weight loss method and weighted limb distal sleeve can help maintain BMR during weight loss and can also promote weight loss by increasing NEAT through ADLR.

  Although this disclosure describes the invention in terms of exemplary embodiments, the invention is not limited to those embodiments. Rather, those skilled in the art will recognize that the appended patents include other variations and embodiments of the invention that can be made or used by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and range of the invention. The scope of the claims will be interpreted broadly.

FIG. 6 illustrates one of several embodiments of a weight loss system and weight loss method for promoting NEAT by mounting a pair of anatomic weighted arm sleeves and a pair of anatomic weighted leg sleeves. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the leg distal sleeve (right leg) with anatomical weight of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a front view of use of the anterior portion of the leg distal sleeve with anatomical weight of FIG. FIG. 3 is a rear view of the posterior portion of the anatomically weighted leg distal sleeve of FIG. 2 in use. FIG. 3 is a simplified front view of the leg distal sleeve with anatomical weight of FIG. 2 for the right lower musculoskeletal system. FIG. 3 is a simplified rear view of the leg distal sleeve with anatomical weight of FIG. 2 for the right crus musculoskeletal system. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the embodiment of the anatomically weighted arm distal sleeve (right arm) of FIG. 1. FIG. 8 is a use view of the outer portion of the anatomically weighted arm distal sleeve of FIG. FIG. 8 is a use view of the inner portion of the anatomically weighted arm distal sleeve of FIG. FIG. 8 is a simplified view of the outer portion of the anatomically weighted arm distal sleeve of FIG. 7 for the right forearm musculoskeletal system. FIG. 8 is a simplified view of the medial portion of the anatomically weighted arm distal sleeve of FIG. 7 for the right forearm musculoskeletal system.

Claims (42)

A weight loss system,
A pair of anatomically weighted arm distal sleeves that are to be comfortably fitted and sized to a human forearm, one for the left forearm and the other for the right forearm; A pair of anatomical weighted arms each having a first predetermined amount of external weight disposed on the arm distal sleeve to mimic the anatomical distribution of the main biological soft tissue of the forearm A distal sleeve;
A pair of anatomic weighted leg distal sleeves that are comfortably fitted and sized to the lower leg of a person's knee, one for the left leg and the other for the right leg A pair of anatomical weights, each having a second predetermined amount of external weight disposed on the distal leg sleeve to mimic the anatomical distribution of the main biological soft tissue of the lower leg A weight loss system comprising a legged sleeve with a leg.   The weight loss system of claim 1, wherein a distal end and a proximal end of the arm distal sleeve and the leg distal sleeve include support fasteners.   The weight loss system of claim 1, wherein the arm distal sleeve and the leg distal sleeve include alignment indicators for proper anatomical alignment.   The first predetermined amount of external weight is disposed on the arm distal sleeve to mimic the anatomical distribution of the main flexor and extensor muscles of the forearm, and the second predetermined external weight is The weight loss system of claim 1, wherein the weight loss system is disposed on the distal leg sleeve to mimic the anatomical distribution of the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles of the lower leg.   A distal leg sleeve that is used in a weight loss program and is comfortably fitted and sized to the lower leg of a person's knee so as to mimic the anatomical distribution of the soft tissue of the lower leg A distal leg sleeve comprising a predetermined amount of external weight disposed on the distal leg sleeve.   The distal leg sleeve of claim 5, wherein the external weight is substantially omitted from an anterior tibial portion of the distal leg sleeve.   The leg distal sleeve according to claim 5, wherein the external weight tapers toward a distal portion of the leg distal sleeve.   The leg distal sleeve according to claim 5, wherein the external weight is substantially omitted from a posterior distal portion of the leg distal sleeve.   The leg distal sleeve according to claim 5, wherein a proximal end and a distal end of the leg distal sleeve include a support.   The leg distal sleeve according to claim 9, wherein the support includes an elastic band.   The leg distal sleeve according to claim 5, further comprising support fasteners at a proximal end and a distal end of the leg distal sleeve.   6. The leg distal sleeve of claim 5, wherein the posterior distal portion of the leg distal sleeve includes a separable separation that facilitates attachment and removal and provides additional support during use.   The leg distal sleeve according to claim 5, wherein the external weight includes a plurality of weight members.   The leg distal sleeve according to claim 13, wherein the weight member is sewn into the leg distal sleeve between a pair of fabric layers.   An alignment indicator for allowing the external weight to imitate the anatomical distribution of the soft body tissue of the lower leg to allow the leg distal sleeve to be properly positioned on the lower leg; Item 6. A distal leg sleeve according to Item 5.   The leg distal sleeve according to claim 5, wherein the predetermined amount of external weight is disposed on the leg distal sleeve to mimic the anatomical distribution of the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles of the lower leg.   A distal leg sleeve, used in a weight loss program, that is comfortably fitted to the lower leg of a person's knee, wherein the distal leg has a substantially anatomical relationship with the major muscle groups of the lower leg. A leg distal sleeve comprising an external weight distributed against the surface of the sleeve.   18. The distal leg sleeve of claim 17, wherein the predetermined amount of external weight is disposed on the distal leg sleeve to mimic the anatomical distribution of gastrocnemius and soleus muscles.   An arm distal sleeve used in a weight loss program and comfortably fitted and sized to a forearm between a person's elbow and wrist, wherein the anatomical structure of the living soft tissue of the forearm An arm distal sleeve comprising a predetermined amount of external weight disposed on the arm distal sleeve to mimic the distribution.   20. The arm distal sleeve of claim 19, wherein the external weight is omitted from a portion of the arm distal sleeve that is at least partially positioned over the ribs of the forearm.   The arm distal sleeve of claim 19, wherein the external weight is omitted from at least a portion of the outside of the arm distal sleeve.   The arm distal sleeve of claim 19, wherein the external weight tapers toward a distal portion of the arm distal sleeve.   The arm distal sleeve of claim 19, wherein the external weight is substantially omitted from an outer distal portion of the arm distal sleeve.   The arm distal sleeve of claim 19, wherein a proximal end and a distal end of the arm distal sleeve include a support.   25. The arm distal sleeve of claim 24, wherein the support includes an elastic band.   The arm distal sleeve of claim 19, further comprising support fasteners at a proximal end and a distal end of the arm distal sleeve.   The arm distal sleeve of claim 19, wherein the external weight includes a plurality of weight members.   28. The arm distal sleeve of claim 27, wherein the weight member is sewn into the arm distal sleeve between a pair of fabric layers.   An alignment indicator is further provided for enabling a user to imitate the anatomical distribution of the living soft tissue of the forearm with the external weight so that the distal arm sleeve can be properly positioned on the forearm. Item 20. The arm distal sleeve according to Item 19.   A distal arm sleeve used in a weight loss program and adapted to fit comfortably on the forearm between a person's elbow and wrist, substantially anatomically related to the major muscle groups of the forearm A distal arm sleeve comprising an external weight distributed against the surface of the distal arm sleeve.   31. The distal arm sleeve of claim 30, wherein the predetermined amount of external weight is disposed on the distal arm sleeve to mimic the anatomical distribution of the major flexor and extensor muscles of the forearm.   A weight loss method, comprising: mounting a pair of anatomically weighted leg distal sleeves sized and sized to be comfortably fitted to the lower leg of a person, the leg distal sleeves , One for the left leg and the other for the right leg, each being disposed on the leg distal sleeve so as to mimic the anatomical distribution of the main biological soft tissue of the lower leg. A weight loss method having a predetermined amount of external weight.   And further comprising mounting a pair of anatomically weighted arm distal sleeves adapted and sized to be comfortably mounted on a human forearm, the distal arm sleeve being one for the left arm. One for the right arm, each having a second predetermined amount of external weight disposed on the arm distal sleeve to mimic the anatomical distribution of the main biological soft tissue of the forearm The method of weight loss according to claim 32.   The second predetermined amount of external weight is disposed on the arm distal sleeve to mimic the anatomical distribution of the main flexor and extensor muscles of the forearm, and the first predetermined external weight is 34. The method of weight loss according to claim 33, wherein the method is disposed on the distal arm sleeve to mimic the anatomical distribution of the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles of the lower leg.   A limb distal sleeve with an anatomical weight that is used in a weight loss program and is comfortably fitted and sized to a distal portion of a human limb relative to a limb joint, A limb distal sleeve with an anatomical weight comprising a predetermined amount of external weight placed on the limb to mimic the anatomical distribution of living soft tissue in the distal portion.   36. An anatomically weighted limb distal sleeve according to claim 35, wherein the limb is one of an arm or a leg.   36. The anatomically weighted limb distal sleeve of claim 35, wherein the external weight includes a plurality of weight members.   36. An anatomically weighted limb distal sleeve according to claim 35, wherein a proximal end and a distal end of the limb distal sleeve include a support.   36. The anatomically weighted limb distal sleeve of claim 35, further comprising support fasteners at a proximal end and a distal end of the limb distal sleeve.   A method of promoting weight loss, comprising attaching at least one weighted limb sleeve to a distal portion of a limb below a corresponding limb joint. Wearing the at least one weighted limb sleeve;
41. Weight loss according to claim 40, comprising attaching a pair of leg sleeves, one on the right leg, the other on the left leg, and one on the right arm and the other on the left arm. How to promote.   41. The method of promoting weight loss of claim 40, wherein the weighted limb sleeve is anatomically weighted to substantially mimic the distribution of biological soft tissue in the distal portion of the limb.

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