US20050187071A1 - Repositioning device, garment, and posture molding method and training instruction method using them - Google Patents

Repositioning device, garment, and posture molding method and training instruction method using them Download PDF

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Publication number
US20050187071A1
US20050187071A1 US11/111,949 US11194905A US2005187071A1 US 20050187071 A1 US20050187071 A1 US 20050187071A1 US 11194905 A US11194905 A US 11194905A US 2005187071 A1 US2005187071 A1 US 2005187071A1
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Prior art keywords
muscle
nerve
stimulation
muscles
exercise
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Inventor
Tetsuhiro Yamashita
Yoshihiro Chijimatsu
Takeshi Ogino
Kenjiro Mori
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Hidekazu Ogawa
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Hidekazu Ogawa
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Publication of US20050187071A1 publication Critical patent/US20050187071A1/en
Assigned to OGAWA, HIDEKAZU reassignment OGAWA, HIDEKAZU ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: YAMASHITA, TETSUHIRO
Assigned to OGAWA, HIDEKAZU, YAMASHITA, TETSUHIRO reassignment OGAWA, HIDEKAZU ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: CHIJIMATSU, YOSHIHIRO, MORI, KENJIRO, OGINO, TAKESHI, YAMASHITA, TETSUHIRO
Priority to US13/186,022 priority Critical patent/US20120238923A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H23/00—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms
    • A61H23/02—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms with electric or magnetic drive
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H23/00—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
    • A41D13/00—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
    • A41D13/00—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches
    • A41D13/12—Surgeons' or patients' gowns or dresses
    • A41D13/1236—Patients' garments
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
    • A41D27/00—Details of garments or of their making
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D04—BRAIDING; LACE-MAKING; KNITTING; TRIMMINGS; NON-WOVEN FABRICS
    • D04B—KNITTING
    • D04B1/00—Weft knitting processes for the production of fabrics or articles not dependent on the use of particular machines; Fabrics or articles defined by such processes
    • D04B1/10—Patterned fabrics or articles
    • D04B1/102—Patterned fabrics or articles with stitch pattern
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D04—BRAIDING; LACE-MAKING; KNITTING; TRIMMINGS; NON-WOVEN FABRICS
    • D04B—KNITTING
    • D04B1/00—Weft knitting processes for the production of fabrics or articles not dependent on the use of particular machines; Fabrics or articles defined by such processes
    • D04B1/22—Weft knitting processes for the production of fabrics or articles not dependent on the use of particular machines; Fabrics or articles defined by such processes specially adapted for knitting goods of particular configuration
    • D04B1/24—Weft knitting processes for the production of fabrics or articles not dependent on the use of particular machines; Fabrics or articles defined by such processes specially adapted for knitting goods of particular configuration wearing apparel
    • D04B1/243—Weft knitting processes for the production of fabrics or articles not dependent on the use of particular machines; Fabrics or articles defined by such processes specially adapted for knitting goods of particular configuration wearing apparel upper parts of panties; pants
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
    • A41D2400/00—Functions or special features of garments
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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H15/00—Massage by means of rollers, balls, e.g. inflatable, chains, or roller chains
    • A61H2015/0064—Massage by means of rollers, balls, e.g. inflatable, chains, or roller chains with freely rotating spheres
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/12—Driving means
    • A61H2201/1253—Driving means driven by a human being, e.g. hand driven
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/12—Driving means
    • A61H2201/1253—Driving means driven by a human being, e.g. hand driven
    • A61H2201/1261—Driving means driven by a human being, e.g. hand driven combined with active exercising of the patient
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/16—Physical interface with patient
    • A61H2201/1602—Physical interface with patient kind of interface, e.g. head rest, knee support or lumbar support
    • A61H2201/165—Wearable interfaces
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/16—Physical interface with patient
    • A61H2201/1602—Physical interface with patient kind of interface, e.g. head rest, knee support or lumbar support
    • A61H2201/1654—Layer between the skin and massage elements, e.g. fluid or ball
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/16—Physical interface with patient
    • A61H2201/1683—Surface of interface
    • A61H2201/169—Physical characteristics of the surface, e.g. material, relief, texture or indicia
    • A61H2201/1697—Breathability of the material
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H23/00—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms
    • A61H23/02—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms with electric or magnetic drive
    • A61H23/0218—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms with electric or magnetic drive with alternating magnetic fields producing a translating or oscillating movement
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H23/00—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms
    • A61H23/02—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms with electric or magnetic drive
    • A61H23/0218—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms with electric or magnetic drive with alternating magnetic fields producing a translating or oscillating movement
    • A61H23/0236—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms with electric or magnetic drive with alternating magnetic fields producing a translating or oscillating movement using sonic waves, e.g. using loudspeakers
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H23/00—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms
    • A61H23/02—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms with electric or magnetic drive
    • A61H23/0254—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms with electric or magnetic drive with rotary motor
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H23/00—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms
    • A61H23/02—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms with electric or magnetic drive
    • A61H23/0254—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms with electric or magnetic drive with rotary motor
    • A61H23/0263—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms with electric or magnetic drive with rotary motor using rotating unbalanced masses
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H39/00—Devices for locating or stimulating specific reflex points of the body for physical therapy, e.g. acupuncture
    • A61H39/002—Using electric currents
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D10—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBLASSES OF SECTION D, RELATING TO TEXTILES
    • D10B—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBLASSES OF SECTION D, RELATING TO TEXTILES
    • D10B2403/00—Details of fabric structure established in the fabric forming process
    • D10B2403/01—Surface features
    • D10B2403/011—Dissimilar front and back faces
    • D10B2403/0114—Dissimilar front and back faces with one or more yarns appearing predominantly on one face, e.g. plated or paralleled yarns
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D10—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBLASSES OF SECTION D, RELATING TO TEXTILES
    • D10B—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBLASSES OF SECTION D, RELATING TO TEXTILES
    • D10B2403/00—Details of fabric structure established in the fabric forming process
    • D10B2403/02—Cross-sectional features

Definitions

  • This invention relates to repositioning devices and garments which can correct a person's posture to a proper ideal posture by their use in daily activities, exercises, etc.
  • the invention also relates to posture molding methods and training instruction methods using these repositioning devices and garments.
  • PNF proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation
  • application of stimulation to ineffective muscles facilitates neurotransmission in these muscles and helps recovery of body balance.
  • a practitioner or a trainer instructs a patient to perform lengthening contraction (eccentric exercises) of desired muscles.
  • a skin surface is brushed or rubbed otherwise over a desired muscle.
  • the conventional training devices for strengthening muscular power are based on electrical stimulation.
  • the training devices have a risk of troubles by resonating with the medical equipment.
  • a metal part is embedded in the body (e.g. while fractured bones are fixed by a plate), there is a possibility of heat generation and electric burn.
  • a pad has to be attached to the body surface by a gel. If the pad is not properly attached, electricity may flow across the skin surface and gives pain to the user. Besides, it is laborious and uncomfortable to attach the pad by using a gel. In particular, a person with sensitive skin is poisoned by gel or pad materials.
  • the above conventional training devices induce muscular contraction in reponse to electrical input.
  • the user feels a strong muscle cramp or may even end with myorrhexis or moderate muscle strain when a muscle contracts during exercise.
  • the devices give a light load to muscles and are unlikely to cause injury during constant length (isometric) contraction.
  • shortening concentric
  • muscles are overloaded by their inherent contraction as well as the device-assisted contraction, so that the muscles are likely to suffer from myorrhexis or muscle strain.
  • lengthening (eccentric) contraction which is always accompanied by shortening contraction of muscles (i.e.
  • the conventional training devices are said to strengthen muscular power by electrically stimulating shortening exercises of muscles.
  • Such exercises are passive and performed only by muscles in a limited area where a low-frequency current diffuses via a pad, in contrast to active exercises (e.g. running, swimming) which involve mutual interaction of many muscles in the whole body under the influence of gravity.
  • active exercises e.g. running, swimming
  • the conventional devices strengthen only limited muscles, irrespective of the influence of gravity which is critical in keeping body balance. This factor increases a fear of worsening body balance.
  • a loaded muscle or joint is assisted by application of taping or by using a supporter, with a view to keeping body balance and body support ability.
  • taping or uses a supporter in advance as a preventive measure.
  • Clothes proposed therefor are arranged to apply gentle pressure to certain muscles and strong pressure to their adjacent edges, or to apply gentle pressure to central parts of the elbow or knee joints and strong pressure to their periphery (see Patent Document 1, as an example).
  • an object to be achieved by the product of this invention is to improve balance ability and athletic performance ability in the whole body during exercise, by applying a muscle/nerve facilitation technique to a location where muscle tone is so high as to inhibit smooth movement.
  • this object is significantly different from the one intended by the conventional taping, supporter, and clothes.
  • the conventional clothes are designed to assist joint support power of certain muscles by strongly pressing adjacent edges of these muscles. Therefore, if a healthy person wears such clothes during exercise, the strongly supported muscles do not receive a full load imposed by the exercises, so that the person cannot be rewarded with a sufficient exercise effect. In other words, the support power of the conventional clothes absorbs a load which should be imposed on muscles. After all, even when a person performs exercise in correct movements, the support power of the clothes assists and bears part of a load which is generated by correct movements and should be imposed on muscles.
  • the conventional clothes are further designed to assist joint support power by gently pressing central parts of the elbow or knee joints and strongly pressing their periphery. Nevertheless, the original function of a supporter is merely to stop anteroposterior and side-to-side sway of a joint. It is true that occurrence of injury can be reduced by suppressing sway at a joint. However, as for the pain which results from a vertical load (an antigravity action) during exercise, the conventional clothes have neither an effect of suppressing sway of a joint nor an effect of assisting joint support power for the following reasons.
  • an appliance for assisting the joint support power has a limited effect. Basically, exercise-related injuries are induced by sway and displacement of joints relative to their joint axes while the joints are subjected to a constant vertical load. Further, because joints are destined to serve two conflicting functions: flexibility and toughness, such a severe fixation of joints is impossible. Namely, the only means for curing or avoiding injuries is to shift the vertical load to other joints or to remove the vertical load from the joints themselves.
  • the above conventional clothes are designed to support joints and muscles where injuries are likely. In fact, these joints and muscles are the ones which are actually injured and not the ones which trigger injuries. Hence, use of the conventional clothes is not a fundamental solution to prevent injury.
  • trainers give athletes training instructions for improving their athletic ability without injury.
  • a trainer watches athlete's movements and corrects his defects, or lets him prepare for activities by training overloaded muscles as mentioned above.
  • a trainer also lets an athlete prepare for activities by training loaded muscles as mentioned above. Although the thus strengthened muscles may be more resistant to injuries, this process cannot create superior body balance and body support ability for realizing injury-free movements (flexible movement and controlled mobility).
  • An object of the invention is to provide repositioning devices and garments which can correct a person's posture to a proper ideal one and which can create superior body balance by their use in daily activities, exercises, etc., and also to provide posture molding methods and training instruction methods using these repositioning devices and garments.
  • a garment of the invention for solving the above problems is equipped with at least either of a point stimulation part or a surface stimulation part.
  • the point stimulation part is formed at a location corresponding to a skin surface within an area ranging from an origin to an insertion of at least one muscle selected from the muscle groups, and with a person wearing the garment, the point stimulation part facilitates neurotransmission in the at least one muscle.
  • the surface stimulation part is formed at a location corresponding to a functional skin area of at least one muscle selected from the muscle groups, and with a person wearing the garment, the surface stimulation part inhibits neurotransmission in the at least one muscle.
  • a posture molding method of the invention for solving the above problems is a method for molding an ideal posture.
  • this method involves: providing a point stimulator and/or a surface stimulator at a location corresponding to a skin surface within an area ranging from an origin to an insertion of at least one muscle selected from the muscle groups.
  • the point stimulator promotes facilitation of neurotransmission in the muscle and raises awareness of the muscle
  • the surface stimulator promotes inhibition of neurotransmission in the muscle and decreases awareness of the muscle.
  • this method involves: allowing a person to perform exercise while providing a point stimulator and/or a surface stimulator at a location corresponding to a skin surface within an area ranging from an origin to an insertion of at least one muscle selected from the muscle groups.
  • the point stimulator promotes facilitation of neurotransmission in the muscle and raises awareness of the muscle
  • the surface stimulator promotes inhibition of neurotransmission in the muscle and decreases awareness of the muscle.
  • a repositioning device of the invention for solving the above problems is composed of a case applicable to a human body surface and having a hollow chamber therein, and one or more pieces contained in the case.
  • a space for permitting rolling and bouncing movements of the one or more pieces is defined in the hollow chamber of the case.
  • the one or more pieces vibrate the case by rolling and bouncing inside the hollow chamber in response to body movements.
  • the case is made in such a size as to secure a space for generating such vibrations in the space inside the hollow chamber, to provide vibratory stimulation to a part of the skin corresponding to a human body surface to which the case is applied, and to facilitate neurotransmission in at least one muscle at the part.
  • Another repositioning device of the invention for solving the above problems is composed of a case applicable to a human body surface, a vibration generator arranged to generate vibrations in a range of 3 Hz to 5 MHz, a power source for supplying power to the vibration generator, and a controller for controlling generation of vibrations by the vibration generator. Vibrations from the vibration generator reach the human skin surface to which the vibration generator is applied.
  • the case is made in such a size that the vibrations facilitate a muscle at a part of the skin corresponding to a human body surface to which the case is applied.
  • the human brain has established neurotransmission circuits for processing asymmetrical unequal movements such as right-handedness and left-handedness. With keeping such unequal factors, the human brain perceives relative positions of body parts by usually unconscious proprioception. Since the muscles, skeleton and the like develop with proprioception, they are not perfectly equal but unequal in a strict sense. In fact, laterality affects all parts of the body.
  • antigravity muscles In addition to the influence of laterality, a human being living on the earth is engaged in exercise or work by maintaining a standing, sitting or any other posture under gravity, and permanently needs to generate an anti-gravity force for acting against the gravity. Without the anti-gravity force, no movement would be possible.
  • a group of muscles which are selected reflexively and dominantly in the antigravity state are comprehensively called antigravity muscles, most of which are extensors.
  • the antigravity muscles are affected not only by laterality as mentioned above, but also by ethnic group, lifestyle, inheritance, and many other factors.
  • right-handed people tend to support the weight at the lateral side of the right toe (when standing on the right leg only) or the medial side of the left toe (when standing on the left leg only), and left-handed people tend to support the weight at the lateral side of the left toe (when standing on the left leg only) or the medial side of the right toe (when standing on the right leg only).
  • FIG. 1 depicts an average exercise posture of Japanese or nonathletic people (right-handed), who support the weight at the lateral side of the right toe and the medial side of the left toe.
  • the body is strongly controlled and supported by the posterior muscles of the left lower leg, the anterior muscles of the left thigh, the upper part of the left abdominal muscles, and the right upper trapezius.
  • Their body is more strongly controlled and supported by the posterior muscles of the right lower leg, the anterior muscles of the right thigh, the upper part of the right abdominal muscles, and the left upper trapezium.
  • the above-mentioned muscle groups notably increase muscle tone.
  • the left-handed people show a symmetrical pattern.
  • FIG. 2 depicts an average exercise posture of Latin Americans or athletically skilled people (right-handed), who support the weight at the lateral side of the left heel and the medial side of the right heel.
  • the body is strongly controlled and supported by the anterior muscles of the right lower leg, the posterior muscles of the right thigh, the posterior part of the right gluteal muscles, the lower part of the left abdominal muscles, and the left erector spinae.
  • Their body is more strongly controlled and supported by the anterior muscles of the left lower leg, the posterior muscles of the left thigh, the posterior part of the left gluteal muscles, the lower part of the right abdominal muscles, and the right erector spinae.
  • the above-mentioned muscle groups notably increase muscle tone.
  • the left-handed people show a symmetrical pattern.
  • forward-leaning right-handed, forward-leaning left-handed, backward-leaning right-handed, or backward-leaning left-handed we perceive relative positions of body parts by usually unconscious proprioception (i.e. by postural reflex).
  • muscles are classified into four categories (Very strong, Strong, Weak, Very weak) according to the degree of muscle tone during antigravitational exercise, separately for each of the forward-leaning right-handed, the forward-leaning left-handed, the backward-leaning right-handed, and the backward-leaning left-handed.
  • the degree of muscle tone is indicated in four ranks (Weak, Very weak, Strong, Very strong) for the following reason.
  • a person is roughly classified as right-handed or left-handed.
  • the above-defined four ranks are meant to cover strong muscles and weak muscles on the dominant side of the body as well as strong muscles and weak muscles on the non-dominant side of the body.
  • Tables 9 and 10 classify muscles and joints into two categories, in connection with antigravitational exercise performed in an ideal posture.
  • the first category encompasses major muscles and joints concerning antigravitational exercise, and the second category covers auxiliary muscles and joints which assist and work in coordination with the major ones.
  • EXTENSORS left trapezius (third and fourth cervical nerves), right pectoralis minor (medial right trapezius (third and fourth cervical nerves), left pectoralis minor (medial pectoral nerve), pectoral nerve), left rectus femoris (femoral nerve), medial head of the left right rectus femoris (femoral nerve), medial head of the right gastrocnemius (tibial nerve), gastrocnemius (tibial nerve), lateral head of the right gastrocnemius (tibial nerve), lateral head of the left gastrocnemius (tibial nerve), right plantaris (tibial nerve), left splenius left plantaris (tibial nerve), right splenius capitis and right splenius cervicis (lateral capit
  • EXTENSORS left trapezius (third and fourth cervical nerves), right pectoralis minor (medial right trapezius (third and fourth cervical nerves), left pectoralis minor (medial pectoral nerve), pectoral nerve), left rectus femoris (femoral nerve), lateral head of the left right rectus femoris (femoral nerve), lateral head of the right gastrocnemius (tibial nerve), medial gastrocnemius (tibial nerve), medial head of the right gastrocnemius (tibial nerve), head of the left gastrocnemius (tibial nerve), left plantaris (tibial nerve), left splenius capitis and right plantaris (tibial nerve), right splenius capitis and right splenius cer
  • extensors mean multiarticular muscles and monoarticular muscles which act against the gravity and which move joints to extended positions.
  • Flexors mean multiarticular muscles and monoarticular muscles which act against the gravity and which move joints to flexed positions.
  • Rotators are concerned with axial rotatory movement of shoulder joints, hip joints and the like, and effect inward or outward axial movement relative to the trunk.
  • Muscles listed in Tables 1 to 10 are classified as multiarticular or monoarticular.
  • Joints are categorized according to their degree of freedom. Joints with three degrees of freedom are the most functional, joints with two degrees of freedom are the second most functional, and joints with one degree of freedom are the least functional. Shoulder joints and hip joints are representative of three-degree-of-freedom joints. Axial movements at these joints include not only anteroposterior and side-to-side movements, but also diagonal and rotatory movements. In contrast, knee joints which have one degree of freedom merely control and support anteroposterior axial movements. Because movements of joints need to satisfy the conflicting opposite requirements, i.e. high flexibility and strong support power, some are meant to be highly flexible and others are to be strongly supportive. In this connection, muscles act on these joints and create body balance and body support ability (by correct antigravity muscle activities).
  • the multiarticular muscle acts on two or more joints mentioned above.
  • the monoarticular muscle acts on a single joint mentioned above.
  • muscle activities it is necessary to divide muscle activities into agonistic activity in which muscles are facilitated or antagonistic activity in which muscles are inhibited.
  • muscles need to be classified into those mainly engaged in moving the body or those mainly engaged in supporting the body. This classification is required because three-dimensional muscle activities of inhibitory muscles include control of strongly facilitated acting muscles and also include support of antagonistic muscle activity which is antagonistic to the agonistic activity.
  • exercise is constituted with four types of muscle activities which are distinguished by their functions (see FIG.
  • agonistic muscle activity which is the most active activity (hereinafter simply mentioned as “agonistic muscle activity”)
  • antagonistic inhibitory muscle activity which is the second most active activity and which is antagonistic to agonistic muscle activity
  • supportive muscle activity which is the third most active activity and which helps agonistic muscle activity
  • accessory muscle activity which assists this supportive muscle activity which in turn helps agonistic muscle activity
  • FIGS. 4 and 5 schematically represent thigh muscle activities during flexion and extension of the hip joint. (Here, the right thigh is taken as an example.) Concerning a muscle group involved in linear (forward) movement alone, the thigh muscle activities are constituted with as many as eight muscle activities including the four different types of muscle activities (agonistic muscle activity, antagonistic muscle activity, supportive muscle activity, and accessory muscle activity) at an upper section and a lower section of the thigh, respectively.
  • FIGS. 6 and 7 schematically represent muscle activities around the gluteal region during flexion and extension of the hip joint.
  • agonistic muscle activity, antagonistic muscle activity, supportive muscle activity, and accessory muscle activity there are four more muscle activities above the hip joint (agonistic muscle activity, antagonistic muscle activity, supportive muscle activity, and accessory muscle activity).
  • the joint-muscle activities involving the hip joint are constituted not only with a combination of four types of muscle activities (agonistic muscle activity, antagonistic muscle activity, supportive muscle activity, and accessory muscle activity), but also with complex muscle activity which imparts rotatory support power in order to make the muscle activities more effective (see FIG. 8 ).
  • Biceps femoris one of the hip joint extensors, as an example.
  • Biceps femoris has a long head which is a multiarticular muscle and a short head which is a monoarticular muscle.
  • the long head concerns extension of the hip joint as well as flexion of the knee joint which coordinately assists the hip joint extension.
  • the short head has a monoarticular supportive function, thus assisting the agonistic activity.
  • Subdivided muscle activities at the posterior part of the thigh may be also learned from the fact that Japanese or nonathletic people often suffer from injury (muscle strain, etc.) at the short head of biceps femoris which acts like a monoarticular muscle. This injury is closely related with their ankle strategy-based manner of exercise, which is a typical behavior of Japanese or nonathletic people as detailed later. Further, at quadriceps femoris, when actions and muscle strength are not balanced between medial/lateral muscles or between multiarticular/monoarticular muscles, the imbalance is said to trigger such symptoms as represented by external patellar subluxation syndrome due to abnormal Q angle.
  • a cause of such symptoms is known to be discoordination of joint activities below the hip joints, the knee joints and other joints therebelow, as well as the relationship of strength between vastus medialis and vastus lateralis of quadriceps femoris.
  • asymmetrical activity in human being does not necessarily develop into such diseases, a slight problem or instability associated with asymmetrical movements of muscles and joints may be a potential cause of injury during exercise.
  • the whole body performs smooth and elegant exercise by skillfully controlling complicated asymmetrical movements such as anteroposterior, side-to-side, twisting, and other movements.
  • asymmetrical movements such as anteroposterior, side-to-side, twisting, and other movements.
  • facilitation and inhibition for guiding such asymmetrical muscle activity toward a correct axis will be readily understood.
  • An ideal exercise posture requires following important elements. With a person sitting on a chair, draw a line from the parietal region to the point where the bottom end of the ischial bone touches the chair, and take this line as the fundamental axis for joint/muscle movement. In connection with this axis, the shoulder joints, hip joints and vertebrae joints perform flexion/extension, internal rotation/external rotation, and adduction/abduction to the limit of the maximum ranges of joint motion and muscle motion.
  • the ankle strategy-based manner of exercise is dominated by the knees or ankles.
  • the hip strategy-based manner of exercise is dominated by the hip joints.
  • a person stands in a forward leaning posture, with the center of gravity toward the toes, just as senile gait or the like.
  • a person stands in a backward leaning posture, with the center of gravity toward the heels, as typically seen among athletically skilled people, etc.
  • the trunk receives a force from a base of exercise later than the ankles.
  • the fulcrums of exercise are the ankle joints
  • the application points of force are the posterior muscle groups of the lower legs which act as agonists
  • the points of action are the soles.
  • this is not an efficient manner of exercise.
  • activities of extensors at the hip joints fail to exert their full function, and the main function of the trunk activity is reduced to an auxiliary role of keeping the balance.
  • no matter how the hip joints and the trunk act to assist, promote and emphasize exercise their activities are meaningless. This is why aged people move slowly and cautiously, with short walking strides.
  • nonathletic people try to make up for their poor trunk balance, they suffer from hypertonicity (unnecessary strain) and deterioration of athletic ability (poor athletic skills) during exercise.
  • the knee joints cannot perfectly cover multidirectional movements by their own function (because the knee joints can control only anterioposterior balance around axes of joint movement).
  • the force needs to be transferred from the knee joints to the hip joints which have three degrees of freedom, which inevitably brings about the hip strategy-based manner of exercise.
  • the hip strategy-based manner of exercise one of its characteristics is to promote cooperation between the trunk extension function (the erector spinae is a major trunk extensor) and the lower limb movement.
  • This manner of exercise sets the fulcrum of exercise at the center of gravity, stabilizes the trunk and enables integrated exercise. Further, the moment of motion is equally distributed to the upper and lower limbs, and muscular power generated at the trunk is properly transmitted to the upper and lower limbs.
  • this manner of exercise improves athletic ability remarkably.
  • a rotatory power In a smooth exercise, a rotatory power must be generated by the upper limbs and the trunk around a correct axis, and then must be transmitted to the lower limbs. Because exercise is based on the principle of leverage which concerns three points (a point of application, a point of action, and a fulcrum), the trunk has to serve two functions as the point of application and the fulcrum. To perform these two functions smoothly, the trunk strengthens the fulcrum by rotation. (A twist increases an axis support power, as is the case where one wrings a wet towel or the like.) Thus, for a smooth exercise, the entire trunk must serve three different functions as a fixing surface, a supporting surface and an exercise surface by using a rotatory power.
  • the trunk must allow rotatory movements at the hip joints and the shoulder joints, from which the power is transmitted to the limbs.
  • sequential transmission of power is indispensable for a smooth exercise.
  • sequential transmission of power must be repeated by two, three, or more rotations during each motion. It is known that such rotations are effected not in a single direction but in alternate directions, namely, right-to-left and left-to-right, and inwardly (an internal spiral motion) and outwardly (an external spiral motion) relative to the body.
  • the most ideal performance of exercise is embodied when these multidirectional rotations (a tornado motion) occur around an exercise axis of the trunk. Besides, this ideal performance of exercise imposes a minimum load to non-rotatory joints (those with one or two degrees of freedom).
  • the posture needs to be brought backward and transformed to a posture for embodying a correct hip strategy-based manner of exercise. Conversely, if a person leans backward in an average exercise posture, the posture should be brought forward and transformed to a posture for embodying a more correct hip strategy-based manner of exercise.
  • a correct hip strategy-based manner of exercise comes to form the core of exercise, such exercise can awaken and strengthen dormant muscles which usually do not control, support or act strongly, and can also reduce the stress to overloaded muscles which usually control and support strongly.
  • one's exercise posture can be molded or transformed into an ideal exercise posture.
  • the ankle strategy-based manner of exercise and the hip strategy-based manner of exercise as described above are significantly affected by hand dominance (right-handed or left-handed), leg dominance, and the like.
  • hand dominance right-handed or left-handed
  • leg dominance leg dominance
  • the like For example, in the case of right-handed people whose average exercise posture is dependent on the ankle strategy, a right-side-loaded forward leaning posture is dominant at the lower limbs. Since this posture puts a heavier load on the lateral side of the right toe, the body needs to be supported on a surface along the lateral side of the right toe. This situation promotes actions of the extensor group (the plantarflexor group) at the right ankle joint, so that the core of exercise is the right-shifted, ankle strategy-based manner of exercise which is principally led by the right ankle.
  • the extensor group the plantarflexor group
  • the trunk receives a force from a base of exercise later than the ankles and in a shifted manner.
  • the fulcrum of exercise is the right ankle joint
  • the application point of force is the posterior muscle group of the right lower leg which acts as an agonist
  • the point of action is the right fifth toe.
  • the power for exercise is lost considerably at the left foot/leg and the medial side of the right toe.
  • activities of extensors at the left and right hip joints fail to exert their full function in a mutually balanced manner, and the main function of the trunk activity is reduced to an auxiliary role of keeping the balance in a right-shifted manner.
  • a left-side-loaded backward leaning posture is dominant at the lower limbs. Since this posture puts a heavier load on the lateral side of the left heel, the body needs to be supported on a surface along the lateral side of the left heel. While the weight is borne by the left heel, the left sole does not have to support the body by the entire part of the sole, and a muscle group around the ankle joint is not stimulated. Consequently, the left ankle joint no longer serves as the point for supporting body balance (As the plantarflexor group does not receive nervous stimulation and hence is not hypertonic, its antagonist, i.e.
  • an ankle joint extensor group cannot be active, either.), and other joints on the left side of the body have to bear the force from the base of exercise.
  • the force shifts to the left knee joint and the left hip joint which constitute the free lower limb and the pelvic girdle.
  • the knee joint cannot perfectly cover multidirectional left-sided movements by its own function (because the knee joint can control only anterioposterior balance around an axis of joint movement).
  • the force needs to be transferred from the left knee joint to the left hip joint which has three degrees of freedom, which inevitably brings about the left-shifted, hip strategy-based manner of exercise.
  • the erector spinae is a major trunk extensor
  • This manner of exercise sets the fulcrum of exercise at the center of gravity on the left side of the body, stabilizes the trunk and enables integrated exercise. Further, the moment of motion is equally distributed to the upper and lower limbs, and muscular power generated by the upper limbs is properly transmitted to the lower limbs (although shifted to one side of the body). Thus, this manner of exercise improves athletic ability remarkably. Nevertheless, this manner of exercise emphasizes activity only on the left side of the body, and power generated in the right lower limb is unlikely to be consumed efficiently.
  • Japanese and nonathletic people lean forward and to the right in an average exercise posture.
  • Latin Americans and athletically skilled people lean backward and to the left in an average exercise posture.
  • the center of gravity in right-handed Japanese and nonathletic people is offset forwardly and to the right, whereas that in right-handed Latin Americans and athletically skilled people is offset backwardly and to the left.
  • habitual exercise in either posture reinforces certain muscles which strongly control and support body balance and body support ability.
  • Japanese and nonathletic people who lean forward in an average exercise posture will develop the trapezius, the upper abdominal muscles and their periphery, the anterior muscles of the thighs and the posterior muscles of the lower legs.
  • laterality right-handedness or left-handedness
  • Latin Americans and athletically skilled people who lean backward in an average exercise posture will develop the erector spinae, the lower abdominal muscles and their periphery, the gluteal muscles (gluteus maximus, in particular), the posterior muscles of the thighs and the anterior muscles of the lower legs.
  • such development is affected by their laterality (right-handedness or left-handedness) as well as their posture.
  • FIG. 9 ( a ) illustrates a typical right-handed Japanese or nonathletic person who leans forward in an average exercise posture.
  • development of trapezius stands out in this person.
  • right-handedness causes nerves on the right side of the upper body to be facilitated more than those on the left side.
  • the right trapezius appears to be developed remarkably, to a somewhat greater extent than the left one.
  • the latissimus dorsi lies as one of back muscles, but usually the latissimus dorsi does not develop well in Japanese and nonathletic people who lean forward in an average exercise posture.
  • FIG. 10 ( a ) if a forward leaning posture during exercise is compared to a spinning top, the spin axis of this spinning top does not align with the gravity axis for exercise in a forward leaning posture. Misalignment of these axes hinders smooth rotational exercise activity. In contrast, according to an ideal manner of exercise, the spin axis of the spinning top aligns with the gravity axis for exercise, as shown in FIG. 10 ( b ). Alignment of these axes assists smooth rotational exercise activity.
  • the most efficient smooth exercise can be achieved by a rotatory motion or motions effected around a correct trunk axis.
  • exercise principally led by the knees and ankles cannot embody smooth rotational exercise around a correct trunk axis, because the ranges of mobility of these joints are too limited to generate sufficient rotatory power.
  • exercise principally led by the hip joints can easily perform smooth rotational exercise.
  • movements of the knees and ankles are required as a secondary role for assisting and reinforcing rotational exercise at the hip joints.
  • the forward leaning posture should be brought backward, whereas the backward leaning posture should be brought forward.
  • it is required to identify and and strengthen unbalanced joints and muscles which deviate from an ideal exercise posture.
  • muscles in any part of the body need to be taken into consideration in anterior/posterior, superior/inferior, left/right, and agonistic/antagonistic relationships, and to be strengthened in all direction of their movements.
  • joints have one, two or three degrees of freedom.
  • joints to be strengthened are the hip joints which locate near the center of gravity and which can move diversely.
  • joints to be strengthened are the shoulder joints which locate near the gravity axis and which can move diversely. (Note that both the hip joints and the shoulder joints are ball-and-socket joints capable of moving in multiple directions.) Additionally, the dominant hand and the dominant leg should be taken into account as discussed above.
  • Muscles to be strengthened are mainly those acting on the hip joints and the shoulder joints, and muscle groups which constitute the gravity axis. Distribution of those muscles is asymmetrical. Because the three-degree-of-freedom joints can provide axes of movement in various directions, muscular power can be exerted to some degree even when movement occurs around a non-ideal axis. However, if the three-degree-of-freedom joints are supported in an ideal manner of exercise, with muscle tone of insufficient supportive muscles being increased and that of excessively supportive muscles being decreased, then the exercise posture can be more ideal. To be specific, even when a hip joint moves only in one direction, it receives forces from multiple directions and muscles involved in this movement are asymmetrical. Therefore, these muscles need to be corrected properly for higher efficiency.
  • hip joint does not necessarily apply to the shoulder joint.
  • movements of the hip joints occur on the pelvis which is fixed on the spinal column and serves as a supporting surface.
  • the shoulder joints serve as a core of exercise at the free upper limb and the shoulder girdles, and their joint activity is composed of coordinated movements of the scapulae and the shoulder joints.
  • increase of muscle tone of the trapezius causes the scapulae to elevate backwardly and hampers movement of the scapulae, thereby inhibiting smooth movements of the shoulder joints.
  • the trapezium With respect to its vertically antagonistic activity relative to the latissimus dorsi, the trapezius acts around the spinal column as the central axis. To put it simply, the trapezius is adjusted downward and backward, and controlled, by the latissimus dorsi.
  • Japanese and nonathletic people particularly need such muscle activity because their erector spinae and spinal column (to be the core and the fulcrum) do not work well and also because their body balance is maintained by the trapezium. In this respect, they should develop the erector spinae as well as muscles below the middle section of the back, should choose these muscles either consciously or unconsciously (i.e.
  • Japanese and nonathletic people must cure the manner of exercise which solely depends on the free upper limb and the shoulder girdles and must also reduce hypertonicity thereat. (While movement of the scapulae is hampered, upper limb movement is performed by arms alone.) As mentioned earlier, Japanese and nonathletic people take a forward leaning posture and cannot use the muscle groups relevant to such exercise fully and consciously. For these people, the above-mentioned muscle activity is extremely difficult.
  • a forward leaning posture seems to be attributable to two factors. For one, as mentioned earlier, while Mongoloids perform exercise or activity, their erector spinae is less sensitive to the exercise and the gravity than the trapezius which moves the upper limbs. For another, a muscle group for supporting and assisting the erector spinae, i.e. gluteal muscles (particularly, gluteus maximus), does not work well. In keeping the body balanced, absence of muscle tone of the erector spinae disables any upper limb movement. To avoid this, they seem to increase muscle tone of the entire back muscle group by leaning forward. (This is also the case with nonathletic people. Most of their exercise and muscle activities are concentrated on stabilizing the center of gravity by keeping the body balanced. In contrast, athletically skilled people and Latin Americans generate a power for assisting extension of the trunk, which is one of the gluteus maximus actions. Owing to this power, their erector spinae is more active than that of nonathletic people.)
  • this situation closely resembles the manner of exercise by aged people in that both of them do not possess sufficient muscular power for certain activity (although the degree of activity may not be the same between them). It is beneficial for them to keep the exercise axis itself in a forward leaning position, in order to realize their manner of moving and their muscle activity pattern. As a result, they have no choice but to take a forward leaning posture.
  • muscles employed in the ankle strategy-based manner of exercise should not be strengthened excessively and, during exercise, such muscles should not be relied on too much as the only major muscles. Thereby, it is possible to align the trunk with a correct axis which tilts somewhat backward. Then, the hip strategy-based manner of exercise is awaken and promoted, encouraging flexor activity, whereby an ideal exercise posture can be molded.
  • This ideal posture can also eliminate troubles at the knees or the like which derive from sole reliance on extensor activity, and can bring about axial activity and muscular activity in a stable manner.
  • improvement of athletic ability can be expected. Due to these various exercise inhibitory factors, ordinary people are obliged to take a forward leaning posture and become bad at exercise. Namely, in molding an ideal exercise posture and improving athletic ability, the most essential point is to free a person from a forward leaning posture and to correct the posture.
  • muscle activity in the former exerise is simple generation/use of power.
  • muscle activity in the latter exercise involves generation/use of power and also requires skill and subtle control of muscles.
  • duration of muscle activity varies with exercise time.
  • muscle activity is not the same during 100-meter run and marathon.
  • the anterior part and the posterior part are incessantly turned on and off in an alternate manner. Namely, the agonist and the antagonist get active and take a rest alternately, with only one of them being active at a time.
  • the anterior part and the posterior part contract simultaneously during exercise.
  • muscle to be facilitated and inhibited are different.
  • point stimulation Intensity of the local stimulation
  • surface stimulation only needs to be strong enough to be recognized by cutaneous receptors.
  • the types of stimulation may be heat stimulation, mechanical stimulation, electrical stimulation, chemical stimulation, etc.
  • Sensory receptors include Meissner's corpuscles, Merkel's disks, Pacinian corpuscles, Ruffini's corpuscles, Krause's end-bulbs, free nerve endings, etc. These receptors are connected via neurons which include A-fibers for facilitation and C-fibers for inhibition. Accordingly, the point stimulation, which facilitates neurotransmission in muscles, must be generated as a point-like stimulation to be recognized by A-fibers.
  • the surface stimulation which inhibits neurotransmission in muscles, must be generated as a surface-like stimulation to be recognized by C-fibers.
  • the range of point stimulation may be an area of about 4 cm 2 designed to give point stimulation. Because a required range varies from muscle to muscle, it is properly determined according to the muscle whose tone should be increased. Insofar as the point stimulation is focused on a predetermined area designed to give point stimulation, both a single large point stimulation and a group of small point stimulations are practicable as the point stimulation.
  • the location of point stimulation is not particularly limited and may be anywhere on a skin surface within an area ranging from the origin to the insertion of the muscle whose tone should be increased. The most preferable location is a skin surface corresponding to the vicinity of a motor point of the desired muscle. On a skin surface within an area ranging from the origin to the insertion of the desired muscle, the point stimulation may be applied to one or more locations.
  • the location of surface stimulation varies with the muscle whose tone should be decreased, but may be anywhere corresponding to the functional skin area of a muscle whose tone should be decreased. Basically, it is preferable to apply surface stimulation to the entire part of the functional skin area. However, as far as the surface stimulation can induce “closing of the pain gate” as described above, the range of surface stimulation is not strictly limited to the entire part of the functional skin area, but may be focused, for example, on a part corresponding to the belly of a muscle. Insofar as the surface stimulation is focused on a predetermined area designed to give surface stimulation, both a single large surface stimulation and a group of small point stimulations are practicable as the surface stimulation.
  • Point stimulation or surface stimulation to a skin surface causes transmission of excitation by the simplest reflex arc, namely, from receptors, to afferent (sensory) neurons, to efferent (motor) neurons, to effectors (in this context, muscles), and brings about muscle activity based on spiral reflex.
  • Reflex actions under this situation are classified into stretch reflex and flexion reflex.
  • exercise involving the whole body is not so simple as to be performed with these reflex actions alone.
  • Whole body exercise requires other reflex actions based on postural reflex and balance reflex which are related with the brain stem and the cerebellum, respectively.
  • the present invention creates reflexes at a desired part of the body by stimulating cutaneous receptors from various directions and in diverse manners, thereby embodying an ideal exercise posture. Repeated exercise in this exercise posture can intensify extrapyramidal exercise activities, can unconsciously awaken ideal postural and balance reflexes, and can result in activities which unconsciously enable correct, speedy exercises with a little effort.
  • stimulation can be applied only to the desired muscles because there is no intervening muscle between the desired muscles and the skin surface.
  • some muscles intervene between the desired muscles and the skin surface.
  • exercise is not performed singly by superficial muscles, but rather controlled by cooperation of superficial muscles and underlying deep muscles.
  • stimulation from the skin surface to superficial muscles can actually stimulate deep muscles coordinately.
  • the ROM range of motion
  • the ROM of any ordinary person should match the ROM as measured.
  • the ADL activities of daily living
  • the ADL of others are greater than the ROM.
  • the ADL is not as good as the ROM.
  • only a few of them can move the joints to the limit of the ROM (the range measured during static stretching) during actual performance.
  • This gap is attributable to the gravity, muscular power against the gravity, and the like. Accordingly, if one's ADL is not as good as the ROM or if muscular power is not sufficient against the gravity, point stimulation is applied to a relevant muscle group. Then, the stimulation facilitates the muscle group and enhances the muscle contraction power, thereby bringing the ADL closer to the ROM.
  • some muscles have low muscle tone but lack their own strechability.
  • surface stimulation is applied to these low-tone muscles which are antagonistic to agonists.
  • the surface stimulation can weaken antagonistic actions and can encourage agonistic actions, thereby facilitating the agonists.
  • Specific heat stimulation may be cold stimulation, hot stimulation, and the like.
  • heat stimulation for increasing neuronal excitation includes following methods: hot stimulation by applying BREATHTHERMO to the skin (BREATHTHERMO is a moisture absorbable/releasable heat-generating fiber manufactured by Mizuno Corporation.); cold stimulation by applying a metal to the skin; cold stimulation by letting air in through a stimulation part made of a mesh material; cold stimulation by applying cold spray or ice directly to the skin; hot stimulation by applying a disposable warmer or moxa cautery to the skin; cold stimulation by applying a disposable cooling sheet or coolant to the skin, and the like. It should be understood that these methods are effective in a presupposed temperature condition but may not be effective under the influence of outdoor temperature or other conditions.
  • Heat stimulation as represented by hot stimulation and cold stimulation, is also known to reduce spasms and convulsion in muscles and to be effective in soothing pain and swelling (Rood M. The use of sensory receptors to activate, facilitate, and inhibit motor response, autonomic and somatic, in developmental sequence. In Sattely C (ed.). Approaches to the treatment of patients with neuromuscular dysfunction. Dubuque, Iowa: WMC Brown, 1962.). For these reasons, it should be remembered that the above manners of heat stimulation input to the skin are only applicable to mental/physical relaxation, decrease of muscle tone, pain relief, and other like effects.
  • Specific physical/mechanical stimulation includes friction, percussion, vibration, tissue pull, pressure), etc.
  • Physical/mechanical stimulation can increase neuronal excitation by applying an item to the skin, including a vibrator, raised cloth or a fabric having a compression-bonded silicone resin projection, a pointed projection made of metal or the like, a self-adhesive element (e.g. self-adhesive bandage), a rough fiber, and the like.
  • change of muscle tonus as above is probable as mentioned above.
  • input of vibratory stimulation to the free upper limb and the pelvic girdles may be affected by change of muscle tonus.
  • Specific electrical stimulation includes low-frequency stimulation, high-frequency stimulation, magnetic stimulation, and the like. Electrical stimulation can be provided by locally applied electrodes, application of a magnetic metal to the skin, and other like manners.
  • Chemical stimulation includes, for example, stimulation sensed on contact with chemical substances.
  • Chemical stimulation can be provided by applying certain substances to the skin, such as volatile chemical substances (e.g. alcohol, eucalyptus oil), so-called warm-up cream which contains capsaicin or citrus extracts (acids), and the like.
  • volatile chemical substances e.g. alcohol, eucalyptus oil
  • warm-up cream which contains capsaicin or citrus extracts (acids)
  • chemical stimulation should not be so intense as to damage the skin and cause pain.
  • Point stimulators 1 of FIG. 11 ( a ) are made of peelable self-adhesive elements 12 (e.g. self-adhesive bandages) which have a circular shape with a diameter of about 2 cm, and their adhesive surfaces are coated with an active ingredient 1 a capable of giving chemical stimulation. These point stimulators 1 are thus arranged to provide physical/mechanical stimulation and chemical stimulation.
  • Point stimulators 1 of FIG. 11 ( b ) have magnetic metals 1 b mounted on adhesive surfaces of similar self-adhesive elements 12 . These point stimulators 1 are thus arranged to provide physical/mechanical stimulation and electrical stimulation.
  • FIG. 12 Examples of surface stimulation are illustrated in FIG. 12 .
  • a surface stimulator 11 of FIG. 12 ( a ) is made of a peelable self-adhesive element 13 (e.g. a self-adhesive bandage) in strip form, and its adhesive surface is coated with an active ingredient 1 a capable of giving chemical stimulation. This surface stimulator 11 is thus arranged to provide physical/mechanical stimulation and chemical stimulation.
  • a surface stimulator 11 of FIG. 12 ( b ) has magnetic metals 1 b mounted on an adhesive surface of a rectangular self-adhesive element 14 . This surface stimulator 11 is thus arranged to provide physical/mechanical stimulation and electrical stimulation.
  • a point stimulation input should locate in the functional skin area of a desired muscle or over a belly a desired muscle (Rood M.
  • Sattely C ed.
  • a surface stimulation input should be located in the functional skin area of a desired muscle or over a belly of a desired muscle (Rood M.
  • the range of stimulation should be wide enough to induce “closing of the pain gate” and to reduce muscle tone.
  • repositioning devices 1 shown in FIG. 13 are provided. Each of these repositioning devices 1 is composed of a case 2 which is made applicable to the skin surface A of the human body.
  • a hollow chamber 20 of this case 2 contains pieces 3 .
  • the case 2 is preferably made of rigid materials which have an excellent vibration transmission property (such as metals, minerals, various ceramic materials, and rigid plastic materials).
  • the case 2 should be large enough to facilitate a muscle whose location corresponds to an area where the case 2 is applied to the skin surface A of the human body. If the case 2 is too large, it provides surface stimulation for promoting reduction of muscle tone, and its bulkiness is uncomfortable to a user. Presuming that the case 2 may be applied to the skin surface A at any area of the human body, the case 2 is preferably prepared in a smallest possible size.
  • the external shape of the case 2 is not particularly limited and may be, for example, in various shapes including a sphere, polyhedron, hemisphere, semi-regular polyhedron, cylinder, prism, pyramid, and cone.
  • the shape of the hollow chamber 20 is not particularly limited as far as the pieces 3 can readily roll and bounce therein in response to body movement.
  • the hollow chamber 20 may be in various shapes including a sphere, polyhedron, hemisphere, semi-regular polyhedron, cylinder, prism, pyramid, and cone, or other shapes which neither catch the pieces 3 therein nor obstruct their rolling-bouncing movements.
  • the pieces 3 are preferably made of rigid materials which have an excellent vibration transmission property (such as metals, minerals, various ceramic materials, and rigid plastic materials).
  • the size of the pieces 3 the only requirement is to secure a rolling-bouncing space inside the hollow chamber 20 .
  • the hollow chamber 20 is to hold one piece 3 therein, the piece 3 may be large to some extent.
  • the hollow chamber 20 is to hold more than one pieces 3 therein, they have to be small enough to secure a sufficient space for rolling and bouncing.
  • the pieces 3 are too many, they are feared to collide with each other and offset vibrations which have just been generated.
  • the number of pieces 3 is not particularly limited, but preferably about five or less.
  • the shape of the pieces 3 may be in the form of spheres, polyhedrons of various types, randomly crashed granules, or the like.
  • the pieces 3 are designed to hit the inside of the hollow chamber 20 and thereby to make the case 2 vibrate. Instead, they may be arranged to simply roll and bounce inside the hollow chamber 20 so that the center of gravity of the case 2 can keep changing all the time. When the center of gravity of the case 2 keeps changing, such changes can be perceived by receptors at the skin surface A of the human body to which the case 2 is applied.
  • various types of granules or fluids may be fed, not fully, into the hollow chamber 20 .
  • the thus structured repositioning device 1 is applied to the skin surface A of the human body, specifically within an area ranging from the origin to the insertion of a desired muscle.
  • the repositioning device 1 may locate anywhere from the origin to the insertion, but most preferably near a motor point of a desired muscle.
  • the repositioning device 1 may be applied to the skin surface by following methods. Firstly, as shown in FIG. 13 ( a ), the repositioning device 1 may be adhered to the skin surface A of the human body via an adhesive 15 such as a double-face tape.
  • the repositioning device 1 is preferably flat and smooth on at least a face to be applied to the skin surface A of the human body.
  • the repositioning device 1 applied to the skin surface A of the human body may be covered by a self-adhesive element 12 such as an adhesive plaster.
  • a self-adhesive element 12 such as an adhesive plaster.
  • skin receptors are also stimulated by the self-adhesive element 12 which is adhered to the skin surface A of the human body.
  • a self-adhesive element 12 with an overly large adhesion area provides surface stimulation for promoting reduction of muscle tone.
  • the method using a self-adhesive element 12 meets none of the four requirements mentioned above, its effect diminishes over time.
  • the self-adhesive element 12 it rather provides surface stimulation for promoting reduction of muscle tone.
  • the repositioning device 1 when the repositioning device 1 is adhered to the skin surface A of the human body by a self-adhesive element 12 , its size should preferably be a smallest possible size for adhesion.
  • the repositioning device 1 may be fixed on the skin side of a garment 100 and applied to the skin surface A of the human body via the garment 100 .
  • a pin (not shown) which projects from the repositioning device 1 is engaged with a clutch 1 c , just as a lapel pin is engaged and disengaged.
  • the repositioning device 1 may be directly fixed on the skin side of a garment 100 by bonding, melting, sewing and the like.
  • the case 2 may be made of a magnetic material, and the repositioning device 1 disposed on the skin side of a garment may be fixed by a magnet (not shown) disposed on the outside of the garment.
  • Similar point stimulators 1 which satisfy the above-mentioned requirements may utilize: filaments 1 e mounted on a surface of an adhesive-applied base 1 d which can adhere to a skin A ( FIG. 14 ); a spring 1 f mounted on a surface of the base 1 d ( FIG. 15 ); a projection 1 g mounted on a surface of the base 1 d ( FIG. 16 ); an aerially swaying member 1 h mounted on a surface of the base 1 d ( FIG. 17 ); a string 1 i mounted on a surface of the base 1 d , and a weight 1 j attached to the tip of the string 1 i ( FIG.
  • the point stimulator 1 of FIG. 14 equipped with filaments 1 e
  • the filaments 1 e sway irregularly in response to human movement, wind or the like, thereby rubbing the surface of the skin A in various manners.
  • the point stimulator 1 of FIG. 15 equipped with a spring 1 f the spring 1 f stretches and contracts irregularly in response to human movement, thereby pulling the adhesion surface of the base 1 d in various mariners.
  • the projection 1 g irregularly hits a garment 100 while a person wears it, thereby being pushed back onto the skin A by the garment or pulling the adhesion surface of the base 1 d .
  • the point stimulator 1 of FIG. 17 equipped with an aerially swaying member 1 h
  • the aerially swaying member 1 h sways irregularly due to wind or the like, thereby pulling the adhesion surface of the base 1 d in various manners.
  • the weight 1 j irregularly hits random positions around the base 1 d in response to human movement, thereby stimulating the surface of the skin A in various manners.
  • the point stimulator 1 of FIG. 19 equipped with a fluid pad 1 k , the fluid pad 1 k moves irregularly in response to human movement, thereby pulling the adhesion surface of the base 1 d in various manners.
  • a repositioning device 1 illustrated in FIG. 20 can also satisfy the above-mentioned requirements.
  • This repositioning device 1 has a case 2 which encloses a vibration generator 4 , a power source 5 and a controller 6 .
  • the case 2 is assembled into a cylinder form (thickness: about 10 mm, diameter: about 25 mm) by combining a pair of semi-closed cylinders 21 , 22 made of a nylon resin.
  • the semi-closed cylinders 21 , 22 are integrally snapped or screwed into each other via a seal ring 23 .
  • the material for the case 2 is not particularly limited unless it causes rashes or allergic reactions or hurts the human skin otherwise.
  • the case 2 may be made of metals, minerals, various ceramic materials, or plastic materials. To be specific, it may be made of ABS resins, polypropylene resins or the like.
  • the vibration generator 4 may be a piezoelectric unit. This vibration generator 4 is integrated into a hole 24 which is bored in the first semi-closed cylinder 21 of the case 2 , such that the vibration generator portion of the case 2 touches the human skin directly.
  • the power source 5 may be a coin cell battery.
  • the power source 5 is mounted in a power box 25 which is disposed in the second semi-closed cylinder 22 of the case 2 . From the power box 25 , a pair of parallel electrodes 26 extend with a certain gap therebetween.
  • a dent 27 is formed in an external surface of the second semi-closed cylinder 22 so as to receive a magnet 28 . With the magnet 28 fitted in the dent 27 , the electrodes 26 are arranged to attract and touch each other by a magnetic force of the magnet 28 , thereby turning on the power source 5 . Conversely, when the magnet 28 is removed from the dent 27 in the second semi-closed cylinder 22 , the power source 5 is turned off.
  • FIG. 21 is a block diagram of the controller 6 , in which a control board 61 includes a vibration unit/speed regulation unit 62 , a level regulation unit 63 , an output control unit 64 , and a CPU (timing control) 65 .
  • a control board 61 includes a vibration unit/speed regulation unit 62 , a level regulation unit 63 , an output control unit 64 , and a CPU (timing control) 65 .
  • a control board 61 includes a vibration unit/speed regulation unit 62 , a level regulation unit 63 , an output control unit 64 , and a CPU (timing control) 65 .
  • the controller 6 needs to control the vibration generator 4 in such a manner as to provide vibratory stimulation for at least 30 seconds or more without a break.
  • vibrations from 100 Hz to 200 Hz.
  • vibratory stimulation is applied by alternating ten seconds of vibratory stimulation and five seconds of rest.
  • the human body does not take the five-second rest as a break in the vibratory stimulation, but rather recognizes as if vibratory stimulation was applied incessantly while the vibration-rest pattern is going on.
  • the human body precisely distinguishes between the ten-second vibratory stimulation and the five-second rest. It can be understood that the former situation presents no problem, whereas the latter situation cannot satisfy the latency period requirement of 30 seconds or more. Therefore, vibratory stimulation is preferably applied by alternating 30 seconds or more of continuous vibratory stimulation and a desired time of rest.
  • the control board 61 of the controller 6 for controlling such vibratory stimulation can be embodied in various manners with use of a general logic, a CPU alone, a programmable logic, passive components, or the like.
  • the repositioning device may be classified as a general-purpose device or a special-purpose device.
  • a general-purpose repositioning device whose operation cycle is determined in the design/manufacture stage, is used for general applications as the term suggests.
  • a special-purpose repositioning device can reprogram and rewrite its operation cycle according to the purpose of use, application, etc.
  • a special-purpose repositioning device 1 shown in FIG. 22 allows a write device 7 to reprogram and rewrite, via a write cable 71 , the intensity and time of stimulation input whenever desired.
  • the repositioning device 1 of FIG. 22 is connected to the write device 7 via the write cable 71 , the repositioning device 1 may be directly set on the write device 7 and may thus enable reprogramming.
  • the special-purpose repositioning device 1 can be effectively used in the following cases: when specialized rehabilitation or the like is required after serious injuries such as bone fracture; when temporary muscle weakeness, imbalance of muscular power or the like is caused by muscle damages (as represented by bruise, pulled muscle, etc.) and recovery from such symptom needs to be promoted; when moderate (not severe) injuries or potential injuries cause muscle imbalance; for symptoms such as lumbar pain, stiff shoulders, and an abnormal Q angle; and for aged people who requires a higher intensity of stimulation than general people because aging makes facilitation difficult. Particularly, since aged people are less sensitive to stimulation to the skin or the like, it is not rare for them to get injured accidentally by heat stimulation, electrical stimulation and the like. However, this vibration-generating repositioning device 1 can avoid such injuries.
  • the repositioning device 1 of the above structure is used in combination with a garment 100 (such as a pair of tights or a shirt) which closely fits on the human body.
  • a garment 100 such as a pair of tights or a shirt
  • the repositioning device 1 is applied to a skin surface in an area ranging from the origin to the insertion of a desired muscle.
  • the magnet 28 is fitted into the dent 27 which is formed in an external surface of the second semi-closed cylinder 22 . With the magnetic force of the magnet 28 , the electrodes 26 attract and touch each other, thereby turning on the power source 5 and activating the repositioning device 1 .
  • the repositioning device 1 itself is fixed on the garment 100 by holding it between the dent 27 and the magnet 28 .
  • the muscle is facilitated. Consequently, if the person plays a sport in this facilitated state, he/she can pay attention to the usually less conscious muscle and do workouts in an ideal form.
  • this repositioning device can create an ideal body balance by facilitating less conscious muscles which disturb body balance, thereby curing lumbar pain and other symptoms which result from deficit in body balance. Of course, those who do not suffer from such symptoms can also employ the repositioning device and create an ideal body balance and an ideal physique.
  • the vibration generator 4 of the repositioning device 1 may be those illustrated in FIG. 23 .
  • the vibration generators 4 of FIGS. 23 ( a ) and ( b ) are equipped with cones 41 a on a vibration transmission surface 21 a of the semi-closed cylinder 21 . In these arrangements, vibrations from piezoelectric units 41 are transmitted via the cones 41 a to the entire part of the semi-closed cylinder 21 , and thereby make the case 2 vibrate as a whole.
  • the vibration generator 4 of FIG. 23 ( c ) is equipped, via a rubber 41 b , with a vibration transmission member 41 c which is arranged to protrude outwardly from the center of the vibration transmission surface 21 a .
  • the vibration transmission member 41 c is arranged to vibrate with vibrations of the piezoelectric unit 41 and thereby to generate vibrations at the center of the vibration transmission surface 21 a .
  • the vibration transmission surface 21 a of the semi-closed cylinder 21 is thinner at the center, and the piezoelectric unit 41 is processed in a convex form touching the thinner part.
  • This vibration generator 4 is arranged to transmit vibrations from the piezoelectric unit 41 directly to the thinner part, and thereby to make the thinner part vibrate.
  • the vibration generator 4 of FIG. 23 ( f ) includes an air chamber 21 b therein, with a hole 24 being bored through the vibration transmission surface 21 a of the semi-closed cylinder 21 . In this arrangement, vibrations of the piezoelectric unit 41 cause air to come in and out of the air chamber 21 b through the hole 24 , whereby air vibrations are transmitted to the skin surface A of the human body.
  • the vibration generator 4 of FIG. 23 ( g ) includes an air chamber 21 b therein, with a hole 24 being bored through the vibration transmission surface 21 a of the semi-closed cylinder 21 and covered with a film 41 e .
  • vibrations of the piezoelectric unit 41 propagate to the film 41 e through the air within the air chamber 21 b , whereby vibrations of the film 41 e are transmitted to the skin surface A of the human body.
  • the vibration generator 4 of FIG. 23 ( h ) has a projection 41 f which sticks out through the vibration transmission surface 21 a of the semi-closed cylinder 21 . Inside the semi-closed cylinder 21 , the basal end of the projection 41 f is bonded to the piezoelectric unit 41 . In this arrangement, vibrations of the piezoelectric unit 41 are transmitted via the projection 41 f to the skin surface A of the human body.
  • the vibration generator 4 may utilize a motor, a vibration motor, a solenoid, a vibration module (an electromagnet), a piezoelectric bimorph, and the like, as shown in FIG. 24 .
  • the vibration generator 4 of FIG. 24 ( a ) is arranged to generate vibrations when rotation of a motor 42 causes gears 42 a to hit a flap 42 b .
  • the vibration generator 4 of FIG. 24 ( b ) is arranged to generate vibrations when rotation of a motor 42 causes a weight 42 c to hit a flap 42 b .
  • a flap 42 b is attached to a shaft 42 d of a motor 42 , and gears 42 a are provided inside the semi-closed cylinder 21 .
  • This vibration generator is arranged to generate vibrations when rotation of the motor 42 causes the flap 42 b to hit the gears 42 a .
  • a weight 42 c is attached to a shaft 42 d of a motor 42 .
  • This vibration generator 4 is arranged to generate vibrations when rotation of the motor 42 disturbs the weight balance.
  • the vibration generator 4 of FIG. 24 ( g ) is arranged to generate vibrations when a plunger 44 a of a solenoid 44 hits an obstruction 44 b by a push or pull action of the plunger 44 a .
  • weights 44 c are attached to extreme ends of plungers 44 a of a solenoid 44 .
  • This vibration generator 4 is arranged to generate vibrations when the weights 44 c directly hit the inside of the semi-closed cylinder 21 by a push or pull action of the plungers 44 a .
  • a magnet 45 a is attached to an extreme end side of a leaf spring 45 .
  • This vibration generator 4 is arranged to move the magnet 45 a with a change of the magnetic field, to vibrate the leaf spring 45 and the magnet 45 a at a resonance point, and to amplify vibrations with a weight 45 b .
  • the vibration generator 4 of FIG. 24 ( j ) is arranged to generate vibrations with stretch and contraction of a piezoelectric ceramic 46 .
  • vibrations generated by these vibration generators 4 there is no specific limitation for the types of vibrations generated by these vibration generators 4 .
  • a variety of vibrations which can stimulate receptors may be utilized as given in FIG. 25 , including flexure vibration 4 a , lengthwise vibration 4 b , area vibration 4 c , longitudinal vibration 4 d , thickness-shear vibration 4 e , trapped thickness vibration 4 f , surface acoustic wave 4 g , and so on.
  • the repositioning device 1 is arranged to turn on the power source 5 , by fitting the magnet 28 into the dent 27 formed in the external surface of the second semi-closed cylinder 22 and thereby bringing the electrodes 26 into contact with each other.
  • the power source 5 may be turned on by a push button switch or a slide switch (not shown) which is provided on the case 2 .
  • the repositioning device 1 is arranged to be fixed on a garment 100 by holding it between the case 2 and the magnet 28 , and to be applied to the skin surface A of the human body via the garment 100 .
  • the repositioning device 1 may be fixed by other manners. Referring again to FIG. 13 ( c ), the repositioning device 1 may be fixed like a lapel pin, wherein a pin (not shown) which sticks out from the case 2 is tacked on the garment 100 and received by the clutch 1 c . Alternatively, the repositioning device 1 may be directly fixed on the skin side of the garment 100 .
  • the repositioning device 1 may be applied to the skin surface A of the human body without using the garment 100 . As described with reference to FIGS. 13 ( a ) and ( b ), the repositioning device 1 may be directly adhered to the skin surface A of the human body by the adhesive 15 such as a double-face tape or the self-adhesive element 12 .
  • the repositioning device 1 may be driven by other means than a coin cell battery.
  • This repositioning device 1 is composed of two separate bodies: a case 2 which contains a vibration generator 4 ; and a device body 60 which contains a power source 5 and a controller 6 .
  • Radio signals are sent from a transmit antenna 66 in the device body 60 , received by a receive antenna 40 in the case 2 , and transformed into an electric power for generating vibrations at the vibration generator 4 .
  • the device body 60 may be powered by a battery or a domestic power source at AC 100V.
  • the repositioning device 1 may adopt conductive charging, for which an electric contact 72 is provided in the case 2 and connected to an electric contact 73 in a dedicated charger 70 .
  • the repositioning device 1 may adopt inductive charging, for which a receiver coil 8 is provided in the case 2 and located face to face with a transmitter coil 81 in a dedicated charger 80 .
  • the case 2 is made by combining a pair of semi-closed cylinders 21 , 22 .
  • the case 2 may be composed of a single semi-closed cylinder 21 and a round lid which integrally covers an opening of the semi-closed cylinder 21 .
  • the latter structure for the case 2 can be similar to the structure for various cases for wristwatches and the like.
  • FIG. 28 shows an example of a surface stimulator 11 .
  • a plurality of vibrators 1 of FIG. 13 are disposed on a surface of a base 11 a whose area is equivalent to a functional skin area of a desired muscle.
  • pieces 3 in each vibrator 1 irregularly hit random positions within the hollow chamber 20 in response to human movement, thereby generating vibrations in various manners.
  • this surface stimulator can hinder sensory receptivity of the human skin A from getting adapted or unresponsive to stimulation.
  • a variation of the surface stimulator 11 may have a plurality of springs 1 f of FIG.
  • FIG. 30 Another variation of the surface stimulator 11 ( FIG. 30 ) may have a plurality of projections 1 g of FIG. 16 mounted on a surface of a base 11 a whose area is equivalent to a functional skin area of a desired muscle.
  • FIG. 31 Another variation of the surface stimulator 11 ( FIG. 31 ) may have a plurality of aerially swaying members 1 h of FIG. 17 mounted on a surface of a base 11 a whose area is equivalent to a functional skin area of a desired muscle.
  • Still another variation of the surface stimulator 11 ( FIG. 32 ) may have a fluid pad 1 k which is greater than the one of FIG. 19 .
  • the fluid pack 1 k is mounted entirely across the surface of a base 11 a whose area is equivalent to a functional skin area of a desired muscle.
  • a variation of the surface stimulator 11 may have a plurality of electric point stimulators 1 of FIG. 20 mounted on a surface of a base 11 a whose area is equivalent to a functional skin area of a desired muscle.
  • the surface stimulator 11 of FIG. 29 equipped with a plurality of springs 1 f each of the springs 1 f stretches and contracts irregularly in response to human movement, thereby pulling the adhesion surface of the base 11 a in various manners.
  • each of the projections 1 g irregularly hits a garment 100 while a person wears it, thereby being pushed back onto the skin A by the garment or pulling the adhesion surface of the base 11 a .
  • each of the aerially swaying members 1 h sways irregularly due to wind or the like, thereby pulling the adhesion surface of the base 11 a in various manners.
  • the surface stimulator 11 of FIG. 31 equipped with a plurality of aerially swaying members 1 h , each of the aerially swaying members 1 h sways irregularly due to wind or the like, thereby pulling the adhesion surface of the base 11 a in various manners.
  • the fluid pad 1 k moves irregularly in response to human movement, thereby pulling the adhesion surface of the base 11 a in various manners.
  • the frequency of each point stimulator 1 changes diversely, thereby stimulating the skin A in various manners.
  • the point stimulators 1 and the surface stimulators 11 are arranged to be directly applied to the human skin A. Additionally, the point stimulators 1 and the surface stimulators 11 may be attached to a garment 100 .
  • a point stimulation part and a surface stimulation part can be formed on a certain part of a garment in such a manner as to provide point stimulation and surface stimulation to the human body, with a person wearing the garment.
  • the type of garment is not particularly limited as far as a point stimulation part and a surface stimulation part are arranged to stimulate superficial nerves of the skin.
  • the garments are arranged to fit closely on the skin and include, for example, sports underwear, tights, shorts, swimwear, sports bras, high socks, leg warmers, knee warmers, swimming caps, stockings, general underwear, belly belts, etc.
  • seams in these garments are arranged not to stimulate superficial nerves of the skin.
  • Such a consideration is embodied in the following manners. For example, using an automatic circular knitting machine (e.g. circular knitting machine produced by Santoni S.p.A.
  • a whole garment can be knitted in a tubular, body-fitting shape with minimum possible seams.
  • a thermofusible polyurethane film or the like used for pants hemming, etc.
  • the thermofusible material is melted under heat, so that the two pieces can be fused together by a seam of hot-melt bonding type.
  • pieces of fabric can be fused at their edges by induction heating using a RF welder.
  • each seam may be designed to locate on a surface stimulation part, on the outside of a garment rather than on the skin side, or on a muscular groove. Even after seam-originated stimulation is eliminated, it is preferred to minimize overall stimulation which results from contact between the garment itself and the skin, in order to emphasize the stimulation given by a point stimulation part and a surface stimulation part.
  • a garment is preferably arranged to fit closely to the skin. Nevertheless, a garment which touch the skin according to wearer's movement (e.g. a T-shirt) may be arranged to stimulate superficial nerves of the skin by a point stimulation part and a surface stimulation part during such movement.
  • a garment which touch the skin according to wearer's movement e.g. a T-shirt
  • yarns may be made of chemical fibers such as synthetic resins (polyesters, nylons, acrylic resins, polypropylenes, polyurethanes, etc.), semisynthetic fibers (diacetates, triacetates, etc.) and regenerated fibers (rayons, polynosic, etc.); natural fibers such as animal fibers (wool, silk, etc.) and plant fibers (cotton, hemp, etc.); or a combination thereof.
  • synthetic resins polyyesters, nylons, acrylic resins, polypropylenes, polyurethanes, etc.
  • semisynthetic fibers diacetates, triacetates, etc.
  • regenerated fibers rayons, polynosic, etc.
  • natural fibers such as animal fibers (wool, silk, etc.) and plant fibers (cotton, hemp, etc.); or a combination thereof.
  • yarns are advantageous for sport-oriented wear: multilobal polyester yarns for imparting moisture absorbing property and improved perspiration absorbability; hollow yarns for production of light-weight products; polyurethane-blend yarns for stretchability.
  • the fabric may be made by weft knitting (circular knitting, flat knitting) which makes loops, warp knitting (tricot knitting, raschel knitting, etc.) or weaving of intersecting warp and weft.
  • the fabric may also be a non-woven fabric in which fibers are held together.
  • the point stimulation part and the surface stimulation part to be formed on the garment are as durable as the garment itself and suitable for repeated use.
  • stimulation is provided by a projection, which may for example be one or more projecting printed dots made of silicone or other resins or may be one or more metal fittings such as rivets.
  • a projection may for example be one or more projecting printed dots made of silicone or other resins or may be one or more metal fittings such as rivets.
  • Such projection is formed only at locations corresponding to the point/surface stimulation part on the skin side (the surface to touch the skin) of the garment.
  • FIG. 34 relates to the use of a hook-and-loop surface tape composed of a hook tape element and a loop tape element.
  • a point stimulator 1 having an area of about 4 cm 2 is made of a hook-and-hook tape, both surfaces of which are hook tape elements.
  • a first surface 16 of the point stimulator 1 is adhered to a desired position on the skin side (the surface to touch the skin A) of a fabric 10 which constitutes the garment 100 .
  • a surface stimulator 11 of FIG. 36 is made of a hook-and-hook tape whose size is equivalent to a functional skin area of a desired muscle.
  • a first surface 16 of the surface stimulator 11 is adhered to a desired position on the skin side (the surface to touch the skin A) of a fabric 10 which constitutes a garment 100 .
  • Such point stimulator 10 a and surface stimulator 10 b can stimulate the skin surface A by their second surfaces 17 .
  • a point stimulator 1 may be made of a pin 18 and a clutch 19 which are engaged and disengaged like a lapel pin.
  • the point stimulator 1 fixedly holds a fabric 10 of the garment 100 between the pin 18 and the clutch 19 .
  • a plurality of such point stimulators 1 may be disposed at a suitable interval entirely across the functional skin area of a desired muscle.
  • the point stimulator 1 and the surface stimulator 11 which are directly adhered to the skin A are caused to move with user's movement.
  • the point stimulation part 10 a and the surface stimulation part 10 b which are formed on the garment 100 move moderately within intended stimulation positions in response to human movement. Therefore, the latter can continue irregular stimulation input at intended positions and can hinder adaptation or unresponsiveness to stimulation.
  • the garment 100 equipped with point stimulation part 10 a and/or the surface stimulation part 10 b does not need an intentional arrangement for hindering sensory receptivity of the human skin A from getting adapted or unresponsive to stimulation. Nevertheless, incorporation of such an arrangement is more preferable (see FIG. 13 ( c ) and FIG. 20 ).
  • FIG. 13 ( c ) shows a garment 100 which incorporate such an arrangement.
  • the garment 100 itself moves moderately within an intended stimulation position in response to wearer's movements, and hinders adaptation or unresponsiveness to stimulation.
  • the pieces 3 irregularly hit random positions of the hollow chamber 20 , thereby generating vibrations in various manners. Accordingly, with a person wearing this garment 100 , it can further hinder sensory receptivity of the human skin A from getting adapted and unresponsive to stimulation.
  • a plurality of point stimulators 1 shown in FIG. 13 ( c ) are attached to a part of the garment 100 corresponding to the entire functional skin area of a desired muscle.
  • stimulation is provided by a projecting pattern formed on the inner surface of a fabric, the projecting pattern being formed after the fabric is manufactured.
  • a fabric made by knitting, weaving or the like can be subjected to so-called embossing.
  • embossing For example, recessed pattern is engraved onto a fabric under heat and pressure, whereby a projecting pattern can be formed on the skin side of the fabric.
  • a raising process to obtain a raised surface.
  • heat stimulation and cold stimulation are provided in following manners.
  • a moisture-absorbing, heat-generating fiber can be knitted or woven into the skin side of a fabric composition for a garment, at areas for the point stimulation part or the surface stimulation part (the surface to touch the skin); or a fabric made of this fiber (e.g. “BREATH THERMO” manufactured by Mizuno Corporation) can be sewn, bonded, or attached otherwise onto the point stimulation part or the surface stimulation part.
  • a highly heat-conductive fiber e.g.
  • ethylene vinyl alcohol fiber can be similarly knitted or woven into the skin side of a fabric composition for a garment; or a fabric made of this fiber (e.g. “ICE TOUCH” manufactured by Mizuno Corporation) can be sewn, bonded, or attached otherwise onto the point stimulation part or the surface stimulation part.
  • portions to touch the skin may be made of a fiber which readily holds moisture (e.g. natural cotton fiber, superabsorbent polymer fibers). When such a fiber absorbs sweat during exercise, the moisture can induce cold stimulation.
  • the fabric composition at a stimulating portion may be a mesh weave. The mesh weave exposes the skin to outside air, and effectively provides cold stimulation by air cooling.
  • stimulation is provided by a fabric composition.
  • a stimulating portion on the fabric may be made in a projecting pattern and allowed to touch the skin surface. This can be done by using a pile fabric (including imitation pile, boa, and the like) at an area to be stimulated.
  • the point stimulation part and the surface stimulation part may be made in float stitch which involves circular knitting of a knit fabric or in plate stitch by which one of yarns forms a projecting pattern on the skin/back side).
  • a woven fabric a double weave fabric may be employed at a stimulating portion.
  • stimulation is provided by a combination of different fibers.
  • Combinations among synthetic fibers include the following. First, provided that yarns have a same thickness, a base fabric is made of a high filament count yarn, and the point stimulation part and the surface stimulation part are made of a low filament count yarn. Second, provided that yarns have a same thickness and a same filament count, a base part is made of a low elastic fiber, and the point stimulation part and the surface stimulation part are made of a high elastic fiber. Third, the point stimulation part and the surface stimulation part are made of filaments, and the base part is made of staples which are prepared by cutting the filaments short.
  • a base part is made of a grey yarn as spinned, and the point stimulation part and the surface stimulation part are made of a grey yarn subjected to false twisting.
  • Combinations including natural fibers may be: a fiber which strongly stimulates the skin (e.g. wool) and a fiber which usually stimulates the skin less strongly (e.g. cotton); and a synthetic fiber and a natural fiber which are different in texture. Additionally, it is effective to use a yarn which strongly stimulates the skin (e.g. a fancy twist yarn made by twisting a yarn) at an area where surface stimulation is desired.
  • FIG. 38 shows a pair of high-waist shorts 101 .
  • the locations of point stimulation parts 10 a correspond to motor points of the erector spinae, the serratus posterior inferior, the lower abdominal muscles, the gluteus maximus, and the biceps femoris.
  • the locations of surface stimulation parts 10 b correspond to functional skin areas of muscles which need to be inhibited when the tensor fasciae latae act as hip joint flexors and internal rotators.
  • the base fabric for the shorts 101 is made of a polyester yarn 78 dtex/36 f and a polyurethane elastane yarn 44 dtex, and knitted in a half tricot pattern (blend ratio: polyester 85% and polyurethane 15%).
  • the surface stimulation parts 10 b are made of a polyester yarn 78 dtex/36 f and a polyurethane elastane yarn 78 dtex, and knitted in a half tricot pattern (blend ratio: polyester 75% and polyurethane 25%).
  • the surface stimulation parts 10 b have a greater tightening power than the base fabric. While a person is wearing the garment, the garment fits the body closely, with the surface stimulation parts 10 b giving a higher clothing pressure than any other part of the garment.
  • the point stimulation parts 10 a are made of a hook tape element of a hook-and-loop surface tape. Regarding the shorts 101 , a point stimulation part 10 a at the lower abdominal muscles corrects an anteriorly tilted pelvis.
  • point stimulation parts 10 a at the gluteus maximus exhibit their effect.
  • Contraction of the lower abdominal muscles brings the pelvis to an upright position, thereby increasing muscle tone of the gluteus maximus.
  • the erector spinae (a trunk extensor) increases muscle tone and extends the trunk.
  • Increase of muscle tone at the gluteus maximus raises muscle tone of the erector spinae.
  • stimulation to the gluteus maximus activates itself and the erector spinae.
  • point stimulation parts 10 a at the erector spinae and the serratus posterior inferior help stable extension of the trunk.
  • the three specified stimulations define a supporting surface (serving as an application point of force and a fulcrum). Owing to the function of this supporting surface, point stimulation parts 10 a at the biceps femoris allow generation of a strong power for extending the hip joints. During running, this extension power is converted to a powerful propelling force. Muscle activities emphasized by the above point stimulation realize more efficient balance in the exercise posture.
  • surface stimulation is provided at the tensor fasciae latae which are antagonistic to the gluteus maximus (hip joint extensors) and at the rectus femoris which are antagonistic to the biceps femoris (hip joint extensors). Such surface stimulation promotes reduction of muscle tone in the stimulated muscles and powerfully assists exercise activities of their antagonists. Eventually, the surface stimulation ensures excellent exercise control ability at the hip joints and realizes safer, more efficient performance in exercise.
  • FIG. 39 shows a pair of exercise tights 102 .
  • the locations of point stimulation parts 10 a correspond to motor points of the lower abdominal muscles, the gluteus maximus, the biceps femoris, the thigh adductors, the vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris, and the tibialis anterior.
  • the locations of surface stimulation parts 10 b correspond to functional skin areas of multiarticular muscles which are located in the free lower limb and the pelvic girdles and which are involved in extension of the knee joints.
  • the tights 102 are made of a yarn which is obtained by paralleling nylon yarns (thickness 78 dtex/48 f) and of a single covered yarn in which a 44-dtex-thick polyurethane elastane yarn core is covered with a nylon yarn (thickness 56 dtex/48 f).
  • the tights 102 are knitted in plain stitch.
  • the point stimulation parts 10 a and the surface stimulation parts 10 b are made in plate stitch by which a polyester yarn (thickness 78 dtex/36 f) forms a projecting pattern on the skin/back side.
  • a point stimulation part 10 a at the lower abdominal muscles corrects an anteriorly tilted pelvis.
  • point stimulation parts 10 a at the gluteus maximus exhibit their effect.
  • Contraction of the lower abdominal muscles brings the pelvis to an upright position, thereby increasing muscle tone of the gluteus maximus.
  • the erector spinae (a trunk extensor) increases muscle tone and extends the trunk.
  • Increase of muscle tone at the gluteus maximus raises muscle tone of the erector spinae.
  • stimulation to the gluteus maximus activates itself and the erector spinae.
  • These muscle activities help stable extension of the trunk.
  • These two specified stimulations enhance balance ability and support ability of the trunk.
  • the two specified stimulations define a supporting surface (serving as an application point of force and a fulcrum).
  • point stimulation parts 10 a at the biceps femoris allow generation of a strong power for extending the hip joints. During running, this extension power is converted to a powerful propelling force. Muscle activities emphasized by the above point stimulation realize more efficient balance in the exercise posture.
  • surface stimulation is provided at the tensor fasciae latae which are antagonistic to the gluteus maximus (hip joint extensors) and at the rectus femoris which are antagonistic to the biceps femoris (hip joint extensors). Such surface stimulation promotes reduction of muscle tone in the stimulated muscles and powerfully assists exercise activities of their antagonists.
  • the surface stimulation ensures excellent exercise control ability at the hip joints and realizes safer, more efficient performance in exercise.
  • these muscle activities are corrected, coordinated, strengthened, and integrated according to exercise conditions which involve an ideal body balance (the hip strategy-based manner of exercise).
  • point stimulation to the tibialis anterior and surface stimulation to the posterior muscle group smoothly control muscle activities in the lower legs, and enable a toe-up position which is an ideal lower leg movement during running. Since these muscle activities reduce a drag force and a deceleration force during running, the lower legs become capable of serving as a supporting surface for generating a powerful propelling force.
  • FIG. 40 shows a seagull (half-sleeve, long-leg) swimsuit 103 .
  • the locations of point stimulation parts 10 a correspond to motor points of the latissimus dorsi, the erector spinae, the serratus posterior inferior, the lower abdominal muscles, the gluteus maximus, the biceps femoris, the thigh adductors, the vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris, and the tibialis anterior.
  • the locations of surface stimulation parts 10 b correspond to functional skin areas of the trapezius, the pectoralis minor, and the upper abdominal muscles including the external oblique and the upper rectus abdominis, and also correspond to functional skin areas of multiarticular muscles which are located in the free lower limb and the pelvic girdles and which are involved in extension of the knee joints.
  • the base fabric for the swimsuit 103 is made of a polyester yarn 44 dtex/36 f and a polyurethane elastane yarn 44 dtex, and knitted in a half tricot pattern (blend ratio: polyester 85% and polyurethane 15%).
  • the surface stimulation parts 10 b are made of a polyester yarn 44 dtex/36 f and a polyurethane elastane yarn 78 dtex, and knitted in a half tricot pattern (blend ratio: polyester 70% and polyurethane 30%).
  • the surface stimulation parts 10 b have a greater tightening power than the base fabric. While a person is wearing the garment, the garment fits the body closely, with the surface stimulation parts 10 b giving a higher clothing pressure than any other part of the garment.
  • Each point stimulation part 10 a is composed of a plurality of projecting printed dots made of silicone resin.
  • a point stimulation part 10 a at the lower abdominal muscles corrects an anteriorly tilted pelvis.
  • point stimulation parts 10 a at the gluteus maximus exhibit their effect.
  • Contraction of the lower abdominal muscles brings the pelvis to an upright position, thereby increasing muscle tone of the gluteus maximus.
  • the erector spinae (a trunk extensor) increases muscle tone and extends the trunk.
  • Increase of muscle tone at the gluteus maximus raises muscle tone of the erector spinae.
  • stimulation to the gluteus maximus activates itself and the erector spinae.
  • point stimulation parts 10 a at the erector spinae and the serratus posterior inferior help stable extension of the trunk.
  • the three specified stimulations define a supporting surface (serving as an application point of force and a fulcrum). Owing to the function of this supporting surface, point stimulation parts 10 a at the biceps femoris allow generation of a strong power for extending the hip joints. During swimming, this extension power is converted to a powerful propelling force. Muscle activities emphasized by the above point stimulation realize more efficient balance in the exercise posture. (The body floats parallel to the water surface and is oriented straight in the forward direction, with a minimum surface being subjected to the resistance of water, i.e.
  • surface stimulation is provided at the tensor fasciae latae which are antagonistic to the gluteus maximus (hip joint extensors) and at the rectus femoris which are antagonistic to the biceps femoris (hip joint extensors).
  • Such surface stimulation promotes reduction of muscle tone in the stimulated muscles and powerfully assists exercise activities of their antagonists.
  • the surface stimulation ensures excellent exercise control ability at the hip joints and realizes more efficient performance in exercise.
  • these muscle activities are corrected, coordinated, strengthened, and integrated according to exercise conditions which involve an ideal body balance (the hip strategy-based manner of exercise).
  • point stimulation to the tibialis anterior and surface stimulation to the posterior muscle group smoothly control muscle activities in the lower legs, and enable a flexible whipping kick motion (e.g. dolphin kicks, etc.) which is an ideal lower leg movement during swimming.
  • a flexible whipping kick motion e.g. dolphin kicks, etc.
  • an unstable base of exercise makes joint actions uncertain.
  • Abscence of a solid base of exercise reduces neuronal excitation in response to PNF, namely, reduces a feedback power from the base of exercise to the muscular nerves, so that joint angles are caused to change.
  • the above-mentioned lower leg muscle activities can correct such uncertain joint actions and can give a supporting surface (a surface to catch the water) for generating a powerful propelling force.
  • a propelling force generated at the hip joints can be transmitted without a loss. Consequently, it is possible to transform the base of exercise from an unstable one to a stable one on which the power of exercise acts, and eventually to enhance exercise performance during swimming.
  • the point stimulation and the surface stimulation to the upper body For generation of a principal propelling force during swimming (a rotational power generated at the shoulder joints), it is necessary to ensure flexibility, ability to act cooperatively, and a strong ability to support exercise (as a fulcrum for efficient axial rotation around the shoulder joints) at the shoulder joints and the scapulothoracic joints.
  • the point stimulation and the surface stimulation to be described next can be defined as stimulation for triggering reduction of muscle tone around the shoulder joints and for ensuring assistant exercise activities which bring about better exercise efficiency.
  • surface stimulation to the trapezius reduces muscle tone of the trapezius which pulls the scapulae toward the head.
  • Surface stimulation to the pectoralis minor corrects and controls forward/upward displacement of the scapulae and the shoulder joints which could be induced by hypertonicity in the trapezium. Thereby, the respective stimulation realizes axial rotation around the shoulder joints in a smooth flexible manner.
  • Point stimulation to the latissimus dorsi activates a movement of pushing water behind (a propelling force in swimming) which is a movement resulting from coordinated exercise activities by the latissimus dorsi and the free upper limb/the shoulder girdles. These muscle activities tie up and cooperate with a propelling force of kicks generated in the lower body, thereby producing a stronger propelling force in swimming.
  • Surface stimulation to the upper abdominal muscles and the external oblique not only assists and emphasizes smooth activities of antagonistic trunk extensors, but also assists respiratory muscles. All of the above asssistances and corrections in exercise activities are effected in a coordinated and controlled manner, and further enhance performance in exercise.
  • FIG. 41 shows a pair of knee high socks 104 .
  • the locations of point stimulation parts 10 a correspond to motor points of the tibialis anterior, the peroneus tertius, and the flexor digitorum brevis/the adductor hallucis.
  • the locations of surface stimulation parts 10 b correspond to functional skin areas of the gastrocnemius and the plantaris/plantar aponeurosis.
  • the knee high socks 104 are made of an acrylic cotton blended yarn (English cotton count 32/1) and of a FTY (fiber twisted yarn) in which a polyurethane elastane yarn 10 dtex and a nylon yarn 78 dtex/48 f are twisted.
  • the knee high socks 104 are knitted in plain stitch.
  • Each point stimulation part 10 a is composed of a plurality of projecting printed dots made of silicone resin.
  • the surface stimulation parts 10 b are made of a fancy twist yarn (a nylon acrylic blend, metrical count 30/1).
  • point stimulation parts 10 a at the tibialis anterior encourage these muscles to act as antagonists of the posterior lower leg muscles (the gastrocnemius) and to generate a strong coordination power, thereby reducing muscle tone of the posterior lower leg muscles (the gastrocnemius). As a result, injuries to the posterior lower leg muscle group caused by hypertonicity occur less frequently.
  • Point stimulation parts 10 a at the peroneus tertius increase muscle tone and impart a strong coordination power such that the peroneus tertius can act as antagonists of the tibialis anterior, one of whose muscle activities is inversion of the ankle joints.
  • surface stimulation thereto assists and emphasizes smooth performance of muscle activities triggered by the above-mentioned two specified stimulations.
  • the three muscle activities stabilize the ankle joints along a transverse axis and improve their plantarflexion and dorsiflexion.
  • the ankle joints acquire optimum exercise efficiency and can perform smooth plantarflexion thereof (activities of the extensor groups), thereby enhancing a wearer's performance. These functions decrease injuries to lower leg muscles.
  • the three specified stimulations can also alleviate fatigue in muscles and proprioceptive nerves and can delay occurrence of movement transmission dysfunction at the ankle joints due to such fatigue, so that a safe exercise condition can be maintained for a longer time. Additionally, in marathon or the like, reduced muscle tone by surface stimulation and smooth movement lead to increase of blood circulation and hence alleviation of fatigue around the ankle joints (e.g. the gastrocnemius).
  • Point stimulation parts 10 a at the flexor digitorum brevis/the adductor hallucis alleviate such restriction and allow smooth toe movements.
  • the toes open one can execute a toe pivot smoothly.
  • the feet can grip a supporting surface of exercise (e.g. the ground) more firmly. Accordingly, even if an exercise surface is unconditioned and cannot provide a secure foothold, the soles can keep enhanced sensitivity and can create sensitive and stable supporting surfaces (the soles).
  • FIG. 42 shows a men's long john swimsuit 105 .
  • the locations of stimulation parts 10 a correspond to motor points of the erector spinae, the serratus posterior inferior, the lower abdominal muscles, the gluteus maximus, the thigh adductors, the biceps femoris, the vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris, and the tibialis anterior.
  • This swimsuit 105 is made of a polyester yarn 44 dtex/36 f and a polyurethane elastane yarn 56 dtex, and knitted in a half tricot pattern (blend ratio: polyester 80% and polyurethane 20%).
  • Each stimulation part 10 a is composed of a plurality of projecting printed dots made of silicone resin.
  • Pieces of fabrics for the swimsuit 105 are not sewn together but fused by hot-melt bonding, with a thermofusible polyurethane film sandwiched between the pieces of fabrics and melted under heat and pressure.
  • a stimulation part 10 a at the lower abdominal muscles corrects an anteriorly tilted pelvis. In cooperation with this action, stimulation parts 10 a at the gluteus maximus exhibit their effect.
  • the erector spinae (a trunk extensor) increases muscle tone and extends the trunk.
  • stimulation to the gluteus maximus activates itself and the erector spinae.
  • stimulation parts 10 a at the erector spinae and the serratus posterior inferior help stable extension of the trunk.
  • the most efficient exercise posture for swimming is to keep the maximum possible part of the whole body above the water level (typical to the breaststroke and the crawl) so as to minimize water resistance (because the resistance increases in proportion to the water contact area.). Therefore, taking resistance of water or the like into consideration, the swimsuit guides the body to the most efficient exercise posture (with a minimum possible water contact area) during extension of the trunk. Besides, the swimsuit hinders sidewise sway of the trunk and enhances exercise efficiency for the above reason. Furthermore, for convertion of a correct and efficient (in terms of exercise efficiency) axial rotation (such as an axial movement of the trunk) into a propelling force, it is also possible to enhance relevant muscle activities.
  • point stimulation parts at the biceps femoris lead the body to the hip strategy-based manner of exercise which can improve extension of the hip joints. Thereby, during swimming, kicks can give a greater propelling force.
  • Point stimulation to the thigh adductors not only controls abduction of the legs but also alleviates water resistance to the legs.
  • Point stimulation to the vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris encourages extension of the knees and controls excessive flexion of the knees in kicking motions, so that a propelling force can be generated by smooth kicks.
  • Stimulation to the tibialis anterior provides an antagonistic control to posterior lower leg extensors and inhibits excessive extension of the ankle joints, thereby ensuring smooth movements as above.
  • FIG. 43 shows a high-waist brief 106 .
  • the locations of stimulation parts 10 a correspond to motor points of the erector spinae, the serratus posterior inferior, the lower abdominal muscles, and the gluteus maximus.
  • the brief 106 is made of a cotton yarn 40/1 and a polyurethane yarn 10 dtex, and knitted in plain stitch (blend ratio: cotton 90% and polyurethane 10%).
  • the stimulation parts 10 a are made of a hook tape element of a hook-and-loop surface tape.
  • a stimulation part 10 a at the lower abdominal muscles corrects an anteriorly tilted pelvis. In cooperation with this action, stimulation parts 10 a at the gluteus maximus exhibit their effect.
  • the erector spinae (a trunk extensor) increases muscle tone and extends the trunk.
  • stimulation to the gluteus maximus activates itself and the erector spinae.
  • stimulation parts 10 a at the erector spinae and the serratus posterior inferior help stable extension of the trunk.
  • FIG. 44 shows a pair of exercise tights 107 .
  • the locations of stimulation parts 10 a correspond to motor points of the lower abdominal muscles, the gluteus maximus, the biceps femoris, the thigh adductors, and the tibialis anterior.
  • the tights 107 are made of a yarn which is obtained by paralleling nylon yarns (thickness 78 dtex/48 f) and of a single covered yarn in which a 44-dtex-thick polyurethane elastane yarn core is covered with a nylon yarn (thickness 56 dtex/48 f).
  • the tights 107 are knitted in plain stitch.
  • the stimulation parts 10 a are made in plate stitch by which a polyester yarn (thickness 78 dtex/36 f) forms a projecting pattern on the skin/back side.
  • a stimulation part 10 a at the lower abdominal muscles corrects an anteriorly tilted pelvis.
  • stimulation parts 10 a at the gluteus maximus exhibit their effect.
  • Contraction of the lower abdominal muscles brings the pelvis to an upright position, thereby increasing muscle tone of the gluteus maximus.
  • the erector spinae increases muscle tone and extends the trunk.
  • Increase of muscle tone at the gluteus maximus raises muscle tone of the erector spinae.
  • stimulation to the gluteus maximus activates itself and the erector spinae.
  • Such point stimulation cooperates with spinal muscles and causes a more stable extension of the trunk.
  • These two specified stimulations enhance balance ability and support ability of the trunk and realize a more efficient exercise posture.
  • stimulation parts 10 a for increasing muscle tone of the biceps femoris lead the body to the hip strategy-based manner of exercise which can improve extension of the hip joints.
  • Stimulation to the thigh adductors improves a support power in exercise and establishes an axis for assisting and emphasizing efferent muscle activities (an axis for stabilizing the hip strategy-based manner of exercise), thereby enabling a more efficient axial rotation.
  • Stimulation to the tibialis anterior provides an antagonistic control over lower leg extensors. This stimulation enables stable landing with the entire sole of each foot (i.e. three-point landing with the big toe, the little toe and the heel), as represented by a toe-up position which is required in running. Besides, while the lower leg extensors generate a drag force on the ground, the stimulation to the tibialis anterior reduces generation of the drag force to a least possible level and thereby increases a propelling force.
  • FIG. 45 shows a pair of knee high socks 108 .
  • the locations of stimulation parts 10 a correspond to motor points of the tibialis anterior (TA), the peroneus tertius (PTert), and the flexor digitorum brevis (FDB)/the adductor hallucis (AH).
  • the knee high socks 108 are made of an acrylic cotton blended yarn (English cotton count 32/1) and of a FTY (fiber twisted yarn) in which a polyurethane elastane yarn 10 dtex and a nylon yarn 78 dtex/48 f are twisted.
  • the knee high socks 108 are knitted in plain stitch.
  • Each stimulation part 10 a is composed of a plurality of projecting printed dots made of silicone resin.
  • stimulation parts 10 a at the tibialis anterior encourage these muscles to act as antagonists of the posterior lower leg muscles (the gastrocnemius) and to generate a strong coordination power, thereby reducing muscle tone of the posterior lower leg muscles (the gastrocnemius).
  • Stimulation parts 10 a at the peroneus tertius increase muscle tone and impart a strong coordination power such that the peroneus tertius can act as antagonists of the tibialis anterior, one of whose muscle activities is inversion of the ankle joints.
  • the two muscle activities strongly stabilize the ankle joints along a transverse axis and enable smooth plantarflexion of the ankle joints (activities of the extensor groups). These functions decrease injuries to lower leg muscles as mentioned above.
  • This stimulation can also alleviate fatigue in muscles and proprioceptive nerves and can delay occurrence of movement transmission dysfunction at the ankle joints due to such fatigue, so that a safe exercise condition can be maintained for a longer time.
  • inherent movements of the toes are usually restricted while the toes are covered by tube-like items such as shoes and socks.
  • Stimulation parts 10 a at the flexor digitorum brevis/the adductor hallucis alleviate such restriction and allow smooth toe movements.
  • the soles can keep enhanced sensitivity and can create sensitive and stable supporting surfaces (the soles).
  • FIG. 46 shows a pair of exercise tights 109 .
  • the locations of surface stimulation parts 10 b correspond to functional skin areas of multiarticular muscles which are located in the free lower limb and the pelvic girdles and which are involved in extension of the knee joints.
  • the tights 109 are made of a yarn which is obtained by paralleling nylon yarns (thickness 78 dtex/48 f) and of a single covered yarn in which a 44-dtex-thick polyurethane elastane yarn core is covered with a nylon yarn (thickness 56 dtex/48 f).
  • the surface stimulation parts 10 b are made in plate stitch by which a polyester yarn (thickness 78 dtex/36 f) forms a projecting pattern on the skin/back side.
  • surface stimulation parts at the anterior and lateral thighs inhibit their activity for extending the knee joints, thereby strengthening and assisting muscle activity of hip joint extensors in the posterior thighs.
  • surface stimulation to the posterior lower leg muscle group inhibits their activity for extending the ankle joints, thereby strengthening and assisting muscle activity of ankle joint flexors in the anterior lower legs.
  • the respective muscle activities enhance exercise efficiency by activating extension of the hip joints and inhibiting extension of the ankle joints.
  • inhibitory control over anterior/lateral thigh muscles and posterior lower leg extensors decreases a drag force on the ground, stimulates activity of extensors at the hip joints, and turns their muscle activities into a propelling force in running.
  • FIG. 47 shows a pair of shorts 110 .
  • the locations of surface stimulation parts 10 b correspond to functional skin areas of muscles which need to be inhibited when the tensor fasciae latae act as hip joint flexors and internal rotators.
  • the base fabric for the shorts 110 is made of a polyester yarn 44 dtex/36 f and a polyurethane elastane yarn 44 dtex, and knitted in a half tricot pattern (blend ratio: polyester 85% and polyurethane 15%).
  • the surface stimulation parts 10 b are made of a polyester yarn 44 dtex/36 f and a polyurethane elastane yarn 78 dtex, and knitted in a half tricot pattern (blend ratio: polyester 75% and polyurethane 25%).
  • the surface stimulation parts have a greater tightening power than the base fabric. While a person is wearing the garment, the garment fits the body closely, with the surface stimulation parts giving a higher clothing pressure than any other part of the garment.
  • the tensor fasciae latae group acts to bend and internally rotate the hip joints and, as one of its functions, represses a function of the gluteus maximus of pulling lower legs behind.
  • surface stimulation parts at the tensor fasciae latae group inhibit the bending/internally rotating activities and reduce the ability of repressing the gluteus maximus function, thereby promoting and enhancing the activity of lower leg extensors at the hip joints. This function realizes a more efficient exercise.
  • FIG. 48 shows an exercise T-shirt 111 .
  • the locations of surface stimulation parts 10 b correspond to functional skin areas of the trapezius, the pectoralis minor, and the upper abdominal muscles including the external oblique and the upper rectus abdominis.
  • the T-shirt 111 is made of a polyester yarn 40/1 and a polyurethane yarn 10 dtex, and knitted in plain stitch (blend ratio: polyester 90% and polyurethane 10%).
  • the surface stimulation parts 10 b are made of a hook tape element of a hook-and-loop surface tape.
  • the trapezius, the pectoralis minor and the upper pectoralis major emphasize a forward leaning posture (a forward head posture) in which both scapulae are displaced to a forward/upward position.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b across these muscles decreases their muscle tone and corrects the scapulae to a backward/downward position.
  • reduction of muscle tone of these muscles assists and promotes the action of the latissimus dorsi which is their antagonist in a superior/posterior relationship.
  • the upper part of the trunk is pulled upwardly and backwardly to correct the forward leaning posture.
  • the anteriorly tilted pelvis is corrected to an upright position.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b across the upper rectus abdominis and the external oblique reduces their muscle tone and serves to transform a forward leaning posture into a backward leaning one.
  • FIG. 49 shows a pair of knee high socks 112 .
  • the locations of surface stimulation parts 10 b correspond to functional skin areas of the gastrocnemius and the plantaris/plantar aponeurosis.
  • the knee high socks 112 are made of an acrylic cotton blended yarn (English cotton count 32/1) and of a FTY (fiber twisted yarn) in which a polyurethane elastane yarn 10 dtex and a nylon yarn 78 dtex/48 f are twisted.
  • the knee high socks 112 are knitted in plain stitch.
  • the surface stimulation parts 10 b are made of a fancy twist yarn (a nylon acrylic blend, metrical count 30/1).
  • surface stimulation parts 10 b at the gastrocnemius reduce muscle tone of the gastrocnemius which is the largest extensor (plantarflexor) around the ankle joints.
  • the posterior lower leg muscles of the Mongoloids and nonathletic people are extremely hypertonic, such surface stimulation reduces the muscle tone and ensures safe and smooth muscle activity for a long time.
  • surface stimulation to the plantaris/plantar aponeurosis decreases muscle tone at the soles by supporting and relaxing the medial arch of each foot. Since activity of the soles is coordinated with that of the posterior lower leg muscle group, fatigue in the posterior lower leg muscle group can be alleviated as well.
  • FIG. 50 shows a pair of tights 113 designed for the right-handed.
  • the locations of point stimulation parts 10 a correspond to motor points of the center of the lower rectus abdominis (LRA), the left internal oblique (IO), the left gluteus maximus (GMax), the right gluteus maxims/minimus (GMed/GMin), the right semitendinosus/semimembranosus (ST/SM), the left biceps femoris (BF), the left vastus lateralis of the quadriceps femoris (VL), the right vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris (VM), the right sartorius (SAR), the left tibialis anterior (TA), the left medial gastrocnemius (MG), and the right peroneus tertius (PTert).
  • LRA lower rectus abdominis
  • IO left internal oblique
  • GMax the left gluteus maximus
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b corresponds to a functional skin area of muscles which need to be inhibited when the right tensor fasciae latae (TFL) acts as a hip joint flexor and internal rotator.
  • the locations of surface stimulation parts 10 b correspond to functional skin areas of muscles which need to be inhibited when the right medial gastrocnemius (MG) and the left lateral gastrocnemius (LG) act as knee joint flexors and ankle joint extensors.
  • the base fabric for the tights 113 is made of a polyester yarn 56 dtex/36 f and a polyurethane elastane yarn 44 dtex, and knitted in a half tricot pattern (blend ratio: polyester 80% and polyurethane 20%).
  • the surface stimulation parts 10 b are made of a polyester yarn 56 dtex/36 f and a polyurethane elastane yarn 56 dtex, and knitted in a half tricot pattern (blend ratio: polyester 75% and polyurethane 25%).
  • the surface stimulation parts 10 b have a greater tightening power than the base fabric. While a person is wearing the garment, the garment fits the body closely, with the surface stimulation parts 10 b giving a higher clothing pressure than any other part of the garment.
  • Each point stimulation part 10 a is composed of a plurality of projecting printed dots made of silicone resin. Seams (not shown) in the tights 113 are designed to align with muscular grooves as best as possible.
  • a point stimulation part 10 a at the center of the lower rectus abdominis corrects an anteriorly tilted pelvis.
  • a point stimulation part 10 a at the left gluteus maximus exhibits its effect (Contraction at the center of the lower rectus abdominis brings the pelvis to an upright position, thereby increasing muscle tone of the gluteus maximus).
  • the erector spinae a trunk extensor
  • stimulation to the gluteus maximus activates itself and the erector spinae.
  • the left iliopsoas which is antagonistic to the gluteus maximus and which is antagonistically involved in flexion of the hip joint.
  • This stimulation cooperates with the other stimulations mentioned earlier, allowing the trunk to extend in a more stable manner.
  • a point stimulation part 10 a at the right gluteus maxims/minimus hinders sidewise sway (in adduction-abduction directions) at the hip joint and improves a support power in exercise.
  • two of these specified stimulations (the center of the lower rectus abdominis and the right gluteus maxims/minimus) define a supporting surface (serving as an application point of force and a fulcrum).
  • a point stimulation part 10 a at the right semitendinosus/semimembranosus allows generation of a strong power for extending the hip joint.
  • this extension power is converted to a powerful propelling force.
  • the right gluteus maximus is more active than the left one, but the left gluteus maxims/minimus are less so than the left one.
  • the point stimulation part 10 a at the right gluteus maxims/minimus hinders the sidewise sway at the hip joint as mentioned above, thereby assisting and promoting the right biceps femoris and the right semitendinosus/semimembranosus to work with higher exercise efficiency.
  • the right semitendinosus/semimembranosus which is less active than the right biceps femoris, tends to orient and waste its power in the abduction direction.
  • the point stimulation part 10 a at the right semitendinosus/semimembranosus veers the power to a neutral direction and realizes efficient backward extension of the hip joint.
  • the point stimulation part 10 a at the left gluteus maximus assists and corrects unbalanced activities of the left gluteus muscles (The left gluteus maximus is less active than the left gluteus maxims/minimus.), and strongly affects extension of the hip joint. (Prominent contraction of the gluteus maximus produces a strong forward propelling force.) Coordination between the point stimulation part 10 a at the left gluteus maximus and the one at the left biceps femoris makes this function more efficient.
  • the point stimulation part 10 a at the left biceps femoris also controls excessive muscle activity of the semitendinosus/semimembranosus in the left posterior thigh.
  • this stimulation part orients the power from the abduction direction to the adduction direction, thereby promoting smoother extension of the hip joint and generation of a greater forward propelling force.
  • generation of the forward propelling force at the left lower limb and the left pelvic girdle involves not only generation of a strong propelling force of action but also generation of a strong force of reaction (a forward-dragging forward-shearing force which involves rotational movements at the left pelvis, the lumbar lordosis, and the sacral cornu).
  • a point stimulation part 10 a at the left internal oblique suppresses the force of reaction and permits the left pelvis, the lumbar lordosis, and the sacral cornu to work as a support base of exercise.
  • this point stimulation part is insufficient or absent, the power generated at the right lower limb and the right pelvic girdle is oriented and wasted in the forward direction. Furthermore, the extreme forward-shearing force and the extreme rotatory power may cause damage to joints in the lower lumbar vertebrae and the sacral vertebrae.
  • the trunk becomes unstable. Presumably, such instability is compensated by improper fixation (as called in chiropractics, etc.) of the left sacroiliac joint. It is confirmed and reported that this improper action causes the gastrocnemius to be hypertonic in the left lower leg. Curing of this improper action will reduce and alleviate damage to the left lower leg muscles (gastrocnemius strain, Achilles tendon rupture, etc.).
  • the six specified point stimulations emphasize respective muscle activities and thereby realize more efficient balance in the exercise posture.
  • the gluteus maximus serves as a hip joint extensor
  • the tensor fasciae latae acts as its antagonist.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b at the tensor fasciae latae promotes reduction of muscle tone of muscles around the right hip joint and powerfully assists exercise activities of their antagonists.
  • the hip joint can exhibit better exercise control ability and realize safer, more efficient performance in exercise.
  • an axis of exercise is notably and excessively oriented to a certain exercise direction (a direction for flexion, abduction, and internal rotation of the hip joint).
  • Point stimulation parts 10 a at the right vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris and at the right sartorius change this axis along the correct gravity axis of the body, thereby modifying the flow of generated power.
  • the vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris has a remarkably strong support ability around the knee joints. However, for right-handed people, the right vastus medialis is developed less than the left one, so that the exercise axis and the support base are displaced further outwardly.
  • the exercise axis and the support base need to be corrected inwardly by these point stimulation parts 10 a at the right vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris and the right sartorius.
  • the gluteus maxims/minimus needs to be stimulated and facilitated in the manner described above. Nevertheless, merely by this facilitatory stimulation to the gluteus maxims/minimus, it is difficult to correct an internal twist at the knee.
  • the point stimulation part 10 a at the right sartorius promotes and improves coordination with the point stimulation part 10 a at the right gluteus maxims/minimus, thereby correcting the twist at the knee joint.
  • an axis of exercise is notably and excessively oriented to a certain exercise direction (a direction for flexion, adduction, and external rotation of the hip joint).
  • a point stimulation part 10 a at the left vastus lateralis of the quadriceps femoris changes this axis along the central axis of the body, thereby modifying the flow of generated power.
  • the vastus medialis around the left knee is more active than the one around the right knee.
  • the exercise direction is often wastefully oriented to the one for abduction and internal rotation during its extention.
  • a point stimulation part 10 a at the left medial gastrocnemius With a point stimulation part 10 a at the left medial gastrocnemius, the direction of power acting at the left ankle joint is corrected from the eversion direction to the inversion direction along a proper axis of exercise.
  • posterior muscles at the left lower leg of right-handed people because a power generated by the upper joints or the like is oriented outwardly, the posterior part of the left lower leg attempts to force that power into an inward direction by making the lateral part more active than the medial part.
  • the direction of power is corrected at the upper joints but not at the left lower leg, the power will be oriented further inwardly at the posterior part of the left lower leg. This activity has to be corrected by the point stimulation part 10 a at the left medial gastrocnemius.
  • the lower legs have a smaller amount of muscles than other parts of the lower limbs (muscle groups as represented by the anterior and posterior thigh muscles).
  • the lower legs are used more frequently and produce a greater force of action during exercise, which makes them prone to stress and injuries. If the lower leg muscles are simply facilitated by point stimulation, they may be activated too much and may even cause injuries.
  • extreme generation of power should be controlled in muscle groups (the right medial gastrocnemius and the left lateral gastrocnemius) which are opposed to the point stimulation parts 10 a .
  • the respective muscles require surface stimulation parts 10 b for reducing muscle tone, and have their muscle activities controlled.
  • facilitatory point stimulation to the left medial gastrocnemius is not perfect by itself.
  • a point stimulation part 10 a is required at the left tibialis anterior which acts to orient the ankle joint to the inversion direction.
  • a force deriving from muscular power involves not only a force of action but also a force of reaction which returns from a location where the force of action is applied, and that these forces act in three-dimensionally twisted directions.
  • exercise activity is performed in the above-mentioned exercise directions (a direction for flexion, adduction and external rotation of the left hip joint, and a direction for flexion, abduction and internal rotation of the right hip joint)
  • the force of action is responded to not by a proper force of reaction but by a deviated force of reaction.
  • Exercise activity involving a three-dimensionally twisted force imposes a heavier burden on joints and can be a primary cause of injuries.
  • exercise activity involving a three-dimensionally twisted force should be eliminated (if the exercise direction is deviated) or should be controlled and restricted ideally (if the exercise direction is proper) as much as possible.
  • exercise activity of the knee joints should be discussed in consideration of rotational exercise activity of the upper joints (the hip joints), as mentioned above.
  • exercise activity of the ankle joints which is affected by the upper joints (the knee and hip joints) should be discussed along with exercise activity of the upper joints.
  • the upper joints should be asymmetrically supported in consideration of directions of their exercise axes, with adequate modifications to the manner of support.
  • muscles have to be facilitated by point stimulation in such a way as to realize the hip-strategy based manner of exercise.
  • the biceps femoris as an example of multiarticular muscles which contain a monoarticular muscle portion. In this case, it is especially necessary to facilitate one of its multiarticular muscle functions, i.e. extension of the hip joint. On the contrary, suppose that a monoarticular muscle function of the biceps femoris is facilitated, flexion of the knee joint stands out so much as to prevent smooth extension of the hip joint.
  • FIG. 51 shows a full suit 114 designed for the right-handed, which can be used in sports which involve symmetrical upper limb movements, such as track and field, swimming (butterfly and breaststroke), skating, cycling, and skiing.
  • the locations of point stimulation parts 10 a (approximately 2 cm 2 each) correspond to motor points of the right sternocleidomastoid (SCM), the right supraspinatus (SS), the right infraspinatus (IS), the middle part of the left erector spinae (ESMid)/the left rhomboideus major (RMa), the left latissimus dorsi (LD), the lower part of the right erector spinae (ESLo)/the right serratus posterior inferior (SPI), the bottommost part of the left erector spinae (ESBtm)/the left quadratus lumborum (QL), the right gluteus maximo of motor points of the right sternocleidomasto
  • the locations of surface stimulation parts 10 b correspond to functional skin areas of the left upper trapezius (UTP), the right latissimus dorsi (LD), the left gluteus maxims/minimus (GMed/GMin), the right gluteus maximus (GMax), the right biceps femoris (BF), the left semitendinosus/semimembranosus (ST/SM), the right medial gastrocnemius (MG), the left lateral gastrocnemius (LG), the left and right pectoralis minor (PMi), the upper rectus abdominis (URA), the right tensor fasciae latae (TFL), the right rectus femoris of the quadriceps femoris (RF), the left sartorius (SAR), the right tibialis anterior (TA), the left and right biceps brachii (BB), and the left and right pronator teres (PRT).
  • UTP right
  • the full suit 114 is made of a yarn which is obtained by paralleling nylon yarns (thickness 78 dtex/48 f) and of a single covered yarn in which a 44-dtex-thick polyurethane elastane yarn core is covered with a nylon yarn (thickness 56 dtex/48 f).
  • the full suit is knitted in plain stitch.
  • the point stimulation parts 10 a and the surface stimulation parts 10 b are made in plate stitch by which a polyester yarn (thickness 78 dtex/36 f) forms a projecting pattern on the skin/back side. Seams (not shown) in the full suit 114 are sewn flat so as to avoid stimulation to the skin, and are designed to align with muscular grooves as best as possible.
  • a point stimulation part 10 a at the center of the lower rectus abdominis corrects an anteriorly tilted pelvis.
  • a point stimulation part 10 a at the left gluteus maximus exhibits its effect.
  • Contraction of the lower rectus abdominis brings the pelvis to an upright position, thereby increasing muscle tone of the gluteus maximus.
  • the lower part of the right erector spinae (a trunk extensor)/the right serratus posterior inferior and the bottommost part of the left erector spinae (a trunk extensor)/the left quadratus lumborum develop muscle tone and extend the trunk.
  • the left gluteus maximus is also stimulated with antagonistic flexion of the hip joint by the left iliopsoas. This stimulation cooperates with the other stimulations mentioned earlier, allowing the trunk to extend in a more stable manner.
  • a point stimulation part 10 a at the right gluteus maxims/minimus hinders sidewise sway (in adduction-abduction directions) at the hip joint and improves a support power in exercise.
  • two of these specified stimulations (the lower rectus abdominis and the left gluteus maximus) define a supporting surface (serving as an application point of force and a fulcrum).
  • a point stimulation part 10 a at the left biceps femoris allows generation of a strong power for extending the hip joint. During running, this extension power is converted to a powerful propelling force.
  • the left gluteus maximus is more active than the left one, but the left gluteus maximus are less so than the right one.
  • the point stimulation part 10 a at the right gluteus maxims/minimus hinders the sidewise sway at the hip joint as mentioned above, thereby assisting and promoting the right biceps femoris and the right semitendinosus/semimembranosus to work with higher exercise efficiency.
  • the right semitendinosus/semimembranosus which is less active than the right biceps femoris, tends to orient and waste its power in the abduction direction.
  • the point stimulation part 10 a at the right semitendinosus/semimembranosus veers the power to a neutral direction and realizes efficient backward extension of the hip joint.
  • the point stimulation part 10 a at the left gluteus maximus assists and corrects unbalanced activities of the left gluteus muscles (The left gluteus maximus is less active than the left gluteus maxims/minimus.), and strongly affects extension of the hip joint. (Prominent contraction of the gluteus maximus produces a strong forward propelling force.) Coordination between the point stimulation part 10 a at the left gluteus maximus and the one at the left biceps femoris makes this function more efficient.
  • the point stimulation part 10 a at the left biceps femoris also controls hyperactivity of the semitendinosus/semimembranosus in the left posterior thigh.
  • this stimulation part orients the power from the abduction direction to the adduction direction, thereby promoting smoother extension of the hip joint and generation of a greater forward propelling force.
  • generation of the forward propelling force at the left lower limb and the left pelvic girdle involves not only generation of a strong propelling force of action but also generation of a strong force of reaction (a forward-dragging forward-shearing force which involves rotational movements at the left pelvis, the lumbar lordosis, and the sacral cornu).
  • a point stimulation part 10 a at the left internal oblique suppresses the force of reaction and permits the left pelvis, the lumbar lordosis, and the sacral cornu to work as a support base of exercise.
  • this point stimulation part is insufficient or absent, the power generated at the right lower limb and the right pelvic girdle is oriented and wasted in the forward direction. Furthermore, the extreme forward-shearing force of action and the extreme rotatory power may cause damage to joints in the lower lumbar vertebrae and the sacral vertebrae.
  • the nine specified point stimulations emphasize respective muscle activities and thereby realize more efficient balance in the exercise posture.
  • the hip joints are ball-and-socket joints and have as high as three degrees of freedom. Hence, coordinated muscle activities at these joints are heavily affected by muscle groups which act very dominantly.
  • activities of the hip joints such as flexion/extension, abduction/adduction, external rotation/internal rotation are performed by coordinated activities of muscles around the hip joints as represented by the gluteus maximus/medius/minimus, the iliopsoas, the rectus femoris, the sartorius, the tensor fasciae latae, etc.
  • some muscles act so strongly as to disturb the coordination, they obstruct the ability of smooth adduction/abduction and rotation at the ball-and-socket joints such as the hip joints.
  • muscle tone of hyperactive muscle groups and to inhibit them, thereby inducing a smoother, more efficient joint activity.
  • prominently active muscles to be controlled include the left gluteus maximus, the right gluteus maximus, the right biceps femoris, the left semitendinosus/semimembranosus, the right tensor fasciae latae, the right rectus femoris of the quadriceps femoris, and the left sartorius. This is why it is crucial to provide surface stimulation parts 10 b at functional skin areas of those muscles.
  • the gluteus maximus are more active than the gluteus maximus, which hampers smooth adduction/abduction and rotation at the right hip joint.
  • the point stimulation part 10 a at the right gluteus maxims/minimus promotes facilitation of the right gluteus maxims/minimus
  • the surface stimulation part 10 b at the right gluteus maximus inhibits activities of the right gluteus maximus.
  • Such stimulation enhances the ability to stretch and externally rotate the right hip joint in a proper direction.
  • the gluteus maximus is more active than the gluteus maximus, which also hampers smooth adduction/abduction and rotation at the left hip joint.
  • stimulation must be applied oppositely relative to the right gluteus maximus (i.e. point stimulation to the left gluteus maximus, and surface stimulation to the left gluteus maxims/minimus).
  • Such stimulation reduces sidewise sway at the left hip joint and stabilizes an exercise axis at the left hip joint, making its movement smoother and its athletic ability more efficient.
  • activities of these posterior muscle groups at the hip joints must coordinately cooperate with the point stimulation to the posterior thighs as mentioned earlier.
  • these inactive muscle groups (the gluteus maximus at the right hip joint, and the gluteus maximus at the left hip joint) cause certain muscles (the right biceps femoris and the left semitendinosus/semimembranosus) to act strongly in order to compensate for and assist the inactive muscle groups during exercise.
  • the right biceps femoris and the left semitendinosus/semimembranosus should also have their activities controlled.
  • surface stimulation parts 10 b are required at locations corresponding to functional skin areas of the right biceps femoris and the left semitendinosus/semimembranosus.
  • left hip joint muscles at the anterior and medial parts of the left hip joint need to be controlled as well.
  • surface stimulation is applied to the left sartorius which acts in coordination with the left tensor fasciae latae (a hip joint flexor/abductor).
  • this surface stimulation promotes reduction of muscle tone in the stimulated muscle and powerfully assists exercise activities of its antagonist.
  • the stimulation ensures excellent exercise control ability at the left hip joint and can realize superior performance in exercise.
  • an axis of exercise is notably and excessively oriented to a certain exercise direction (a direction for flexion, abduction, and internal rotation of the hip joint).
  • Point stimulation parts 10 a at the right vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris and the right sartorius change this axis along the correct gravity axis of the body, thereby modifying the flow of generated power.
  • the vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris has a remarkably strong support ability around the knee joints.
  • the right vastus medialis is developed less than the left one, so that the exercise axis and the support base are displaced further outwardly.
  • the exercise axis and the support base need to be corrected inwardly by these point stimulation parts 10 a at the right vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris and the right sartorius.
  • the gluteus maxims/minimus needs to be stimulated and facilitated in the manner described above. Nevertheless, merely by this facilitatory stimulation to the gluteus maxims/minimus, it is difficult to correct an external twist at the knee.
  • the point stimulation part 10 a at the right sartorius promotes and improves coordination with the point stimulation part 10 a at the right gluteus maxims/minimus, thereby correcting the twist at the knee joint.
  • an axis of exercise is notably and excessively oriented to a certain exercise direction (a direction for flexion, adduction, and external rotation of the hip joint).
  • a point stimulation part 10 a at the left vastus lateralis of the quadriceps femoris changes this axis along the central axis of the body, thereby modifying the flow of generated power.
  • the vastus medialis around the left knee is more active than the one around the right knee.
  • the exercise direction is often wastefully oriented to the one for abduction and internal rotation during its extension.
  • a point stimulation part 10 a at the left medial gastrocnemius With a point stimulation part 10 a at the left medial gastrocnemius, the direction of power acting at the left ankle joint is corrected from the eversion direction to the inversion direction along a proper axis of exercise.
  • posterior muscles at the left lower leg of right-handed people because a power generated by the upper joints or the like is oriented outwardly, the posterior part of the left lower leg attempts to force that power into an inward direction by making the lateral part more active than the medial part.
  • the direction of power is corrected at the upper joints but not at the left lower leg, the power is oriented further inwardly at the posterior part of the left lower leg.
  • the point stimulation part 10 a is provided at the left medial gastrocnemius.
  • the lower legs In inverse proportion to the amount of muscles, the lower legs are used more frequently and produce a greater force of action during exercise, which makes them prone to stress and injuries. If the lower leg muscles are simply facilitated by point stimulation, they may be activated too much and may even cause injuries. To prevent this, extreme generation of power should be controlled in muscle groups (the right medial gastrocnemius and the left lateral gastrocnemius) which are opposed to the point stimulation parts 10 a . Thus, the respective muscles (the right medial gastrocnemius and the left lateral gastrocnemius) require surface stimulation parts 10 b for reducing muscle tone, and have their muscle activities controlled.
  • facilitatory point stimulation for medially guiding the ankle joint which is applied to the left medial gastrocnemius, is not perfect by itself.
  • a point stimulation part 10 a is required at the left tibialis anterior which acts to orient the ankle joint to the inversion direction.
  • a force deriving from muscular power involves not only a force of action but also a force of reaction which returns from a location where the force of action is applied, and that these forces act in three-dimensionally twisted directions.
  • exercise activity is performed in the above-mentioned exercise directions (a direction for flexion, adduction and external rotation of the left hip joint, and a direction for flexion, abduction and internal rotation of the right hip joint)
  • the force of action is responded to not by a proper force of reaction but by a deviated force of reaction.
  • Exercise activity involving a three-dimensionally twisted force imposes a heavier burden on joints and can be a primary cause of injuries.
  • exercise activity involving a three-dimensionally twisted force should be eliminated (if the exercise direction is deviated) or should be controlled and restricted ideally (if the exercise direction is proper) as much as possible.
  • exercise activity of the knee joints should be discussed in consideration of rotational exercise activity of the upper joints (the hip joints), as mentioned above.
  • exercise activity of the ankle joints which is affected by the upper joints (the knee and hip joints) should be discussed along with exercise activity of the upper joints.
  • the upper joints should be asymmetrically supported in consideration of directions of their exercise axes, with adequate modifications to the manner of support.
  • muscles have to be facilitated by point stimulation in such a way as to realize the hip-strategy based manner of exercise.
  • the biceps femoris as an example of multiarticular muscles which contain a monoarticular muscle portion. In this case, it is especially necessary to facilitate one of its multiarticular muscle functions, i.e. extension of the hip joint. On the contrary, suppose that a monoarticular muscle function of the biceps femoris is facilitated, flexion of the knee joint stands out so much as to prevent smooth extension of the hip joint.
  • the description made hitherto relates to adjustment of the lower body, according to the hip strategy-based manner of exercise. Furthermore, in order to realize the hip strategy-based manner of exercise, it is inevitable to adjust and coordinate activities in the upper body which is opposed to the lower body. In the case of Japanese and nonathletic people, a particular attention should be paid to hypertonicity in the upper abdominal muscles and the trapezium. Therefore, the manner of facilitating the upper body should be primarily focused on reduction of muscle tone in these muscles, and should further allow for coordination between lower body activities and upper body activities.
  • the trapezius is prominently active and constitutes the core of their manner of exercise. Accordingly, with a proviso that the left half of the back is divided into an upper section (around the trapezius) and a lower section (around the latissimus dorsi), the lower section is less good at effective exercise than the upper section.
  • a point stimulation part 10 a at the left latissimus dorsi plays an important role in correcting the hyperactive right latissimus dorsi and also in correcting the entire left half of the back whose activity is unbalanced and dependent on the left trapezium.
  • the right latissimus dorsi is prominently active and developed well, so that it pulls down the right shoulder and causes a right shoulder-dropped, tilted posture.
  • the first function of this point stimulation part 10 a is to modify the tilted posture in a pelvis-based, balanced manner. Its second function is to correct excessive exercise activity in the upper left section of the back (around the trapezius).
  • the point stimulation part 10 a at the left latissimus dorsi needs to be coordinated with and assisted by a point stimulation part 10 a at the middle part of the left erector spinae/the left rhomboideus major and a point stimulation part 10 a at the bottommost part of the left erector spinae.
  • This combination can create a symmetrical exercise posture which is centered on the waist part and aligned with the gravity axis for exercise. Having said that, the unbalanced muscle activities have their own merits.
  • the underdeveloped latissimus dorsi originating from the pelvis which provides a solid support base, has a poor ability to hold the shoulder joint which is a highly mobile ball-and-socket joint with three degrees of freedom.
  • the shoulder joint which is a highly mobile ball-and-socket joint with three degrees of freedom.
  • the left shoulder joint its poor ability is compensated by advanced development of inner muscles (the supraspinatus, the infraspinatus, the teres major, the teres minor, and the subscapularis).
  • inner muscles the supraspinatus, the infraspinatus, the teres major, the teres minor, and the subscapularis.
  • a muscle group surrounding inner muscles develops so well as to obstruct facilitation and activity of the inner muscles.
  • point stimulation parts 10 a at the right supraspinatus and at the right infraspinatus are required to enhance the ability to support the shoulder joint.
  • these two specified point stimulations enhance and cure flexibility at the shoulder joint.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b is required at a location corresponding to the functional skin area of the right latissimus dorsi.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b is required with respect to the left trapezius which acts excessively together with the right latissimus dorsi.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b must be also provided at a functional skin area across the left and right pectoralis minor which are accessory muscles acting to assist the trapezium.
  • Part of the muscle activities of the pectoralis minor is to pull the scapulae forwardly and upwardly, to hamper their movement relative to the trunk, and thereby to restrict upper limb movements.
  • activity of the free upper limb/the shoulder girdles and that of the upper trunk are not coordinated with each other.
  • the surface stimulation to the pectoralis minor can adjust such activities and can realize shoulder joint-centered, coordinated activities between these parts.
  • the trapezius acts radically and has extreme muscle tone, making one's movement unnatural.
  • the shoulder part limits actions of respiratory muscles, causing shallow breathing.
  • the above surface stimulation can alleviate these symptoms, can eliminate “performance anxiety” resulting from such symptoms, and can eventually ensure smoother performance of exercise under pressure.
  • point stimulation parts 10 a at the triceps brachii so as to make its muscle activity dominant, and also to provide surface stimulation parts 10 b at the biceps brachii so as to inhibit or control its activity.
  • the brain orders asymmetrical muscle activities in the free lower limb/the pelvic girdles and symmetrical muscle activities in the free upper limb/the shoulder girdles.
  • muscle activities of the latter have to be symmetrical, unlike in the other parts of the body. Nevertheless, this is not necessarily applicable if an exercise specially employs a limb on one side of the body (as represented by tennis and baseball).
  • muscle activities in the free lower limb/the pelvic girdles are in contrast with those in the free upper limb/the shoulder girdles in that the former muscle activities are reciprocal. Therefore, muscle adjustment by an asymmetrical approach is particularly effective in the free lower limb and the pelvic girdles.
  • FIG. 52 shows a baseball undershirt 115 designed for the right-handed.
  • the locations of point stimulation parts 10 a correspond to motor points of the right sternocleidomastoid (SCM), the right supraspinatus (SS), the right infraspinatus (IS), the middle part of the left erector spinae (ESMid)/the left rhomboideus major (RMa), the left latissimus dorsi (LD), the lower part of the right erector spinae (ESLo)/the right serratus posterior inferior (SPI), the bottommost part of the left erector spinae (ESBtm)/the left quadratus lumborum (QL), the right pectoralis major (PMa), the left serratus anterior (SA), the medial/lateral heads (MH/LH) of the right triceps brachii (TB), the right extensor carpi radialis longus
  • SCM right sternoc
  • the locations of surface stimulation parts 10 b correspond to functional skin areas of the left upper trapezius (UTP), the right latissimus dorsi (LD), the left pectoralis minor (PMi), the upper rectus abdominis (URA), the right serratus anterior (SA), the right biceps brachii (BB), the right flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU), the right extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU), the medial/lateral heads (MH/LH) of the left triceps brachii (TB), the left supinator (SUP), the left extensor carpi radialis longus/brevis (ECRL/ECRB), and the left flexor carpi radialis (FCR).
  • UTP left upper trapezius
  • LD right latissimus dorsi
  • PMi left pectoralis minor
  • UAA upper rectus abdominis
  • SA right serratus anterior
  • the undershirt 115 is made of a polyester yarn (thickness 56 dtex/48 f) and a single covered yarn in which a 10-dtex-thick polyurethane elastane yarn core is covered with a polyester yarn (thickness 33 dtex/10 f).
  • the undershirt is knitted in plain stitch.
  • the point stimulation parts 10 a and the surface stimulation parts 10 b are made in plate stitch by which a polyester yarn (thickness 56 dtex/36 f) forms a projecting pattern on the skin/back side. Seams (not shown) in the undershirt 115 are designed to locate not on the skin side but on the outer side and to align with muscular grooves as best as possible.
  • One of the vital factors for production of the baseball undershirt 115 is to enable smooth rotational movements at the joints.
  • rotational movements in the trunk are effected around the trunk axis (to rotate the hip, the neck, etc.) and can be roughly classified into two different types.
  • the first type of rotation is axial exercise during which the left or right side of the body looks fixed (like a common swing door). The axis of this rotation is either one leg, and the exercise is principally led by the lower body.
  • the second type is a symmetrical rotation around the spine which constitutes the core of the trunk (like a revolving door), with the hip joints bearing a load in a substantially symmetrical manner.
  • the second type of rotation In contrast to the first type of rotation in which the axis is offset to one side and dependent on the lower body, the second type of rotation has an axis centered along the spine and mobilizes the left and right parts of the whole body equally. As a result, the latter rotation is less prone to sway, and is able to realize a most compact rotation axis and speedier movements. In particular, these two types of rotation are noticeable in batting forms of Japanese (nonathletic people) and those of Latin Americans and athletically skilled people. When a Japanese batter who adopts the first type of rotation takes a swing, he imagines a virtual wall built at a front leg which faces the pitcher (e.g.
  • a right-handed batter has this wall to the left of the body.) and attempts to stop the axis of rotation against the wall. This motion is translation rather than rotation.
  • a Latin American batter who adopts the second type of rotation has an established support axis (Imagine a spinning top rotating at high speed.) and tries to hit a ball by originating a rotation from the core of the body. Judging from the facts that many constant long hitters adopt the latter type of rotation and non-Japanese long hitters (above all, Latin Americans) boast of amazing ball distances, it is apparent to tell which batter is superior in today's baseball.
  • the neck reflex activity means tonic neck reflex for adjusting muscle tone of the limbs so as to hold the posture.
  • the tonic neck reflex encompasses two major categories: symmetrical tonic neck reflex and asymmetrical tonic neck reflex.
  • neck flexion increases muscle tone in upper limb flexors and lower limb extensors
  • neck extension increases muscle tone in upper limb extensors and lower limb flexors.
  • Such motions are frequently seen in Sumo wrestling, powerlifting, etc.
  • a person stands up with a heavy item held in the hands, the person tucks the chin in strongly and bends the neck more deeply, thus trying to encourage extension of the lower limbs.
  • a defensive player stretches the neck and activates lower limb flexors in order to keep a low posture.
  • the asymmetrical tonic neck reflex concerns rotations around the trunk, such rotation making up a significant part of exercise activity on a horizontal plane (as observed in baseball, tennis and other like sports).
  • head rotation to one side increases muscle tone in upper/lower limb extensors on the jaw side, and increases muscle tone in upper/lower limb flexors on the head side.
  • these two neck reflexes have a great influence on muscle asymmetry in the body, as we mentioned heretofore.
  • these reflex activities occur in order to improve efficiency of batting, pitching and other motions.
  • these various reflex activities raise the level of completion in exercise. It is also true, however, these reflex activities affect laterality (dominant hand, dominant leg, etc.), resulting in unbalanced muscle development of muscles and inadequate exercise.
  • a point stimulation part 10 a at the left latissimus dorsi plays an important role in correcting the hyperactive right latissimus dorsi and in correcting the entire left half of the back whose activity is unbalanced and dependent on the left trapezium.
  • the right latissimus dorsi is prominently active and developed well, so that it draws down the right shoulder and causes a right shoulder-dropped, tilted posture.
  • the first function of this point stimulation part 10 a is to modify the tilted posture in a pelvis-based, balanced manner. Its second function is to correct excessive exercise activity in the upper left section of the back (around the trapezius).
  • the point stimulation part 10 a at the left latissimus dorsi needs to be coordinated with and assisted by a point stimulation part 10 a at the middle part of the left erector spinae/the left rhomboideus major and a point stimulation part 10 a at the bottommost part of the left erector spinae.
  • This combination can create a symmetrical exercise posture which is centered on the waist part and aligned with the gravity axis for exercise. Having said that, the unbalanced muscle activities have their own merits.
  • the underdeveloped latissimus dorsi originating from the pelvis which provides a solid support base, has a poor ability to hold the shoulder joint which is a highly mobile ball-and-socket joint with three degrees of freedom.
  • the shoulder joint which is a highly mobile ball-and-socket joint with three degrees of freedom.
  • the left shoulder joint its poor ability is compensated by advanced development of inner muscles (the supraspinatus, the infraspinatus, the teres major, the teres minor, and the subscapularis).
  • inner muscles the supraspinatus, the infraspinatus, the teres major, the teres minor, and the subscapularis.
  • a muscle group surrounding inner muscles develops so well as to obstruct facilitation and activity of the inner muscles.
  • point stimulation parts 10 a at the right supraspinatus and at the right infraspinatus are required to enhance the ability to support the shoulder joint.
  • these two specified point stimulations enhance and cure flexibility at the shoulder joint.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b is required at a location corresponding to the functional skin area of the right latissimus dorsi.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b is required with respect to the left trapezius which acts excessively together with the right latissimus dorsi.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b must be also provided at a functional skin area of the left pectoralis minor which is an accessory muscle acting to assist the left trapezium.
  • Part of the muscle activities of the left pectoralis minor is to pull the left scapula upwardly and forwardly, to hamper its movement relative to the trunk, and thereby to restrict upper limb movements.
  • activity of the free upper limb/the shoulder girdle and that of the upper trunk are not coordinated with each other.
  • the surface stimulation to the left pectoralis minor can adjust such activities and can realize shoulder joint-centered, coordinated activities between these parts.
  • the trapezius acts radically and has extreme muscle tone, making one's movement unnatural.
  • the shoulder part limits actions of respiratory muscles, causing shallow breathing.
  • the above surface stimulation can alleviate these symptoms, can eliminate “performance anxiety” resulting from such symptoms, and can eventually ensure smoother performance of exercise under pressure.
  • part of the activities of the pectoralis minor is to pull the scapulae forwardly and upwardly, and thus to assist and strengthen the trapezius activity.
  • the surface stimulation part 10 b at the left pectoralis minor restrains this activity, making inhibition of the left upper trapezius easier.
  • the right half of the back shows strong muscle activities as a whole, and causes a posture in which the right shoulder is drawn slightly backward.
  • Input of point stimulation to the right pectoralis major guides the shoulder joint to an anteroposteriorly symmetrical, efficient position.
  • movement of the right scapula is hampered by prominent actions of the right latissimus dorsi and others.
  • surface stimulation is applied to the right serratus anterior which acts to hamper scapula movement, thereby inhibiting and controlling the muscle tone and improving the right scapula function.
  • the left scapula needs an external and downward displacement because it is fixed at a raised position due to high muscle tone of the trapezius, the pectoralis minor, etc.
  • a point stimulation part 10 a at the left serratus anterior is provided to make use of its muscle activity, abduction of the scapula.
  • the neck activity of right-handed people is characterized in that the face turns easily to the right but awkwardly to the left.
  • a point stimulation part 10 a is provided at the right sternocleidomastoid.
  • the brain orders asymmetrical muscle activities in the free lower limb/the pelvic girdles and symmetrical muscle activities in the free upper limb/the shoulder girdles.
  • muscle activities of the latter have to be symmetrical, unlike in the other parts of the body.
  • this is not necessarily applicable if an exercise specially employs a limb on one side of the body (as represented by tennis and baseball).
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b is provided at the right biceps brachii so as to inhibit and control flexion ability of the elbow joint.
  • Point stimulation parts 10 a are provided at the medial/lateral heads of the right triceps brachii, so that the elbow joint can acquire an ability to extend more smoothly.
  • the angular momentum needs to be offset between the right and left upper arms which are opposed to each other.
  • a point stimulation part 10 a at the left biceps brachii enhances elbow flexion ability
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b across the medial/lateral heads of the left triceps brachii helps elbow flexion ability.
  • the asymmetrical angular momentum and actions between the left and right upper arms enable smoother trunk rotation and ensure stable and speedier actions during exercise.
  • the left and right forearms are affected by the upper arms and the trunk which are discussed earlier.
  • a point stimulation part 10 a at the right supinator is employed to increase supination power in the right forearm, and point stimulation 10 a is provided for the right extensor carpi radialis longus/brevis whose action is to assist and enhance the action of the right triceps brachii.
  • surface stimulation 10 b is provided at the right extensor carpi ulnaris and at the right flexor carpi ulnaris, thereby inhibiting and controlling their hyperactivity.
  • the action of the right flexor carpi radialis is further emphasized by point stimulation 10 a .
  • the manner for improving the left forearm is also opposite to the manner for the right forearm, and employs a surface stimulation part 10 b for the left supinator, the surface stimulation part 10 b for the left flexor carpi radialis, a surface stimulation part 10 b for the left extensor carpi radialis longus/brevis, a point stimulation part 10 a for the left extensor carpi ulnaris, and a point stimulation part 10 a for the left flexor carpi ulnaris.
  • FIG. 53 shows a pair of tights 116 designed for the right-handed.
  • the locations of stimulation parts 10 a correspond to motor points of the center of the lower rectus abdominis (LRA), the left internal oblique (IO), the left gluteus maximus (GMax), the right gluteus maxims/minimus (GMed/GMin), the right semitendinosus/semimembranosus (ST/SM), the left biceps femoris (BF), the left vastus lateralis of the quadriceps femoris (VL), the right vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris (VM), the right sartorius (SAR), the left tibialis anterior (TA), the left medial gastrocnemius (MG), the right peroneus tertius (PTert), and the right lateral soleus (LSOL).
  • LRA lower rectus abdominis
  • IO left internal oblique
  • GMax
  • the base fabric for the tights 116 is made of a polyester yarn 56 dtex/36 f and a polyurethane elastane yarn 44 dtex, and knitted in a half tricot pattern (blend ratio: polyester 80% and polyurethane 20%).
  • Each stimulation part 10 a is composed of a plurality of projecting printed dots made of silicone resin. Seams (not shown) in the tights 116 are designed to align with muscular grooves as best as possible.
  • a stimulation part 10 a at the center of the lower rectus abdominis corrects an anteriorly tilted pelvis.
  • a stimulation part 10 a at the left gluteus maximus exhibits its effect (Contraction at the center of the lower rectus abdominis brings the pelvis to an upright position, thereby increasing muscle tone of the gluteus maximus).
  • the erector spinae a trunk extensor
  • stimulation to the gluteus maximus activates itself and the erector spinae.
  • the left iliopsoas which is antagonistic to the left gluteus maximus and which is antagonistically involved in flexion of the hip joint.
  • This stimulation cooperates with the other stimulations mentioned earlier, allowing the trunk to extend in a more stable manner.
  • a stimulation part 10 a at the right gluteus maxims/minimus hinders sidewise sway (in adduction-abduction directions) at the hip joint and improves a support power in exercise.
  • two of these specified stimulations (the center of the lower rectus abdominis and the left gluteus maximus) define a supporting surface (serving as an application point of force and a fulcrum).
  • a stimulation part 10 a at the left biceps femoris allows generation of a strong power for extending the hip joint. During running, this extension power is converted to a powerful propelling force.
  • the right gluteus maximus is more active than the left one, but the right gluteus maxims/minimus are less so than the left one.
  • the stimulation part 10 a at the right gluteus maxims/minimus hinders the above-mentioned sidewise sway at the hip joint, thereby assisting and promoting the right biceps femoris and the right semitendinosus/semimembranosus to work with higher exercise efficiency.
  • the right semitendinosus/semimembranosus which is less active than the left biceps femoris, tends to orient and waste its power in the abduction direction.
  • the stimulation part 10 a at the right semitendinosus/semimembranosus veers the power to a neutral direction and realizes efficient backward extension of the hip joint.
  • the stimulation part 10 a at the left gluteus maximus assists and corrects unbalanced activities of the left gluteus muscles (The left gluteus maximus is less active than the left gluteus maxims/minimus.), and strongly affects extension of the hip joint. (Prominent contraction of the gluteus maximus produces a strong forward propelling force.) Coordination between the stimulation part 10 a at the left gluteus maximus and the one at the left biceps femoris makes this function more efficient.
  • the stimulation part 10 a at the left biceps femoris also controls hyperactivity of the left semitendinosus/semimembranosus in the left posterior thigh.
  • power at the hip joint tends to be lost in the adduction direction.
  • this stimulation part orients the power from the adduction direction to the abduction direction, thereby promoting smoother extension of the hip joint and generation of a greater forward propelling force.
  • generation of the forward propelling force at the left lower limb and the left pelvic girdle involves not only generation of a strong propelling force of action but also generation of a strong force of reaction (a forward-dragging forward-shearing force which involves rotational movements at the left pelvis, the lumbar lordosis, and the sacral cornu).
  • a stimulation part 10 a at the left internal oblique suppresses the force of reaction and permits the left pelvis, the lumbar lordosis, and the sacral cornu to work as a support base of exercise. (If the effect of this stimulation part is insufficient or absent, the power generated at the right lower limb and the right pelvic girdle is oriented and wasted in the forward direction.
  • the extreme forward-shearing force and the extreme rotatory power may cause damage to joints in the lower lumbar vertebrae and the sacral vertebrae.
  • the trunk becomes unstable. Presumably, such instability is compensated by improper fixation (as called in chiropractics, etc.) of the left sacroiliac joint. It is confirmed and reported that this improper action causes the gastrocnemius to be hypertonic in the left lower leg. Curing of this improper action will be able to alleviate and cure damage to the left lower leg muscles (gastrocnemius strain, Achilles tendon rupture, etc.).
  • the six specified stimulations emphasize respective muscle activities and thereby realize more efficient balance in the exercise posture.
  • an axis of exercise is notably and excessively oriented to a certain exercise direction (a direction for flexion, abduction, and internal rotation of the hip joint).
  • Stimulation parts 10 a at the right vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris and at the right sartorius change this axis along the correct gravity axis of the body, thereby modifying the flow of generated power.
  • the vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris has a remarkably strong support ability around the knee joints. However, for right-handed people, the right vastus medialis is developed less than the left one, so that the exercise axis and the support base are displaced further outwardly.
  • the exercise axis and the support base need to be corrected inwardly by these stimulation parts 10 a at the right vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris and the right sartorius.
  • the gluteus maxims/minimus needs to be stimulated and facilitated in the manner described above. Nevertheless, merely by this facilitatory stimulation to the gluteus maxims/minimus, it is difficult to correct an external twist at the knee.
  • the stimulation part 10 a at the right sartorius promotes and improves coordination with the stimulation part 10 a at the right gluteus maxims/minimus, thereby correcting the twist at the knee joint.
  • an axis of exercise is notably and excessively oriented to a certain exercise direction (a direction for flexion, adduction, and external rotation of the hip joint).
  • a stimulation part 10 a at the left vastus lateralis of the quadriceps femoris changes this axis along the central axis of the body, thereby modifying the flow of generated power.
  • the vastus medialis around the left knee is more active than the one around the right knee.
  • the exercise direction is often wastefully oriented to the one for abduction and internal rotation during its extention.
  • a stimulation part 10 a at the left medial gastrocnemius With a stimulation part 10 a at the left medial gastrocnemius, the direction of power acting at the left ankle joint is corrected from the eversion direction to the inversion direction along a proper axis of exercise.
  • posterior muscles at the left lower leg of right-handed people because a power generated by the upper joints or the like is oriented outwardly, the posterior part of the left lower leg attempts to force that power into an inward direction by making the lateral part more active than the medial part.
  • the direction of power is corrected at the upper joints but not at the left lower leg, the power is oriented further inwardly at the posterior part of the left lower leg.
  • the stimulation part 10 a is provided at the left medial gastrocnemius.
  • muscle activity of the right lower leg is corrected by stimulation parts 10 a at the right peroneus tertius and at the right lateral soleus. They also reduce sway to the inversion direction at the right ankle.
  • facilitatory stimulation to the left medial gastrocnemius is not perfect by itself.
  • a stimulation part 10 a is required at the left tibialis anterior which acts to orient the ankle joint to the inversion direction.
  • a force deriving from muscular power involves not only a force of action but also a force of reaction which returns from a location where the force of action is applied, and that these forces act in three-dimensionally twisted directions.
  • exercise activity is performed in the above-mentioned exercise directions (a direction for flexion, adduction and external rotation of the left hip joint, and a direction for flexion, abduction and internal rotation of the right hip joint)
  • the force of action is responded to not by a proper force of reaction but by a deviated force of reaction.
  • Exercise activity involving a three-dimensionally twisted force imposes a heavier burden on joints and can be a primary cause of injuries.
  • exercise activity involving a three-dimensionally twisted force should be eliminated (if the exercise direction is deviated) or should be controlled and restricted ideally (if the exercise direction is proper) as much as possible.
  • exercise activity of the knee joints should be discussed in consideration of rotational exercise activity of the upper joints (the hip joints), as mentioned above.
  • exercise activity of the ankle joints which is affected by the upper joints (the knee and hip joints) should be discussed along with exercise activity of the upper joints.
  • the upper joints should be asymmetrically supported in consideration of directions of their exercise axes, with adequate modifications to the manner of support.
  • muscles have to be facilitated by point stimulation in such a way as to realize the hip-strategy based manner of exercise.
  • the biceps femoris as an example of multiarticular muscles which contain a monoarticular muscle portion. In this case, it is especially necessary to facilitate one of its multiarticular muscle functions, i.e. extension of the hip joint. On the contrary, suppose that a monoarticular muscle function of the biceps femoris is facilitated, flexion of the knee joint stands out so much as to prevent smooth extension of the hip joint.
  • FIG. 54 shows a full suit 117 designed for the right-handed, which can be used in sports which involve symmetrical upper limb movements, such as track and field, swimming (butterfly and breaststroke), skating, cycling, and skiing.
  • the locations of stimulation parts 10 a correspond to motor points of the right sternocleidomastoid (SCM), the right supraspinatus (SS), the right infraspinatus (IS), the middle part of the left erector spinae (ESMid)/the left rhomboideus major (RMa), the left latissimus dorsi (LD), the lower part of the right erector spinae (ESLo)/the right serratus posterior inferior (SPI), the bottommost part of the left erector spinae (ESBtm)/the left quadratus lumborum (QL), the right gluteus minims/minimus (GMed/GMin), the left gluteus maximus (GMax), the left b
  • This full suit 117 is made of a yarn which is obtained by paralleling nylon yarns (thickness 78 dtex/48 f) and of a single covered yarn in which a 44-dtex-thick polyurethane elastane yarn core is covered with a nylon yarn (thickness 56 dtex/48 f).
  • the full suit is knitted in plain stitch.
  • the stimulation parts 10 a (approximately 3 cm 2 each) are made in plate stitch by which a polyester yarn (thickness 78 dtex/36 f) forms a projecting pattern on the skin/back side. Seams (not shown) in the full suit 117 are sewn flat so as to avoid stimulation to the skin, and are designed to align with muscular grooves as best as possible.
  • the full suit 117 is intended to improve power of muscle activity by giving point stimulation.
  • a stimulation part 10 a at the center of the lower rectus abdominis corrects an anteriorly tilted pelvis.
  • a stimulation part 10 a at the left gluteus maximus exhibits its effect.
  • Contraction of the lower rectus abdominis brings the pelvis to an upright position, thereby increasing muscle tone of the gluteus maximus.
  • the lower part of the right erector spinae (a trunk extensor)/the right serratus posterior inferior and the bottommost part of the left erector spinae (a trunk extensor)/the left quadratus lumborum develop muscle tone and extend the trunk.
  • the left gluteus maximus is also stimulated with antagonistic flexion of the hip joint by the left iliopsoas. This stimulation cooperates with the other stimulations mentioned earlier, allowing the trunk to extend in a more stable manner.
  • a stimulation part 10 a at the right gluteus maxims/minimus hinders sidewise sway (in adduction-abduction directions) at the hip joint and improves a support power in exercise.
  • two of these specified stimulations (the lower rectus abdominis and the right gluteus maxims/minimus) define a supporting surface (serving as an application point of force and a fulcrum).
  • a stimulation part 10 a at the right biceps femoris allows generation of a strong power for extending the hip joint. During running, this extension power is converted to a powerful propelling force.
  • the right gluteus maximus is more active than the left one, but the right gluteus maxims/minimus are less so than the left one.
  • the stimulation part 10 a at the right gluteus maxims/minimus hinders the above-mentioned sidewise sway at the hip joint, thereby assisting and promoting the right biceps femoris and the right semitendinosus/semimembranosus to work with higher exercise efficiency.
  • the right semitendinosus/semimembranosus which is less active than the right biceps femoris, tends to orient and waste its power in the abduction direction.
  • the stimulation part 10 a at the right semitendinosus/semimembranosus veers the power to a neutral direction and realizes efficient backward extension of the hip joint.
  • the stimulation part 10 a at the left gluteus maximus assists and corrects unbalanced activities of the left gluteus muscles (The left gluteus maximus is less active than the left gluteus maxims/minimus.), and strongly affects extension of the hip joint. (Prominent contraction of the gluteus maximus produces a strong forward propelling force.) Coordination between the stimulation part 10 a at the left right gluteus maximus and the one at the left biceps femoris makes this function more efficient.
  • the stimulation part 10 a at the left biceps femoris also controls hyperactivity of the semitendinosus/semimembranosus in the left posterior thigh.
  • the stimulation part orients the power from the adduction direction to the abduction direction, thereby promoting smoother extension of the hip joint and generation of a greater forward propelling force.
  • generation of the forward propelling force at the right lower limb and the right pelvic girdle involves not only generation of a strong propelling force of action but also generation of a strong force of reaction (a forward-dragging forward-shearing force which involves rotational movements at the left pelvis, the lumbar lordosis, and the sacral cornu).
  • a stimulation part 10 a at the left internal oblique suppresses the force of reaction and permits the left pelvis, the lumbar lordosis, and the sacral cornu to work as a support base of exercise.
  • the power generated at the right lower limb and the right pelvic girdle is oriented and wasted in the forward direction.
  • the extreme forward-shearing force and the extreme rotatory power may cause damage to joints in the lower lumbar vertebrae and the sacral vertebrae.
  • the nine specified stimulations emphasize respective muscle activities and thereby realize more efficient balance in the exercise posture.
  • an axis of exercise is notably and excessively oriented to a certain exercise direction (a direction for flexion, abduction, and internal rotation of the hip joint).
  • Stimulation parts 10 a at the right vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris and at the right sartorius change this axis along the correct gravity axis of the body, thereby modifying the flow of generated power.
  • the vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris has a remarkably strong support ability around the knee joints. However, for right-handed people, the right vastus medialis is developed less than the left one, so that the exercise axis and the support base are displaced further outwardly.
  • the exercise axis and the support base need to be corrected inwardly by these stimulation parts 10 a at the vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris and the right sartorius.
  • the gluteus maximus needs to be stimulated and facilitated in the manner described above. Nevertheless, merely by this facilitatory stimulation to the gluteus maximus, it is difficult to correct an external twist at the knee.
  • the point stimulation part 10 a at the left sartorius promotes and improves coordination with the point stimulation part 10 a at the left gluteus maximus, thereby correcting the twist at the knee joint.
  • an axis of exercise is notably and excessively oriented to a certain exercise direction (a direction for flexion, abduction, and internal rotation of the hip joint).
  • a stimulation part 10 a at the left vastus lateralis of the quadriceps femoris changes this axis along the central axis of the body, thereby modifying the flow of generated power.
  • the vastus medialis around the left knee is more active than the one around the right knee.
  • the left gluteus maximus of the left leg is not active enough, the exercise direction is often wastefully oriented to the one for abduction and internal rotation.
  • a stimulation part 10 a at the left medial gastrocnemius With a stimulation part 10 a at the left medial gastrocnemius, the direction of power acting at the left ankle joint is corrected from the eversion direction to the inversion direction along a proper axis of exercise.
  • posterior muscles at the left lower leg of right-handed people because a power generated by the upper joints or the like is oriented outwardly, the posterior part of the left lower leg attempts to force that power into an inward direction by making the lateral part more active than the medial part.
  • the direction of power is corrected at the upper joints, the power is oriented further inwardly at the posterior part of the left lower leg.
  • the stimulation part 10 a is provided at the left medial gastrocnemius.
  • muscle activity of the right lower leg is corrected by stimulation parts 10 a at the right peroneus tertius and at the right lateral soleus. They also reduce sway to the inversion direction at the right ankle.
  • a force deriving from muscular power involves not only a force of action but also a force of reaction which returns from a location where the force of action is applied, and that these forces act in three-dimensionally twisted directions.
  • exercise activity is performed in the above-mentioned exercise directions (a direction for flexion, adduction and external rotation of the left hip joint, and a direction for flexion, abduction and internal rotation of the right hip joint)
  • the force of action is responded to not by a proper force of reaction but by a deviated force of reaction.
  • Exercise activity involving a three-dimensionally twisted force imposes a heavier burden on joints and can be a primary cause of injuries.
  • exercise activity involving a three-dimensionally twisted force should be eliminated (if the exercise direction is deviated) or should be controlled and restricted ideally (if the exercise direction is proper) as much as possible.
  • exercise activity of the knee joints should be discussed in consideration of rotational exercise activity of the upper joints (the hip joints), as mentioned above.
  • exercise activity of the ankle joints which is affected by the upper joints (the knee and hip joints) should be discussed along with exercise activity of the upper joints.
  • the upper joints should be asymmetrically supported in consideration of directions of their exercise axes, with adequate modifications to the manner of support.
  • muscles have to be facilitated by point stimulation in such a way as to realize the hip-strategy based manner of exercise.
  • the biceps femoris as an example of multiarticular muscles which contain a monoarticular muscle portion. In this case, it is especially necessary to facilitate one of its multiarticular muscle functions, i.e. extension of the hip joint. On the contrary, suppose that a monoarticular muscle function of the biceps femoris is facilitated, flexion of the knee joint stands out so much as to prevent smooth extension of the hip joint.
  • the description made hitherto relates to adjustment of the lower body, according to the hip strategy-based manner of exercise. Furthermore, in order to realize the hip strategy-based manner of exercise, it is inevitable to adjust and coordinate activities in the upper body which is opposed to the lower body. In the case of Japanese and nonathletic people, a particular attention should be paid to hypertonicity in the upper abdominal muscles and the trapezium. Therefore, the manner of facilitating the upper body should be primarily focused on reduction of muscle tone in these muscles, and should further allow for coordination between lower body activities and upper body activities.
  • the trapezius is prominently active and constitutes the core of their manner of exercise. Accordingly, with a proviso that the left half of the back is divided into an upper section (around the trapezius) and a lower section (around the latissimus dorsi), the lower section is less good at effective exercise than the upper section.
  • a stimulation part 10 a at the left latissimus dorsi plays an important role in correcting the hyperactive right latissimus dorsi and in correcting the entire left half of the back whose activity is unbalanced and dependent on the left trapezium.
  • the right latissimus dorsi is prominently active and developed well, so that it draws down the right shoulder and causes a right shoulder-dropped, tilted posture.
  • the first function of this stimulation part 10 a is to modify the tilted posture in a pelvis-based, balanced manner. Its second function is to correct excessive exercise activity in the upper left section of the back (around the trapezius).
  • the stimulation part 10 a at the left latissimus dorsi needs to be coordinated with and assisted by a stimulation part 10 a at the middle part of the left erector spinae/the left rhomboideus major and a stimulation part 10 a at the bottommost part of the left erector spinae.
  • This combination can create a symmetrical exercise posture which is centered on the waist part and aligned with the gravity axis for exercise. Having said that, the unbalanced muscle activities have their own merits.
  • the underdeveloped latissimus dorsi originating from the pelvis which provides a solid support base, has a poor ability to hold the shoulder joint which is a highly mobile ball-and-socket joints with three degrees of freedom.
  • the shoulder joint which is a highly mobile ball-and-socket joints with three degrees of freedom.
  • the left shoulder joint its poor ability is compensated by advanced development of inner muscles (the supraspinatus, the infraspinatus, the teres major, the teres minor, and the subscapularis).
  • inner muscles the supraspinatus, the infraspinatus, the teres major, the teres minor, and the subscapularis.
  • a muscle group surrounding inner muscles develops so well as to obstruct facilitation and activity of the inner muscles.
  • stimulation parts 10 a at the right supraspinatus and at the right infraspinatus are required to enhance the ability to support the shoulder joint.
  • underdevelopment of the right inner muscles severely limits the range of mobility of the right shoulder joint the two specified stimulations enhance and cure flexibility at the shoulder joint.
  • the brain orders asymmetrical muscle activities in the free lower limb/the pelvic girdles and symmetrical muscle activities in the free upper limb/the shoulder girdles.
  • muscle activities of the latter have to be symmetrical, unlike in the other parts of the body. Nevertheless, this is not necessarily applicable if an exercise specially employs a limb on one side of the body (as represented by tennis and baseball).
  • muscle activities in the free lower limb/the pelvic girdles are in contrast with those in the free upper limb/the shoulder girdles in that the former muscle activities are reciprocal. Therefore, muscle adjustment by an asymmetrical approach is particularly effective in the free lower limb and the pelvic girdles.
  • FIG. 55 shows a baseball undershirt 118 designed for the right-handed.
  • the locations of stimulation parts 10 a correspond to motor points of the right sternocleidomastoid (SCM), the right supraspinatus (SS), the right infraspinatus (IS), the middle part of the left erector spinae (ESMid)/the left rhomboideus major (RMa), the left latissimus dorsi (LD), the lower part of the right erector spinae (ESLo)/the right serratus posterior inferior (SPI), the bottommost part of the left erector spinae (ESBtm) (the longissimus thoracis)/the left quadratus lumborum (QL), the right pectoralis major (PMa), the left serratus anterior (SA), the medial/lateral heads (MH/LH) of the right triceps brachii (TB), the right ex
  • the undershirt 118 is made of a polyester yarn 33 dtex/48 f and a polyurethane elastane yarn 44 dtex, and knitted in a half tricot pattern (blend ratio: polyester 80% and polyurethane 20%).
  • Each stimulation part 10 a is composed of a plurality of projecting printed dots made of silicone resin. Seams (not shown) in the undershirt 118 are designed to locate not on the skin side but on the outer side and to align with muscular grooves as best as possible.
  • One of the vital factors for production of the baseball undershirt 118 is to enable smooth rotational movements at the joints.
  • rotational movements in the trunk are effected around the trunk axis (to rotate the hip, the neck, etc.) and can be roughly classified into two different types.
  • the first type of rotation is axial exercise during which the left or right side of the body looks fixed (like a common swing door). The axis of this rotation is either one leg, and the exercise is principally led by the lower body.
  • the second type is a symmetrical rotation around the spine which constitutes the core of the trunk (like a revolving door), with the hip joints bearing a load in a substantially symmetrical manner.
  • the second type of rotation In contrast to the first type of rotation in which the axis is offset to one side and dependent on the lower body, the second type of rotation has an axis centered along the spine and mobilizes the left and right parts of the whole body equally. As a result, the latter rotation is less prone to sway, and is able to realize a most compact rotation axis and speedier movements. In particular, these two types of rotation are noticeable in batting forms of Japanese (nonathletic people) and those of Latin Americans and athletically skilled people. When a Japanese batter who adopts the first type of rotation takes a swing, he imagines a virtual wall built at a front leg nearer to the pitcher (e.g.
  • a right-handed batter has this wall to the left side of the body.) and attempts to stop the axis of rotation against the wall. This motion is translation rather than rotation.
  • a Latin American batter who adopts the second type of rotation has an established support axis (just as a spinning top rotating at high speed.) and tries to hit a ball by originating a rotation from the core of the body. Judging from the facts that many constant long hitters adopt the latter type of rotation and non-Japanese long hitters (above all, Latin Americans) boast of amazing ball distances, it is apparent to tell which batter is superior in today's baseball.
  • the neck reflex activity means tonic neck reflex for adjusting muscle tone of the limbs so as to hold the posture.
  • the tonic neck reflex encompasses two major categories: symmetrical tonic neck reflex and asymmetrical tonic neck reflex.
  • neck flexion increases muscle tone in upper limb flexors and lower limb extensors
  • neck extension increases muscle tone in upper limb extensors and lower limb flexors.
  • Such motions are frequently seen in Sumo wrestling, powerlifting, etc.
  • a person stands up with a heavy item held in the hands, the person tucks the chin in strongly and bends the neck more deeply, thus trying to encourage extension of the lower limbs.
  • a defensive player stretches the neck and activates lower limb flexors in order to keep a low posture.
  • the asymmetrical tonic neck reflex concerns rotations around the trunk, such rotation making up a significant part of exercise activity on a horizontal plane (as observed in baseball, tennis and other like sports).
  • head rotation to one side increases muscle tone in upper/lower limb extensors on the jaw side, and increases muscle tone in upper/lower limb flexors on the head side.
  • these two neck reflexes have a great influence on muscle asymmetry in the body, as we mentioned heretofore.
  • these reflex activities occur in order to improve efficiency of batting, pitching and other motions.
  • these various reflex activities raise the level of completion in exercise. It is also true, however, these reflex activities affect laterality (dominant hand, dominant leg, etc.), resulting in unbalanced muscle development and inadequate exercise.
  • a stimulation part 10 a at the left latissimus dorsi plays an important role in correcting the hyperactive right latissimus dorsi and in correcting the entire left half of the back whose activity is unbalanced and dependent on the left trapezium.
  • the right latissimus dorsi is prominently active and developed well, so that it draws down the right shoulder and causes a right shoulder-dropped, tilted posture.
  • the first function of this stimulation part 10 a is to modify the tilted posture in a pelvis-based, balanced manner. Its second function is to correct excessive exercise activity in the upper left section of the back (around the trapezius).
  • the stimulation part 10 a at the left latissimus dorsi needs to be coordinated with and assisted by a stimulation part 10 a at the middle part of the left erector spinae/the left rhomboideus major and a stimulation part 10 a at the bottommost part of the left erector spinae.
  • This combination can create a symmetrical exercise posture which is centered on the waist part and aligned with the gravity axis for exercise. Having said that, the unbalanced muscle activities have their own merits.
  • the underdeveloped latissimus dorsi originating from the pelvis which provides a solid support base, has a poor ability to hold the shoulder joint which is a highly mobile ball-and-socket joints with three degrees of freedom.
  • the shoulder joint which is a highly mobile ball-and-socket joints with three degrees of freedom.
  • the left shoulder joint its poor ability is compensated by advanced development of inner muscles (the supraspinatus, the infraspinatus, the teres major, the teres minor, and the subscapularis).
  • inner muscles the supraspinatus, the infraspinatus, the teres major, the teres minor, and the subscapularis.
  • a muscle group surrounding inner muscles develops so well as to obstruct facilitation and activity of the inner muscles.
  • stimulation parts 10 a at the right supraspinatus and at the right infraspinatus are required to enhance the ability to support the shoulder joint.
  • underdevelopment of the right inner muscles severely limits the range of mobility of the right shoulder joint the two specified stimulations enhance and cure flexibility at the shoulder joint.
  • the right half of the back shows strong muscle activities as a whole, and causes a posture in which the right shoulder is drawn slightly backward.
  • Input of point stimulation to the right pectoralis major guides the shoulder joint to an anteroposteriorly symmetrical, efficient position.
  • the left scapula needs an external and downward displacement because it is fixed at a raised position due to high muscle tone of the trapezius, the pectoralis minor, etc.
  • a stimulation part 10 a at the left serratus anterior is provided to make use of its muscle activity, abduction of the scapula.
  • the neck activity of right-handed people is characterized in that the face turns easily to the right but awkwardly to the left.
  • a stimulation part 10 a is provided at the right sternocleidomastoid. The above-mentioned stimulation input methods stabilize the trunk and enable smooth rotation.
  • point stimulation is applied to the triceps brachii so as to make its muscle activity dominant. Further, similar immaturity of athletic performance ability is seen in the forearms, as a result of which the forearms tend to be flexed and pronated. Hence, the exercise axes should be corrected by point stimulation to extensor carpi muscles and a supinator in the forearms. As mentioned, muscle activity at the forearm joints is dominated by flexion and pronation. Therefore, point stimulation is applied to the extensors and the supinator. For this reason, stimulation 10 a is applied to the respective acting muscles.
  • the brain orders asymmetrical muscle activities in the free lower limb/the pelvic girdles and symmetrical muscle activities in the free upper limb/the shoulder girdles.
  • muscle activities of the latter have to be symmetrical, unlike in the other parts of the body.
  • this is not necessarily applicable if an exercise specially employs a limb on one side of the body (as represented by tennis and baseball).
  • stimulation parts 10 a at the medial/lateral heads of the right triceps brachii are provided, so that the elbow joint can acquire an ability to extend more smoothly.
  • the angular momentum needs to be offset between the right and left upper arms which are opposed to each other.
  • a stimulation part 10 a at the left biceps brachii is required to enhance elbow flexion ability.
  • the asymmetrical angular momentum and actions between the left and right upper arms enable smoother trunk rotation and ensure stable and speedier actions during exercise.
  • the left and right forearms are affected by the upper arms and the trunk which are discussed earlier.
  • a stimulation part 10 a at the right supinator is employed to increase the supination power in the right forearm, and a stimulation part 10 a is provided at the right extensor carpi radialis longus/brevis whose action is to assist and enhance the action of the right triceps brachii.
  • Japanese and nonathletic people who are said to be capable of snapping the wrists only weakly, tend to depend on ulnar flexors. Once the action of the right flexor carpi radialis is emphasized, their action comes to rely on radial flexors, thereby realizing powerful wrist extension/flexion and forearm rotation.
  • This stimulation input approach can alleviate elbow injuries (baseball elbow and tennis elbow) attributable to pitching motions, tennis strokes, or other like motions.
  • similar improvements are required in the left forearm, which acts in an opposed manner to the right forearm in order to offset the angular momentum.
  • the manner for improving the left forearm is also opposite to the manner for the right forearm, and employs stimulation parts 10 a for the left extensor carpi ulnaris and the left flexor carpi ulnaris. Owing to the asymmetrical stimulation input to the left and right upper limbs, it is possible to offset the angular momentum in the free upper limb and the shoulder girdles and to improve the trunk rotation ability as intended.
  • muscle activities resulting from the above asymmetrical stimulation input stabilizes the trunk more prominently in the free lower limb and the pelvic girdles.
  • Muscle activities in the free lower limb/the pelvic girdles are in contrast with those in the free upper limb/the shoulder girdles in that the former muscle activities are reciprocal. Therefore, muscle adjustment by an asymmetrical approach is particularly effective in the free lower limb and the pelvic girdles.
  • FIG. 56 shows a pair of tights 119 designed for the right-handed.
  • the locations of surface stimulation parts 10 b correspond to functional skin areas of the left gluteus maxims/minimus (GMed/GMin), the right gluteus maximus (GMax), the right biceps femoris (BF), the left semitendinosus/semimembranosus (ST/SM), the right medial gastrocnemius (MG), the left lateral gastrocnemius (LG), the right tensor fasciae latae (TFL), the right rectus femoris of the quadriceps femoris (RF), the left sartorius (SAR), and the right tibialis anterior (TA).
  • GMed/GMin the left gluteus maximus
  • GMax right biceps femoris
  • ST/SM left semitendinosus/semimembranosus
  • ST/SM the left semitendinosus/s
  • the tights 119 are made of a yarn which is obtained by paralleling nylon yarns (thickness 78 dtex/48 f) and of a single covered yarn in which a 44-dtex-thick polyurethane elastane yarn core is covered with a nylon yarn (thickness 56 dtex/48 f).
  • the tights 119 are knitted in plain stitch.
  • the surface stimulation parts 10 b are made in plate stitch by which a polyester yarn (thickness 78 dtex/36 f) forms a projecting pattern on the skin/back side. Seams (not shown) in the tights 119 are designed to align with muscular grooves as best as possible.
  • the tights 119 are intended to improve control ability and skill of muscles by applying surface stimulation.
  • right-handed Japanese and nonathletic people are likely to rely on a noticeable body axis in the following manner.
  • the right jaw is higher than the left jaw
  • the left shoulder is higher than the right shoulder
  • the right pelvis is higher than the left pelvis.
  • the entire abdominal part has low muscle tone, with the lower rectus abdominis facing slightly downward, and the pelvis is tilted anteriorly.
  • their exercise posture often looks like an angle bracket which bends at the abdomen.
  • the hip joints shift to internally rotated positions, causing the entire body to lean forward.
  • the left gluteus maximus displaces the left part of the right pelvis up and the right part down, a surface stimulation part 10 b is applied to the left gluteus maximus, thereby inhibiting them and correcting the right pelvis along the center of an exercise axis of the trunk.
  • the abductory action of the left gluteus maxims/minimus is inhibited, and the role of generating power shifts to the opposite right gluteus maxims/minimus.
  • Application of surface stimulation to the two important muscles which act around the hip joints has an effect of improving the skill of these muscle groups, thereby enhancing stability of the trunk and making it easily controllable.
  • other muscle groups for example, those in the lower body.
  • the hip joints are ball-and-socket joints and have as high as three degrees of freedom. Hence, coordinated muscle activities at these joints are heavily influenced by muscle groups which act very dominantly.
  • muscle groups for moving the hip joints prominently active muscles include the left gluteus maximus, the right gluteus maximus, the right biceps femoris, the left semitendinosus/semimembranosus, the right tensor fasciae latae, the right rectus femoris of the quadriceps femoris, and the left sartorius.
  • Their activity should be intentionally controlled for the purpose of curing such unbalanced actions. This is why it is crucial to provide surface stimulation parts 10 b at functional skin areas of those muscle groups.
  • the gluteus maximus is more active than the gluteus maximus, which hampers smooth adduction/abduction and rotation at the left hip joint.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b at the left gluteus maximus inhibits and controls activities of the left gluteus maximus, thereby enhancing the ability to stretch and internally rotate the left hip joint in a proper direction.
  • the gluteus maximus is more active than the gluteus maximus, which also hampers smooth adduction/abduction and rotation at the right hip joint.
  • stimulation must be applied oppositely relative to the left gluteus maximus (i.e.
  • these dormant muscle groups (the gluteus maxims/minimus at the right hip joint, and the gluteus maximus at the left hip joint) cause certain muscles (the right biceps femoris and the left semitendinosus/semimembranosus) to act strongly in order to compensate for and assist the dormant muscle groups during exercise.
  • the right biceps femoris and the left semitendinosus/semimembranosus should also have their outstanding activities controlled.
  • surface stimulation parts 10 b are required at locations corresponding to functional skin areas of the respective muscle groups.
  • the left hip joint muscles at the anterior and medial parts of the left hip joint need to be controlled as well.
  • surface stimulation is applied to the left sartorius which concerns external rotation of the hip joint and which is antagonistic to the left tensor fasciae latae (a hip joint flexor, abductor and, in particular, internal rotator).
  • this surface stimulation promotes reduction of muscle tone in the stimulated muscle and powerfully supports exercise activities of its antagonist.
  • the stimulation ensures excellent exercise control ability at the left hip joint and can realize superior performance in exercise.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b at the right tibialis anterior inhibits and cures a strong inversion action at the right ankle joint.
  • the lower legs have a smaller amount of muscles than other parts of the lower limbs (muscle groups as represented by the anterior and posterior thigh muscles). In inverse proportion to the amount of muscles, the lower legs are used more frequently and produce a greater force of action during exercise, which makes them prone to stress and injuries.
  • the respective muscles require surface stimulation parts 10 b for reducing muscle tone, and have their muscle activity regulated and modified to stable one.
  • a force deriving from muscular power involves not only a force of action but also a force of reaction which returns from a location where the force of action is applied, and that these forces act in three-dimensionally twisted directions.
  • exercise activity is performed in the above-mentioned exercise directions (a direction for flexion, adduction and external rotation of the left hip joint, and a direction for flexion, abduction and internal rotation of the right hip joint)
  • the force of action is responded to not by a proper force of reaction but by a deviated force of reaction.
  • Exercise activity involving a three-dimensionally twisted force imposes a heavier burden on joints and can be a primary cause of injuries.
  • exercise activity involving a three-dimensionally twisted force should be eliminated (if the exercise direction is deviated) or should be controlled and restricted ideally (if the exercise direction is proper) as much as possible.
  • exercise activity of the knee joints should be discussed in consideration of rotational exercise activity of the upper joints (the hip joints), as mentioned above.
  • exercise activity of the ankle joints which is affected by the upper joints (the knee and hip joints) should be discussed along with exercise activity of the upper joints.
  • the upper joints should be asymmetrically supported in consideration of directions of their exercise axes, with adequate modifications to the manner of support.
  • muscles have to be inhibited by surface stimulation in such a way as to realize the hip-strategy based manner of exercise.
  • FIG. 57 shows a full suit 120 designed for the right-handed, which can be used in sports which involve asymmetrical upper limb movements, such as tennis, volleyball, ice hockey, and baseball.
  • the locations of surface stimulation parts 10 b correspond to functional skin areas of the left upper trapezius (UTP), the right latissimus dorsi (LD), the left gluteus maxims/minimus (GMed/GMin), the right gluteus maximus (GMax), the right biceps femoris (BF), the left semitendinosus/semimembranosus (ST/SM), the right medial gastrocnemius (MG), the left lateral gastrocnemius (LG), the left pectoralis minor (PMi), the center of the upper rectus abdominis (URA), the right serratus anterior (SA), the right tensor fasciae latae (TFL), the right rectus femoris of the quadriceps femoris (RF
  • the full suit 120 is made of a yarn which is obtained by paralleling nylon yarns (thickness 78 dtex/48 f) and of a single covered yarn in which a 44-dtex-thick polyurethane elastane yarn core is covered with a nylon yarn (thickness 56 dtex/48 f).
  • the full suit is knitted in plain stitch.
  • the surface stimulation parts 10 b are made in plate stitch by which a polyester yarn (thickness 78 dtex/36 f) forms a projecting pattern on the skin/back side. Seams (not shown) in the full suit 120 are sewn flat so as to avoid stimulation to the skin, and are designed to align with muscular grooves as best as possible.
  • the full suit 120 is intended to improve control ability and skill of muscles by applying surface stimulation.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b at the center of the upper rectus abdominis inhibits hyperactivity of the upper rectus abdominis which is typical to Japanese and nonathletic people.
  • Such stimulation ensures not only a uniform muscle activity throughout the rectus abdominis but also an equal distribution of the intra-abdominal pressure.
  • the entire rectus abdominis acts as a supportive antagonist, its agonistic muscle groups around the lower thoracic vertebrae, the lumbar vertebrae, and the sacral vertebrae serve more actively as facilitated active agonists, thereby promoting smooth actions of those joints.
  • the trunk is corrected by a surface stimulation part 10 b applied to the right latissimus dorsi which acts too strongly and which causes the trunk to tilt to the right and the right shoulder to drop, thereby correcting the trunk.
  • the left gluteus maxims/minimus usually hold the trunk by their abductory action. Unless muscle tone of the left gluteus maxims/minimus is reduced, the right part of the pelvis will rise and the left part will drop significantly.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b is provided at the left gluteus maxims/minimus in order to inhibit these muscles.
  • the abductory action of the left gluteus maxims/minimus is inhibited, and the role of generating power shifts to the opposite right gluteus maxims/minimus.
  • the left trapezius acts strongly relative to the left latissimus dorsi, being responsible for a posture in which the left shoulder is raised slightly. Inhibition of the left trapezius activity reforms this posture by lowering the left shoulder and promotes smooth activity of the left latissimus dorsi.
  • muscle groups for moving the hip joints prominently active muscles include the left gluteus maximus, the right gluteus maximus, the right biceps femoris, the left semitendinosus/semimembranosus, the right tensor fasciae latae, the right rectus femoris of the quadriceps femoris, and the left sartorius.
  • Their activity should be intentionally controlled for the purpose of curing such unbalanced actions. This is why it is crucial to provide surface stimulation parts 10 b at functional skin areas of those muscle groups.
  • the gluteus maximus is more active than the gluteus maximus, which hampers smooth adduction/abduction and rotation at the left hip joint.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b at the left gluteus maximus inhibits and controls activities of the left gluteus maximus, thereby enhancing the ability to stretch and internally rotate the left hip joint in a proper direction.
  • the gluteus maximus is more active than the gluteus maximus, which also hampers smooth adduction/abduction and rotation at the right hip joint.
  • stimulation must be applied oppositely relative to the left gluteus maximus (i.e.
  • Such stimulation decreases muscle tone, and controls and reduces sidewise sway at the right hip joint. In this manner, the stimulation stabilizes an exercise axis at the right hip joint, making its movement smoother and its athletic ability more efficient. Further, activities of these posterior muscle groups at the hip joints must coordinately cooperate with the above-mentioned trunk activity. Additionally, before application of the thus specified stimulation, these dormant muscle groups (the gluteus maxims/minimus at the right hip joint, and the gluteus maximus at the left hip joint) cause certain muscles (the right biceps femoris and the left semitendinosus/semimembranosus) to compensate for and assist the dormant muscle groups during exercise.
  • the right biceps femoris and the left semitendinosus/semimembranosus should also have their activities controlled.
  • surface stimulation parts 10 b are required at locations corresponding to functional skin areas of the respective muscle groups.
  • left hip joint muscles at the anterior and medial parts of the left hip joint need to be controlled as well.
  • surface stimulation is applied to the left sartorius which acts in coordination with the left tensor fasciae latae (a hip joint flexor/abductor).
  • this surface stimulation promotes reduction of muscle tone in the stimulated muscle and powerfully supports exercise activities of its antagonist.
  • the stimulation ensures excellent exercise control ability at the left hip joint and can realize superior performance in exercise.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b at the right tibialis anterior inhibits and cures a strong inversion action at the right ankle joint.
  • the lower legs have a smaller amount of muscles than other parts of the lower limbs (muscle groups as represented by the anterior and posterior thigh muscles). In inverse proportion to the amount of muscles, the lower legs are used more frequently and produce a greater force of action during exercise, which makes them prone to stress and injuries.
  • the respective muscles require surface stimulation parts 10 b for reducing muscle tone, and have their muscle activity regulated and modified to stable one.
  • a force deriving from muscular power involves not only a force of action but also a force of reaction which returns from a location where the force of action is applied, and that these forces act in three-dimensionally twisted directions.
  • exercise activity is performed in the above-mentioned exercise directions (a direction for flexion, adduction and external rotation of the left hip joint, and a direction for flexion, abduction and internal rotation of the right hip joint)
  • the force of action is responded to not by a proper force of reaction but by a deviated force of reaction.
  • Exercise activity involving a three-dimensionally twisted force imposes a heavier burden on joints and can be a primary cause of injuries.
  • exercise activity involving a three-dimensionally twisted force should be eliminated (if the exercise direction is deviated) or should be controlled and restricted ideally (if the exercise direction is proper) as much as possible.
  • exercise activity of the knee joints should be discussed in consideration of rotational exercise activity of the upper joints (the hip joints), as mentioned above.
  • exercise activity of the ankle joints which is affected by the upper joints (the knee and hip joints) should be discussed along with exercise activity of the upper joints.
  • the upper joints should be asymmetrically supported in consideration of directions of their exercise axes, with adequate modifications to the manner of support.
  • muscles have to be inhibited by surface stimulation in such a way as to realize the hip-strategy based manner of exercise.
  • the description made hitherto relates to adjustment of the lower body, according to the hip strategy-based manner of exercise. Furthermore, in order to realize the hip strategy-based manner of exercise, it is inevitable to adjust and coordinate activities in the upper body which is opposed to the lower body. In the case of Japanese and nonathletic people, a particular attention should be paid to hypertonicity in the upper abdominal muscles and the trapezius as mentioned above. As already described, such muscle activity should be inhibited. Therefore, the manner of facilitating the upper body should be primarily focused on reduction of muscle tone in these muscles, and should further allow for coordination between lower body activities and upper body activities.
  • the trapezius is prominently active and constitutes the core of their manner of exercise. Accordingly, with a proviso that the left half of the back is divided into an upper section (around the trapezius) and a lower section (around the latissimus dorsi), the lower section is less good at effective exercise than the upper section.
  • the underdeveloped latissimus dorsi originating from the pelvis which provides a solid support base, has a poor ability to hold the shoulder joints which are highly mobile ball-and-socket joints with three degrees of freedom.
  • the shoulder joints which are highly mobile ball-and-socket joints with three degrees of freedom.
  • the left shoulder joint its poor ability is compensated by advanced development of an inner muscle group (the supraspinatus, the infraspinatus, the teres major, the teres minor, and the subscapularis).
  • an inner muscle group the supraspinatus, the infraspinatus, the teres major, the teres minor, and the subscapularis.
  • a muscle group surrounding inner muscle group develops so well as to obstruct facilitation, activity and cooperability of the inner muscle group.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b is required at the left trapezius which acts excessively together with the right latissimus dorsi and the right serratus anterior.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b is also provided at a functional skin area of the left pectoralis minor which assists the left trapezius (The left pectoralis minor pulls the scapula forwardly and upwardly, so that the left shoulder looks displaced forwardly and upwardly), whereby the left shoulder should be adjusted backwardly and downwardly.
  • part of the muscle activities of the left pectoralis minor is to pull the scapula forwardly and upwardly.
  • the surface stimulation to the left pectoralis minor can correct the scapulae position and can properly realize shoulder joint-centered, coordinated activities between these parts.
  • the trapezius acts radically and has extreme muscle tone, making one's movement unnatural.
  • the shoulder part limits actions of respiratory muscles, causing shallow breathing.
  • the above surface stimulation can alleviate these symptoms, can eliminate “performance anxiety” resulting from such symptoms, and can eventually ensure smoother performance of exercise under pressure.
  • the brain orders asymmetrical muscle activities in the free lower limb/the pelvic girdles and symmetrical muscle activities in the free upper limb/the shoulder girdles.
  • muscle activities of the latter have to be symmetrical, unlike in the other parts of the body. Nevertheless, this is not necessarily applicable if an exercise specially employs a limb on one side of the body (as represented by tennis and baseball).
  • the surface stimulation applied to the right upper arm and the right forearm have to be totally reversed in the left upper limb/shoulder girdle.
  • muscle stimulation is applied to the left triceps brachii and the supinator and an extensor of the left forearm so as to inhibit and control these muscles.
  • muscle activities in the left and right lower limbs/pelvic girdles are in contrast with those in the free upper limb/the shoulder girdles in that the former muscle activities are reciprocal (e.g. When the right leg makes a forward stride, the left leg is pulled backward at the same time). Therefore, muscle adjustment by an asymmetrical approach is particularly effective in the free lower limb and the pelvic girdles.
  • FIG. 58 shows a baseball undershirt 121 designed for the right-handed.
  • the locations of surface stimulation parts 10 b correspond to functional skin areas of the left upper trapezius (UTP), the left sternocleidomastoid (SCM), the right latissimus dorsi (LD), the left pectoralis minor (PMi), the upper rectus abdominis (URA), the right serratus anterior (SA), the right biceps brachii (BB), the left triceps brachii (TB), the right pronator teres (PRT), the right flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU), the left supinator (SUP), and the left flexor carpi radialis (FCR).
  • UTP left upper trapezius
  • SCM left sternocleidomastoid
  • LD right latissimus dorsi
  • PMi left pectoralis minor
  • UAA upper rectus abdominis
  • SA
  • the undershirt 121 is made of a yarn which is obtained by paralleling nylon yarns (thickness 78 dtex/48 f) and of a single covered yarn in which a 44-dtex-thick polyurethane elastane yarn core is covered with a nylon yarn (thickness 56 dtex/48 f).
  • the undershirt 121 is knitted in plain stitch.
  • the surface stimulation parts 10 b are made in plate stitch by which a polyester yarn (thickness 78 dtex/36 f) forms a projecting pattern on the skin/back side. Seams (not shown) in the undershirt 121 are designed to locate not on the skin side but on the outer side and to align with muscular grooves as best as possible.
  • the undershirt 121 is intended to improve control ability and skill of muscles by applying surface stimulation.
  • One of the vital factors for production of the undershirt 121 is to enable smooth rotational movements at the joints.
  • rotational movements in the trunk are effected around the trunk axis (to rotate the hip, the neck, etc.) and can be roughly classified into two different types.
  • the first type of rotation is axial exercise during which the left or right side of the body looks fixed (like a common swing door). The axis of this rotation is either one leg, and the exercise is principally led by the lower body.
  • the second type is a symmetrical rotation around the spine which constitutes the core of the trunk (like a revolving door), with the hip joints bearing a load in a substantially symmetrical manner.
  • the second type of rotation In contrast to the first type of rotation in which the axis is offset to one side and dependent on the lower body, the second type of rotation has an axis centered along the spine and mobilizes the left and right parts of the whole body equally. As a result, the latter rotation is less prone to sway, and is able to realize a most compact rotation axis and speedier movements. In particular, these two types of rotation are noticeable in batting forms of Japanese (nonathletic people) and those of Latin Americans and athletically skilled people. When a Japanese batter who adopts the first type of rotation takes a swing, he imagines a virtual wall built at a front leg which faces the pitcher (e.g.
  • a right-handed batter has this wall to the left of the body.) and attempts to stop the axis of rotation against the wall. This motion is translation rather than rotation.
  • a Latin American batter who adopts the second type of rotation has an established support axis (just as a spinning top rotating at high speed.) and tries to hit a ball by originating a rotation from the core of the body. Judging from the facts that many constant long hitters adopt the latter type of rotation and that non-Japanese long hitters (above all, Latin Americans) boast of amazing ball distances, it is apparent to tell which batter is superior in today's baseball.
  • the neck reflex activity means tonic neck reflex for adjusting muscle tone of the limbs so as to hold the posture.
  • the tonic neck reflex encompasses two major categories: symmetrical tonic neck reflex and asymmetrical tonic neck reflex.
  • neck flexion increases muscle tone in upper limb flexors and lower limb extensors
  • neck extension increases muscle tone in upper limb extensors and lower limb flexors.
  • Such motions are frequently seen in Sumo wrestling, powerlifting, etc.
  • a person stands up with a heavy item held in the hands, the person tucks the chin in strongly and bends the neck more deeply, thus trying to encourage extension of the lower limbs.
  • a defensive player stretches the neck and activates lower limb flexors in order to keep a low posture.
  • the asymmetrical tonic neck reflex concerns rotations around the trunk, such rotation making up a significant part of exercise activity on a horizontal plane (as observed in baseball, tennis and other like sports).
  • head rotation to one side increases muscle tone in upper/lower limb extensors on the jaw side, and increases muscle tone in upper/lower limb flexors on the head side.
  • these two neck reflexes have a great influence on muscle asymmetry in the body, as we mentioned heretofore.
  • these reflex activities occur in order to improve efficiency of batting, pitching and other motions.
  • these various reflex activities raise the level of completion in exercise. It is also true, however, these reflex activities affect laterality (dominant hand, dominant leg, etc.), resulting in unbalanced muscle development and inadequate exercise.
  • the back of the body shows unbalanced muscle activities as a whole, where the right latissimus dorsi is too active and the left trapezius serves as the core of activity in the left half of the back.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b at the right latissimus dorsi is an important element not only for correcting and inhibiting the right latissimus dorsi but also for correcting the imbalance in the entire back.
  • the right latissimus dorsi which is prominently active and developed well in right-handed people, acts so excessively as to draw down the right shoulder and to cause a right shoulder dropped, tilted posture.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b is provided at the left trapezium, in combination with the surface stimulation part for reducing muscle tone at the right latissimus dorsi.
  • Reduction of muscle tone at the left trapezius promotes facilitation of muscle activity of the left latissimus dorsi which is antagonistic to the left trapezius (based on a theory that an agonist is facilitated by inhibition of muscle activity of its antagonist).
  • This combination can create a symmetrical exercise posture which is centered on the waist part and is aligned with the gravity axis for exercise. Having said that, the unbalanced muscle activities have their own merits.
  • the underdeveloped latissimus dorsi originating from the pelvis which provides a solid support base, has a poor ability to hold the shoulder joint which is a highly mobile ball-and-socket joints with three degrees of freedom.
  • the left shoulder joint At the left shoulder joint, its poor ability is compensated by advanced development of inner muscles (the supraspinatus, the infraspinatus, the teres major, the teres minor, and the subscapularis).
  • inner muscles the supraspinatus, the infraspinatus, the teres major, the teres minor, and the subscapularis.
  • the surface stimulation part 10 b at the right latissimus dorsi reduces its shoulder joint support ability which derives from its high muscle tone.
  • the task of generating a shoulder joint support power shifts to the right inner muscles.
  • the two specified surface stimulations enhance and improve its flexibility by reducing muscle tone of the outer muscles around the shoulder joint.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b must be also provided at a functional skin area of the left pectoralis minor which is an accessory muscle acting to assist the left trapezium.
  • Part of the muscle activities of the left pectoralis minor is to pull the left scapula upwardly and forwardly, to hamper its movement relative to the trunk, and thereby to restrict upper limb movements.
  • activity of the free upper limb/the shoulder girdle and that of the upper trunk are not coordinated with each other.
  • the surface stimulation to the left pectoralis minor can adjust such activities and can realize shoulder joint-centered, coordinated activities between these parts.
  • the trapezius acts radically and has extreme muscle tone, making one's movement unnatural.
  • the shoulder part limits actions of respiratory muscles, causing shallow breathing.
  • the above surface stimulation can alleviate these symptoms, can eliminate “performance anxiety” resulting from such symptoms, and can eventually ensure smoother performance of exercise under pressure.
  • part of the activities of the pectoralis minor is to pull the scapulae forwardly and upwardly, and thereby to assist and strengthen the trapezius activity.
  • the surface stimulation part 10 b at the left pectoralis minor restrains this activity, making inhibition of the left upper trapezius easier.
  • the right half of the back shows strong muscle activities as a whole, and causes a posture in which the right shoulder is drawn slightly backward.
  • surface stimulation is applied to the right serratus anterior, one of whose activities is to abduct the scapula. Input of this stimulation inhibits abduction of the scapula and helps forward and upward movements of the shoulder, thereby guiding the shoulder joint to an anteroposteriorly symmetrical, efficient position.
  • the surface stimulation to the right serratus anterior alleviates and cures the condition.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b is provided at the left sternocleidomastoid so as to reduce its muscle tone. This stimulation input method stabilizes the trunk and enables smooth rotation.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b is provided at the right biceps brachii so as to inhibit and control flexion ability of the elbow joint, so that the elbow joint can acquire an ability to extend more smoothly.
  • the angular momentum needs to be offset between the right and left upper arms which are opposed to each other.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b across the medial/lateral heads of the left triceps brachii helps elbow flexion ability.
  • the asymmetrical angular momentum and actions between the left and right upper arms enable smoother trunk rotation and ensure stable and speedier actions during exercise.
  • the left and right forearms are affected by the upper arms and the trunk which are discussed earlier.
  • hyperactivity of the right extensor carpi ulnaris is inhibited and controlled.
  • the manner for improving the left forearm is also opposite to the manner for the right forearm, and employs a surface stimulation part 10 b for the left supinator, a surface stimulation part 10 b for the left flexor carpi radialis, and a surface stimulation part 10 b for the left extensor carpi radialis longus/brevis.
  • asymmetrical stimulation input to the left and right upper limbs it is possible to offset the angular momentum in the free upper limb and the shoulder girdles and to stabilize and improve the trunk rotation ability as intended.
  • the muscle activities resulting from the above asymmetrical stimulation input stabilizes the trunk more prominently in the free lower limb and the pelvic girdles.
  • Muscle activities in the free lower limb/the pelvic girdles are in contrast with those in the free upper limb/the shoulder girdles in that the former muscle activities are reciprocal. Therefore, muscle adjustment by an asymmetrical approach is particularly effective in the free lower limb and the pelvic girdles.
  • a surface stimulation part 10 b at the upper rectus abdominis inhibits hyperactivity of the upper rectus abdominis which is typical to Japanese and nonathletic people.
  • Such stimulation ensures not only a uniform muscle activity throughout the rectus abdominis but also an equal distribution of the intra-abdominal pressure.
  • the entire rectus abdominis acts as a supportive antagonist, its agonistic muscle groups around the lower thoracic vertebrae, the lumbar vertebrae, and the sacral vertebrae serve more actively as facilitated active agonists, thereby promoting smooth actions of those joints.
  • the left and right gluteus maximus are also facilitated.
  • the trunk is corrected by the surface stimulation part 10 b applied to the right latissimus dorsi which acts too strongly as mentioned above and which causes the trunk to tilt to the right and the right shoulder to drop.
  • the left trapezius acts strongly relative to the left latissimus dorsi, being responsible for a posture in which the left shoulder is raised slightly.
  • Inhibition of the left trapezius activity reforms this posture by lowering the left shoulder and promotes smooth activity of the left latissimus dorsi.
  • inhibition of the two back muscles has an effect of improving the skill of these muscle groups. By combining this effect, it is possible to enhance stability and to make it more relaxed and easily controllable.
  • post-stimulation phenomena do not derive from relaxation or support of a muscle. Rather, in the present invention, post-stimulation phenomena are attributable to promotion and facilitation of muscle activies, and result from generation of heat due to a greater energy consumption by muscles, from enhanced neural sensitivity of such muscles, from improved reflexes, and the like.
  • the repositioning device 1 or the garment 10 results in facilitation of neurotransmission in a muscle where the repositioning device 1 or a point stimulation part 10 a of the garment 10 locates, thereby increasing awareness of the muscle.
  • neurotransmission is inhibited in a muscle where a surface stimulation part 10 b of the garment 10 locates, thereby decreasing awareness of the muscle.
  • the repositioning device 1 or the garment 10 can be applied to muscles resulting from deficit in body balance, hypoactive muscles, or muscles to be developed or strengthened, thereby conditioning the body as desired.
  • the repositioning device 1 and the garment 10 have a simple mechanism and merely facilitate neurotransmission in a muscle, without causing contraction of the muscle.
  • a person can casually wear the repositioning device 1 or the garment 10 for a long time and even do workouts while it is put on the body.
  • muscle activity is activated at the location of the repositioning device 1 or a point stimulation part 10 a of the garment 10 while we are hardly aware of it.
  • muscle activity is inhibited at the location of a surface stimulation part 10 b of the garment 10 while we are hardly aware of it.
  • the thus activated or inhibited muscle activity can be easily settled as extrapyramidal exercise which depends on proprioception.
  • the repositioning device and the garment intend to facilitate and promote muscle activity of a dormant muscle group by applying point stimulation, and to inhibit and control muscle activity of a hyperactive muscle group by applying surface stimulation.
  • the body is led to an efficient condition (an ideal posture) by utilizing the above-mentioned post-stimulation phenomena.
  • an efficient condition an ideal posture
  • the repositioning device 1 or the garment 10 can be applied to a muscle which is responsible for deficit in body balance.
  • a person's posture can be corrected in a short time to an ideal posture which is free from injuries and suitable for exercise, so that one can exert superior performance during exercise.
  • the forward head posture, bow legs, knock knees, and other wrong postures can be also corrected properly if the repositioning device 1 or the garment 10 is applied to a muscle responsible for such a wrong posture.
  • repositioning device 1 or the garment 10 to a hypoactive muscle can improve its function.
  • diseases which may result from hypoactivity of certain muscles e.g. lumbar pain, stiff neck, abnormal Q angle
  • the symptoms can be alleviated by brief use of the repositioning device 1 or the garment 10 in daily life.
  • Body shape can be made more attractive by exclusive development of certain muscles. While the repositioning device 1 or the garment 10 is put on casually or during positive training, it can promote development of certain muscles and can improve body shape. For example, the forward head posture, protruding buttocks, thick thighs, thick calves and the like can be fundamentally reformed from the skeleton and musculature.
  • the repositioning device or the garment according to the present invention is capable of creating efficient and superior body balance and body support ability while it is casually applied to the body for some time without doing anything else in particular. Consequently, it is possible to prevent injuries, to correct a posture, to improve body shape and an exercise ability, and to achieve many more.
  • rehabilitation exercise for aged people can be carried out more safely and efficiently.
  • the above-mentioned functional effects decrease the probability of injuries.
  • the present invention can ensure superior body balance and body support ability and can maximize effects of exercise.
  • FIGS. 1 ( a )-( c ) are a side view, a front view, and a rear view of a human body (a right-handed person in a forward leaning exercise posture), with indication of muscle groups which show high muscle tone during an antigravity exercise.
  • FIGS. 2 ( a )-( c ) are a side view, a front view, and a rear view of a human body (a right-handed person with a backward leaning exercise posture), with indication of muscle groups which show high muscle tone during an antigravity exercise.
  • FIG. 3 is a two-dimensional representation of muscle activities.
  • FIG. 4 is a representation of muscle activities in a femoral region (during extension of a hip joint).
  • FIG. 5 is a representation of muscle activities in a femoral region (during flexion of a hip joint).
  • FIG. 6 is a representation of muscle activities around a gluteal region (during extension of a hip joint).
  • FIG. 7 is a representation of muscle activities around a gluteal region (during flexion of a hip joint).
  • FIG. 8 explains muscle activities.
  • FIGS. 9 ( a ) and ( b ) are schematic illustrations which explain how asymmetry may cause disproportionate muscle development and imbalance of weight.
  • FIGS. 10 ( a ) and ( b ) are schematic views which explain a difference between the forward leaning exercise posture and the backward leaning exercise posture.
  • FIGS. 11 ( a ) and ( b ) are perspective views showing point stimulators for providing stimulation according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 12 ( a ) and ( b ) are perspective views showing surface stimulators for providing stimulation according to the present invention.
  • FIG. 13 ( a ) is a cross section of a non-electric point stimulator in use
  • FIG. 13 ( b ) is a cross section of another non-electric point stimulator in use
  • FIG. 13 ( c ) is a cross section of yet another non-electric point stimulator in use.
  • FIG. 14 ( a ) is a cross section of a different point stimulator for providing point stimulation according to the present invention
  • FIGS. 14 ( b ) and ( c ) are cross sections of this point stimulator in use.
  • FIG. 15 ( a ) is a cross section of another different point stimulator for providing point stimulation according to the present invention
  • FIGS. 15 ( b ) and ( c ) are cross sections of this point stimulator in use.
  • FIG. 16 ( a ) is a cross section of another different point stimulator for providing point stimulation according to the present invention
  • FIGS. 16 ( b ) and ( c ) are cross sections of this point stimulator in use.
  • FIG. 17 ( a ) is a cross section of another different point stimulator for providing point stimulation according to the present invention
  • FIGS. 17 ( b ) and ( c ) are cross sections of this point stimulator in use.
  • FIG. 18 ( a ) is a cross section of another different point stimulator for providing point stimulation according to the present invention
  • FIGS. 18 ( b ) and ( c ) are cross sections of this point stimulator in use.
  • FIG. 19 ( a ) is a cross section of another different point stimulator for providing point stimulation according to the present invention
  • FIGS. 19 ( b ) and ( c ) are cross sections of this point stimulator in use.
  • FIG. 20 is a cross section which schematically shows the entire structure of a vibration-generating point stimulator.
  • FIG. 21 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of a controller which is adopted in the point stimulator illustrated in FIG. 20 .
  • FIG. 22 is a schematic view which shows a different vibration-generating point stimulator.
  • FIGS. 23 ( a )-( h ) schematically represent structures of various vibration generators to be adopted in a vibration-generating repositioning device.
  • FIGS. 24 ( a )-( j ) schematically represent other structures of various vibration generators to be adopted in the vibration-generating repositioning device.
  • FIGS. 25 ( a )-( g ) illustratively relate to the types of vibrations to be generated by the vibration-generating repositioning device.
  • FIG. 26 schematically shows yet another vibration-generating repositioning device.
  • FIGS. 27 ( a ) and ( b ) schematically show yet another vibration-generating repositioning device.
  • FIG. 28 ( a ) is a cross section of a surface stimulator for providing surface stimulation according to the present invention
  • FIG. 28 ( b ) is a partial enlarged cross section thereof.
  • FIG. 29 ( a ) is a cross section of a different surface stimulator for providing surface stimulation according to the present invention
  • FIG. 29 ( b ) is a cross section of this surface stimulator in use.
  • FIG. 30 ( a ) is a cross section of another different surface stimulator for providing surface stimulation according to the present invention
  • FIG. 30 ( b ) is a cross section of this surface stimulator in use.
  • FIG. 31 ( a ) is a cross section of another different surface stimulator for providing surface stimulation according to the present invention
  • FIG. 31 ( b ) is a cross section of this surface stimulator in use.
  • FIG. 32 ( a ) is a cross section of another different surface stimulator for providing surface stimulation according to the present invention
  • FIG. 32 ( b ) is a cross section of this surface stimulator in use.
  • FIG. 33 is a cross section of another different surface stimulator in use.
  • FIGS. 34 ( a ) and ( b ) are partial cross sections which describe an embodiment of a point stimulation part on a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 35 ( a ) and ( b ) are partial cross sections which describe another embodiment of a point stimulation part on a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 36 ( a ) and ( b ) are partial cross sections which describe an embodiment of a surface stimulation part on a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 37 ( a ) and ( b ) are partial cross sections which describe another embodiment of a surface stimulation part on a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 38 ( a )-( c ) are a left side view, a front view, and a rear view of a pair of shorts, respectively, as an embodiment of a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 39 ( a )-( c ) are a left side view, a front view, and a rear view of a pair of tights, respectively, as an embodiment of a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 40 ( a )-( c ) are a left side view, a front view, and a rear view of a seagull (half-sleeve, long leg) swimsuit, respectively, as an embodiment of a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 41 ( a )-( c ) are a left side view, a front view, and a rear view of a pair of knee high socks, respectively, as an embodiment of a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 42 ( a )-( c ) are a left side view, a front view, and a rear view of a long john swimsuit, respectively, as an embodiment of a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 43 ( a )-( c ) are a left side view, a front view, and a rear view of a high-waist brief, respectively, as an embodiment of a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 44 ( a )-( c ) are a left side view, a front view, and a rear view of a pair of tights, respectively, as an embodiment of a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 45 ( a )-( c ) are a left side view, a front view, and a rear view of a pair of knee high socks, respectively, as an embodiment of a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 46 ( a )-( c ) are a left side view, a front view, and a rear view of a pair of tights, respectively, as an embodiment of a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 47 ( a )-( c ) are a left side view, a front view, and a rear view of a pair of shorts, respectively, as an embodiment of a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 48 ( a )-( c ) are a left side view, a front view, and a rear view of a T-shirt, respectively, as an embodiment of a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 49 ( a )-( c ) are a left side view, a front view, and a rear view of a pair of knee high socks, respectively, as an embodiment of a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 50 ( a )-( d ) are a right side view, a front view, a left side view, and a rear view of a pair of tights designed for the right-handed, respectively, as an embodiment of a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 51 ( a )-( f ) are a right side view, a front view, a left side view, a rear view, and cross sections taken along the lines I-I and II-II in FIG. 51 ( b ), respectively, of a full swimsuit designed for the right-handed, as an embodiment of a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 52 ( a )-( f ) are a right side view, a front view, a left side view, a rear view, and cross sections taken along the lines III-III and IV-IV in FIG. 52 ( b ), respectively, of an undershirt designed for the right-handed, as an embodiment of a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 53 ( a )-( d ) are a right side view, a front view, a left side view, and a rear view of a pair of tights designed for the right-handed, respectively, as an embodiment of a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 54 ( a )-( f ) are a right side view, a front view, a left side view, a rear view, and cross sections taken along the lines V-V and VI-VI in FIG. 54 ( b ), respectively, of a full swimsuit designed for the right-handed, as an embodiment of a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 55 ( a )-( f ) are a right side view, a front view, a left side view, a rear view, and cross sections taken along the lines VII-VII and VIII-VIII in FIG. 55 ( b ), respectively, of an undershirt designed for the right-handed, as an embodiment of a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 56 ( a )-( f ) are a right side view, a front view, a left side view, a rear view, and cross sections taken along the lines IX-IX and X-X in FIG. 56 ( b ), respectively, of a pair of tights designed for the right-handed, as an embodiment of a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 57 ( a )-( f ) are a right side view, a front view, a left side view, a rear view, and cross sections taken along the lines XI-XI and XII-XII in FIG. 57 ( b ), respectively, of a full swimsuit designed for the right-handed, as an embodiment of a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 58 ( a )-( f ) are a right side view, a front view, a left side view, a rear view, and cross sections taken along the lines XIII-XIII and XIV-XIV in FIG. 58 ( b ), respectively, of an undershirt designed for the right-handed, as an embodiment of a garment according to the present invention.
  • FIGS. 59 ( a )-( c ) are a left side view, a front view, and a rear view of a pair of tights in Example 1 according to the present invention, respectively, with the tights put on the body.
  • FIGS. 60 ( a )-( c ) are a left side view, a front view, and a rear view of a pair of tights in Example 2 according to the present invention, respectively, with the tights put on the body.
  • FIGS. 61 ( a )-( c ) are a left side view, a front view, and a rear view of a pair of tights in Example 3 according to the present invention, respectively, with the tights put on the body.
  • FIGS. 62 ( a )-( c ) are a left side view, a front view, and a rear view of a pair of tights in Example 4 according to the present invention, respectively, with the tights put on the body.
  • FIGS. 63 ( a )-( c ) are a left side view, a front view, and a rear view of a pair of tights in Example 5 according to the present invention, respectively, with the tights put on the body.
  • FIGS. 64 ( a )-( c ) are a left side view, a front view, and a rear view of a pair of tights in Example 6 according to the present invention, respectively, with the tights put on the body.
  • FIGS. 65 ( a )-( f ) are a right side view, a front view, a left side view, a rear view, and cross sections taken along the lines XV-XV and XVI-XVI in FIG. 65 ( b ), respectively, of a pair of tights in Example 7 according to the present invention, with the tights put on the body.
  • FIGS. 66 ( a )-( f ) are a right side view, a front view, a left side view, a rear view, and cross sections taken along the lines XVII-XVII and XVIII-XVIII in FIG. 66 ( b ), respectively, of a pair of tights in Example 8 according to the present invention, with the tights put on the body.
  • FIGS. 67 ( a )-( f ) are a right side view, a front view, a left side view, a rear view, and cross sections taken along the lines XIX-XIX and XX-XX in FIG. 67 ( b ), respectively, of a pair of tights in Example 9 according to the present invention, with the tights put on the body.
  • FIGS. 68 ( a )-( f ) are a right side view, a front view, a left side view, a rear view, and cross sections taken along the lines XXI-XXI and XXII-XXII in FIG. 68 ( b ), respectively, of a pair of tights in Example 10 according to the present invention, with the tights put on the body.
  • FIGS. 69 ( a )-( f ) are a right side view, a front view, a left side view, a rear view, and cross sections taken along the lines XXIII-XXIII and XXIV-XXIV in FIG. 69 ( b ), respectively, of a pair of tights in Example 11 according to the present invention, with the tights put on the body.
  • FIGS. 70 ( a )-( f ) are a right side view, a front view, a left side view, a rear view, and cross sections taken along the lines XXV-XXV and XXVI-XXVI in FIG. 70 ( b ), respectively, of a pair of tights in Example 12 according to the present invention, with the tights put on the body.
  • FIGS. 71 ( a )-( c ) are a left side view, a front view, and a rear view of a pair of tights in Comparative Example 1 according to the present invention, respectively, with the tights put on the body.
  • FIGS. 72 ( a )-( c ) are a left side view, a front view, and a rear view of a pair of tights in Comparative Example 2 according to the present invention, respectively, with the tights put on the body.
  • FIGS. 73 ( a )-( c ) are a left side view, a front view, and a rear view of a pair of tights in Comparative Example 3 according to the present invention, respectively, with the tights put on the body.
  • FIGS. 74 ( a )-( c ) are a left side view, a front view, and a rear view of a pair of tights in Comparative Example 4 according to the present invention, respectively, with the tights put on the body.
  • FIGS. 75 ( a )-( f ) are a right side view, a front view, a left side view, a rear view, and cross sections taken along the lines XXVII-XXVII and XXVIII-XXVIII in FIG. 75 ( b ), respectively, of a pair of tights in Comparative Example 5 according to the present invention, with the tights put on the body.
  • FIGS. 76 ( a )-( f ) are a right side view, a front view, a left side view, a rear view, and cross sections taken along the lines XXIX-XXIX and XXX-XXX in FIG. 76 ( b ), respectively, of a pair of tights in Comparative Example 6 according to the present invention, with the tights put on the body.
  • FIGS. 77 ( a )-( f ) are a right side view, a front view, a left side view, a rear view, and cross sections taken along the lines XXXI-XXXI and XXXII-XXXII in FIG. 77 ( b ), respectively, of a pair of tights in Comparative Example 7 according to the present invention, with the tights put on the body.
  • FIG. 78 ( a ) is a schematic view which illustrates a knit pattern of the tights in Examples 1-12 according to the present invention, and FIGS. 78 ( b )-( d ) show knit patterns for these tights.
  • FIG. 79 illustrates a knit pattern for a point stimulation part and a surface stimulation part in the tights of Examples 1-12 according to the present invention.
  • Tights of Examples 1-12 equipped with point stimulation parts 10 a and surface stimulation parts 10 b were manufactured as shown in FIGS. 59-70 , respectively.
  • tights of Comparative Examples 1-7 equipped with point stimulation parts 10 a and surface stimulation parts 10 b were manufactured as indicated in FIGS. 71-77 , respectively.
  • FIG. 78 shows a knit pattern for a point stimulation part 10 a .
  • FIGS. 79 shows a knit pattern for a point stimulation part 10 a .
  • the sidewise direction is the wale, and the lengthwise direction is the course.
  • the circles and crosses mean KNIT (to form a loop) and MISS (to omit a loop), respectively.
  • a plurality of knit patterns for the point stimulation part 10 a were formed in continuation.
  • the point stimulation parts 10 a and the surface stimulation parts 10 b were made in plate stitch by which a polyester yarn (thickness 78 dtex/36 f) formed a projecting pattern on the skin/back side.
  • a left part and a right part were knitted separately in tube form, in conformity with the shapes of the left and right lower bodies.
  • the left part and the right part were joined by flat sewing along the median line of the body, in such a manner as to minimize stimulation induced by the seam.
  • FIG. 59 shows a pair of tights 122 .
  • point stimulation parts 10 a were arranged to locate, with a person wearing the tights, on the skin surface corresponding to the neighborhood of the lower rectus abdominis, and the gluteal muscles (gluteus maximus).
  • a point for the neighborhood of the lower rectus abdominis was optionally selected to give maximum stimulation to the iliohypogastric nerve and the ilioinguinal nerve, and points for the gluteal muscles (gluteus maximus) were optionally selected to give maximum stimulation to the inferior gluteal nerve.
  • surface stimulation parts 10 b were arranged such that, with a person wearing the tights, a plurality of knit patterns shown in FIG. 79 could entirely cover functional skin areas of muscles for extension of the knee joints (including the rectus femoris) and muscles for flexion and internal rotation of the hip joints (the tensor fasciae latae).
  • FIG. 60 shows a pair of tights 123 .
  • point stimulation parts 10 a were arranged to locate, with a person wearing the tights, on the skin surface corresponding to the neighborhood of the lower rectus abdominis, the gluteal muscles (gluteus maximus), and the vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris.
  • a point for the neighborhood of the lower rectus abdominis was optionally selected to give maximum stimulation to the iliohypogastric nerve and the ilioinguinal nerve, points for the gluteal muscles (gluteus maximus) were optionally selected to give maximum stimulation to the inferior gluteal nerve, and points for the vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris were optionally selected to give maximum stimulation to the femoral nerve.
  • surface stimulation parts 10 b were arranged such that, with a person wearing the tights, a plurality of knit patterns shown in FIG.
  • 79 could entirely cover functional skin areas of following multiarticular muscles in the free lower limb and the pelvic girdles: muscles for extension of the knee joints (including the rectus femoris); muscles for extension of the ankle joints (including the gastrocnemius); and muscles for flexion and internal rotation of the hip joints (the tensor fasciae latae).
  • a pair of tights 150 shown in FIG. 71 were similar to those in Example 1 above, except for omitting point stimulation parts 10 a and surface stimulation parts 10 b .
  • point stimulation parts 10 a were arranged on the vastus lateralis of the quadriceps femoris.
  • Surface stimulation parts 10 b were arranged such that a plurality of knit patterns shown in FIG. 79 could entirely cover functional skin areas of the gluteus maximus and the thigh adductors.
  • the subjects took the following tests, with wearing the tights 151 of Comparative Example 2. During the tests, movements of the subjects were observed also visually.
  • the subjects wearing the tights 151 were instructed to stand on the measurement surface of a pressure mat.
  • the positions where the subjects supported their weight load were measured by density of their ink impression.
  • the subjects wearing the tights 151 were instructed to jump vertically. The height of the jump was measured.
  • the subjects wearing the tights 151 were instructed to jump continuously on the site, to the beat of a metronome at 100 bpm. While they were jumping, distribution of landing spots was measured. In addition, the height of the jumps was visually observed.
  • the subjects wearing the tights 151 were instructed to stand on one leg on the site. The time was counted until the subjects lost their balance and the standing foot moved from the original position.
  • Tests (a)-(d) All the subjects took Tests (a)-(d) in the same manner. During the tests, movements of the subjects were observed also visually.
  • the subjects wore, in turn, the tights 122 of Example 1, the tights 123 of Example 2, and the tights 150 of Comparative Example 1, and took the same tests as above. During the tests, movements of the subjects were observed also visually.
  • FIG. 61 shows a pair of tights 124 .
  • point stimulation parts 10 a were arranged to locate, with a person wearing the tights, on the skin surface corresponding to the neighborhood of the lower rectus abdominis and the gluteal muscles (gluteus maximus).
  • a point for the neighborhood of the lower rectus abdominis was optionally selected to give maximum stimulation to the iliohypogastric nerve and the ilioinguinal nerve, and points for the gluteal muscles (gluteus maximus) were optionally selected to give maximum stimulation to the inferior gluteal nerve.
  • FIG. 62 shows a pair of different tights 125 .
  • point stimulation parts 10 a were arranged to locate, with a person wearing the tights, on the skin surface corresponding to the neighborhood of the lower rectus abdominis, the gluteal muscles (gluteus maximus), and the vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris.
  • a point for the neighborhood of the lower rectus abdominis was optionally selected to give maximum stimulation to the iliohypogastric nerve and the ilioinguinal nerve, points for the gluteal muscles (gluteus maximus) were optionally selected to give maximum stimulation to the inferior gluteal nerve, and points for the vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris were optionally selected to give maximum stimulation to the femoral nerve.
  • FIG. 73 shows a pair of tights 152 , in which point stimulation parts 10 a are arranged on the vastus lateralis of the quadriceps femoris.
  • the subjects wore, in turn, the tights 124 of Example 3, the tights 125 of Example 4, and the tights 152 of Comparative Example 3, and took Tests (a)-(d) in the same manner. During the tests, movements of the subjects were observed also visually.
  • FIG. 63 shows a pair of tights 126 .
  • surface stimulation parts 10 b were arranged such that, with a person wearing the tights, a plurality of knit patterns shown in FIG. 79 could entirely cover functional skin areas of muscles which need to be inhibited when the tensor fasciae latae act as hip joint flexors and internal rotators.
  • FIG. 64 shows a pair of different tights 127 .
  • surface stimulation parts 10 b were arranged such that, with a person wearing the tights, a plurality of knit patterns shown in FIG. 79 could entirely cover functional skin areas of some multiarticular muscles in the free lower limb and the pelvic girdles whose extension ability needs to be inhibited.
  • surface stimulation parts 10 b were arranged such that a plurality of knit patterns shown in FIG. 79 could entirely cover the thigh adductors.
  • the subjects wore, in turn, the tights 126 of Example 5, the tights 127 of Example 6, and the tights 153 of Comparative Example 4, and took Tests (a)-(d) in the same manner. During the tests, movements of the subjects were observed also visually.
  • FIG. 65 shows a pair of tights 128 .
  • point stimulation parts 10 a were arranged to locate, with a person wearing the tights, on the skin surface corresponding to motor points of the right gluteus maximus (GMed/GMin), the left gluteus maximus (GMax), the left biceps femoris (BF), the right semitendinosus/semimembranosus (ST/SM), the left medial gastrocnemius (MG), the right lateral soleus (LSOL), the left internal oblique (IO), the center of the lower rectus abdominis (LRA), the right sartorius (SAR), the right vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris (VM), the left vastus lateralis of the quadriceps femoris (VL), the left tibialis anterior (TA), and the right peroneus tertius (PTer
  • a point for the center of the lower rectus abdominis was optionally selected to give maximum stimulation to the iliohypogastric nerve and the ilioinguinal nerve, and a point for the gluteal muscle (gluteus maximus) was optionally selected to give maximum stimulation to the inferior gluteal nerve.
  • surface stimulation parts 10 b were arranged such that a plurality of knit patterns shown in FIG.
  • the 79 could entirely cover functional skin areas of the left gluteus maximus/minimus (GMed/GMin), the right gluteus maximus (GMax), the right biceps femoris (BF), the left semitendinosus/semimembranosus (ST/SM), the right medial gastrocnemius (MG), the left lateral gastrocnemius (LG), the right tensor fasciae latae (TFL), the right rectus femoris of the quadriceps femoris (RF), the left sartorius (SAR), and the right tibialis anterior (TA).
  • GMed/GMin the right gluteus maximus
  • BF left semitendinosus/semimembranosus
  • ST/SM the right medial gastrocnemius
  • LG left lateral gastrocnemius
  • TTL right tensor fasciae latae
  • RF quadriceps femoris
  • FIG. 66 shows a pair of different tights 129 .
  • point stimulation parts 10 a were arranged to locate, with a person wearing the tights, on the skin surface corresponding to motor points of the center of the lower rectus abdominis (LRA), the left gluteus maximus (GMax), the right gluteus maxims/minimus (GMed/GMin), the right semitendinosus/semimembranosus (ST/SM), the left biceps femoris (BF), the right vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris (VM), the right sartorius (SAR), the left tibialis anterior (TA), the left medial gastrocnemius (MG), the right lateral soleus (LSOL), and the right peroneus tertius (PTert).
  • LRA left gluteus maximus
  • GMed/GMin the right gluteus maximus/minimus
  • ST/SM semitendinosus/semime
  • a point for the center of the lower rectus abdominis was optionally selected to give maximum stimulation to the iliohypogastric nerve and the ilioinguinal nerve, a point for the gluteal muscle (gluteus maximus) was optionally selected to give maximum stimulation to the inferior gluteal nerve, and a point for the vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris was optionally selected to give maximum stimulation to the femoral nerve.
  • surface stimulation parts 10 b were arranged such that, with a person wearing the tights, a plurality of knit patterns shown in FIG.
  • 79 could entirely cover functional skin areas of muscles for flexion and internal rotation of the hip joints (the left and right tensor fasciae latae (TFL)), and lower leg muscles for flexion of the knee joints and extension of the ankle joints (the right medial gastrocnemius (MG) and the left lateral gastrocnemius (LG)).
  • TCL tensor fasciae latae
  • MG medial gastrocnemius
  • LG left lateral gastrocnemius
  • a pair of tights 154 shown in FIG. 75 were similar to those in Example 7 above, except that their point stimulation parts 10 a and surface stimulation parts 10 b were mirror images of those in the tights 128 of FIG. 65 .
  • the subjects wore, in turn, the tights 128 of Example 7, the tights 129 of Example 8, the tights 154 of Comparative Example 5, and the tights 150 illustrated in FIG. 71 , and took Tests (a)-(d) in the same manner. During the tests, movements of the subjects were observed also visually.
  • Example 6 Stimulation method point stimulation point stimulation point stimulation none surface stimulation surface stimulation surface stimulation (right/left inverted) a) Center of gravity in the soles anterior areas of heels anterior areas of heels, central areas of heels, toes, slightly shifting to considerably shifting to shifting to the right side the right side of each foot the right side of each foot of each foot (b) Vertical jump test (cm) 59.0 54.0 52.0 51.5 (c) Sway of the whole body during continuous jumping Height of jumps (cm) 19.0 16.5 14.0 15.0 *Deviation: anterior-posterior (cm) 6.0 7.5 12.5 22.0 side-to-side (cm) 4.5 11.5 18.5 13.5 *maximum deviation from the original position (d) Duration of one-leg standing posture, and 43 37 4 7 change of posture over time (sec.)
  • FIG. 67 shows a pair of tights 130 .
  • point stimulation parts 10 a were arranged to locate, with a person wearing the tights, on the skin surface corresponding to motor points of the right gluteus maximus (GMed/GMin), the left gluteus maximus (GMax), the left biceps femoris (BF), the right semitendinosus/semimembranosus (ST/SM), the left medial gastrocnemius (MG), the right lateral soleus (LSOL), the left internal oblique (IO), the center of the lower rectus abdominis (LRA), the right sartorius (SAR), the right vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris (VM), the left vastus lateralis of the quadriceps femoris (VL), the left tibialis anterior (TA), and the right peroneus tertius (PTert
  • GMed/GMin the right gluteus maximus
  • a point for the center of the lower rectus abdominis was optionally selected to give maximum stimulation to the iliohypogastric nerve and the ilioinguinal nerve, and a point for the gluteal muscle (gluteus maximus) was optionally selected to give maximum stimulation to the inferior gluteal nerve.
  • FIG. 68 shows a pair of different tights 131 .
  • point stimulation parts 10 a were arranged to locate, with a person wearing the tights, on the skin surface corresponding to motor points of the center of the lower rectus abdominis (LRA), the left gluteus maximus (GMax), the right gluteus maxims/minimus (GMed/GMin), the right semitendinosus/semimembranosus (ST/SM), the left biceps femoris (BF), the right vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris (VM), the right sartorius (SAR), the left tibialis anterior (TA), the left medial gastrocnemius (MG), the right lateral soleus (LSOL), and the right peroneus tertius (PTert).
  • LRA left gluteus maximus
  • GMed/GMin the right gluteus maximus/minimus
  • ST/SM semitendinosus/semime
  • a point for the center of the lower rectus abdominis was optionally selected to give maximum stimulation to the iliohypogastric nerve and the ilioinguinal nerve, a point for the gluteal muscle (gluteus maximus) was optionally selected to give maximum stimulation to the inferior gluteal nerve, and a point for the vastus medialis of the quadriceps femoris was optionally selected to give maximum stimulation to the femoral nerve.
  • a pair of tights 155 shown in FIG. 76 were similar to those in Example 9 above, except that their point stimulation parts 10 a were mirror images of those in the tights 130 of FIG. 67 .
  • the subjects wore, in turn, the tights 130 of Example 9, the tights 131 of Example 10, the tights 155 of Comparative Example 7, and the tights 150 illustrated in FIG. 71 , and took Tests (a)-(d) in the same manner. During the tests, movements of the subjects were observed also visually.
  • FIG. 69 shows a pair of tights 132 .
  • surface stimulation parts 10 b were arranged such that, with a person wearing the tights, a plurality of knit patterns shown in FIG.
  • the 79 could entirely cover functional skin areas of the left gluteus maximus/minimus (GMed/GMin), the right gluteus maximus (GMax), the right biceps femoris (BF), the left semitendinosus/semimembranosus (ST/SM), the right medial gastrocnemius (MG), the left lateral gastrocnemius (LG), the right tensor fasciae latae (TFL), the right rectus femoris of the quadriceps femoris (RF), the left sartorius (SAR), and the right tibialis anterior (TA).
  • GMed/GMin the right gluteus maximus
  • BF left semitendinosus/semimembranosus
  • ST/SM the right medial gastrocnemius
  • LG left lateral gastrocnemius
  • TTL right tensor fasciae latae
  • RF quadriceps femoris
  • FIG. 70 shows a pair of different tights 133 .
  • surface stimulation parts 10 b were arranged such that, with a person wearing the tights, a plurality of knit patterns shown in FIG. 79 could entirely cover functional skin areas of the right tensor fasciae latae (TFL), the right medial gastrocnemius (MG), and the left lateral gastrocnemius (LG).
  • a pair of tights 156 shown in FIG. 77 were similar to those in Example 11 above, except that their surface stimulation parts 10 b were mirror images of those in the tights 132 of FIG. 69 .
  • the subjects wore, in turn, the tights 132 of Example 11, the tights 133 of Example 12, the tights 156 of Comparative Example 9, and the tights 150 illustrated in FIG. 71 , and took Tests (a)-(d) in the same manner. During the tests, movements of the subjects were observed also visually.
  • Test (a) showed that the tights according to the present invention could guide the subjects from the forward leaning, right-sided posture to a neutral or slightly backward leaning posture.
  • the results of Test (c) proved decrease of body sway.
  • the results of Test (d) confirmed change and decrease of body sway which was triggered by variation in the base of exercise.
  • Test (b) In the vertical jump of Test (b), the subjects showed better results in the tights according to the present invention than in the tights of Comparative Examples.
  • the results of Tests (a) and (b) proved a close relationship between the exercise posture and the power generated in that posture.
  • the vibration-type device illustrated in FIG. 20 was prepared in two types (high-amplitude and low-amplitude) whose frequencies were set in a range of 100 to 200 Hz.
  • the amplitude for the low-amplitude device was set such that the vibration sound was audible in a silent environment but inaudible in a daily living environment.
  • the amplitude for the high-amplitude device was set such that the vibration sound was barely audible in a daily living environment.
  • Trunk flexibility was measured by a stand-and-reach test. Subjects were instructed to stand on a stand-and-reach tester and to reach forward. The distance from the fingertip to the finger plate (above or below the plate) was measured in centimeters.
  • a repositioning device 1 was applied to the lower abdomen, about 40 mm below the umbilical ring. Ten minutes after the device was switched on, the stand-and-reach test was carried out again in the same manner.
  • the result of the stand-and-reach test before attachment was regarded as the reference value 0.
  • the results of the same test after ten minutes of attachment were taken as measured values (1), (2), (3) relative to the reference value.
  • Reference value measured before attachment of a repositioning device.
  • Measured value (1) measured 10 minutes after attachment of high-amplitude repositioning devices.
  • Measured value (2) measured 10 minutes after attachment of low-amplitude repositioning devices (conducted several days later).
  • Measured value (3) measured 10 minutes after attachment of high-amplitude repositioning devices (conducted several days later).
  • a low-amplitude repositioning device 1 was mounted on the lower abdomen, about 40 mm below the umbilical ring. Body movements were observed in the same manner, immediately after activation of the device and two three minutes later.
  • a low-amplitude repositioning device 1 was mounted on the lower abdomen, about 40 mm below the umbilical ring. Two to three minutes after activation of the device, body movements were observed in the same manner.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
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HK1127544A1 (en) 2009-10-02
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AU2009225276A1 (en) 2009-10-29
CN1691928A (zh) 2005-11-02
JP2004141384A (ja) 2004-05-20
AU2003268691A1 (en) 2004-05-13
WO2004037155A1 (fr) 2004-05-06
KR20050063788A (ko) 2005-06-28
CA2503537C (fr) 2013-05-28
CN101380272B (zh) 2011-08-31
JP4500900B2 (ja) 2010-07-14
US20120238923A1 (en) 2012-09-20
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KR101111583B1 (ko) 2012-04-12
AU2009225277A1 (en) 2009-10-29

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