US20090325770A1 - Exercise ball and similar stationary exercise equipment - Google Patents
Exercise ball and similar stationary exercise equipment Download PDFInfo
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- US20090325770A1 US20090325770A1 US12/147,025 US14702508A US2009325770A1 US 20090325770 A1 US20090325770 A1 US 20090325770A1 US 14702508 A US14702508 A US 14702508A US 2009325770 A1 US2009325770 A1 US 2009325770A1
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- ball
- band
- increasing
- secured
- stability
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B43/00—Balls with special arrangements
- A63B43/04—Balls with special arrangements with an eccentric centre of gravity; with mechanism for changing the centre of gravity
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/15—Arrangements for force transmissions
- A63B21/151—Using flexible elements for reciprocating movements, e.g. ropes or chains
- A63B21/154—Using flexible elements for reciprocating movements, e.g. ropes or chains using special pulley-assemblies
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/40—Interfaces with the user related to strength training; Details thereof
- A63B21/4027—Specific exercise interfaces
- A63B21/4033—Handles, pedals, bars or platforms
- A63B21/4035—Handles, pedals, bars or platforms for operation by hand
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
- A63B22/18—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with elements, i.e. platforms, having a circulating, nutating or rotating movement, generated by oscillating movement of the user, e.g. platforms wobbling on a centrally arranged spherical support
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
- A63B23/035—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously
- A63B23/12—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously for upper limbs or related muscles, e.g. chest, upper back or shoulder muscles
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B43/00—Balls with special arrangements
- A63B43/02—Balls with special arrangements with a handle
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
- A63B71/0054—Features for injury prevention on an apparatus, e.g. shock absorbers
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
- A63B71/0054—Features for injury prevention on an apparatus, e.g. shock absorbers
- A63B2071/0072—Limiting the applied force, torque, movement or speed
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/40—Interfaces with the user related to strength training; Details thereof
- A63B21/4027—Specific exercise interfaces
- A63B21/4029—Benches specifically adapted for exercising
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2208/00—Characteristics or parameters related to the user or player
- A63B2208/02—Characteristics or parameters related to the user or player posture
- A63B2208/0228—Sitting on the buttocks
- A63B2208/0233—Sitting on the buttocks in 90/90 position, like on a chair
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2225/00—Miscellaneous features of sport apparatus, devices or equipment
- A63B2225/62—Inflatable
-
- 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
- A63B23/02—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for the abdomen, the spinal column or the torso muscles related to shoulders (e.g. chest muscles)
- A63B23/0205—Abdomen
- A63B23/0211—Abdomen moving torso with immobilized lower limbs
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
- A63B23/035—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously
- A63B23/0355—A single apparatus used for either upper or lower limbs, i.e. with a set of support elements driven either by the upper or the lower limb or limbs
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
- A63B23/035—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously
- A63B23/03575—Apparatus used for exercising upper and lower limbs simultaneously
-
- 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
- A63B23/035—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously
- A63B23/12—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously for upper limbs or related muscles, e.g. chest, upper back or shoulder muscles
- A63B23/1209—Involving a bending of elbow and shoulder joints simultaneously
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
- A63B71/02—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00 for large-room or outdoor sporting games
- A63B71/023—Supports, e.g. poles
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- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
- Orthopedic Medicine & Surgery (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Biophysics (AREA)
- Cardiology (AREA)
- Vascular Medicine (AREA)
- Rehabilitation Tools (AREA)
- Pivots And Pivotal Connections (AREA)
Abstract
An exercise ball including: a spherical elastomer ball; and a device one of mounted and integral therewith for one or more of; increasing a usefulness of the ball for performing a greater range of exercises than would be possible without the device; increasing a stability of the ball to minimize injuries resulting from use thereof; and increasing an easiness of use of the ball than would be possible without the device.
Description
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates generally to exercise equipment, and more particularly to exercise balls and similar stationary exercise equipment.
- 2. Prior Art
- Use of a large ball for exercising is well known in the art. Typically, such balls, known in the art as exercise or stability balls are very useful for developing the abdominal muscles and can also be used to develop other core muscle groups.
- However, the spherical shape of an exercise ball is inherently unstable, making it easy for users to fall from the ball during exercise leading to injury, including head trauma. Users of exercise balls may try to increase the stability of the ball by using it while it is propped against a wall or other stable member. However, use of the exercise ball in such a way severely limits it usefulness and effectiveness.
- Furthermore, exercise balls are also inherently clumsy to use and are generally limited to developing the core muscle groups.
- Thus, there is a need in the art of exercise equipment to provide a stable exercise ball to limit the likelihood of injury from use therefrom without limiting the usefulness and/or effectiveness of the exercise ball.
- There is also a need in the art of exercise equipment to provide an exercise ball that is easier to use and can be used to develop a wider range of muscle groups.
- Accordingly, an exercise ball is provided, the Exercise ball comprising: a spherical elastomer ball; and a device one of mounted and integral therewith for one or more of; increasing a usefulness of the ball for performing a greater range of exercises than would be possible without the device; increasing a stability of the ball to minimize injuries resulting from use thereof; and increasing an easiness of use of the ball than would be possible without the device.
- Also provided is a device adapted for mounting on an exercise ball, the device comprising one or more of: means for increasing a usefulness of the ball for performing a greater range of exercises than would be possible without the device; means for increasing a stability of the ball to minimize injuries resulting from use thereof; and means for increasing an easiness of use of the ball than would be possible without the device.
- The means for increasing a usefulness of the ball can comprise: a band for attaching circumferentially around the ball and having one or more securing means for securing the band to the ball; and a pair of arm rest members secured to the band, each of the pair of arm rest members having a hand grip for being grasped by a user. Each of the pair of armrest members can further comprise a height adjustment device for adjusting a height of the handgrip relative to the ball.
- The means for increasing a usefulness of the ball can comprise: a band for attaching circumferentially around the ball and having one or more securing means for securing the band to the ball; and one or more pulley devices for performing resistance exercises while using the ball. The one or more pulley devices can be adapted for use with one or more of the arms and legs of the user.
- The means for increasing an easiness of use of the ball can comprise one or more handle members secured to the ball and having at least one handgrip for being grasped by a user. The device can further comprise a band for attaching circumferentially around the ball and having one or more securing means for securing the band to the ball wherein the one or more handle members are secured to the band. The device can further comprise means for rotatably securing the one or more handles to the ball. The means for rotatably securing the one or more handles to the ball can comprise a shaft running through the ball and rotatably secured to the ball.
- The means for increasing a stability of the ball can comprise three or more stability projections integrally formed with an outer surface of the ball, each of the three of more stability projections projecting radially out from the outer surface of the ball and having a surface adapted to contact a surface upon which the ball rests.
- The means for increasing a stability of the ball can comprise: a band for attaching circumferentially around the ball; and three or more stabilizers secured to the band for stabilizing the ball relative to a surface upon which the ball rests. The three of more stabilizers can comprise three or more projections projecting radially out from a portion of the band and having a surface adapted to contact the surface upon which the ball rests.
- The means for increasing a stability of the ball can comprise three or more stabilizing feet secured to the band, each of the three of more stabilizing feet having a surface adapted to contact a surface upon which the ball rests. Each of the individual stabilizing feet can comprise a spring mechanism for biasing an outer surface towards the surface upon which the ball rests. Each of the individual stabilizing feet can comprise an extension adjustment mechanism for adjusting an extension length of the stabilizing feet. The device can further comprise one or more handles secured to the band and having at least one hand grip for being grasped by a user.
- The means for increasing a stability of the ball can comprise two pairs of stabilizing feet secured to the ball, each pair having two individual stabilizing feet, each of the individual stabilizing feet having a surface adapted to contact a surface upon which the ball rests. The device can further comprise means for rotatably securing the pairs of stabilizing feet to the ball. Each of the individual stabilizing feet in the stabilizing pair can be angled with respect to each other. Each of the individual stabilizing feet can comprise a spring mechanism for biasing an outer surface towards the surface upon which the ball rests. Each of the individual stabilizing feet can comprise an extension adjustment mechanism for adjusting a extension length of the stabilizing feet. At least one of the pairs of stabilizing feet can include a handle having at least one handgrip for being grasped by a user.
- The means for increasing a stability of the ball can comprise: a band for attaching circumferentially around the ball; and a hoop extending at least partially circumferentially extending from the band and adapted to contact a surface upon which the ball rests.
- The means for increasing a stability of the ball can comprise a ballast adapted to be rotatably secured on an interior of the ball and having an internal volume to sealingly contain one or a liquid, gel or solid. The ballast can be secured to a rotatable shaft rotatably secured through the ball, the ballast extending radially from the shaft. The shaft can be secured through a diameter of the ball. The shaft can include a conduit in communication with the internal volume of the ballast, the conduit having an inlet on an end of the shaft for filling the one of the liquid, gel or solid into the internal volume. The device can further comprise one of a handle or body rest secured to the shaft.
- Still further provided is an exercise device comprising: a base; a user platform for holding a user of the device, the user platform having one or more handles for being grasped by the user; and a spring element for connecting the user platform to the base and allowing a restricted range of motion of the user platform relative to the base.
- The spring element can comprise a compression spring.
- The user platform can be configured as a solid sheet.
- These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the apparatus of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
-
FIG. 1 a illustrates an embodiment of an exercise ball having a device for increased easiness of use and increased ability to develop muscle groups other than core muscles. -
FIG. 1 b illustrates the device ofFIG. 1 a shown without the exercise ball. -
FIG. 1 c illustrates a height adjustment mechanism ofFIG. 1 b. -
FIG. 2 a illustrates an embodiment of an exercise ball having means for additional stability. -
FIG. 2 b illustrates an embodiment of an exercise ball having means for additional stability and easiness of use. -
FIGS. 3 a and 3 b illustrate an isometric and front view, respectively, of another embodiment of an exercise ball having means for additional stability and easiness of use. -
FIG. 4 illustrates another embodiment of an exercise ball having means for additional stability and easiness of use. -
FIG. 5 a illustrates an isometric view of another embodiment of an exercise ball having means for additional stability and easiness of use. -
FIG. 5 b illustrates an isometric view of the exercise ball ofFIG. 5 a having additional features for exercising a wider range of muscle groups. -
FIG. 5 c illustrates the exercise ball ofFIG. 5 b in use. -
FIGS. 6 a and 6 b illustrate an isometric and front view, respectively, of another embodiment of an exercise ball having means for additional stability and easiness of use. -
FIGS. 7 a, 7 b and 7 c illustrate front views of another embodiment of an exercise ball having means for additional stability and easiness of use. -
FIG. 8 a illustrates an embodiment of an exercise device similar in function to an exercise ball and having increased stability as compared to an exercise ball. -
FIG. 8 b illustrates the range of motion of the exercise device ofFIG. 8 a. - Referring now to
FIGS. 1 a-1 c, a first embodiment of a device is shown for use with an exercise ball, the device being referred to in general withreference numeral 100.FIG. 1 a shows thedevice 100 whileFIG. 1 b shows thedevice 100 secured to anexercise ball 102. The exercise ball is a spherical elastomer ball that has an internal cavity that is generally inflated with air. Alternatively, the ball can be made of semi-rigid materials so inflation thereof is not necessary. Thedevice 100 can be secured to the ball by any method known in the art, such as by mounting thedevice 100 withflexible straps 104 or fabricated integral with the ball. In general, the device can be for one or more of increasing a usefulness of the ball for performing a greater range of exercises than would be possible without the device; increasing a stability of the ball to minimize injuries resulting from use thereof; and increasing an easiness of use of the ball than would be possible without the device. - Specifically with regard to
FIGS. 1 a-1 c, thedevice 100 is particularly useful for increasing a usefulness of theball 102. Thedevice 100 includes aband 106 for attaching circumferentially around theball 102 and secured to theball 102 by means of the flexible straps 104. Theband 106 can be a simple band or include further structure such as asecond band 108 attached to theband 106 by way ofattachment members 110 spanning between theband 106 and thesecond band 108.Such attachment members 110 can be rigid or have flexibility, such as being fabricated with spring steel or other biasing material. - A pair of
armrest members 112 are secured to theband 106, such as by welding and can include features such as padded rests 114 andhandgrips 116 for being grasped by a user. Each of the pair of armrest members can further comprise aheight adjustment device 118, as are known in the art, for adjusting a height of thehandgrip 116 relative to theball 102.FIG. 1 c shows theheight adjustment device 118 in greater detail and can include a series ofopenings 120 and a corresponding pin for engaging one of the openings. The pin can be biased in an extended position to keep it from coming out of theopening 120. - The
armrest members 112 can be used to increase an easiness of use of the ball as well as increase the usefulness of the ball by providing holding members for a user to grasp and allowing additional exercises to be done on theball 102. The ball can be further modified to add a liquid, such as water 122 (shown in phantom lines) to partially fill an interior volume of the ball to increase a stability of the ball by lowering its center of gravity. - Referring now to
FIG. 2 a, there is shown another embodiment of a device for use with an exercise ball, referred to generally byreference numeral 200.FIG. 2 a illustrates a means for increasing a stability of anexercise ball 202 comprising three ormore stability projections 204 integrally formed with anouter surface 206 of theball 202. A single stabilizer can also extend around the entire circumference of the ball.Such stability projections 204 can be formed as a solid piece of elastomer or can be to at least some degree hollow. Also, thestability projections 204 can be molded integrally with theouter surface 206 of theball 202 or be insert molded therewith. Thestability projections 204 project radially out from theouter surface 206 of theball 202 and can have asurface 208 adapted (shaped and sized) to contact a surface upon which the ball rests when the ball is rotated more than a predetermined amount. Thus, thestability projections 204 limit the amount of roll the ball can make, thereby limiting the range of motion possible. Such limited range provides stability to theball 202 such that the user will not fall or be thrown off while using it and the user also does not have to be conscious of falling off the ball while using it and can thereby concentrate on the workout without additional worrying. - Referring now to
FIG. 2 b, there is shown another embodiment of a device for use with anexercise ball 102, the device being referred to generally byreference numeral 250. Thedevice 250 helps to increase the stability of theball 102 with the use ofstabilizers 252 similar to those described with regard toFIG. 2 . However,such stabilizers 252 are secured to aband 254, which is attached circumferentially around theball 102. Thestabilizers 252 can be provided in any number, however three or more stabilizers can be used to provide a minimum amount of necessary stability. A single stabilizer can also extend around the entire circumference of the ball. Thestabilizers 252 can project radially out from a portion of theband 254 and can also have asurface 256 adapted to contact the surface upon which theball 102 rests. Thestabilizers 252 can be formed in a plate-like shape or as a solid and secured to theband 254 by any means known in the art, such as by welding. Thestabilizers 252 can also be formed integrally with theband 254. Thedevice 250 can also be used for increasing an easiness of use of the ball by providing one ormore handle members 258 secured to theband 254 and having at least onehandgrip 260 for being grasped by a user. Thehandle members 258 can be secured to theband 254 by any means known in the art, such as by welding. The handle members can also be used to increase a usefulness of theball 102. - Referring now to
FIGS. 3 a and 3 b, there is shown another embodiment of a device for use with an exercise ball, the device being referred to generally byreference numeral 300, the ball being referred to by reference numeral 302. Thedevice 300 illustrated inFIGS. 3 a and 3 b can be used for increasing a usefulness, stability and easiness of use of the ball 302. The device 302 includes three or more stabilizingfeet 304 secured to the ball 302. Each of the three of more stabilizingfeet 304 can have asurface 306 adapted to contact a surface upon which the ball rests. Each of the individual stabilizingfeet 304 can also comprise aspring mechanism 308 for biasing thesurface 306 towards the surface upon which the ball 302 rests. Each of the individual stabilizingfeet 304 can also comprise anextension adjustment mechanism 310 for adjusting an extension length of the stabilizing feet. Such adjustment mechanism can be any of those known in the art, including that previously described with regard toFIG. 1 c. - In the configuration of
FIGS. 3 a and 3 b, two pairs of stabilizingfeet 304 are provided and secured to the ball 302. The stabilizingfeet 304 can be angled with respect to each other as shown inFIGS. 3 a and 3 b and can also be rotatably secured to the ball 302. The means by which the stabilizingfeet 304 are rotatably secured to the ball 302 can include a central shaft 312 (shown in phantom inFIG. 3 b) running through the ball 302 and connected at each end to the pairs of stabilizingfeet 304. The ball 302 can be retrofitted with an inner tube through which theshaft 312 is disposed and sealed at its ends or molded with such a tube. - The ball 302 can further include at least one
handle 314 having at least onehandgrip 316 for being grasped by a user. Thehandle 314 can be secured to the pairs of stabilizingfeet 304 and can also include an adjustment for height and/or angle with respect to the ball as is shown generally atreference numeral 316 inFIG. 3 b. - Referring now to
FIG. 4 , the same shows an embodiment of a device, generally referred to byreference numeral 400. The device is similar to the embodiment ofFIGS. 1 a-1 c where similar features are denoted with similar reference numerals. However, thedevice 400 ofFIG. 4 includes a means for increasing a stability of theball 102 comprising a hoop 402 extending at least partially circumferentially extending from theband 106 acting as a base and adapted to contact a surface upon which theball 102 rests. - Referring now to
FIG. 5 a, there is shown another embodiment of a device, generally referred to byreference numeral 500. The device has features similar to the embodiments ofFIGS. 1 a-1 c andFIGS. 3 a and 3 b where similar features are denoted with similar reference numerals. In thedevice 500 ofFIG. 5 a, the stabilizingfeet 304 are secured to one of thebands 106, 108 (shown secured to band 108) and thehandles 314 are also secured to one of thebands 106, 108 (shown secured to band 106). - Referring now to
FIG. 5 b, there is shown another embodiment of a device for use with anexercise ball 102, the device being generally referred to byreference numeral 550. Thedevice 550 has features similar to the embodiments ofFIG. 5 a where similar features are denoted with similar reference numerals and includes one ormore pulley devices 504 for performing resistance exercises while using theball 102. The one ormore pulley devices 504 can be adapted for use with one or more of thearms 504 a andlegs 504 b of the user as is known in the art. The device can also include abackrest 506 which can include anadjustment mechanism 508 and can be rotatably secured to one of thebands shaft 510. Thebackrest 506 can also be biased withspring members 512.FIG. 5 c illustrates thedevice 550 ofFIG. 5 b in use with a user. - Referring now to
FIGS. 6 a and 6 b, there is shown another embodiment of a device for use with an exercise ball, the device being generally referred to withreference numeral 600. Thedevice 600 helps to increase a stability of theball 602 and can comprise aballast 604 adapted to be rotatably secured on an interior of theball 604. The ballast includes an internal volume to sealingly contain one or a liquid, gel or solid. Theballast 604 can be secured to a rotatable shaft 606 rotatably secured through the ball 602 (similar to that described above with regard toFIGS. 3 a and 3 b). Theballast 604 extends radially from theshaft 604 in a direction of gravity to lower a center of gravity of theball 602 to increase the stability thereof. Due to the rotation of theballast 604, theballast 604 maintains its orientation of greatest stability when the ball rotates about the shaft 606. The shaft 606 can be secured through a diameter of theball 602. The shaft can include aconduit 608 in communication with the internal volume of theballast 604. The conduit can have an inlet 608 a on an end of the shaft 606 for filling the one of the liquid, gel or solid into the internal volume. Acap 610 can be sealingly secured to the shaft 606 to seal the inlet 608 a by any means known in the art such as by mating threads. Thedevice 600 can further comprise one or more of a handle or body rest (together referred to by reference numeral 612) secured to the shaft 606 and rotatable therewith. - Referring now to
FIGS. 7 a-7 c, there is shown a variation of the embodiment ofFIGS. 6 a and 6 b, the device illustrated therein being generally referred to byreference numeral 700. In the variation ofFIGS. 7 a-7 b, the device is used with anexercise ball 702 and comprises aballast 704 extending towards aninner surface 706 theshell 708 of theball 702 to provide a very low center of gravity and additional stability. Theballast 704 is rotatably secured to theball 702 by way of ashaft 710 which is rotatably secured to theball 702 similarly to that described above. However, the shaft can be offset from a center diameter of theball 702 away from the surface upon which theball 702 rests (e.g., the floor). Theshaft 710, as discussed above, can include a conduit and an inlet for filling an internal cavity of theballast 704 with a liquid (e.g., water), gel and/or solid (e.g., sand). Thus, theball 702 anddevice 700 can be used as is shown inFIG. 7 a with an increased stability. - The
device 700 can also be used withmodular handles 712 as shown inFIGS. 7 b and 7 c. Suchmodular handles 712 can be constructed of two or more pieces (712 a-712 c) which snap together as is known in the art, such as with abiased pin 714 andcorresponding opening 716. At least one of the pieces (712 c inFIG. 7 b) can include ahandle grip 718 for being grasped by a user. Thehandles 712 can be manipulated into a variety of configurations (lengths and angles) to satisfy different height and/or sizes of users and/or different exercises being performed on theball 702. Theshaft 710 and handle can be provided with female and male connection fittings, 720 a, 720 b, respectively, to connect thehandles 712 to thedevice 700. Thedevice 700 can be used with onehandle 712 or two as shown inFIG. 7 c. - Referring now to
FIGS. 8 a and 8 b, there is shown an exercise device generally referred to byreference numeral 800. Thedevice 800 comprises abase 802 for sifting on a surface such as the floor and auser platform 804 for holding a user of thedevice 800. Theplatform 804 can be configured in any way known in the art, such as a frame having a fabric stretched within the frame to support a user or as a solid member as shown inFIGS. 8 a and 8 b. Theplatform 804 can also include one or more handles for being grasped by the user. The handles can be configured in any way known in the art or as described above, such ashandles 712 described with regard toFIGS. 7 b and 7 c. Thedevice 800 includes aspring element 806, such as a compression spring for connecting theuser platform 804 to thebase 802 and allowing a restricted range of motion of the user platform relative to the base.FIG. 8 b illustrates an exemplary range of motion of theplatform 804 relative to the base 802 in phantom lines. Thedevice 800 can have similar exercise effects as an exercise ball without the inherent problems associated therewith, as discussed above. Although not shown, thedevice 800 can have a means for securing the user to theplatform 804, such as a seatbelt and the base can be fillable with a liquid (e.g., water), gel or solid (e.g., sand) to increase its stability. Alternatively, the base 802 can be fixed to a surface upon with it is used (e.g., the floor) by bolting or the like. - While there has been shown and described what is considered to be preferred embodiments of the invention, it will, of course, be understood that various modifications and changes in form or detail could readily be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. It is therefore intended that the invention be not limited to the exact forms described and illustrated, but should be constructed to cover all modifications that may fall within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (32)
1. An exercise ball comprising:
a spherical elastomer ball; and
a device one of mounted and integral therewith for one or more of;
increasing a usefulness of the ball for performing a greater range of exercises than would be possible without the device;
increasing a stability of the ball to minimize injuries resulting from use thereof; and
increasing an easiness of use of the ball than would be possible without the device.
2. A device adapted for mounting on an exercise ball, the device comprising one or more of:
means for increasing a usefulness of the ball for performing a greater range of exercises than would be possible without the device;
means for increasing a stability of the ball to minimize injuries resulting from use thereof; and
means for increasing an easiness of use of the ball than would be possible without the device.
3. The device of claim 2 , wherein the means for increasing a usefulness of the ball comprises:
a band for attaching circumferentially around the ball and having one or more securing means for securing the band to the ball; and
a pair of arm rest members secured to the band, each of the pair of arm rest members having a hand grip for being grasped by a user.
4. The device of claim 3 , wherein each of the pair of armrest members further comprises a height adjustment device for adjusting a height of the handgrip relative to the ball.
5. The device of claim 2 , wherein the means for increasing a usefulness of the ball comprises:
a band for attaching circumferentially around the ball and having one or more securing means for securing the band to the ball; and
one or more pulley devices for performing resistance exercises while using the ball.
6. The device of claim 5 , wherein the one or more pulley devices are adapted for use with one or more of the arms and legs of the user.
7. The device of claim 2 , wherein the means for increasing an easiness of use of the ball comprises one or more handle members secured to the ball and having at least one hand grip for being grasped by a user.
8. The device of claim 7 , further comprising a band for attaching circumferentially around the ball and having one or more securing means for securing the band to the ball wherein the one or more handle members are secured to the band.
9. The device of claim 7 , further comprising means for rotatably securing the one or more handles to the ball.
10. The device of claim 9 , wherein the means for rotatably securing the one or more handles to the ball comprises a shaft running through the ball and rotatably secured to the ball.
11. The device of claim 2 , wherein the means for increasing a stability of the ball comprises three or more stability projections integrally formed with an outer surface of the ball, each of the three of more stability projections projecting radially out from the outer surface of the ball and having a surface adapted to contact a surface upon which the ball rests.
12. The device of claim 2 , wherein the means for increasing a stability of the ball comprises:
a band for attaching circumferentially around the ball; and
three or more stabilizers secured to the band for stabilizing the ball relative to a surface upon which the ball rests.
13. The device of claim 12 , wherein the three of more stabilizers comprise three or more projections projecting radially out from a portion of the band and having a surface adapted to contact the surface upon which the ball rests.
14. The device of claim 2 , wherein the means for increasing a stability of the ball comprises three or more stabilizing feet secured to the band, each of the three of more stabilizing feet having a surface adapted to contact a surface upon which the ball rests.
15. The device of claim 14 , wherein each of the individual stabilizing feet comprise a spring mechanism for biasing an outer surface towards the surface upon which the ball rests.
16. The device of claim 14 , wherein each of the individual stabilizing feet comprises an extension adjustment mechanism for adjusting an extension length of the stabilizing feet.
17. The device of claim 14 , further comprising one or more handles secured to the band and having at least one hand grip for being grasped by a user.
18. The device of claim 2 , wherein the means for increasing a stability of the ball comprises two pairs of stabilizing feet secured to the ball, each pair having two individual stabilizing feet, each of the individual stabilizing feet having a surface adapted to contact a surface upon which the ball rests.
19. The device of claim 18 , further comprising means for rotatably securing the pairs of stabilizing feet to the ball.
20. The device of claim 18 , wherein each of the individual stabilizing feet in the stabilizing pair are angled with respect to each other.
21. The device of claim 18 , wherein each of the individual stabilizing feet comprise a spring mechanism for biasing an outer surface towards the surface upon which the ball rests.
22. The device of claim 18 , wherein each of the individual stabilizing feet comprises an extension adjustment mechanism for adjusting a extension length of the stabilizing feet.
23. The device of claim 18 , wherein at least one of the pairs of stabilizing feet includes a handle having at least one hand grip for being grasped by a user.
24. The device of claim 2 , wherein the means for increasing a stability of the ball comprises:
a band for attaching circumferentially around the ball; and
a hoop extending at least partially circumferentially extending from the band and adapted to contact a surface upon which the ball rests.
25. The device of claim 2 , wherein the means for increasing a stability of the ball comprises a ballast adapted to be rotatably secured on an interior of the ball and having an internal volume to sealingly contain one or a liquid, gel or solid.
26. The device of claim 25 , wherein the ballast is secured to a rotatable shaft rotatably secured through the ball, the ballast extending radially from the shaft.
27. The device of claim 26 , wherein the shaft is secured through a diameter of the ball.
28. The device of claim 26 , wherein the shaft includes a conduit in communication with the internal volume of the ballast, the conduit having an inlet on an end of the shaft for filling the one of the liquid, gel or solid into the internal volume.
29. The device of claim 25 , further comprising one of a handle or body rest secured to the shaft.
30. An exercise device comprising:
a base;
a user platform for holding a user of the device, the user platform having one or more handles for being grasped by the user; and
a spring element for connecting the user platform to the base and allowing a restricted range of motion of the user platform relative to the base.
31. The exercise device of claim 30 , wherein the spring element comprises a compression spring.
32. The exercise device of claim 30 , wherein the user platform is configured as a solid sheet.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/147,025 US20090325770A1 (en) | 2008-06-26 | 2008-06-26 | Exercise ball and similar stationary exercise equipment |
PCT/US2009/048825 WO2009158599A2 (en) | 2008-06-26 | 2009-06-26 | Exercise ball and similar stationary exercise equipment |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/147,025 US20090325770A1 (en) | 2008-06-26 | 2008-06-26 | Exercise ball and similar stationary exercise equipment |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20090325770A1 true US20090325770A1 (en) | 2009-12-31 |
Family
ID=41445336
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/147,025 Abandoned US20090325770A1 (en) | 2008-06-26 | 2008-06-26 | Exercise ball and similar stationary exercise equipment |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20090325770A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2009158599A2 (en) |
Cited By (15)
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USD245708S (en) * | 1975-10-10 | 1977-09-06 | Raymond Dallaire | Window component extrusion |
US7819781B1 (en) * | 2009-07-31 | 2010-10-26 | Brian Maldonado | Methods and apparatus for improved isolated musculature training |
US20110077135A1 (en) * | 2009-09-28 | 2011-03-31 | Jerry Abbott | Exercise apparatus and method of use |
US20110237403A1 (en) * | 2009-05-18 | 2011-09-29 | Cordio, LLC | Exercise machine with stationary bicycle and inflatable seat |
US8056976B1 (en) * | 2009-10-14 | 2011-11-15 | Polk Louis F | Chair with multiple pivot axes |
US20130102443A1 (en) * | 2011-10-20 | 2013-04-25 | Recreation Supply, Inc. | Vertical exercise equipment |
US9084909B1 (en) * | 2011-01-26 | 2015-07-21 | Stephen D. Henley | Apparatus and method for exercise ball cradle |
US9327155B2 (en) | 2011-06-21 | 2016-05-03 | Brian Doyle | Device and method for performing exercises using a freely rotating ball |
US9408469B1 (en) * | 2015-02-27 | 2016-08-09 | Famosa Corp. | Ball chair |
US10279213B2 (en) | 2011-03-31 | 2019-05-07 | Scott C. Agostini | Exercise device |
KR102026619B1 (en) * | 2018-11-05 | 2019-09-30 | (주)멘퍼스 | Suppor fixture for Gym-ball |
US10512336B1 (en) * | 2018-01-16 | 2019-12-24 | James Henderson | Exercise ball chair |
USD886216S1 (en) * | 2018-12-14 | 2020-06-02 | T.K. Chin Company Ltd. | Seated balance pad |
US11033111B2 (en) * | 2017-05-24 | 2021-06-15 | Harmoni-Us Pty. Ltd. | Ergonomic chair |
US20210283461A1 (en) * | 2020-03-11 | 2021-09-16 | Mohammed Hassan Aref | Abdominal exercise device |
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US5702354A (en) * | 1993-12-02 | 1997-12-30 | Active Motion Systems, Llc | Toe joint mobilization apparatus |
US20050079964A1 (en) * | 2003-10-08 | 2005-04-14 | Francavilla John Joseph | Spherical back exerciser apparatus |
US20050227838A1 (en) * | 2004-04-05 | 2005-10-13 | Toby Friesen | Core-bar |
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Cited By (21)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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USD245708S (en) * | 1975-10-10 | 1977-09-06 | Raymond Dallaire | Window component extrusion |
US20110237403A1 (en) * | 2009-05-18 | 2011-09-29 | Cordio, LLC | Exercise machine with stationary bicycle and inflatable seat |
US9079067B2 (en) | 2009-05-18 | 2015-07-14 | Cordio, LLC | Exercise machine with stationary bicycle and inflatable seat |
US10035040B2 (en) | 2009-05-18 | 2018-07-31 | Cordio, LLC | Exercise machine with stationary bicycle and inflatable seat |
US7819781B1 (en) * | 2009-07-31 | 2010-10-26 | Brian Maldonado | Methods and apparatus for improved isolated musculature training |
US20110077135A1 (en) * | 2009-09-28 | 2011-03-31 | Jerry Abbott | Exercise apparatus and method of use |
US7993250B2 (en) | 2009-09-28 | 2011-08-09 | Jerry Abbott | Exercise apparatus and method of use |
US8056976B1 (en) * | 2009-10-14 | 2011-11-15 | Polk Louis F | Chair with multiple pivot axes |
US9084909B1 (en) * | 2011-01-26 | 2015-07-21 | Stephen D. Henley | Apparatus and method for exercise ball cradle |
US10279213B2 (en) | 2011-03-31 | 2019-05-07 | Scott C. Agostini | Exercise device |
US9327155B2 (en) | 2011-06-21 | 2016-05-03 | Brian Doyle | Device and method for performing exercises using a freely rotating ball |
US20130102443A1 (en) * | 2011-10-20 | 2013-04-25 | Recreation Supply, Inc. | Vertical exercise equipment |
US9408469B1 (en) * | 2015-02-27 | 2016-08-09 | Famosa Corp. | Ball chair |
US11033111B2 (en) * | 2017-05-24 | 2021-06-15 | Harmoni-Us Pty. Ltd. | Ergonomic chair |
US11412857B2 (en) | 2017-05-24 | 2022-08-16 | Ergoflip International Pty Ltd. | Ergonomic chair |
US10512336B1 (en) * | 2018-01-16 | 2019-12-24 | James Henderson | Exercise ball chair |
KR102026619B1 (en) * | 2018-11-05 | 2019-09-30 | (주)멘퍼스 | Suppor fixture for Gym-ball |
WO2020096276A1 (en) * | 2018-11-05 | 2020-05-14 | 주식회사 멘퍼스 | Gym ball prop |
USD886216S1 (en) * | 2018-12-14 | 2020-06-02 | T.K. Chin Company Ltd. | Seated balance pad |
US20210283461A1 (en) * | 2020-03-11 | 2021-09-16 | Mohammed Hassan Aref | Abdominal exercise device |
US11571604B2 (en) * | 2020-03-11 | 2023-02-07 | Mohammed Hassan Aref | Abdominal exercise device |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2009158599A2 (en) | 2009-12-30 |
WO2009158599A3 (en) | 2010-03-25 |
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Legal Events
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