US20110212813A1

US20110212813A1 - Pliable linear devise with ergonomic hand positioning stations to aid in proper stretching of muscles and body parts to increase flexibility

Info

Publication number: US20110212813A1
Application number: US13/023,576
Authority: US
Inventors: Eric Michael Weber; Glenna Day Weber
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2010-02-26
Filing date: 2011-02-09
Publication date: 2011-09-01

Abstract

A devise designed to aid in proper stretching of muscles and body parts. This devise is composed of a linear length of rope or strap like material which is flexible, pliable, and yet non elastic in nature. Positioned on the devise are ergonomic hand position handles. The pliable nature allows the user to utilize the devise for multiple exercises and allows the user to target many different muscle groups or body parts. The non-elastic nature allows the user to apply desired tension and enforces proper stretching techniques. The handle positions allow for comfort, functionality, and prevent hand slippage during use. The design allows the devise to be compact and portable for travel and onsite use. The devise is not limited to any specific activity, exercise, or body type. The design features allow persons with limited flexibility to comfortably position themself, and perform desired exercises which could otherwise be difficult.

Description

BACKGROUND

Prior Art

Physical fitness and stretching techniques though common, are limiting especially to persons with limited flexibility.
Many stretching maneuvers or exercises require the assistance or use of a machine or fixed instrument.
Many techniques utilize non pliable tools such as poles, sticks, and rods. These alternative methods limit the portability and access to utilize these devises.
Devises which utilize elasticity are primarily designed for strength training, and promote poor stretching techniques. Improper stretching techniques such as “bouncing” or jerking can lead to injury.
Stretching devises that are fixed in position to a wall or structures also limit the portability and usefulness of the devise. Some devises may utilize large handles which limit the devise to the practical portability of the devise.

Examples of Prior Art

3117782 (unknown) January 1964
3664666 (unknown) May 1972
3999752 Push-pull type of exercising device supported entirely by the body Dec. 28, 1976
4084815 Continuous tension exerciser Apr. 18, 1978
4257592 Exercising apparatus with improvements in handle structure, rope arrangement, and clamping means Mar. 24, 1981
4277062 Leg stretching exercise Jul. 7, 1981
4696470 Portable platform assembly for dancers and the like Sep. 29, 1987
4988096 Muscular stretching apparatus Jan. 29, 1991
5024214 Apparatus for use in relieving neck and/or back pain Jun. 18, 1991
5067709 Unassisted lower torso strengthening and stretching device Nov. 26, 1991
5160305 Multifunctional gym exerciser with adjustment table Nov. 3, 1992
5261865 Back strengthening device and method Nov. 16, 1993
5277680 Therapeutic leveraging device Jan. 11, 1994
5286242 Therapeutic leveraging device Feb. 15, 1994
5405306 Stretching apparatus Apr. 11, 1995
5520615 Shoulder stretching and rotation machine May 28, 1996
5529562 Exercise apparatus Jun. 25, 1996
5558607 Training device for martial art athletes Sep. 24, 1996
5634873Hamstring stretching device and method Jun. b 3, 1997

SUMMARY

Exercise or stretching devises currently available are typically too bulky to be portable, too flexible or possess too much elasticity, or require additional assistance form additional persons. They may require the use of pulleys and mechanical devises to obtain the desired result.

Advantages

Accordingly several advantages of one or more aspects are as follows. The devise is pliable, easily folds and bends for both packing and utilization. It is not elastic and does not stretch, allowing the user to implement force or resistance as he or she chooses or requires. The ergonomic hand positioners offer style and functionality for hand position, grip, and a good feel while using the devise. It can be easily manufactured in a large variety of colors, with different rope/grip combinations or custom combinations. Length can be standardized for the average user or custom made to fit any body type. It is extremely portable, can be used by one or more persons and can assist in targeting almost every major muscle group or body part.
The pliable or bendable design feature will enable users which have poor flexibility to position both him or herself and the devise in such a way that enables the user to perform the stretching exercise, where as a ridged devise would not. This feature will also allow the user to utilize his/her surrounding features to assist in various exercises.

DRAWINGS-FIGURES

In the drawings the part number identifiers have been standardized for alternate views.

FIG. 1 Depicts the devise in linear form as a complete devise

FIG. 2 depicts an enlarged image of an end of the devise. The ergonomic handle and fastening methods are depicted.

FIG. 3 depicts an enlarged image of one of the center ergonomic hand positioners and possible fastening or securing method.

FIG. 4 depicts an ergonomic hand positioner and the bored or drilled out hollow center for which the rope or band would pass through.

FIG. 5 depicts a complete sheet with all of the figures displayed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

11 Ergonomic handle
12 linear rope or strap
13 Rope or strap center point or middle
16 General fastening method
17 Possible end fastening method
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES
The devise as depicted in FIG. 1 is a linear length of non-elastic pliable rope or material that is made to a pre-determined length. Fastened to the rope or strap is four ergonomic handles positioned for proper use and comfort for the user. The handles can be secured to the linear material through a variety of common methods. Through a series of knots or clamps along the rope the handles will be positioned and the ends secured.
In FIG. 2 the depicted image is an ergonomic handle fastened at the end of the devise. On one side of the handle a knot is depicted as the securing method and on the end a clamp is depicted to secure the end. Though the handle design may vary the devise will utilize golf balls in an altered state for the handle or hand position devise. This is a style feature and does not alter the use of the devise or the use of alternate ergonomic handles on the devise.
As shown in FIG. 3 the ergonomic handle for use within the devise may be fastened on both sides to prohibit slipping and aid proper technique. These handles may be the same or differ in shape, size, color, material, or style to fit different athletic needs. Actual position may be altered to fit different body types or styles.
As shown in FIG. 4 is an image of the proposed handle. In this case a golf ball which has been altered by boring or drilling a hole through the center which the rope or strap shall pass. As stated earlier, material and shape of the handle may change to accommodate different users or style preferences.
There are various possibilities with regard to the devise. Rope or strap thickness or shape would not change the physical usefulness of the devise. These changes may be necessary to accommodate different persons or styles. Color combinations also would not change the use of the devise only the style preference. Length of the devise may also vary to meet the needs of the individual user. Ergonomic handle design again does not alter the use of the devise. The user may prefer handles in a different shape or material due to personal preference or style needs. The devise will be compact, easily portable due to its pliable nature and size.

Claims

1. This devise when used properly will aid in the stretching of the users muscles and increase flexibility.

2. This devise is easily portable and designed to be used in the home or at an away site.

3. The lack of elasticity or non elastic nature of the devise enables the user to determine and regulate the amount of force placed on the body.

4. The pliable nature allows for ease of use and portability.

5. The pliable nature of claim 4 allows for a variety of exercises or positions.

6. The multiple hand position locations enables the user to have a variety of hand placement positions along said devise for various exercises.

7. The multiple hand position locations of claim 6 may vary in actual location on said devise for personalized user fit.

8. The multiple hand position locations of claim 6 may be secured to said devise by a variety of common means.

9. The multiple hand position locations of claim 6 will provide a place where as the user may apply force resistance or tension along the devise.

10. The multiple hand position locations of claim 6 may vary in size or material for user style or comfort preferences.