WO2007106754A2

WO2007106754A2 - Linked stretch tubing

Info

Publication number: WO2007106754A2
Application number: PCT/US2007/063741
Authority: WO
Inventors: Brett J. Longo
Original assignee: Longo Brett J
Priority date: 2006-03-10
Filing date: 2007-03-09
Publication date: 2007-09-20
Also published as: WO2007106754A3

Abstract

A method and system are disclosed The system may include a linked stretch tube (10). The linked stretch tube may include a first stretch tubing section (12) having a first end and a second end, a second stretch tubing section (12) having a first end and a second end, a first linking device (14) permanently, flexibly connecting the first end of the first stretch tubing section to the first end of the second tubing section, and a first connection device (16) flexibly connected to the second end of the first stretch tubing section

Description

LINKED STRETCH TUBING

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates in general to stretch tubing. It more particularly relates to a method and system for linked stretch tubing for use in exercising, sports conditioning, or physical rehabilitation.

The present invention relates in general to an exercise program. It more particularly relates to a method and system for using Linked Stretch Tubing and other pieces of fitness equipment for use in exercising, sports conditioning, or physical therapy in accordance with an age and fitness level based personalized exercise program

Background Art

There is no admission that the background art disclosed in this section legally constitutes prior art.

There have been a variety of exercise devices employing stretch tubing for various exercises or for conditioning for specific sports. For example, reference may be made to U.S. Patent Nos. 4,073,490; 4,544,155; 4,955,608; 5,518,481 ; 5,842,956; 6,261 ,212; and 6,726,606.

Exercising using stretch cords is a convenient technique for obtaining an effective exercise, and may eliminate the need for bulky weights. However, a large number of stretch cords may be necessary to perform all the desired exercises. Stretch cords come in a variety of lengths and resistances. Common lengths for stretch cord are 1.5, 2, 3, 4, and 7 feet in length. Typically, ten or more resistance levels are available ranging from 0.3-1.5 pounds of pull to 20-45 pounds of pull. The length of the stretch cord may depend on the type of exercise, the body part being exercised, and the size of the person performing the exercise. The resistance level of the stretch cord may depend on the body party being exercised and the strength of the person. Since some exercises require resistance on multiple parts or sides of the body, multiple stretch cords of the same length and resistance level may be required. Therefore, to accomplish_allJhe_desLred exercises _a pe_rson may_need ajarge number such as_fjfty_or more stretch cords.

There have also been a variety of systems and programs for attempting to make exercise for personalized or interesting. For example, reference may be made to US Patent Nos. 5,890,997; 7,056,267; 6,468,086. Finally, numerous works have been Copy written which explain an inventor's system for exercise. For example, particular study has been given to ISBN: 1-57954-908-X, 0-06-019339, 0-7679-0396-X.

There are nearly an infinite number of ways to exercise, and countless programs designed to maximize the results of an individual's workout regiment. These vary from basic guidelines regarding how many minutes a day and days of the weeks; to advanced systems incorporating heart rate, specific exercises, and dietary guidelines. One particular exercise art worth mentioning is "contrology" invented by Joseph H. Pilate, which seeks to unite the mind and body as the individual does a series of stretching and calisthenics exercises. None of these systems however have been able to incorporate Linked Stretch Tubing, the benefit being that Linked Stretch Tubing provides a complete source for both intense strength training and passive stretching. Another missing piece to the many popular 12-week-programs is that while they claim universality none provide for specific age based workouts. Finally, it seems that while there are countless programs for exercise, none have been designed from the perspective of combining physical therapy with exercise physiology to provide a qualitatively different workout, which attempts to avoid injury.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The features of this invention and the manner of attaining them will become apparent, and the invention itself will be best understood by reference to the following description of certain embodiments of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a partial sectional view of an embodiment of a linked stretch tube of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the linked stretch tube of FIG. 1 being illustrated to increase the resistance of the linked stretch tube; FIG.J3 is_a p_erspectiye_yiew pf_an_exercise system using_a_waLst harness, foot harnesses, and linked stretch tubing;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an exercise system using linked stretch tubing attached to a door;

FIG. 4A is an enlarged view of the linked stretch tube attached to a door strap of

FIG. 4;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an exercise system using linked stretch tubing attached to a wall; and

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a golf conditioning system using linked stretch tubing;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the linked stretch tube of FIG. 1 being illustrated to approximately quadruple the resistance of the linked stretch tube when attached to a pair of exercise accessories;

FIG. 8 is traditional workout bench, modified for linked stretch tubing and the Exercise System;

FIG. 9 is an example of a collapsible freestanding station allowing the exerciser to perform various overhead and 360 degree exercises without affixing hardware to the wall;

FIG. 10 is an example of a bench and overhead system mounted to the wall, designed to provide the necessary attachment points for a complete workout;

FIG. 11 is the same bench & overhead bar, but in the folded up position against the wall;

FIG. 12 is an example of a questionnaire used to help determine which intensity of program is appropriate for each person;

FIG. 13 is an example of the generic outlay of one of an embodiment of 12- week exercise programs;

week program - this particular one for days concentrating on upper body training;

FIG. 15 is an example of the equation used to quantify and differentiate total program intensity in order to provide a consistent and gradual progression between ages and fitness levels;

FIG. 16 is an example of the door mount and a person's ability to workout or passively stretch;

FIG. 17 is an example of an exercise called Hip Flexion on the Physioball, illustrating combining a balance ball with the linked stretch tubing;

FIG. 18 is an example of an exercise called Bent over row to scapular retraction, illustrating a balancing combo move using the linked stretch tubing;

FIG. 19 is an example of an exercise called Kneeling Bentover Pull To Kickback, illustrating a novel exercise combination;

FIG. 20 is an example of an exercise called Lying bicep curl to front press, illustrating the use of linked stretch tubing instead of free weights;

FIG. 21 is an example of an exercise called Pinwheel, illustrating a novel strength and balance move using just a Physioball, and

FIG. 22 is an example of an exercise called Quadruped Single Leg Hamstring Curl on Physioball, illustrating a novel exercise combo for balance, lower body, and core strengthening.

DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

It will be readily understood that the components of the embodiments as generally described and illustrated in the drawings herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Thus, the following more detailed description of the embodiments of the system, components and method of the present invention, as represented in the drawings, is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, as claimed, but is merely representative of the embodiments of the invention. A m_ejhod^and3_ysteιτLaχe_djsj^os^d,^ndjτi^ tube. The linked stretch tube may include a first stretch tubing section having a first end and a second end; a second stretch tubing section having a first end and a second end; a first linking device fixedly, flexibly connecting the first end of the first stretch tubing section to the first end of the second tubing section; and a first connection device flexibly connected to the second end of the first stretch tubing section.

In accordance with another disclosed embodiment of the invention, there is provided an exercising system, which may include a plurality of linked stretch tubes, a waist harness adapted to attach to the linked stretch tubes, and at least one foot harness adapted to attach to the linked stretch tubes.

According to another aspect of a disclosed embodiment of the invention, there is provided a method of exercising using a linked stretch tube having a two stretch tube sections with a fastener on each end of the linked stretch tube and a metal ring attached between the two stretch tube sections. The method may include attaching both fasteners to a first exercise accessory and attaching the metal ring to a second exercise accessory.

According to yet another aspect of a disclosed embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method of exercising using a linked stretch tube having at least three stretch tube sections with a fastener on each end of the linked stretch tube and a rigid ring attached each link between two stretch tube sections. The method may include attaching one of the fasteners to a first exercise accessory and attaching one of the rings to a second exercise accessory.

According to still another aspect of a disclosed embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method of exercising by a user wearing a waist harness and a pair of foot harnesses. The method may include attaching a first stretch cord between a first side of the waist harness and one side of the foot harnesses and attaching a second stretch cord between a second side of the waist harness and the other foot harness.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, an embodiment of the present invention as a linked stretch tube is shown. The linked stretch tube 10 may included a plurality of stretch tubing sections such as a stretch tubing sections 12, a series of linking devices 14, 15 and _17.permanently: and flexibly joining the_^stretchjubjng sjectioαs_such_as_the_section^ 12, and a pair of connection devices 16 and 25 at each end of the linked stretch tube 10. The number of stretch tubing sections may typically be three or four, but a linked stretch tube may include two sections or more than four sections depending on the application. The length of each stretch tubing section such as the section 12 may vary, and may typically be about twelve or about eighteen inches in length, but sections shorter or longer may also be useful depending on the application. The stretch tubing sections such as this section 12 may also be available in a variety of different resistance levels.

Each linking device such as the device 14 may include a rigid ring such as a metal ring 18 for connecting to exercise accessories, such as a waist harness, a foot harness, a handle, a wall mount or a door mount, for decreasing the useful or effective used length of the linked stretch tube 10, as hereinafter described in greater detail. Each connection device such as the device 16 may include a fastener or carabiner 20 for connecting to the exercise accessories or to one of the metal rings 18 to increase the resistance in a section of the linked stretch tube 10. In FIG. 2, both connection devices 16 and 25 of the linked stretch tube 10 are attached to the same metal ring 19 of the center linking device 15. In this configuration the usable length of the linked stretch tube 10 may reduce to about one half of the length of the linked stretch tube 10 in FIG. 1 , and the resistance may be twice the resistance of the linked stretch tube 10 in FIG. 1. In this configuration the linked stretch tube 10 may be attached to exercise accessories using the rings 18 and 23. The ability to adjust the length and the resistance of the linked stretch tube 10 may allow an exerciser utilizing stretch tubing fewer pieces of stretch tubing.

The effective or usable length of the linked stretch tube 10 having four stretch tubing sections may be adjusted to four different lengths. With the desired resistance of the usable length of the linked stretch tube equal to the resistance in one of the stretch tubing sections, the usable length of the linked stretch tube 10 may be adjusted to about one quarter of the length of the linked stretch tube 10 by attaching the carabiner 20 to a first exercise accessory, such as a foot harness, and by attaching the ring 18 to a second exercise accessory, such as a door strap, using the carabiner 21 as shown in FIGS 4 and 4A. A separate carabiner (not shown) may be used in place of the carabiner.2Uo_attach_the ring JjBJo the_ second _exercjse_accesspry_!_Xo-.increase the_ usable length of the linked stretch tube 10 to about one half of the length of the linked stretch tube 10, the ring 19 may be attached to the second exercise accessory instead of attaching the ring 18 to the second exercise accessory. Likewise to increase the usable length of the linked stretch tube 10 to about three quarters of the length of the linked stretch tube 10, the ring 23 may be attached to the second exercise accessory instead of attaching either of the rings 18 and 19 to the second exercise accessory. The total length of the linked stretch tube may be utilized by attaching the carabiner 20 to the first exercise accessory and attaching the carabiner 21 to the second exercise accessory as shown in FIG. 5.

The resistance of the linked stretch tube 10 having four stretch tubing sections may be adjusted to a plurality of different resistances depending on the desired usable or effective length of the linked stretch tube 10. The configurations of the linked stretch tube 10 having a resistance equal to the resistance of one of the stretch tubing sections have been described above regarding the four different lengths.

With the desired usable or effective length of the linked stretch tube 10 equal to about one quarter of the length of the linked stretch tube 10, the resistance of the linked stretch tube 10 may be adjusted to three additional resistances. To approximately double the resistance of the linked stretch tube 10 with the carabiner 20 attached to the first exercise accessory and the ring 18 attached to the second exercise accessory using either carabiner 21 or a separate carabiner, the ring 19 may be attached to the carabiner 20 at the first exercise accessory. Furthermore to increase the resistance from approximately double to approximately triple the resistance of the linked stretch tube 10, the ring 23 may be attached with the ring 18 to the second exercise accessory using the carabiner 21 or a separate carabiner. To increase the resistance from approximately triple to approximately quadruple the resistance of the linked stretch tube 10, the carabiner 21 may be attached with the carabiner 20 and the ring 19 at the first exercise accessory, such as a foot harness, and the rings 18 and 23 may be attached to the second exercise accessory, such as a door strap, using a separate carabiner 75 as shown in FIG. 7.

With the desired usable or effective length of the linked stretch tube 10 equal to about one half of the length of the linked stretch tube 10, the resistance of the linked _str_etch_tube_10_may be_adjusted_toJwo additional- resistances.__To_approximately double, the resistance of the linked stretch tube 10 over the entire one half length of the linked stretch tube 10 with the carabiner 20 attached to the first exercise accessory and the ring 19 attached to the second exercise accessory using a separate carabiner, the carabiner 21 may be attached to the first exercise accessory along with the carabiner 20 as shown in FIG. 3. Another configuration of the linked stretch tube 10 to approximately double the resistance at about one half the length of the linked stretch tube 10 may be to attach both the carabiners 20 and 21 to the ring 19 and attach the rings 18 and 23 to the first exercise accessory and the second exercise accessory, respectively, using two separate carabiners. Furthermore to approximately double the resistance of the linked stretch tube 10 over only half the one half length of the linked stretch tube 10 with the carabiner 20 attached to the first exercise accessory and the ring 19 attached to the second exercise accessory using a separate carabiner, the ring 23 may be attached to the ring 18 using the carabiner 21 or a separate carabiner.

With the desired usable or effective length of the linked stretch tube 10 equal to about three quarters of the length of the linked stretch tube 10, the resistance of the linked stretch tube 10 may be adjusted to one additional resistance. To approximately double the resistance of the linked stretch tube 10 over approximately a third of the three quarters length of the linked stretch tube 10 with the carabiner 20 attached to the first exercise accessory and the ring 23 attached to the second exercise accessory using a separate carabiner, the carabiner 21 may be attached to the ring 19.

Each linking device 14, 15, and 17 may be constructed identically and may be located between two stretch tubing sections 12 of the linked stretch tube 10 as shown in FIG. 1. The linking device 14 may include a pair of anchors 22, a nylon band loop 24, and a metal ring 18. Each anchor 22 may include a loop end 26 and a shank end 28. The shank end 28 of each anchor 22 may be inserted into an end of one of the tubing sections 12 and may be held in place by the compression of the tubing section 12. The two loop ends 26 may be connected together with a nylon band loop 24. The metal ring 18 may be an O-ring or a D-ring and may be included within the nylon band loop 24. The nylon band loop 24 may be stitched together adjacent the loop ends 26 of each anchor 22 and the metal ring 18 to prevent the loop ends 26 and the metal ring 18 from sJidjng_^acjiDSsJhejiyJpn_b_andloop_24_JL Unking jlevjc^l5^_n^A7-inay_be_^sjrnllariy: constructed with rings 19 and 23, respectively.

Each connecting device 16 and 25 may be constructed identically and may be located at an end of the stretch tubing section 12 at an end of the linked stretch tube 10 as shown in FIG. 1. The connecting device 16 may include an anchor 22, a nylon band loop 30, and a fastener or carabiner 20. The anchor 22 may include a loop end 26 and a shank end 28. The shank end 28 of the anchor 22 may be inserted into the end of the stretch tubing section 12 and may be held in place by the compression of stretch tubing section 12. The carabiner 20 may be connected to the loop end 26 of anchor 22 with the nylon band loop 30. The nylon band loop 30 may be stitched adjacent the carabiner 20 and the loop end 26 to prevent the carabiner 20 and the loop end 26 from sliding across the nylon band loop 30. The connecting device 25 may be similarly constructed with carabiner 21.

Referring now to FIG. 3, an exercise system for performing squats, toe raises/extenders, or other exercises utilizing the linked stretch tubes is shown. The exercise system 40 may include a waist harness 42, a pair of foot harnesses 44, and a pair of linked stretch tubes 10 connected between the waist harness 42 and the foot harnesses 44.

The waist harness 42 may include a belt 48 having a buckle 50 or some other coupling device at the front, a pair of leg loops 52, and three metal rings 54, 56, and 58. Each leg loop 52 may encircle one of the legs of the user and may prevent the waist harness 42 from rotating around the waist of the user. Two of the metal rings 54, 56 may be attached to the belt 48 so as to be located at the left and the right side of the user, respectively, and may be used in this application for connection of the linked stretch tubes 10. A third metal ring 58 may be attached to the belt so as to be located at the back of the user for performing other exercises. The metal rings may be O-rings or D-rings. Carabiners 59 and 61 may be attached to some or all of the metal rings for attachment of the linked stretch tubes.

Each foot harness 44 may include a band 60 for encircling the foot or ankle of the user and a metal ring 62 for attachment of the linked stretch tube 10. The band 60 may include a fastening device when wrapping the band 60 around the foot or ankle of the user. Each foot-harness 44 may also include a carabiner (not shown) for attaching one or more of the rings of the linked stretch tube.

The linked stretch tubes 10 may be selected and attached to the waist harness 42 and the foot harnesses 44 in this application depending on the height of the user and the desired resistance of the user. In FIG. 3 the carabiners 20, 21 of each of the linked stretch tubes 10 may be attached to the metal ring 62 of each foot harness and the ring 19 of each of the linked stretch tubes may be attached to one of the metal rings 54 or 56 on the waist harness 42 using carabiners 59 and 61 , respectively.

In FIG. 4 a linked stretch tube is shown attached to a door utilizing a door mount. The door mount 70 may include a strap 72 which vertically wraps entirely around a door 74, a buckle 76 or some other coupling device, and a plurality of connection points 78 for attaching a linked stretch tube 10. As shown in FIG. 4A, the ring 18 of the linked stretch tube 10 may be attached to the connection point 78 of strap 72 using the carabiner 21. The linked stretch tube 10 may also be connected using carabiner 20 to a foot harness 44 attached to the ankle of a user. Other exercises may be performed using the door mount 70 by utilizing different exercise accessories, attaching the linked stretch tube 10 differently or at different connection points 78, and/or utilizing additional linked stretch tubes 10 and/or linked stretch tubes 10 having different resistance levels. One or more additional carabiners (not shown) may be utilized to attach one or more rings of a linked stretch tube to the connection points of the door mount.

In FIG. 5 a linked stretch tube is shown attached to a wall utilizing a wall mount. The wall mount 80 may include a strip 82 attached to a wall 84 using screws 86 or other attachment devices and a plurality of connection points 88 for attaching a linked stretch tube 10. The linked stretch tube 10 may also be connected to a handle 90 adapted to be grasped by a hand of a user. The handle 90 may include a metal ring 92 for attaching the linked stretch tube 10. Similar exercises as performed using the door mount may be performed using the wall mount 80 by utilizing different exercise accessories, attaching the linked stretch tube 10 differently or at different connection points 88, and/or utilizing additional linked stretch tubes 10 and/or linked stretch tubes 10 having different resistance levels. One or more additional carabiners (not shown) may be utilized to attach one or more rings of a linked stretch tube to the connection points of the wall mount. Referring.πowJo ELG_6,_a_golf_conditioningJy_stemj_Sj.sho\v^ conditioning system 100 may include a pair of linked stretch tubes 102 and 104, a waist harness 106, a handle 108, and a wall mount 110 attached to a wall 112. A user wearing the waist harness 106 may be positioned with his dominant arm closest to the wall mount 110, i.e. a right-handed golfer stands with his right arm nearer the wall mount 110 and a left-handed golfer stands with his left arm nearer the wall mount 110.

The user in FIG. 6, a right-handed golfer, may attach the linked stretch tube 102 to a metal ring 114 on the waist harness 106 on the left side of his body and to the wall mount 112 at a connection point 116 approximately one to two feet above the floor to provide resistance to the twisting motion of the user's lower body. The other linked stretch tube 104 may be attached to the handle 108 held by the user in either his left hand or both hands and attached to the wall mount 110 at a connection point 118 at a height above the user's head to provide resistance to the user when swinging the handle 108 as the user would a golf club. The length of each linked stretch tube may be varied due to the distance from the wall and the resistance desired by the user. As shown in FIG. 8, the user may be using the full length of the linked stretch tube 102 and only one half of the length of the linked stretch tube 104.

In the golf conditioning system 100, a door mount may be used in place of the wall mount 110 and the handle 108 may be replaced by a device that more closely resembles the grip of a golf club. Furthermore, the user may attach only one linked stretch tube at a time to exercise each part of the body separately.

Other sports requiring a swinging motion may also utilize a similar system, such as tennis, baseball, racquetball, handball, etc.

Due to the versatility of the linked stretch tubes, a portable exercise kit enabling a user to perform a total workout may include approximately ten linked stretch tubes (a pair of linked stretch tubes for approximately five different resistance levels), a waist harness, a pair of foot harnesses, a pair of handles, and a door mount. All of this equipment may be placed in a small canvas bag (not shown) or other suitable container for allowing the user to take his gym equipment with him or her, and to never miss a workout. It is envisioned that the linked stretch tubes may be utilized in other applications that stretch cords may be used in, such as for securing items on the top of a vehicle or in the back of a truck or van.

FIG 8 refers to a workout bench adapted for use as an exercise accessory with the linked stretch tubing. Section A is an attachable foot harness that can be used for traditional exercises such as a hamstring curl or knee extension. Section B is a specially adapted offshoot from section A, which will allow a linked stretch tube to be attached to the end of section B. The other end of the linked stretch tube can then be attached to any section C but preferably to the one directly opposite signified by a broken line. Section B is affixed firmly in a tangent from Section A so that when the exerciser moves section A in the normal movement of a curl, the linked stretch tubing (not illustrated) provides consistent and increasing resistance. This or any variation of this exercise could also be preformed with multiple links in a single configuration or doubled over to provide more resistance.

FIG. 8 may also be used in many other configurations in order to facilitate a complete workout. The seats may be raised or lowered depending on the exercise. The linked stretch tubing may be attached to one or all attachment points C. An example would be to attach to linked stretch tubes to the back end of bench base at the C points and for the exerciser to be supine on the bench with one linked stretch tube attached to the C points beneath each shoulder. They can then pick up each linked stretch tube by an attachable handle (not illustrated) and proceed to do an exercise where they raise their hands vertically against resistance. The advantage of this is that the system itself is more portable and safe, as the exerciser does not need to lift traditional free weights over their head. Linked stretch tubing also provides a transportable adjustable source of accommodative resistance.

Yet another method of use for FIG. 8 is for the exerciser to either hold or push against the bar D. This may be used to facilitate exercises such as but not limited to a leg lift, or seated row. An optional attachment could even be added (not illustrated) to allow the seat to slide forward and backwards along one plane; this would then enable to exerciser to do a full "row" movement. Beferring_niD.w_to_FJi3._9.,_this_e.mb_CLdimeαt is_aiχeesJanding_sjjp_poj1_structιIreJhaL will allow the exerciser to perform a multiple of exercises without mounting anything on their walls. The base A can be held down by the exerciser's own body weight in conjunction with either a padded mat (not illustrated) or a bench like the one show in FIG. 8 (also not illustrated in FIG. 9). This equipment is designed to be able to fold in half so as to become flat for easy storage under furniture or against a wall. When expanded to the 90-degree angle shown it may be necessary to have a locking arm B or a supplemental extension D. The bars that constitute the periphery of the equipment are laden with holes or some other construction to allow the linked stretch tubing to attach at any point along the double bars C.

Examples of some of the many ways in which this device may be used are as follows; but it is certainly not meant for these few examples to limit the scope of use, only to illustrate a few fundamental differences in the design. FIG. 9 looks similar to a device called the Pilates Trapeze, and even more similar to a recent invention promoted by Gunthy-Renker called the "Supreme Pilates Machine." The difference between these products and FIG. 9 is that FIG. 9 relies on linked stretch tubing rather than on coiled springs. FIG. 9 also allows for multiple attachment points and for a mat or bench to be used. FIG. 9 is also significantly different in its size as it is intended that the exerciser will be able to sit in a chair and do a lat pull down, this is not possible in either the trapeze nor the "Supreme Pilates Machine." FIG. 9 may be used in combination with linked stretch tubing according to the embodiments of the exercise system as both a strength-training device, as well as a method of passively stretching muscles.

The equipment in FIG. 9 could have various attachments or constructions not illustrated, such as: pegs to hold tubes, handles, and harnesses: a supplemental bar to allow vertical pull down movements, without having to be directly under the vertical side of FIG. 9; and to construct the structure so that it can collapse and be packed with each bar laying parallel in a box.

Another novel piece of equipment designed to be used in the linked stretch tubing system which may be incorporated as a whole or as any of its parts is shown in FIGS. 10 and 11. FIG. 10 is similar to both FIG. 8 & FIG. 9, however it saves space by mounting to a wall. Section A is an overhead bar extending away from the wall perpendicularly and having another section, bridged by a hinge, attached firmly to the -wall._-lbis3-arj/villjikely_bje_^ desired. The original design was to have bar A punctured with holes to serve a multiple attachment points for the linked stretch tubing, however other means exist for attaching link tubing such as a track or groove. Bar B may be used as either an attachment devise such as described above for bar A, as a structural support devise, or as a means to raise the top bar when the bench C is raised. Bench C may be composed of various standard materials to make it soft but stable, as well as to be framed so that various parts of the frame may incline independently of the main supporting structure (this mechanism is common in both weight benches and pool side lounge chairs). Section D is a leg designed to pivot from 0 to 90-degrees, when in the extended position it will stabilize the bench and also serve as an attachment point. The bench may be fitted with multiple legs or the anchoring device may have other offshoots serving as attachment points for the linked stretch tubing. This equipment is especially advantageous over the prior art in situations like a garage, where a person can have an entire gym that folds up at night so the car may be pulled in.

Referring now to FIG. 12 let us begin explaining the novel fitness system designed to be used with these pieces of equipment, linked stretch tubing, and other pieces of fitness equipment. FIG. 12 is an example of a questionnaire, which may be distributed in any manner or media (such as, but not limited to: written, electronically, or verbally). This particular version is given to demonstrate the scope and spirit of the instrument, while still acknowledging that the inventor has many other versions that may accomplish the same goals. This version is comprised of eight questions some on a scale, others "yes & no," and others open-ended; however, each answer has a score & when that score is totaled, will show what level the person should start their individual fitness program on. These fitness levels are: 0 - 14 points = beginner; 15 - 22 points = Intermediate; 23 - 29 points = Advanced; and 30 - 37 points = Extreme. This fitness level is then used to select a 12-week program (FIG. 6) designed specifically for a person according to their age (20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-65) and fitness level.

It is possible that other surveys exist and will be created, however, the scope of this system's survey is that it is designed to reveal a person's fitness level as well as to predetermine if their lifestyle or occupation would require them to seek advice of a medical professional, or if a custom tailored routine is required to accommodate for an injury or illness.

FIG. 13 is an example of the basic outlay of one of the many 12-week programs that will be assigned based on a person's age & fitness level. This particular conception gives a general theme for each day that gradually becomes more difficult. Day One works the upper body, Day Two works the core and cardio, Day Three works the lower body, Day Four works the core and cardio again, Day Five works the upper body again, Day Six is a free activity day or cardio, Day Seven is a rest day, and Day Eight repeats the cycle with the upper body and lower body days transposed. In this way the exerciser gets a customized 84-day workout program designed to be continuously changing and increasingly challenging.

FIG. 14 exemplifies the structure of a two week cycle for on particular area of concentration (example upper body). The first step is to prep the area that is the concentration of that day. This is done by one or more activities with defined repetitions and sets, designed to stretch the muscles and increase circulation, without the use of linked stretch tubing. After the prep exercises, there are a multiple of strength building exercises for each part of the body in the area designated for that day. These exercises are characterized by a series of sets with age specific resting periods between each. The final set combines two working exercises into one "combo move" so that one is done directly after the other without a rest. The added benefit of the combo move is that it works more stabilizer muscles and brings the exerciser closer to muscle failure. After these exercises are completed for each body part, the system lists one or more stretching exercises, defining both the repetitions and sets necessary.

In order to understand FIG. 14 and the underlying fitness system, it is necessary to define certain abbreviations. A "rep" is a movement or movements that completes an exercise, such as someone contracting their bicep against resistance and then letting their arm become straight again. Consequently 12 reps would be performing this action 12 times. Not to be confused with "RPE," which is the Rate of Perceived Exertion, a subjective measure on a scale of 1-10, with 1 being extremely low exertion as opposed to a 10 where the exerciser is one rep away from failure. In this conception of the program the exerciser is prescribed which RPE they should achieve, by choosing a linked stretch tubing color "CLR" and how many times to double, triple or quadruple that linked stretch tubing "x." Different colors of tubing represent different strengths ranging from 3-34 lbs of resistance; if they are doubled over according to the method as previously described then the linked stretch tubing resistance will double as well. "REST" is simply the seconds that the exerciser should rest in between each set, the inventor has also included unique instructions such as when to drink water, and how to change from one exercise setup to another.

One of the many important aspects of a fitness program is diversification. The embodiments of the exercise program includes new exercises in every two week cycle in the 12-week program, so that the workout does not become monotonous. The exercise system includes numerous novel exercises for both the cardio and strength portions. In the cardio program particularly the embodiments of the invention system provides directions on how to program a machine like a stationary bike, or simply which RPE to try and achieve during which minute; however the exerciser may choose the actual exercise.

Once the exerciser has completed the 12-week program they can submit a new questionnaire and then it may be recommended for them to start a new more advanced 12-week program. Therefore the embodiments of the system allows the exerciser to continue to receive a customized program as their ability and age change. Another significant difference found in this system is that it exemplifies how to get from a qualitative assessment to a quantitative description of what exercises intensities should be prescribed. As seen in FIG. 15 when filling in the variables of the # sets, reps, exercises, and difficulty 1-6, this equation will give the total workout volume. Total workout volume gives a quantitative measure of the total exertion of the workout, therefore allowing the difference between beginner, intermediate, advanced, and extreme skill levels. Without such an equation it is difficult to objectively and consistently determine what the exact difference in intensities are between various combinations of exercises.

Now referring to FIG. 16 one will notice first that the door straps D are configured in such a way that the bottom attaches along to outside end of the door. This novel design prevents the door weather stripping from being damaged as well as preventing the door straps from rotating around the door during use. F Ij3_. J 6_ajs_o_dem onstrates_a n^x_ercis_ejJn_the__act_oLpass iy^y_^retchjng . The^" exerciser stands an appropriate distance from the door so that the linked stretch tubing attached to the door strap D and handle B is in tension. The person can relax and have the linked stretch tubing stretch their muscles, alternatively the person may attach the linked stretch tubing to a waist or foot harness A. It is important at this point to reiterate that this system uses linked stretch tubing in conjunction with numerous other exercise accessories to allow a person a total body workout at home or while traveling. The method of use for these pieces of equipment is also novel in that it uses a questionnaire to place a person into an appropriate exercise program designed specifically for their age, skill. These exercise programs combine components of active and passive stretching, strength training, core training, and balance training sometimes into the same exercise. The following exercises are a few examples of novel exercises in this system.

FIG. 17 illustrates the Hip Flexion on the Physioball: Supporting a straight torso with both arms on the floor and feet resting on a physioball, flex the hip keeping the knee straight while foot attached to flex tubing via foot harness. This exercise has been published with feet attached to a pulley system and on a bench but not on a physioball with linked stretch tubing as the resistance. This particular type of arrangement provides a greater challenge to the exerciser due to the need to balance on the Physioball throughout the exercise. Also, without the need for weights and benches this exercise is safer and more portable.

FIG. 18 illustrates the Bent Over row to Scapular Retraction: Exerciser holds handle out in front of them then pulls handle to their side then externally rotates their shoulder and pulls their shoulder blades together. This exercise demonstrates a "combo move" of two similar exercises done continuously after each other. The added benefit of the combo move is that it works more stabilizer muscles and brings the exerciser closer to muscle failure.

FIG. 19 illustrates the Kneeling Bentover Pull To Kickback: Kneeling holding onto handles, pull in to side, then kick back keeping elbows by side. Using the bench this time to provide more support for a less skilled user, this exercise still demonstrates a combo move, balance, and core strengthening exercise. FI_G._20JllustratesJhe_Lying Bicep_Curl Tp_Frpnt_Prejss:_Lying^on_bench_with_feeL on cross bar, flex elbow until hand in even with shoulder, then flex shoulder. This exercise shows the use of the modified foot bar (see FIG. 8 section D) as well as the advantage of using linked stretch tubing. Unlike traditional free weights, linked stretch tubing provides less potential for injury due to the fact that less resistance is applied when the joint is in the position where it is most vulnerable.

FIG. 21 illustrates the Pinwheel: Exerciser walks their hands counter clockwise pivoting on the ball until they have done a full circle, then they walk clockwise 360 degrees. This exercise simply shows one of the many new exercises designed to create novel and ever more challenging exercises.

FIG. 22 illustrates the Quadruped Single Leg Hamstring Curl on Physioball: In push-up position, with torso straight and thigh level with floor, foot attached via foot harness to flex tubing, flex knee while maintaining posture. This exercise demonstrates an extreme exercise and is also designed to be novel and increasingly challenging.

While particular embodiments of the exercise method of the present invention have been disclosed, it is to be understood that various different embodiments are possible and are contemplated within the true spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, the equipment may be constructed of a variety of different materials or with various attachments & modifications for strength and stability. The exercise program itself may change to become more specific or simple, and host various questionnaires, equations, and unique exercises. There is no intention, therefore, of limitations to the exact abstract or disclosure herein presented.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A linked stretch tube, comprising

a first stretch tubing section having a first end and a second end;

a second stretch tubing section having a first end and a second end;

a first linking device permanently, flexibly connecting the first end of the first stretch tubing section to the first end of the second tubing section; and

a first connection device flexibly connected to the second end of the first stretch tubing section.

2. The linked stretch tube of claim 1 , further comprising a second connection device flexibly connected to the second end of the second stretch tubing section.

3. The linked stretch tube of claim 1 , further comprising

a third stretch tubing section having a first end and a second end; and

a second linking device permanently, flexibly connecting the second end of the second stretch tubing section to the first end of the third stretch tubing section.

4. The linked stretch tube of claim 3, further comprising a second connection device flexibly connected to the second end of the third stretch tubing section.

5. The linked stretch tube of claim 3, further comprising

a fourth stretch tubing section having a first end and a second end; and

a third linking device permanently, flexibly connecting the second end of the third stretch tubing section to the first end of the fourth stretch tubing section.

6. The linked stretch tube of claim 5, further comprising a second connection device flexibly connected to the second end of the fourth stretch tubing section.

7. The linked stretch tube of claim 1 , wherein the first linking device includes a metal ring.

8. The linked stretch tube of claim 7, wherein the metal ring is a D-ring.

9. The linked stretch tube of claim 1 , wherein the first linking device includes a first anchor inserted into the first end of the first stretch tubing section, a second anchor inserted into the first end of the second stretch tubing section, and a nylon band connecting the first anchor to the second anchor.

10. The linked stretch tube of claim 1 , wherein the first connection device includes an anchor inserted into the second end of the first stretch tubing section, a fastener, and a nylon band connecting the anchor to the fastener.

11. The linked stretch tube of claim 10, wherein the fastener is a carabiner.

12. An exercising system, comprising

a plurality of linked stretch tubes;

a waist harness adapted to attach to the linked stretch tubes; and

at least one foot harness adapted to attach to the linked stretch tubes.

13. The system of claim 12, further comprising at least one handle adapted to attach to the linked stretch tubes.

14. The system of claim 12, further comprising a door mount adapted for attaching the linked stretch tubes.

15. The system of claim 12, further comprising a wall mount adapted for attaching the linked stretch tubes.

16. The system of claim 12, wherein the waist harness includes a belt for encircling a user's waist, a first loop attached to the belt and encircling one of the user's legs, and a second loop attached to the belt and encircling the other of the user's legs.

17. The system of claim 12, wherein the waist harness includes a belt for encircling a user's waist and at least three rings attached to the belt.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the waist harness includes a carabiner attached to at least one of the three rings.

19_? A inethod_. ^e^^rc^ngjj^g^J^Lriked^tretchJube having at least three stretch tube sections with a fastener on each end of the linked stretch tube and a metal ring attached each link between two stretch tube sections, comprising

attaching one of the fasteners to a first exercise accessory; and

attaching one of the metal rings to a second exercise accessory.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising

attaching the other fastener to another of the metal rings to increase the resistance of the linked stretch tube.

21. A method of exercising by a user wearing a waist harness and a pair of foot harnesses, comprising

attaching a first stretch cord between a first side of the waist harness and one side of the foot harnesses; and

attaching a second stretch cord between a second side of the waist harness and the other foot harness.