WO2014138228A1

WO2014138228A1 - Curved resilient member unweighting systems

Info

Publication number: WO2014138228A1
Application number: PCT/US2014/020741
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mark A. Shughart; Clifford T. Jue; Sean T. Whalen
Original assignee: Alterg, Inc.
Priority date: 2013-03-05
Filing date: 2014-03-05
Publication date: 2014-09-12

Abstract

An unweighting system includes a frame having a base that is configured to connect to or at least partially encircle an exercise device. In one embodiment, one or more resilient curved members have a fixed end mounted to the base and an unfixed end configured to releasably engage a user to unload a portion of the user's weight while engaging the user and while the user is exercising on the exercise device. In another embodiment, a pair of resilient curved members is coupled to the base with the first and second ends of each curved member attached to the base; attachment mechanisms between the first and second ends of each resilient curved member are configured to releasably engage the user to unload a portion of the user's weight onto each of the resilient members while the user is exercising on the exercise device.

Description

CURVED RESILIENT MEMBER UNWEIGHTING SYSTEMS

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/772,964, entitled "Curved Arch Unweighting Systems," filed March 5, 2013, and to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/773,019, entitled "Unweighting Arch Systems," filed March 5, 2013, the entireties of which are incorporated by reference herein.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0002] All publications and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

FIELD

[0003] Described herein are various embodiments of unweighting systems for unweighting a user and methods of using such systems.

BACKGROUND

[0004] Methods of counteracting gravitational forces on the human body have been devised for therapeutic applications as well as physical training. Rehabilitation from orthopedic injuries or neurological conditions often benefits from precision unweighting (i.e. partial weight bearing) therapy.

[0005] One way to unweight is to use a frame with elastic cords. Such existing systems are simple affairs, often relying on stretched bungee cords to provide the necessary unweighting forces. Use of bungee cords causes unweighting force to be poorly controlled, varying from cord to cord, over time, and with usage. In addition to a lack of repeatability, the inability to display unweighting force further prevents users from comparing current workouts with previous workouts. Furthermore, inability to easily adjust unweighting force requires user to dismount from the system to change settings. Frames are typically designed to be entered from the side, making close packing of systems over treadmills in a fitness club environment impractical.

Also, these systems must typically be manually adjusted for differing user heights, complicating the usage process.

[0006] Another way to counteract the effects of gravity is to suspend a person using a body harness in conjunction with inelastic cords or straps to reduce ground impact forces. However, currently available harness systems are often uncomfortable and require suspension devices or systems that lift the user from above the user's torso. Such systems distribute weight unnaturally and uncomfortably on the user's body. The weight distribution can interfere with natural movements due to issues such as penduluming, quickly tightening/loosening, tilting the body, etc. In some cases, prolonged use with these harness suspension systems can result in injuries that range from mild skin abrasion or contusions or musculoskeletal injury. In attempting to address the discomfort and limited mobility induced by such inelastic systems, some harness systems employ the use of bungee or elastic tensioning cords that need to be hooked and unhooked or manually stretched to adjust the degree of unweighting experienced. Such adjustment is cumbersome, inconvenient, and dangerous as the user may lose control of the tensioned cords during adjustment, causing the cords to strike the user with a substantial amount of force. All such overhead cord system do not constrain users from side-to-side or fore-and-aft motion, requiring users to focus on maintaining their position in space.

[0007] Other systems for unweighting a user have been developed. In one such system, a portion of a user's body is submerged into a water-based system to thereby permit buoyancy provided by the water offset gravity. However, both the upward supporting force and the effective point where the force is applied, provided by such water-based systems is dependent on the depth to which the user's body is submerged below the water surface, making unweighting force adjustability and natural weight distribution difficult to achieve, at best. Moreover, the viscous drag of the water may substantially alter the muscle activation patterns of the user. Users with open wounds, casts, splints, or other encumbrances are also not able to use water- based therapy.

[0008] Differential Air Pressure (DAP) systems have been developed to use air pressure in, for example, a sealed chamber to simulate a low gravity effect and support a patient at his center of gravity without the discomfort of harness systems or the inconvenience of water-based therapies. DAP systems generally utilize a chamber for applying differential air pressure to a portion of a user's body. While useful in training a wide variety of patient types, DAP systems have control systems to monitor and/or maintain pressure levels, pressure enclosures and the like to varying degrees based on the electrical and mechanical designs and complexity of the system, all of which add to the cost of such systems.

[0009] In view of the above shortcomings and complications in the existing unweighting systems, there remains a need for simple yet effective unweighting systems. In particular, for an average user who may not have a medical condition warranting physical therapy or medical supervision, there is also an additional need for unweighting systems suited to gym or home use. As such, a need exists for an unweighting system that allows users economical and effective alternatives to the current techniques available.

[00010] An important characteristic of unweighting systems intended for exercise or gait training is a low vertical spring rate, where the user's vertical position has minimal influence on the unweighting force applied to the user. This is significant because as a user walks or runs, their vertical displacement during different phases of the gait cycle can vary by +/- two inches or more. A low vertical spring rate ensures that the unweighting force is nearly equal during all phases of the gait cycle. While fluid based systems such as DAP or pool-based therapies have inherently low vertical spring rates, the same is not true for most mechanical unweighting systems. The need for a low spring rate often requires the use of very long spring elements such as bungee cords, making these systems less than compact and/or unable to exert more than minimal unweighting forces. A further need is for a compact unweighting system with a low vertical spring rate. SUMMARY

[00011] In general, in one embodiment, an unweighting system includes a frame having a base. The base is configured to connect to or at least partially encircle an exercise device. One or more first resilient curved members has a fixed end mounted to the base and an unfixed end configured to releaseably engage a first side of a user. One or more second resilient curved members has a fixed end mounted to the base and an unfixed end configured to releasably engage a second side of the user. The one or more first resilient curved members and the one or more second resilient curved members are configured to unload a portion of the user's weight while engaging the user and while the user is exercising on the exercise device.

[00012] In general, in one embodiment, an unweighting system includes a frame having a base. The base is configured to connect to or at least partially encircle an exercise device. A resilient curved member has a fixed end mounted to the base and an unfixed end configured to releaseably engage the user to unload a portion of the user's weight while the user is exercising on the exercise device. The resilient curved member forms an arc of at least 180° when engaged to the user.

[00013] In general, in one embodiment, an unweighting system includes a frame having a base. The base is configured to connect to or at least partially encircle an exercise device. A first resilient curved member has a first end mounted to the base and a second end configured to releaseably engage the user to unload a portion of the user's weight while the user is exercising on the exercise device. A second resilient curved member is attached to the base, and the second resilient curved member is configured to contact the first resilient curved member to unload an additional portion of the user's weight while the user is exercising on the exercise device.

[00014] Any of these embodiments can include one or more of the following features. The resilient curved member(s) can be a single leaf spring. The unfixed end(s) can include an attachment mechanism configured to attach proximate to hips of the user. A total height of the resilient curved member(s) can be less than a height of the user's torso when the unfixed end is engaged to the user. The unweighting system can further include a second resilient curved member attached to the base, and the second resilient curved member can be configured to contact the first resilient curved member to unload an additional portion of the user's weight while the user is exercising on the exercise device. The one or more first resilient curved members can further include a plurality of first resilient curved members, and the one or more second resilient curved members can include a plurality of second resilient curved members. The plurality of first resilient curved members can be configured to contact one another, and the plurality of second resilient curved members can be configured to contact one another to unload the portion of the user's weight. The first and second resilient curved members can be substantially aligned vertically. The unweighting system can further include a second resilient curved member having a first end mounted to the base and a second end configured to releaseably engage the user to unload an additional portion of the user's weight while the user is exercising on the exercise device. The second resilient curved member can form an arc of at least 180° when engaged to the user. The first resilient curved member can be configured to engage a first side of the user, and the second resilient curved member can be configured to engage a second side of the user. The height of the resilient curved member(s) can be adjustable. The exercise device can be a treadmill. The curved resilient member(s) can be configured to extend from behind the user when the user or from in front of the user is exercising on the exercise device. The curved resilient member(s) can have an unbiased configuration when not attached to the user, and a radius of curvature of the resilient curved member in the unbiased configuration can be higher than a radius of curvature of the resilient curved member when engaged to the user. The resilient curved member(s) can have has a spring rate that allows the curved resilient member to track movement of the user's hips vertically while the user is exercising on the exercise device. The unweighting system can further include a restraining mechanism configured to change a shape of the curved resilient member(s), such as a pulley and cable mechanism.

[00015] In general, in one embodiment, a method of unweighting a user during exercise includes: (1) moving a resilient curved member of an unweighting system from an unbiased position to a biased position where the resilient curved member has a higher radius of curvature in the unbiased position than in the attachment position; (2) attaching a free end of the resilient curved member to the user while the resilient member is in the biased position so as to unload a portion of the user's weight with the resilient curved member; and (3) allowing the user to exercise on an exercise device while the portion of the user's weight is unloaded with the resilient curved member.

[00016] In general, in one embodiment, a method of unweighting a user during exercise includes: (1) moving a resilient curved member of an unweighting system from a constrained position to an attachment position where the resilient curved member has a different radius of curvature in the constrained position than in the attachment position; (2) attaching a free end of the resilient curved member to the user while the resilient member is in the attachment position so as to unload a portion of the user's weight with the resilient curved member; and (3) allowing the user to exercise on an exercise device while the portion of the user's weight is unloaded with the resilient curved member.

[00017] Any of these embodiments can include one or more of the following features. The method can further include contacting a second resilient curved member to the resilient curved member to unload an additional portion of the user's weight. The method can further include tracking movement of the user's hips with the resilient curved member while the user exercises on the exercise device. Allowing the user to exercise on an exercise device can further include allowing the user to walk or run on a treadmill. The resilient curved member can be positioned behind the user as the user walks or runs in a forward direction on the treadmill. The resilient curved member can be a single leaf spring. Moving the curved member from an unbiased position to an attachment position can further include forming an arc with the curved member of at least 180°. Attaching a free end of the resilient curved member to the user can further include attaching the free end of the resilient curved member below a torso, such as proximate to hips, of the user. Attaching a free end of the resilient curved member to the user can further include attaching the free end to a first side of the user. The method can further include attaching a free end of a second resilient curved member to a second side of the user and allowing the user to exercise on an exercise device further allowing the user to exercise on the exercise device while the portion of the user's weight is unloaded with the second resilient curved member.

[00018] In general, in one embodiment, an unweighting system includes a frame having a base and a pair of resilient curved members. The base is configured to connect to or at least partially encircle an exercise device, and a pair of resilient curved members. Each of the resilient curved members extends from a first end to a second end. The first and second ends are both coupled to the base. Attachment mechanisms between the first and second ends of each resilient curved member are configured to releasably engage the user to unload a portion of the user's weight onto each of the resilient members while the user is exercising on the exercise device. [00019] Any of these embodiments can include one or more of the following features. An amount of unloading of the user's weight can be adjustable by varying a distance between the first and second ends of each resilient curved member. The unweighting system can further include a lead screw and a lead nut connected to the first or second end of each of the resilient curved members either directly or through cabling, and the rotation of the lead screw can move the first end or the second end relative to the base. The unweighting system can further include a motor which can be configured to move the first or second end of each resilient curved member along the base. Each resilient curved member can be a rod, flat slat, or rectangular strip of material. Each resilient curved member can be a single leaf spring. The unweighting system can further include a hinge between the first and second ends of each resilient curved member. Each hinge can form a junction between two sections of each of the resilient curved members. The hinge can be adapted to provide vertical movement near the junction. Each hinge can be configured to adjustably control a shape of each resilient curved member to adjustably control an amount of unloading of the user's weight. The unweighting system can further include a stiffening member extending from each of the resilient members to the base. The stiffening members can be adapted to prevent horizontal shifting by the resilient curved members during unloading. The stiffening member can be configured to adjustably control an amount of unloading of the user's weight. The attachment mechanism of each resilient member can be configured to attach proximate to the user's hips when the user is standing on the exercise device between the resilient members. The attachment mechanisms can be configured to attach proximate to opposite sides of the user's hips. The unweighting system can further include tensioning members connected between each resilient member and the base. The tensioning members can be configured to apply tension to a portion of each resilient member to change a shape of the resilient member. The attachment mechanism can be positioned proximate to an apex of each resilient curved member.

[00020] In general, in one embodiment, a method of unweighting a user includes: (1) attaching each of a pair of resilient curved members to opposite sides of the user, where each of the resilient curved members includes a first end and a second end fixed to a base; (2) unloading a portion of the user's weight by adjusting a distance between the first and second ends of each resilient curved member, where decreasing the distance between the first and second ends of the resilient curved member increases a degree of unloading experienced by the user; and (3) allowing the user to exercise on an exercise device when the portion of the user's weight is unloaded with the pair of resilient curved members.

[00021] Any of these embodiments can include one or more of the following features.

Allowing the user to exercise on an exercise device can include allowing the user to walk or run on a treadmill while the portion of the user's weight is unloaded with the pair of resilient curved members. Each of the curved resilient curved members can be single leaf springs. Attaching each of a pair of resilient curved members to opposite sides of the user can include attaching each of the pair of resilient curved members proximate to opposite sides of the user.

[00022] In general, in one embodiment, a method of unloading a portion of weight of a user during exercise includes: (1) stepping onto a treadmill between a pair of resilient curved members; (2) attaching the resilient curved members to the hips to unload a portion of the user's body weight; and (3) exercising on the treadmill while the portion of body weight is unloaded.

[00023] In general, in one embodiment, an unweighting system for adjustably unloading the weight of a user includes a frame comprising a base and a plurality of resilient curved members mounted to the base. Each of the resilient curved members has an adjustable height, and at least one of the resilient curved members is releasably attachable to a user at an area near the user's hip to provide variable unloading of the user's weight while the user is coupled to at least one resilient curved member.

[00024] Any of these embodiments can include one or more of the following features. The unweighting system can further include an attachment element for releasably coupling the user to at least one resilient curved member. The attachment element can be positioned along a length of at least one curved member. The unweighting system can further include an article of clothing for releasably coupling the user to the at least one resilient curved member. The article of clothing can include an attachment element for releasably coupling the user to at least one resilient curved member. The plurality of resilient curved members can include two arcuate shaped rods. The plurality of resilient curved members can include two arcuate shaped slats. Each of the arcuate shaped slats can have a first end and a second end mounted to the base. The plurality of resilient curved members can have a first end and a second end mounted to base, and the distance between the ends can be adjustable by moving one of or both of the first and second ends along the base. The height of the resilient curved members can be varied by changing the distance between the first and second ends. The unweighting system can further include a hinge along the length of at least one of the resilient curved members. The hinge can form a junction between two sections of the resilient curved member. The hinge can be adapted to provide vertical movement near the junction and to adjust the spring force of the resilient curved member. The unweighting system can further include an exercise device, and the frame can be sized to fit around a portion of the exercise device, thereby allowing the user to exercise on the exercise device while attached to at least one of the resilient curved members. The user can be unweighted by adjusting the height of at least one of the resilient curved members. The unweighting system can further include a lead screw and a lead nut, and the lead screw and the lead nut can be connected to an end of at least one of the resilient curved members. The end can be adapted to be moved along the base by rotating the lead screw. The unweighting system can further include a motor adapted to move an end of at least one of the resilient curved members along the base to unweight the user. The unweighting system can further include at least one stiffening member connected to at least one of the resilient members. The stiffening member can be adapted to prevent horizontal shifting by the plurality of resilient curved members during unweighting. At least one of the resilient members can have a flattened portion relative to a curved portion.

[00025] In general, in one embodiment, a method of unweighting a user can include: (1) connecting a resilient curved member to the user's hip area, where the resilient curved member includes a first end and a second end and a distance between the first and second ends; and (2) unweighting at least a portion of the user's weight by adjusting the distance between the first and second ends, where decreasing the distance between the first and second ends of the resilient curved member increases the degree of unweighting experienced by the user.

[00026] Any of these embodiments can include one or more of the following features. The method can further include connecting the user to a pair of resilient curved members and providing the user a running envelope while the user is attached to the pair of resilient curved members. The method can further include unweighting at least a portion of the user's weight by adjusting the height of the resilient curved member. The method can further include adjusting the load supported by the resilient curved member by changing the distance between the first and second ends. The method can further include changing the distance between the first and second ends while the user is exercising on an exercise machine.

[00027] In general, in one embodiment, an unweighting system for adjustably unloading the weight of a user includes a frame comprising a base. A first resilient curved member has a first end mounted to the base and a second free end adapted to releasably engage the user at an area near the user's hip to provide variable unloading of the user's weight while the user is engaged to the resilient curved member. A second resilient curved member has a first side adapted to contact the first resilient curved member The second resilient curved member is adapted to unload a portion of the user's weight when in contact with the first resilient curved member.

[00028] Any of these embodiments can include one or more of the following features. The second resilient curved member can include a second side adapted to contact a surface of a third resilient curved member. The system can further include a first pair of the first resilient members and second pair of second resilient members where the corresponding members of each pair are parallel to each other. The first and second resilient curved members can have an adjustable height. The resilient members can include an arcuate shape. The first resilient member can be adapted to unload a portion of the user's weight and the second resilient member can be adapted to unload an additional portion of the user's weight when in contact with the first resilient member. The system can further include a restraining system, where the restraining system controls the distance between the free end of the first resilient member and the base. The system can further include an attachment element adapted to releasably attach an article worn by the user to the first resilient curved member.

[00029] In general, in one embodiment, a method of unweighting a user includes (1) releasably engaging a first resilient curved member to the user's hip area; and (2) providing an unweighting force to the user while the first resilient curved member is deflected from a neutral position.

[00030] Any of these embodiments can include one or more of the following features. The method can further include unweighting an additional portion of the user's weight by contacting a second resilient curved member to the first resilient curved member. The method can further include modifying the spring force of the unweighting system by physically engaging the first resilient curved member with at least one other resilient curved member.

[00031] In general, in one embodiment, an unweighting system for adjustably unloading the weight of a user includes a frame comprising a base. At least one resilient curved member is mounted to the base. The resilient curved member has an adjustable height The resilient curved member is releasably attachable to a user at an area near the user's hip to provide variable unloading of the user's weight while the user is coupled to the resilient curved member.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[00032] The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the claims that follow. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative

embodiments, in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which:

[00033] Figure 1 shows an exemplary unweighting system having a single curved resilient member with a fixed end and a free end.

[00034] Figure 2 shows a curved resilient member with the free end in two different positions.

[00035] Figure 3 shows an exemplary unweighting system having two vertically aligned curved resilient members with free ends and fixed ends.

[00036] Figure 4 shows movement of the free end of a lower curved resilient member towards an upper curve resilient member. [00037] Figures 5-7 show an exemplary unweighting system including three curved resilient members with free ends and fixed ends.

[00038] Figure 8 shows an exemplary unweighting system with a curved resilient member having a free end and an unweighting garment attachable thereto.

[00039] Figures 9 and 10 show attachment of a free end of one or more curved resilient members to a user for unweighting.

[00040] Figures 11-13 show an exemplary unweighting system having two sets of curved resilient members having free ends and fixed ends.

[00041] Figures 14 and 15 show another exemplary unweighting system including three curved resilient members with free ends and fixed ends.

[00042] Figures 16-18 show varying positions for the free ends of curved resilient members when attaching to a user.

[00043] Figures 19-21 show relative movement between the free ends of three resilient members of an unweighting system.

[00044] Figures 22-24 show a pulley and cable restraining mechanism for an unweighting system.

[00045] Figure 25 shows positioning of a user relative to curved resilient members of an unweighting system.

[00046] Figure 26 shows attachment of a pair of shorts to an unweighting system.

[00047] Figure 27 shows the force exerted on a user's hips when the user is attached to a pair of resilient members of an unweighting system.

[00048] Figure 28 shows an unweighting system with a curved resilient member having a free end and a fixed end and a weight stack attached thereto.

[00049] Figure 29 shows an unweighting system including a pair of arched resilient members.

[00050] Figure 30 shows an arched resilient member having a hinge near the apex.

[00051] Figures 31 and 32 show an arched resilient member having a flattened section through the apex.

[00052] Figure 33 shows an arched resilient member with a plurality of different sections.

[00053] Figure 34 shows exemplary shorts for use with an unweighting system.

[00054] Figures 35 and 36 show exemplary attachment mechanisms to attach the user to arched resilient member unweighting systems.

[00055] Figures 37-39 show movement of one or both of the ends of an arched resilient member.

[00056] Figures 40-42 shows tensioning members used to change the shape of an arched resilient member. [00057] Figure 43 shows a close-up of a lead screw and nut system used to move an end of an arched resilient member.

[00058] Figures 44 and 45 show stiffening members of an arched resilient member.

[00059] Figures 46 and 47 show attachment of a user to an arched resilient member of an unweighting system.

[00060] Figure 48 shows movement of one end of an arched resilient member of an unweighting system.

[00061] Figures 49-50 show vertical tracking of a user's hips using a hinge at an apex of an arched resilient member.

[00062] Figure 51 shows horizontal tracking of a user's hips with an arched resilient member.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00063] Described herein are curved arching systems configured to unload a portion of a user's weight during exercise. The curved arching systems described herein provide easy access for all user types while providing for natural weight bearing experience during exercise. Further, the curved arching systems described herein provide an exercise area or envelope within the unweighting system that does not obstruct or hinder body and limb movements.

[00064] The described embodiments utilize a mechanical structure known as a buckled beam or leaf spring as the resilient element that provides the user unweighting force. Such structures advantageously have an inherently low vertical spring rate. As described, the leaf spring resilient member can either be mounted at both ends to a base or can be mounted at one end and include a free end configured to attach to the user.

[00065] In some embodiments, the curved arching systems described herein include one or more resilient members with a fixed end attached to a base and a free end configured to attach to a user. In other embodiments, the curved arching systems described herein include one or more resilient members with two fixed ends and an attachment mechanism for a user therebetween.

[00066] Referring to Figures 9 and 10, an exemplary unweighting system 9000 for a user 300 includes a base 102 configured to attach to or at least partially encircle a treadmill. A curved resilient member 104 includes a fixed end 112a at the base (i.e. near the ground) and a free end 105a configured to attach to the user with a user engagement element 114. When attached, the resilient member 104 can place a vertical force on the user 300 to unload a portion of the user's weight. A second resilient member 106 (including fixed end 112b and free end 105b) can further be used to increase the amount of unloading, as described further below.

[00067] Figure 1 shows a general schematic of an exemplary unweighting system 1000 having a resilient member 104 capable of imparting an unweighting force to a user. The resilient member 104 has a free end 105 distal or vertically displaced from a base 102 and a fixed end 112 attached to the base 102. The free end 105 of the resilient member 104 can be moved proximal or distal relative to the base 102 in a vertical direction, as indicated by the arrow 107 in order to: (1) change a height of the resilient member to adjust to a height of the user or move the resilient member out of the way; or (2) change a spring force of the resilient member, and thus an unloading force placed on the user.

[00068] Exemplary variable positions of the free end 105 are illustrated in Figure 1 by a first position A where the free end 105 is a first distance 109 from the base 102, a second position B where the free end 105 is at a second distance 111 from the base 102; and a third position C where the free end 105 is a third distance 113 from the base 102. Although shown as three positions, the free end 105 of the resilient member 104 is adapted to move to a plurality of locations toward and away from the base 102 (and/or the fixed end 112).

[00069] The resilient member 104 can have a neutral, unbiased position if left unsecured or unrestrained. The resilient member 104 may be biased toward this neutral position such that when the resilient member 104 is in a non-neutral position, the member 104 will exert a force to move to the neutral position. For example, where position C shown in Figure 1 is the neutral position, deflecting the resilient member 104 to positions A or B will create a biasing force that acts to move the resilient member back to position C. This biasing force may be exerted on the ends 105 and 112. Because the free end 105 can move, the resilient member 104 can return to its neutral position by forcing the free end 105 distally (i.e., vertically or upward) from the base 102.

[00070] Advantageously, a controlled unweighting force can be achieved by utilizing the biasing (spring) force exerted by a deflected resilient member 104. When the resilient member

104 is deflected from a neutral position, the biasing force exerted on a free end 105 can be used as a lifting unweighting force for a user positioned and attached at the free end. Figure 2 illustrates this concept with the single resilient member 104 of the unweighting system 1000 in Figure 1. When the resilient member 104 is in a deflected position A (rather than neutral position C), the resilient member 104 will exert a biasing force 115 upward to move the free end

105 to the neutral position. This biasing force 115 can be used to unweight a user who is connected to the free end 105 (i.e., unload a portion of the user's weight).

[00071] In some embodiments, the resilient member 104 is configured within the system 1000 to have maximum distance and a minimum distance between the free end 105 and the base 102. For example, a restraining mechanism can be used to prevent movement of the resilient member 104 above or below those distances. Figure 1 shows a restraining mechanism 700 restricting the movement of the distal end 105 below distance 109 while retaining mechanism 702 restricts the movement of the distal end 105 above distance C. Further, Figure 1 shows generically that restraining mechanisms 700, 702 can be placed fore or aft of the frame. However, the restraining mechanism may be placed anywhere relative to the frame such that the restraining mechanism can control the movement and/or location, shape, and/or curvature of the resilient member. Likewise, the restraining mechanism can be coupled or attach anywhere along the length of the resilient member 104, including at the free end 105. The retaining mechanism(s) (such as mechanisms 700, 702) can include levers, winches, counterweights, cables and/or pulleys. For example, the restraining mechanism can be a cable and winch that can pull the free end 105 of the resilient member 104 toward the base 102, thereby deflecting the resilient member 104 to a non-neutral position. Similarly, the cable and winch may release the free end 105 and allow the resilient member 104 to return to a neutral position.

[00072] It is to be appreciated that the restraining mechanism(s) employed can be used to alter the position, shape, or curvature of the resilient member in any number of ways such as by applying a tensioning force and/or a compressive force to maintain the resilient member in a non-neutral position. In some embodiments, the restraining mechanism(s) can be used to controllably adjust the shape of the resilient member 104. Adjustment of the shape of the resilient member 104 can advantageously control the shape, location, or curvature of the resilient member 104, thereby providing: (1) control of the amount of unloading experienced by the user; (2) height adjustment; or (3) movement of the resilient member out of the way when not attached to the user (i.e., the attachment mechanism can force the resilient member 104 to have a smaller or greater radius of curvature than in the neutral, unbiased position). Restraining mechanisms are described in greater detail further below.

[00073] In some embodiments, the design of the resilient member 104, including materials, components, and shape, can be selected to create a relatively constant spring rate or consistent unweighting force. For example, the resilient member 104 may be designed to provide l Olbs of unweighting force while deflected from a neutral position regardless of how much the resilient member is deflected from the neutral position. For example, referring to Figure 1, in some embodiments, the resilient member 104 may provide a constant unweighting force regardless of whether deflected to position A or B from neutral position C.

[00074] In some embodiments, the spring force or unweighting force of the system 1000 can be varied by employing additional resilient members. Figure 3 illustrates an unweighting system 3000 with a first resilient member 104 and a second resilient member 106, both having fixed ends 1 12a, b attached to the base 102 and free ends 105a,b. The resilient members 104a,b can be vertically stacked or aligned relative to one another. Further, the fixed ends 1 12a,b can be fixed to the base 102 at substantially the same location (though in other embodiments, the fixed ends 1 12a,b can be mounted at separate locations along the base 102). The first resilient member 104 can have a first spring rate X, and the second resilient member 106 can have a second spring rate Y (where spring rate is the amount of weight or load a spring or resilient member carries when deflected a certain distance or height). Further, the distal ends 105a,b can be configured to contact one another, as shown in Figure 4.

[00075] When the distal ends 105a,b of the first and second resilient members 104, 106 contact or engage one another, as shown in Figure 4, the combination may result in a third spring rate Z for the engaged members, thereby resulting in a different (greater) spring force. Figure 4 shows the second resilient member 106 moved distally (vertically upwards) from the base 102 toward the first resilient member 104. When the first and second resilient members 102, 104 are engaged and/or in physical contact with each other, the effective spring rate or force of the resulting combination may be the additive sum of the individual spring rates or forces. In some embodiments, the spring force increases with each additional resilient member added to the combination. In one example, the first and second resilient members 104, 106 may individually provide lOlbs of unweighting force. When the second resilient member 106 is moved from position D to position E (as shown in Figure 4), the second resilient member 106 physically engages the first resilient member 104. While engaged, the second resilient 106 member imparts an unweighting or lifting force against the first resilient member 104. The combined unweighting force is the sum of the individual unweighting forces, i.e. 201bs.

[00076] Figure 5 illustrates an embodiment of an unweighting system 5000 with three resilient members 104, 106, 108. Each of the resilient members has a respective free end 105a,b,c and fixed ends 112a,b,c. As discussed above, each resilient member can be configured to contact or physically engage at least one other resilient member. Figure 5 shows the first resilient member 104 with a bottom contact surface 1500 adapted for engaging a top surface 1502 of resilient member 106. The second resilient member 106 further has a bottom surface 1504 adapted for engaging a top surface 1506 of the resilient member 108.

[00077] The resilient members 104, 106, 108, can all be vertically aligned such that when the distal end 105 of one of the resilient members is moved distally or proximally (vertically) relative to the base 102, the resilient member may physically engage another resilient member at an upper or lower longitudinal surface. For example, the distal end 105c of the third resilient member 108 may be raised to contact the second resilient member 106 at surface 1504.

Likewise, the second resilient member 106 may be moved to contact the first resilient member 104 at the bottom contact surface 1500. Although shown as top and bottom surfaces, it is contemplated that the engaged portions or surfaces between resilient members may not be at a top or bottom surface. The resilient members can, alternatively, engage one other through contact side-by-side or otherwise. To engage the resilient members, the one or more resilient members can be attached together, such as within the attachment mechanism 114 and/or through a separate attachment mechanism, such as a clip, hook, or buckle.

[00078] The resilient members may be connected to one or more restraining mechanisms (as described above) such that each one is independently moveable. For example, the upper resilient member 104 can remains stationary through a restraining mechanism as the middle resilient member 106 and the lower resilient member 108 are movable away from or towards the upper member 104. In some embodiments, a restraining mechanism can further be used to set a maximum distance or separation between resilient members.

[00079] Similar to system 3000, the effective spring rate (and force) of the unweighting system 5000 shown in Figure 5 may be varied by varying the physical engagement between the respective resilient members 104, 106, 108. For example, Figure 6 shows the unweighting system 5000 with engaged first and second resilient members 104, 106 that provide an effective spring force and unweighting force that is greater than those provided individually by the members (i.e., a spring force equivalent to the spring force of resilient member 104 plus the spring force of resilient member 106). Further, the third resilient member 108 can be moved in direction 1096 to engage the first and second members, thereby further increasing the spring force of the system 3,000. Figure 7 shows all three resilient members 104, 106, 108 engaged to provide a spring force and unweighting force that is greater than one or two of the resilient members individual (e.g.,equivalent to the sum of the spring forces of the individual resilient members 104, 106, 108). Using one or more resilient members that are selectively engagable with one another can thus advantageously provide control over the spring force of the system and, correspondingly, control of the degree of unloading of a user attached to the system.

[00080] Figure 8 shows an exemplary user engagement element 114 to couple the user to the unweighting system 8000 (including a resilient member 104 attached to a base 102 similar to the systems 1000, 3000, 5000 described above). In one embodiment, the user engagement element 114 includes a grooved section 442 that is designed to engage and couple to an unweighting garment. Figure 8 shows a pair of unweighting shorts 400 with hooks 402 for coupling to the grooved section 441 of the user engagement element 114. The attachment on an unweighting garment can be any suitable mechanism such as a buckle, clip, and loop, or other means of connecting a garment to the resilient member 114.

[00081] Figure 9 shows a user 300 wearing the unweighting shorts 400 while coupled to an unweighting system 9000 (including two resilient members 104, 106 as described herein coupled to a frame 102). To take advantage of the unweighting force imparted by the resilient members 104, 106 the user 300 (wearing shorts 400) may first deflect the top resilient member 104 from a neutral position (shown by the dotted line in Figure 9) to a non-neutral position near the user's hip or waist. The user 300 can then attach his or herself to the attachment mechanism 1 14. Once deflected and attached to the user 300, the top resilient member 104 will provide a lifting force upwards against the unweighting garment 400 and the user 300.

[00082] The unweighting force experienced by user 300 in the unweighting system 1000 may be increased by engaging additional resilient members. For example, the second resilient member 106 may be brought into contact with the bottom surface 1500 of the top resilient member 104. The upward force of the second resilient member 106 adds to the unweighting force of the first resilient member 104 to impart a greater combined unweighting force. Figure 10 shows the second resilient member 106 moved from a first position (shown by the dotted lines) to a position where the resilient member 106 physically engaged with the first resilient member 104. To reduce the unweighting force, the user 300 can reposition the second resilient member 106 such that it is no longer contacting the first resilient member 104. Again, positioning any resilient member may be achieved by a restraining mechanism as described above.

[00083] While the unweighting systems described have been illustrated with one, two, or three resilient members, it is to be understood that any number of resilient members may be used in any of the embodiments. Additionally, orientation and location of the members are variable.

[00084] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 11-24, an unweighting system 1 100 can include a first set 199a and a second set 199b of resilient members (the sets 199a, 199b can be considered "pairs" of sets). Each set 199a,b can include one or more resilient members configured as described above with reference to systems 1000, 3000, 5000, 8000, or 9000. The pairs of resilient members can provide bilateral unweighting for a user.

[00085] Although shown as having two sets 199a,b and three resilient members in each set 199a,b, any number of resilient members may be used for the unweighting system. For example, in some embodiments, the unweighting system only has a single pair of resilient members. In other embodiments, unweighting system may have an adjustable number of resilient members that can be added or removed from the unweighting system. In some embodiments, the number of resilient members on different sections of the unweighting system may differ. For example, one side may have three resilient members whereas the other side may have four. In other embodiments, the corresponding members or pairs of resilient members are positioned across from each other, forming an unweighting space between the members for the user to stand, sit, or move, or exercise.

[00086] In the variation illustrated in Figures 1 1-24, the unweighting system 1 100 has a first pair 104a-b, a second pair 106a-b, and a third pair 108-a-b of resilient members. Each of the resilient members is mounted to the frame 102 at fixed ends 1 12a-f. The resilient members for each set 199a,b are mounted on the same side of the base 102 (such as the same fixation location) as other resilient members in the set 199a,b. Although shown this way, it is not required. In other embodiments, the mounting location of each resilient member may be the same or different. Similar as to describe above, the free ends 105a-f (see Figure 12) are free to move proximally and distally (vertically) relative to the base 102.

[00087] Similar to as described above, the movement of each resilient member in system 1 100 can be independent of the others. For example, between Figure 14 and Figure 15, the upper resilient member 104b has not been moved while both the middle resilient member 106b and the lower resilient member 108b have been curved or bent to lower their respective free ends 105d,e toward the base 102. Although shown as having been moved a substantially equivalent amount, the middle resilient member 106b and lower resilient member 108b can also be configured to move independently of one another such that movement of one does not require the movement of the other.

[00088] In some embodiments, the maximum distance that a resilient member can be separated from another resilient member may be predetermined. For example, referring to Figure 14, the middle resilient member 106b and the lower resilient member 108b can have a maximum distance apart indicated by 601. The maximum distance, in some embodiments, may be a maximum limit preset for distance between the free ends of the middle and lower resilient members. With the preset maximum, distance between the middle and lower resilient members 106, 108 is limited to the distance 601 or less. The resilient members may be brought closer together, such as a distance 603 shown in Figure 15, but the distance cannot be greater than distance 601. In some embodiments, the resilient members are connected to each other to ensure that the maximum separation distance is not exceeded. When connected together, the movements of the attached members are not entirely independent. That is, in some

embodiments, one of the resilient members may be moved without the other as long as the distance between the members remains at or below the maximum limit. Movement otherwise will cause the other resilient member to also move. That is, the attached members can be moved as a unit to maintain the preset distance between the two. This can be achieved by the restraining system such as by way of cables, stays, or any other suitable mechanical means attached to the affected resilient members. For example, a tensioning cable of set length may be positioned between the attached members. The cable is slack while the members are within the maximum distance limit and tensions at the maximum distance to pull an attached member with a moving member. [00089] As discussed, the movement of the resilient members advantageously provides an unweighting force for a user. Figures 16-18 illustrate this concept. Figure 16 shows the unweighting system 100 with a user 300 coupled to the upper resilient member 104b of a set 199b near the user's waist or hip (via the attachment mechanism 114). The upper resilient member 104b can be curved, bent, displaced, or deflected in direction 199 to bring the free end 105e to the user's hip area. Once the user engagement portion 114b is attached to the user's waist or hip area, the upper resilient member 104b applies an upward lifting force to unweight a portion of the user's weight. The set 199a (see Figures 11-13) of resilient members on the opposite side could similarly be attached the opposite side of the user 300. The amount of unloading can thus be distributed between the two sets 199a,b, such as equally distributed.

[00090] To increase the unweighting force, the additional resilient members 106b, 108b engage the upper resilient member 104b. As shown in Figure 17, the free end 105f of the resilient member 106b may be moved distally or vertically (as shown by the arrow 197) away from the base 102 such that an upper surface 502 of the resilient member 106b touches a lower surface 500 of the resilient member 104b. The resilient member 108b can likewise be moved to touch resilient member 106b. A similar adjustment can be made to set 199a (see Figures 11-13) to adjust the amount of unloading provided to the opposite side of the user 300.

[00091] Similar to as discussed above, the spring force of the sets 199a, 199b of resilient members in unweighting system 1100 can be controlled by engaging or contacting the resilient members. For example, while the resilient members 104b, 106b, 108b in Figure 14 are disengaged with one other, each resilient member 104b, 106b, 108b has its own spring rate and force. The disengaged spring rate or force of each resilient member 104b, 106b, 108b may be the same or different. However, once a resilient member is engaged and contacted with another resilient member, the contacted resilient members may form an effective spring rate or force resulting from the combination of the two resilient members. For example, Figure 19 shows the first and second resilient members 104b, 106b of set 199b in contact with one another. Together, they provide an effective spring force that is greater than the spring force of either 104b, 106b alone. When the resilient member 108b is moved in an upward direction 196 away from the base to contact and engage the second resilient member 106b, an even greater effective spring force will results. Figure 21 shows the three resilient members 104b, 106b, 108b engaged where the unweighting force is the combined force provided by all three. In some embodiments, the spring force increases with each additional resilient member added to the combination. The second set 199a of resilient members can likewise provide controllable and variable weighting as described for 199b (and the load can be distributed between the two sets 199a,b, such as equally distributed). [00092] Although the unweighting system 1 100 has been described with equal unweighting on both a left and right side of the user, this need not be the case. In some embodiments, the amounts of un-weighting to the left and to the right side can vary to help a patient who is injured on one leg only to obtain a more normal gait pattern. In some embodiments, the left and right sides are coupled so that a single adjustment is needed to provide the unweighting. In other embodiments, the left and right sides are independently adjustable.

[00093] The system 1 100 can be configured to be connected to or placed around a treadmill (as shown in Figure 1 1). Likewise, any of the unweighting systems described herein can be fixed to, releasably attached to, or placed on our around an exercise device such as a treadmill, bike, elliptical, etc. The frame of the unweighting system may be adapted to complement or mate to the structure of the exercise to allow unweighting a user while the user exercises on the device. Although shown with a treadmill herein, it can be appreciated that the exercise device used can be any exercise device such as an elliptical or bike etc. In other embodiments, the unweighting system is used without an exercise device and the user is unweighted in an exercise envelope in the center of the unweighting system. The unweighting system may be used by the user, for example, on an exercise platform for jumping or aerobic exercising.

[00094] In some embodiments, to improve stability of the unweighting system, the resilient members described herein may be mounted to more than one point on the frame. Figures 12-13 show the resilient members can be both fixed at the distal ends 112a to the base 102 of the frame and can be further held or coupled to the frame by attachment (bolt or other restraint) to a vertical beam 1 13 at the rear portion of the frame. In some embodiments, the rearward fixation to the vertical beam 1 13 stabilizes the resilient members in the fore/aft direction to prevent unwanted lateral movement by the members.

[00095] The resilient members described herein may be made from any suitable resilient or flexible material nylon, carbon fibers, Teflon, fiberglass composite/plate, spring steel, plastic, wood, or other composite. In some embodiments, the resilient member is made from 2" x .25" fiberglass plate. In other embodiments, the stiffening members are non-flexible elements such as hardened steel, aluminum extrusions, wood blocks. In some embodiments, the resilient member is a rod, flat slat, or rectangular strip of flexible.

[00096] In some embodiments, the resilient members described herein have a curved shape such as a circular, elliptical, or an arc, arched, or arcuate shape. For example, when attached to the user, the resilient member can form an arch of at least or more than 180°. The resilient member may include a variety of shapes (e.g. circular, curved, flat, flattened, and angled etc.) at different sections. In some embodiments, the shape is changeable and adjustable. Additionally, individual resilient members on the unweighting system may have different dimensions, curvature, and/or shape.

[00097] In further embodiments, the width of the resilient member may not be uniform or constant throughout the length of the member. For example, the width may be smaller near the user's arms or hips to allow for adequate space for the user's arm swing during movement.

[00098] In some embodiments, the resilient member is a rectangular strip spring steel that is bent or twisted at a midpoint such that the cross-section of the bent area has a smaller width than an untwisted portion of the resilient member.

[00099] In any of the embodiments described above, the free end of a resilient member may be connected to the frame by way of restraining mechanism such as cables, brackets, pulleys, etc. For example, as shown in Figures 1 1 and 22-24, the base 102 or frame can include a set of pulleys 110 designed to engage ropes or cables 130, 132. The cables 130, 132 can run through the pulleys 1 10 to attachment points on the various resilient members to control the position of the members. The cables 130, 132 can, for example, tension or slacken to move the free ends of the resilient members to a plurality of positions closer to and further away from the base 102. A motorized winch 150 may be used to tighten or loose the cables. As shown, the winch 150 can be positioned at the front of the system 1 100. However, it is to be appreciated that the winch could be at any location such as the sides or rear of the system.

[000100] As shown in Figures 11 and 22-24, the free ends are connected to a winch by a series of pulleys and tensioning elements. A first cable 130a,b connects the top resilient members

104a,b to adjustable stops 105 at the base 102 of the frame. The length of the cable 130a,b is set to provide the upper resilient members 104a,b a maximum distance between the free ends 105a,d of the upper resilient members 104a,b and the base 102. The cable 130a,b allows the free end of the upper resilient members 104a,b to be curved or lowered toward the base 102 but not to be extended beyond the length of the cable 130a,b. For example, the free ends 105a,d can be moved proximally toward the base 102. However, the cable 130a,b restrains the free ends 105a,d from moving distally from the base beyond the cable length. In some embodiments, the cable 130a,b is pulled through rings 107 on other resilient members (e.g. middle resilient members 106a,b and lower resilient member 108a,b). Additionally, the cable 130a,b can be attached to the upper resilient member 104 by any suitable means including an anchor or stay. In some embodiments, resilient members 106a,b and 108a,b are guided along the first cable 132a,b to prevent the members 106a,b and 108a,b from springing upwards and sideays from underneath the upper resilient member 104a,b. The rings 107 can guide the movement of the lower resilient members 106a,b and 108a,b as they move away or towards the upper resilient member 104a,b. [000101] Referring still to Figures 11 and 22-24, a second cable 132a,b can be connected to the lower resilient members 106a,b and 108a,b. Figure 22 shows the second cable 132a,b connected to the middle resilient member 106a,b and lower resilient member 108a,b. As shown, the middle resilient member 106a,b has a stop 111 attached to the cable 132a,b. Similarly, the lower resilient member 108a,b has a stop 115 also attached to the second cable 132a,b. The second cable 132a,b is attached to both the resilient members 106a,b, 108a,b at the stops 111, 115 with a section of cable between the stops. In this embodiment, the section of rope/cable 132a,b between the stops 11 1, 115 is sufficiently long to space apart the two resilient members 106a,b, 108a,b. In some embodiments, the space allows the middle resilient member 106a,b to contact the upper resilient member 104a,b without engaging the lower resilient member 108a,b. In operation, tension may be released on the second cable 132a,b to allow the middle resilient member 106a,b and the lower resilient member 108a,b to move distally away from the base 102. Because the middle and lower resilient members 106a,b, 108a,b are both attached to the second cable 132a,b, both are controlled by the same cable 132a,b. In this described embodiment, the middle and lower resilient members 106a,b, 108a,b are moved upwardly until the middle resilient member 106a,b contacts the upper resilient member 104a,b. Once in contact or engaged with the upper resilient member 104a,b, the middle resilient member 106a,b will not be able to move further beyond the upper resilient member 104a,b. At this point, additional tension in the second cable 132a,b that is released will have the effect of allowing the lower resilient member 108a,b to move upward to contact the middle resilient member 106a,b. This is not required in all cases where tension may be maintained on the second cable 132a,b to only engage the middle resilient member 106a,b with the upper resilient member 104a,b without employing the lower resilient member 108a,b.

[000102] The restraining mechanisms, such as the cables and pulleys, of the unweighting systems described herein may be adjusted by any number of control systems and methods. For example, the mechanisms can be user adjusted, adjusted by a third party, and/or automatically adjusted with a motor. In the embodiments including cables and pulleys, for example, the user can pull the ropes/cables and lock the rope/cable in place with an adjustable cord stop. A third party, such as a therapist, can adjust the amount of cable length of either rope to set the height and/or level of unweighting for the user. This could be done by connecting each rope to a separate crank mechanism. Alternatively, a motor and/or powered system (such as electric winch 150 shown I Figures 11 and 24) can be used to drive a winch that tightens or releases the cable.

[000103] In some embodiments, the amount of the unweighting force may be controlled by a counterweight. Figure 28 shows an unweighting system including a counterweight or weight stack 330. By changing the amount of weight loaded on the weight stack 330, the user can change the amount of unweighting force. For example, the user may wish to unload 201bs of the user's weight. To achieve this, the user may select to remove 201bs from the weight stack 330 to thereby allow the resilient member 104 to impart 201bs of unloading force to the user. In other variations, the weight stack 330 may be connected to multiple resilient members such that multiple resilient members may be engaged to provide an unweighting force. Additionally, the weight stack 3300 may be coupled to the unweighting system using any suitable mechanisms such as pulleys, ropes, cables, etc. In some embodiments, a spring can be used to dampen movement of the user relative to the weight stack.

[000104] Methods of unweighting a user with the unweighting systems described herein are discussed in greater detail as follows. A portion of the user's weight can be unloaded by the unweighting systems by coupling a user to one or a pair of resilient members. As shown in Figures 1-10, the unweighting system can include a single set of one or more resilient members configured to attach to the user or, as shown in Figures 11-24, the unweighting system can include two sets of one or more resilient members configured to attach to opposite sides of the user.

[000105] The user 300 is attached to at least one resilient member at or near the user's hip. The unweighting systems can include an attachment element 114 that connects to an article of clothing worn by the user. In some embodiments, the user wears a pair of shorts with attachment elements 402 for coupling to the corresponding attachment members 114 on the resilient members. Figure 25 shows one embodiment where the user 300 is coupled to the systems of Figures 1 1 -24 by way of a pair of unweighting shorts 400. Figure 26 shows a pair of shorts 400 that have an attachment element 402, such as hooks, attached at the waist that are "picked up" by the groove in the attachment element 1 14 on upper resilient member 104. In some embodiments, this attachment could be a buckle, a hook and loop, or other means of connecting a garment to a resilient member. Although shown as a pair of shorts, any unweighting garment may be used such as those described in the PCT Patent Application No. ΧΧΧ,ΧΧΧ titled "UNWEIGHTING GARMENTS," and filed March 5, 2014, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference.

[000106] In order for the user to couple the attachment elements 114 to shorts 400, the user can lower the free end of the upper resilient member 104. In doing so, the user can slide loops or hooks on the user's shorts 400 onto the groove of the attachment element 114 on the upper resilient members. Further, in some cases, where a first cable 130 (as described above) is used to adjust the height of the upper resilient member 104, lowering the upper resilient member causes the first cable 130 to slacken, thereby transferring the load from the cable tension to the user's body, providing a lifting force. In other embodiments, once coupled to the user's body, the upper resilient member 104 applies a lifting force that unloads a portion of the user's weight.

[000107] In embodiments having two sets of resilient members, the upper resilient members 104a,b can unload a portion of the user's weight divided equally between the two resilient members 104a,b. For example, upper resilient members 104a,b may unload ten pounds of which each resilient member unloads five pounds.

[000108] In some embodiments, the user can increase the amount of unloading by increasing the number of resilient members providing a lifting force on the user's body. This can be accomplished, for example, by contacting additional resilient members to the upper resilient member(s) 104. In some embodiments, an additional portion of the user's weight is unloaded by contacting a resilient member to an upper resilient member. For example, a user with ten pounds unloaded by upper resilient member(s) 104 may increase unloading by contacting or engaging a surface of the middle resilient member(s) 106 to a surface of the upper resilient member(s) 104. The lifting force of the middle resilient member(s) 106 is then combined (such as additively) to the lifting force of the upper resilient member(s) 104 to increase the lifting force experienced by the user.

[000109] In some embodiments where a second cable 132 is used, the lower or middle resilient members 106, 108 may be brought into contact with the upper resilient member(s) 104 by releasing tension in the second cable 132. By releasing the tension, the middle resilient member(s) 106, for example, may rise and eventually contact the upper resilient member(s) 104. Additional unloading can be accomplished by releasing additional tension in the second cable 132 to allow additional lower resilient members to rise and contact any resilient members above the rising member. For example, the second cable 132 can be slackened to allow the lower resilient member(s) 108 to contact middle resilient member(s) 106 (which is also already in contact with upper resilient member(s) 104).

[000110] The resilient members described may provide the amount of lifting force (and unloading) in different amounts. For example, the upper resilient member may each provide five pounds of lifting force whereas the lower resilient members may each provide three pounds or ten pounds. The resilient members may be designed by, for example, selection of materials to provide the same or varying amounts of lifting force.

[000111] If desired, the user can decrease the amount of unloading. This can be done, for example, by engaging/contacting or disengaging upper resilient members from lower resilient members. Where a second cable 132 is used, a winch can tension the cable 132 to pull down the lower resilient members 108a-b (or middle resilient members 106a-b). Once disengaged, the lower resilient members 108a-b no longer provide a lifting force to the user. [000112] While the user is attached to the unweighting system and unloaded with the resilient member(s), he or she can exercise on an exercise device that is attached to or at least partially encircled by the unweighting system. For example, the user can run or walk on a treadmill.

[000113] As shown in Figure 25, the resilient member(s) can be positioned near the user's hip without interfering with the user's running form. The user 300 is connected to the resilient member at or near the hip. The user 300 can thus run, walk, or otherwise exercise on the treadmill within the exercise envelope provided by the unweighting system. Generally, a user's hip moves four inches vertically when running or walking. In some embodiments, the resilient member(s) accommodate this vertical motion by allowing some vertical deflection of the resilient member(s) to track the movement of the user's hips. This provides the user with a natural running experience.

[000114] Further, the unweighting systems described herein can provide an unobstructed exercise envelope. A suitable exercise envelope provides, at least, sufficient space within or about the unweighting system for a user to comfortably move his body including limbs in a natural walking, running, or moving direction. This would include providing adequate spacing around or between the resilient members to allow the user to extend and bend his legs without interference. Additionally, a user is able to move his arms naturally and avoid obstruction in the path of the arm swings. For example, in embodiments with only a single set of resilient members, the resilient members can sit approximately in the user's sagittal plane so as to allow placement of the user's legs on either side. In embodiments with two sets of resilient members, the sets of resilient members may be set apart by a distance suitable to provide the user with an unobstructed exercise envelope. To achieve an adequate exercise envelope, the sets of resilient members may be placed at a set distance apart. In some embodiments, the sets of resilient members (i.e. of a pair) are positioned apart by about 32-52 inches. In other embodiments, the resilient members may be positioned apart between about 47-48 inches.

[000115] The described systems can further advantageously provide a comfortable running experience by providing a relative constant lifting force experienced by the user. As the user's body moves up and down, the force remains relatively constant. Figure 27 shows a relatively constant force F exerted around a cross section of the user's waist where two sets of flexible resilient members are attached to the user's waist.

[000116] When the user is finished with the unweighting system, the user can disengage lower resilient members and un-clip or detach himself from the system, completing the user experience.

[000117] Additionally, the embodiments described herein above can provide unweighting from a user's hip area. Instead of overhead suspension, the embodiments described can extend from behind (or in front of) the user and provide attachment points to the user at or near the hip to provide a lifting force from the hip area. The force may be in any direction or angle, including a lateral and/or upward force. In further embodiments, the resilient member(s) is configured to unweight the user from the hip area.

[000118] Referring to Figure 29, an exemplary unweighting system 10 includes a base 20 and a pair of arched (curved or arcuate) resilient members 12a,b mounted thereto. The resilient members 12a,b each include two fixed ends 18a,b and 19a,b (i.e. ends that are not freely floating) mounted to the base 20 and an attachment point therebetween for attaching the resilient members 12a,b to two opposite sides of a user. The curved resilient members 12a,b can provide unloading or unweighting of a user who is positioned between the resilient members 12a,b and who is attached to the resilient members 12a,b between the ends of each resilient member 12a,b, such as attached proximate to the apex of the arch of each resilient member 12a,b.

[000119] The resilient members 12a,b can be rods, flat slats, or rectangular strips of flexible material. Figure 29 shows resilient members 12a,b as flat rectangular strips of material having a length relatively greater than the width of the strip. Further, the resilient members 12a,b may be made from any suitable resilient or flexible material including nylon, carbon fibers, Teflon, fiberglass composite/plate, spring steel, plastic, wood, or other composite. Further, the resilient members 12a,b can have a variety of shapes that may include a circular, curved, flat, flattened, and/or angled section.

[000120] The spring force of the resilient members 12a,b can be varied to vary an amount of unloading experienced by the user.

[000121] In some embodiments, the resilient members 12a,b are movably attached to the base 20. For example, the first end 18a,b or second end 19a,b of resilient members 12a,b may be moved horizontally along the base 20 to either lengthen or shorten the distance between the ends 18a,b and 19a,b. Figure 37 shows the resilient member 12a at a first position where the first end 18a and second end 19a are at a first distance Dl apart and the apex is at a height HI . Figure 37 further shows the resilient member 12a at a second position where the first end 18a and the second end 19a are a second distance D2 apart and the apex is at a height H2. To transition from the first position to the second position, the first end 18a can be moved a distance 24 along the base 20 to a new position while the second end 19a can be moved a distance 26 along the base 20 to a new position. Because the length of the resilient member 12a is fixed while the shape of the resilient member is flexible, moving the first end 18a toward the second 19a can change the shape and/or height of the resilient member 12a. For example, when the distance between the ends is shortened to D2, the height of the apex 36 of the resilient member 12a is increased from HI to H2. As shown, shortening the distance between the ends also changes the shape of the resilient member from a generally semi-circular shape to a parabolic shape. Increasing the height of the apex can advantageously provide for: (1) height adjustment for the user; and/or (2) an increase in the unloading force provided by the resilient members 12a,b.

[000122] In some embodiments, both fixed ends 18a, 19a can move (as shown in Figure 38). In other embodiments, only a single fixed end, such as fixed end 18a, can move (shown in Figure 39). Further, in some embodiments, the ends 18a,b of the resilient member 12a are moved the same distance, and in other embodiments, they can be moved different distances.

[000123] In some embodiments, the ends 18, 19 of the resilient member(s) 12a,b can include rollers that roll along a track in the base 20. In other embodiments, one or more of the ends 18, 19 can include a lead nut and screw. As shown in Figure 29, ends 18a, 18b of resilient members 12a, 12b can include a lead screw 23a,b and nut. Tightening the nut along the lead screw (in either the forward or reverse directions) 23a,b can increase or decrease the distance between the two ends 19a,b.

[000124] In some embodiments, one or more of the ends 18a,b, 19a,b of the resilient members 12a,b are movable by a motor or actuator. For example, referring to Figures 29 and 43, an actuator or motor 16 can be connected or engaged with at least one of the ends 18,19 of the resilient member(s) 12a,b. As shown in Figures 29 and 43, the motor 16 may be configured to move the end 18 of the resilient member 12a along the base 20 using the lead screw 23a and nut.

[000125] In other embodiments, the shape and/or height of the resilient member can be changed by placing tension on a portion of the resilient member. For example, referring to

Figure 40, tensioning cables 98 can be coupled to the resilient member 12a at attachment points 96a,b on the resilient member 12a. In some embodiments, the positions 96a,b are along a circumference or perimeter of the resilient member 12a. The tensioning cables exert a tensioning force directed toward the base 20. By tensioning the resilient member 12a at points 96a-b, the shape of the resilient member 12a can change. For example, as shown in Figure 40, the shape of the resilient member 12a can change from a generally semi-circular shape (see dotted lines) to a clover shape (see solid line).

[000126] As shown in Figure 41, in some embodiments, the tensioning cables 98 can be connected to a motor or actuator 94 (e.g., winch) that adjustably applies tensioning to the tensioning members 98. In some embodiments, the motor 94 may move axially along the base 20 and radially away from the tensioning member 12a (e.g., in directions 90, 92) to tension the cables 98.

[000127] Although the shape changing mechanisms were described above with respect to tensioning member 12a, it is to be understand that the same or similar mechanisms can be used to change the shape of the opposite tensioning member 12b. [000128] The load carried by the resilient members 12a,b can be modified by adjusting the shape or apex height of the resilient members 12a,b. The resilient members 12a,b can thus carry different loads depending on the shape. For example, referring to Figure 37, the resilient member 12a can carry a first load carried when the ends 18a, 19a are separated by a distance D! and can carry a second, greater load when the ends 18a, 19a are separated by a shorter distance D2.

[000129] In some embodiments, the stiffness or spring rate of the resilient member is modified by connecting members within the resilient member(s) 12a,b. For example, in some

embodiments, a resilient member can have a first spring rate that is different from a second spring rate of the resilient member by activating a hinge mechanism. This change in spring rate can likewise result in a different spring force. Referring to Figure 29, hinges 14a,b are placed along the circumferential path of the resilient members 12a,b to divide the resilient members 12a,b into multiple sections include a first section 1 la,b and a second section 13a,b. The hinges 14a,b can be designed to maintain or complement generally curved, arched, or semi-circular outline of the resilient members 12a,b.

[000130] Figure 30 shows another exemplary hinge 40 connecting sections 41, 43 of a resilient member 12. The hinge 40 is placed a distance different from the radius of the circular path that would be formed by sections 41, 43. Figure 30 shows a radius Rl for the circular path formed by section 43 of the resilient member. Additionally, radius R2 is shown for the section 41 of the resilient member. The two sections 41 and 43 of the resilient member are joined by the hinge 40. The connecting element has a distance L from the base 20 that is less than Rl and R2.

Effectively, this creates a gull-wing shape for the resilient member In some cases, the radii of the sections 41, 43 are the same. In other cases, the radii of the two sections 41, 43 are different. Further, in some embodiments, the hinge 40 is positioned at a vertical distance from the base 20 that is different from the distance between the apices of the two sections of the resilient member and the base. In other embodiments, the distance between the connector 40 and the base 20 is shown as length LI. The distance between the apex 7 of section 41 and the base L2. The distance between the apex 9 of section 43 and the base 20 is L3. In some embodiments, LI, L2, and L3 are the same. In other embodiments, the lengths are different. As shown in Figure 30, L2 and L3 are the same length while LI is shorter than L3 and L2. Alternatively, the hinge or any other connector may have a greater distance from the base 20 compared to the radius of resilient member sections or the distance between the apices of the resilient member sections and the base.

[000131] The hinge mechanisms in the resilient member can both: (1) help provide tracking of the user's hips as he or she runs up and down and/or (2) allow for adjustment of the spring rate or force, and thus the amount of unloading of the user. That is, Figure 49 shows a hinge 40 on the resilient member 12 near where a user's hip are when the user is in a standing position. Figure 50 shows the position of the hinge 40 at different positions during walking, running, or exercising by the user. The hinge 40 allows for vertical motion of the resilient member near the connection to the user. As shown, the shape of the resilient member 12 may change during exercise. The resilient member may have a first shape 73 during a user's neutral standing position. When the user begins to walk or run, the user's hips will naturally shift and move during motion. To accommodate the position changes of the user's hips, the hinge 40 allows the resilient member to vertically move. The hinge 40 may move downward, changing the resilient member to shape 71. Alternatively, the hinge 40 may move upward, changing the resilient member to shape 75. Further, in some embodiments, the hinge mechanisms can adjust the spring force of the resilient member by changing its shape. In some embodiments, the hinge mechanism can have a plurality of settings, allowing the shape of the resilient member to be incrementally set.

[000132] As another example, the spring force of the resilient member can be reduced by flattening a connecting member, such as a connecting member that extends through the top section or apex of the resilient member. For example, Figure 31 shows a resilient member 12 having three sections 60, 61, 63. Sections 61 and 63 are relatively curved and circular. Section 60 (operating as the connecting member between sections 61 and 63) is relatively flat compared to sections 61 and 63. Similarly, Figure 32 shows a resilient member having curved sections 65, 67 connected to a flatter section 60. In some embodiments, the flat connecting member can connect to the other sections through hinges (such as hinges 62 shown in Figure 32). The curved sections are connected to the flatter section by connecting elements such as hinges 62. In some embodiments, the flat connector can be made by adding material to the resilient member along the connector. The connector section 60 can be adjustable to provide for incremental flattening, thereby allowing for incremental changing of the spring force. For example, the flatter the section 60, the lower the spring force.

[000133] Although shown as having two or three sections in Figures 29-32, it can be appreciated that any number of sections may be employed using connecting members within the resilient members. For example, the resilient member may have multiple sections (shown in Figure 33) connected by hinges or other connecting elements along the length of the resilient member. The resilient member may be segmented at uniform distances where each section has generally the same length. Alternatively, the sections may have non-uniform lengths. In some embodiments, the resilient member has sections that articulate at joined ends (see Figure 4B). [000134] In some embodiments, stiffening members or elements may be attached or connected to the resilient members. As shown in Figure 44, a resilient member 12 can include stiffening members 50a,b are attached thereto. The stiffening members 50a,b can be attached to the resilient member 12 near the ends of the resilient member on the base. In some embodiments, the stiffening members 50a,b are made from a flexible material. In other embodiments, the stiffening members 50a,b are non-flexible elements, such as hardened steel, aluminum extrusions, or wood blocks. The stiffening members 50a,b can be adapted to reduce or restrict movement by the resilient member 12, especially when the resilient member 12 is unweighting a user. In some embodiments, the stiffening members 50a, b are positioned near the ends 18, 19 of the resilient member 12. However, the stiffening members 50a,b can be placed anywhere on the resilient members 12 suitable for reducing the movement of the resilient members. Figure 45 shows stiffening members 52a,b. The stiffening members 52a-b can be cables attached to the resilient member and the base or frame. The stiffening members can reduce the horizontal movement of the resilient member during unloading, thereby increasing stability of the system. Further, in some embodiments, the placement of the stiffening members can be adjusted, thereby allowing for an adjustment of the spring force, and thus, the amount of unloading of the user during use.

[000135] The resilient members 12 can include attachment elements for releasably connecting a user to the resilient member and the unweighting system. For example, Figure 34 shows a pair of shorts 47 that may be worn by a user. The shorts 47 may include an attachment element 58 that is adapted to mate or attach to a structure on the resilient member. Figures 35 and 36 show an attachment element 56 that may be used to attach the shorts 58 to the resilient member 12. In some embodiments, the attachment element 56 is a lock such as a carabineer or spring lock that secures the shorts to the resilient member. Any attachment means such as mechanical connectors including mating attachments, Velcro, locks, latches, cords, rope, etc. can be used. Although shown as a pair of shorts, any unweighting garment may be used such as those described in the PCT Patent Application No. ΧΧΧ,ΧΧΧ titled "UNWEIGHTING

GARMENTS," and filed March 5, 2014, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference.

[000136] The base 20 can be configured to attach to or partially encircle an exercise device, such as a treadmill 30 (as shown in Figure 29). Moreover, the frame, as shown in Figure 29, is designed to provide the user with an adequate exercise envelope within the system. For example, the unweighting system 10 of Figure 29 has a sufficient space within the frame and between the resilient members 12a-b for accommodating a user while a user is exercising on the treadmill. Moreover, the unweighting system is designed to provide the user with a comfortable running envelope. As shown, the resilient members 12a-b are positioned near the user's hip without interfering with the user's running form. The user 300, shown in Figure 46, is connected to the resilient members 12a,b at or near the hip. The user 300 can run, walk, or otherwise exercise within the exercise envelope provided by the unweighting system. Although shown with a treadmill, it can be appreciated that the exercise device used can be any exercise device such as an elliptical or bike etc. Additionally, it can be appreciated that the unweighting systems described are not limited to being used with an exercise device. The unweighting system may be used by the user, for example, on an exercise platform for jumping or aerobic exercising.

[000137] Methods of unweighting a user will be discussed in greater detail as follows. In some embodiments, a portion of the user's weight is unweighted by the described systems. Referring to Figure 46, a user 300 may enter the unweighting system and attach or connect himself to the resilient member(s) 12a,b (only 12a is shown because Figure 46 is a side view). This may be accomplished by any suitable means as described above. In some embodiments, the user wears an article of clothing such as a pair of shorts with attachments elements adapted to engage the resilient member(s). In some cases, the resilient member also includes a corresponding attachment element for mating or otherwise engaging the attachment element on the user's shorts.

[000138] Once engaged or connected, the user 300 can adjust the degree of unweighting experienced, such as by: (1) changing the distance between the ends of the resilient member; (2) placing tension on one or more portions of the resilient member to change the shape; (3) actuating connecting members along the resilient member; and/or (4) adjusting stiffening members connected to the resilient members. Thus, in some embodiments, the user 300 is unweighted by changing the shape or height (or both) of the resilient member.

[000139] Referring to Figure 29, a user may be attached to a pair of resilient members 12a-b. After connected to the resilient members (as shown in Figure 46), the user may select the percentage or amount of unloading desired. To affect the selected unloading, the unweighting system 10 may adjust the ends 18a,b and/or 19a,b of the resilient members 12a-b. For example, as shown in Figure 46, end 1 19a is moved to position 28 by a distance 24. The movement of the end 19b to position 28 alters the shape of the resilient member 12b. By altering the shape of the resilient member, an upward force is exerted on the user 300, as the upward force is transferred to the user. In cases where unweighting shorts are worn, the upward force is transferred to the user via the shorts. The upward force unloads a portion of the user's 300 weight. The unweighting system can unweight a user by moving both ends of the resilient member or just one end of the resilient member (Figures 47-48). It is to be appreciated that any of the resilient members may be modified by changing the shape of the member such as by moving the ends, sides, or any other portion of the member together or apart such as by using a motor to drive to ends of the member toward or away from one another.

[000140] In other embodiments, the resilient member's shape and/or height are changed via connectors to unweight the user. As shown in Figures 37-42, the resilient member's shape and/or height can be changed in a number of ways. Where the height of the resilient member is changed, the height change can contribute to the unweighting of the user by providing a lifting force. In some embodiments, a connecting member, such as a hinge, can be used to change the shape of the resilient member and thus vary the spring force of the resilient member. The connector may be a mechanical or electromechanical hinge with adjustable stiffness or resistance.

[000141] Additionally, the resilient member(s) described herein can be adapted, in some embodiments, to provide an exercise envelope that accommodates horizontal movement of the user within the unweighting system during exercise. Figure 51 shows neutral shape 71 of the resilient member. During use, the resilient member can shift to at least shapes 77 or 79 to accommodate horizontal movement of the user within the unweighting system during exercise.

[000142] The unloading the user's weight is also adjustable by continuing to change the shape, height, and/or spring force of the resilient member(s). For example, a portion of the user's weight may be unloaded prior to exercise. During exercise, the user may experience discomfort and require additionally unloading. The user can increase the desired percentage of unloading. The unweighting system will then change the shape, height, and/or spring force of the resilient members to effect the additional unloading. Likewise, a user may wish to reduce the percentage of unloading. The unweighting system can change the shape, height, and/or spring force of the resilient members to effect the reduced unloading.

[000143] Embodiments described herein advantageously provide unweighting systems that are easily accessible by both healthy and mobility impaired users. Advantageously, users can use the described systems with or without the aid of a medical professional. Additionally, embodiments described herein address the need for a cost-effective system that can be used for exercise alone or, additionally or alternatively, in conjunction with a separate exercise device where the unweighting system can be purchased separately and optionally attached to the separate exercise device in a user's home or gym.

[000144] As for additional details pertinent to the present invention, materials and

manufacturing techniques may be employed as within the level of those with skill in the relevant art. The same may hold true with respect to method-based aspects of the invention in terms of additional acts commonly or logically employed. Also, it is contemplated that any optional feature of the inventive variations described may be set forth and claimed independently, or in combination with any one or more of the features described herein. Likewise, reference to a singular item, includes the possibility that there are plural of the same items present. More specifically, as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "and," "said," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It is further noted that the claims may be drafted to exclude any optional element. As such, this statement is intended to serve as antecedent basis for use of such exclusive terminology as "solely," "only" and the like in connection with the recitation of claim elements, or use of a "negative" limitation. Unless defined otherwise herein, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The breadth of the present invention is not to be limited by the subject specification, but rather only by the plain meaning of the claim terms employed.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. An unweighting system, comprising:

a frame having a base, the base configured to connect to or at least partially surround an exercise device; and

one or more first resilient curved members having a fixed end mounted to the base and an unfixed end configured to releaseably engage a first side of a user; and

one or more second resilient curved members having a fixed end mounted to the base and an unfixed end configured to releasably engage a second side of the user,

the one or more first resilient curved members and the one or more second resilient curved members configured to unload a portion of the user's weight while engaging the user and while the user is exercising on the exercise device.

2. An unweighting system, comprising:

a frame having a base, the base configured to connect to or at least partially surround an exercise device;

a first resilient curved member having a first end mounted to the base and a second end configured to releaseably engage the user to unload a portion of the user's weight while the user is exercising on the exercise device; and

a second resilient curved member attached to the base, wherein the second resilient curved member is configured to contact the first resilient curved member to unload an additional portion of the user's weight while the user is exercising on the exercise device.

3. The unweighting system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the unfixed ends each include an

attachment mechanism configured to attach proximate to hips of the user.

4. The unweighting system of claim 1 or 2, wherein a height of the resilient curved

member(s) is less than a height of the user's torso when the unfixed end is engaged to the user.

5. The unweighting system of claim 1, wherein the one or more first resilient curved

members comprises a plurality of first resilient curved members, and wherein the one or more second resilient curved members comprises a plurality of second resilient curved members, the plurality of first resilient curved members configured to contact one another, and the plurality of second resilient curved members configured to contact one another, to unload the portion of the user's weight

6. The unweighting system of claim 2, wherein the first and second resilient curved

members are substantially aligned vertically.

7. The unweighting system of claim 1 or 2, wherein a height of the resilient curved

member(s) is adjustable.

8. The unweighting system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the exercise device is a treadmill.

9. The unweighting system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the curved resilient members are

configured to extend from behind the user when the user is exercising on the exercise device.

10. The unweighting system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the curved resilient members have an unbiased configuration when not attached to the user, wherein a radius of curvature of the resilient curved members in the unbiased configuration is higher than a radius of curvature of the resilient curved member when engaged to the user.

11. The unweighting system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the resilient curved members have a spring rate that allows the curved resilient member to track movement of the user's hips vertically while the user is exercising on the exercise device.

12. The unweighting system of claim 1 or 2, further comprising at least one restraining

mechanism configured to change a shape of the curved resilient members.

13. The unweighting system of claim 12, wherein the restraining mechanism comprises a pulley and cable mechanism.

14. A method of unweighting a user during exercise, comprising:

moving a resilient curved member of an unweighting system from an unbiased position to a biased position, the resilient curved member having a higher radius of curvature in the unbiased position than in the biased position; attaching a free end of the resilient curved member to the user while the resilient member is in the biased position so as to unload a portion of the user's weight with the resilient curved member; and

allowing the user to exercise on an exercise device while the portion of the user's weight is unloaded with the resilient curved member.

15. A method of unweighting a user during exercise, comprising:

moving a resilient curved member of an unweighting system from a constrained position to an attachment position, the resilient curved member having a different radius of curvature in the constrained position than in the attachment position;

attaching a free end of the resilient curved member to the user while the resilient member is in the attachment position so as to unload a portion of the user's weight with the resilient curved member; and

16. The method of claim 14 or 15, further comprising contacting a second resilient curved member to the resilient curved member to unload an additional portion of the user's weight.

17. The method of claim 14 or 15, further comprising tracking movement of the user's hips with the resilient curved member while the user exercises on the exercise device.

18. The method of claim 14 or 15, wherein allowing the user to exercise on an exercise

device comprises allowing the user to walk or run on a treadmill.

19. The method of claim 14 or 15, wherein the resilient curved member is positioned behind the user as the user walks or runs in a forward direction on the treadmill.

20. The method of claim 14 or 15, wherein attaching a free end of the resilient curved

member to the user comprising attaching the free end of the resilient curved member below a torso, such as proximate to hips, of the user.

21. The method of claim 14 or 15, wherein attaching a free end of the resilient curved member to the user comprises attaching the free end to a first side of the user, the method further comprising:

attaching a free end of a second resilient curved member to a second side of the user; wherein allowing the user to exercise on an exercise device further comprising allowing the user to exercise on the exercise device while the portion of the user's weight is unloaded with the second resilient curved member.

22. An unweighting system, comprising:

a frame having a base, the based configured to connect to or at least partially surround an exercise device; and

a pair of resilient curved members, each of the resilient curved members extending from a first end to a second end, the first and second ends both coupled to the base; and an attachment mechanism between the first and second ends of each resilient curved member, the attachment mechanisms configured to releasably engage the user to unload a portion of the user's weight onto each of the resilient members while the user is exercising on the exercise device.

23. The unweighting system of claim 22, wherein an amount of unloading of the user's weight is adjustable by varying a distance between the first and second ends of each resilient curved member.

24. The unweighting system of claim 22, further comprising a lead screw and a lead nut connected to the first or second end of each of the resilient curved members, wherein rotation of the lead screw moves the first end or the second end relative to the base.

25. The unweighting system of claim 24, further comprising a motor configured to move the first or second end of each resilient curved member along the base.

26. The unweighting system of claim 22, wherein each resilient curved member is a rod, flat slat, or rectangular strip of material.

27. The unweighting system of claim 22, further comprising a hinge between the first and second ends of each resilient curved member.

28. The unweighting system of claim 27, wherein each hinge forms a junction between two sections of each of the resilient curved members, the hinge adapted to provide vertical movement near the junction.

29. The unweighting system of claim 22, further comprising a stiffening member extending from each of the resilient members to the base.

30. The unweighting system of claim 29, wherein the stiffening members are adapted to prevent horizontal shifting by the resilient curved members during unloading.

31. The unweight system of claim 29, wherein the stiffening member is configured to

adjustably control an amount of unloading of the user's weight.

32. The unweighting system of claim 22, wherein the attachment mechanism of each resilient member is configured to attach proximate to the user's hips when the user is standing on the exercise device between the resilient members.

33. The unweighting system of claim 22, wherein the attachment mechanisms are configured to attach proximate to opposite sides of the user's hips.

34. The unweighting system of claim 22, further comprising tensioning members connected between each resilient member and the base, the tensioning members configured to apply tension to a portion of each resilient member to change a shape of the resilient member.

35. The unweighting system of claim 22, wherein the an attachment mechanism is positioned proximate to an apex of each resilient curved member.

36. A method of unweighting a user comprising:

attaching each of a pair of resilient curved members to opposite sides of the user, wherein each of the resilient curved members comprises a first end and a second end fixed to a base;

unloading a portion of the user's weight by adjusting a distance between the first and second ends of each resilient curved member, wherein decreasing the distance between the first and second ends of the resilient curved member increases a degree of unloading experienced by the user; and allowing the user to exercise on an exercise device when the portion of the user's weight is unloaded with the pair of resilient curved members.

37. The method of claim 36, wherein allowing the user to exercise on an exercise device comprises allowing the user to walk or run on a treadmill while the portion of the user's weight is unloaded with the pair of resilient curved members.

38. The method of claim 36, wherein attaching each of a pair of resilient curved members to opposite sides of the user comprises attaching each of the pair of resilient curved members proximate to opposite sides of the user.

39. A method of unloading a portion of weight of a user during exercise, comprising:

entering a treadmill between a pair of resilient curved members;

attaching the resilient curved members to the hips to unload a portion of the user's body weight; and

exercising on the treadmill while the portion of body weight is unloaded.

40. An unweighting system for adjustably unloading the weight of a user comprising:

a frame comprising a base; and

a plurality of resilient curved members mounted to the base, each of the resilient curved members having an adjustable height, wherein at least one of the resilient curved members is releasably attachable to a user at an area near the user's hip to provide variable unloading of the user's weight while the user is coupled to the at least one resilient curved member.

41. The unweighting system of claim 40 further comprising an attachment element for

releasably coupling the user to the at least one resilient curved member, the attachment element positioned along a length of the at least one curved member.

42. The unweighting system of claim 40 further comprising an article of clothing for

releasably coupling the user to the at least one resilient curved member, the article of clothing comprising an attachment element for releasably coupling the user to the at least one resilient curved member.

43. The unweighting system of claim 40, wherein the plurality of resilient curved members comprises two arcuate shaped rods.

44. The unweighting system of claim 40, wherein the plurality of resilient curved members comprises two arcuate shaped slats.

45. The unweighting system of claim 44, wherein each of the arcuate shaped slats has a first end and a second end mounted to the base.

46. The unweighting system of claim 40, wherein the plurality of resilient curved members have a first end and a second end mounted to base and the distance between the ends adjustable by moving one of or both of the first and second ends along the base.

47. The unweighting system of claim 46, wherein the height of the resilient curved members is varied by changing the distance between the first and second ends.

48. The unweighting system of claim 40 further comprising a hinge along the length of at least one of the resilient curved members.

49. The unweighting system of claim 48, wherein the hinge forms a junction between two sections of the resilient curved member, the hinge adapted to provide vertical movement near the junction and to adjust the force provided by the resilient curved member.

50. The unweighting system of claim 40 further comprising an exercise device, wherein the frame is sized to fit around a portion of the exercise device thereby allowing the user to exercise on the exercise device while attached to at least one of the resilient curved members.

51. The unweighting system of claim 40, wherein the user is unweighted by adjusting the height of at least one of the resilient curved members.

52. The unweighting system of claim 40 further comprising a lead screw and a lead nut, wherein the lead screw and the lead nut are connected to an end of at least one of the resilient curved members, the end adapted to be moved along the base by rotating the lead screw.

53. The unweighting system of claim 40 further comprising a motor adapted to move an end of at least one of the resilient curved members along the base to unweight the user.

54. The unweighting system of claim 40 further comprising at least one stiffening member connected to at least one of the resilient members.

55. The unweighting system of claim 54, wherein the stiffening member is adapted to

prevent horizontal shifting by the plurality of resilient curved members during unweighting.

56. The unweighting system of claim 40, wherein at least one of the resilient members has a flattened portion relative to a curved portion.

57. A method of unweighting a user comprising:

connecting a resilient curved member to the user's hip area, wherein the resilient curved member comprises a first end and a second end, and a distance between the first and second ends; and

unweighting at least a portion of the user's weight by adjusting the distance between the first and second ends, wherein decreasing the distance between the first and second ends of the resilient curved member increases the degree of unweighting experienced by the user.

58. The method of claim 57 further comprising connecting the user to a pair of resilient curved members; and providing the user a running envelope while the user is attached to the pair of resilient curved members.

59. The method of claim 57 further comprising unweighting at least a portion of the user's weight by adjusting the height of the resilient curved member.

60. The method of claim 57 further comprising adjusting the load supported by the resilient curved member by changing the distance between the first and second ends.

61. The method of claim 57 further comprising changing the distance between the first and second ends while the user is exercising on an exercise machine.

62. An unweighting system for adjustably unloading the weight of a user comprising:

a frame comprising a base;

a first resilient curved member having a first end mounted to the base and a second free end adapted to releasably engage the user at an area near the user's hip to provide variable unloading of the user's weight while the user is engaged to the resilient curved member; and

a second resilient curved member having a first side adapted to contact the first resilient curved member, wherein the second resilient curved member is adapted to unload a portion of the user's weight when in contact with the first resilient curved member.

63. The system of claim 62, wherein the second resilient curved member comprises a second side adapted to contact a surface of a third resilient curved member.

64. The system of claim 62 further comprising a first pair of the first resilient members and second pair of second resilient members wherein the corresponding members of each pair are parallel to each other.

65. The system of claim 62 wherein the first and second resilient curved members have an adjustable height.

66. The system of claim 62 wherein the resilient members comprise an arcuate shape.

67. The system of claim 62 wherein the first resilient member is adapted to unload a portion of the user's weight and the second resilient member is adapted to unload an additional portion of the user's weight when in contact with the first resilient member.

68. The system of claim 62 further comprising a restraining system, wherein the restraining system controls the distance between the free end of the first resilient member and the base.

69. The system of claim 62 further comprising an attachment element adapted to releasably attach an article worn by the user to the first resilient curved member.

70. A method of unweighting a user comprising:

releasably engaging a first resilient curved member to the user's hip area; and providing a unweighting force to the user while the first resilient curved member is deflected from a neutral position.

71. The method of claim 70 further comprising unweighting an additional portion of the user's weight by contacting a second resilient curved member to the first resilient curved member.

72. The method of claim 70 further comprising modifying an amount of force applied by the unweighting system by physically engaging the first resilient curved member with at least one other resilient curved member.

73. An unweighting system for adjustably unloading the weight of a user comprising:

a frame comprising a base; and

at least one resilient curved member mounted to the base, the resilient curved member having an adjustable height, wherein the resilient curved member is releasably attachable to a user at an area near the user's hip to provide variable unloading of the user's weight while the user is coupled to the resilient curved member.