WO2015117183A1

WO2015117183A1 - Core strength measurement device

Info

Publication number: WO2015117183A1
Application number: PCT/AU2015/000047
Authority: WO
Inventors: Thomas Andrew MCKERNAN
Original assignee: Mckernan Thomas Andrew
Priority date: 2014-02-07
Filing date: 2015-01-30
Publication date: 2015-08-13
Also published as: AU2015213465A1

Abstract

A device for measuring the core strength of a person includes a rear plate for contacting the back of the person to assist in locating the device, a front plate for providing a load or resistance against which the person flexes their abdominal muscles, an adjustor located at the side of the device to interconnect the front and rear plates to tightly fit around the torso, a detector provided on the front plate for measuring the force generated by movement of the abdominal muscles in communication with a display for displaying the force measured by the detector. The device is available in different embodiments. The advantage of the device is that it allows a person to measure and monitor quantitatively their core strength through exercising the abdominal muscles.

Description

CORE STRENGTH MEASUREMENT DEVICE

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to device for measuring the strength of the core structure of a person.

In one form the core strength measuring device is also an exercise device for improving the health and well-being of a person by strengthening or restoring muscles and/or ligaments associated with the core of the body, such as muscles and ligaments in the abdominal region of the body.

In one form, the present invention relates to a core strength measuring device which in use, is anchored against the back of a wearer or user of the device so as to present a load or resistance against which the core muscles of the person can be moved in order to provide a measure of the core strength of the person.

The present invention finds application as a core strength measurement device in the form of a monitor and/or an exerciser for monitoring and/or evaluating the health or well-being of a person by allowing the strength of the muscles of the abdominal and related areas of the person to be evaluated and monitored with a view to strengthening the muscles and/or restoring the strength of the muscles, by repeated exercise using the device in accordance with a predetermined exercise regime or program.

Although the device will be described with particular reference to one or more forms of the device, it is to be noted that the scope of protection for the device is not limited to the described embodiments, but rather the scope of protection is more extensive so as to include other forms, arrangements and variations of the device, and the use of the various forms of the device in applications for various purposes other than described.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Groups of people in modern societies experience severe weakening of their abdominal muscles and consequential instability in their pelvic structure. Other groups despite having strong abdominal muscles and relatively high ligament tissue strength, also suffer from pain and/or discomfort and/or loss of muscle strength due to their pelvic structure becoming destabilised or misaligned. Further, people that experience particular pelvic trauma injuries, such as for example, resulting from impact injuries, tend to exist in a state of perpetual pelvis mal-alignment and have little or no means of correcting their condition, without expensive expert remedial action by a suitably qualified worker.

Many traditional and/or existing abdominal exercise machines fail to address the underlying problems of such conditions by not availing themselves of the singular muscular actions that abdominal muscles are capable of. Thus, there is a need to provide a user with an effective means of being able to exercise the abdominal muscles and accordingly an effective means to generate singular abdominal muscular retractile forces, within their pelvic structure to strengthen and/or remediate this region of the body.

Due to the isometric nature of muscle movement, a wide range of exercise positions may be assumed. For example, the user may assume a sedentary pose, a standing pose, or a supine pose, such as a pose involving lying on their stomach, which makes the device more versatile.

The deterioration of muscle condition in the abdominal region of a person may result in multiple physical malfunctions, such as for example back pain, hernias, digestive disorders, spinal shortening, breathing weaknesses and disorders. Additionally, the lack of support from these muscles may allow lumbar, and/or thigh muscle groups to cause misalignment of the pelvic structure. Although poor muscle tone in the abdominal region is not the sole cause of many malfunctions or disorders, such as for example, back pain, it is a contributing factor, sometimes a major or significant contributing factor to causing such malfunctions or disorders. Therefore, increasing the strength and tone of the muscles of the abdominal region of the body, should lead generally to improved health and wellbeing by ameliorating many of the malfunctions and disorders, particularly back pain, or at least if not entirely eliminating or preventing such disorders, reducing the discomfort caused by such disorders by using the exercise or rehabilitation device.

Another health problem afflicting an increasing number of the population is back pain. It is thought that at least some of the causes of back pain result from pelvic misalignment caused by weakening of the muscle and/or tissue structure in the abdominal region due to unequal forces being exerted by different muscle groups at different points on the pelvic structure or related structures in this area of the body to displace the pelvis from its ideal position, thus leading to pain and discomfort, such as for example back and lower back pain conditions.

Sciatica pain symptoms, leg socket pains, crooked gait, neck pains and adverse spinal curvature have all been identified as symptoms of chronic pelvic distortions caused by misalignment of the structures in the pelvis. Therefore, if the strength of the muscles of the abdominal and related regions of a person suffering from back pain or weakened abdominal muscles and/or tissues is improved, such as by effective singular abdominal exercising, there could be a corresponding reduction in back pain and associated conditions, as the pelvis is realigned to adopt a position which is closer to its ideal position as a result of the exercise program or regime.

Abdominal muscles are part of the core muscle structure of a person and the strength of abdominal muscles is associated with core strength. If core strength can be reliable measured, valuable information about the health of the person and the state of the core muscle structure can be obtained and used to improve the health, wellbeing and fitness of the person. However, to date, accurately and reproducibly measuring core strength has been elusive.

Although there have been previous attempts to measure core strength, which attempts include (i) measuring how long an individual can hold a prone or side plank position, (ii) measuring the amount of force a hip muscle can hold an isometric muscle contraction, and (iii) measuring the sequence of lying leg lifting while maintaining the spine in a neutral alignment, such attempts have been unsatisfactory for one reason or another. One reason for such measurements not being adopted and used is the lack of reproducibility of results obtained from such attempts to quantify core strength and uncertainty as to the accuracy or otherwise of the measurements obtained.

Therefore, there is a need for a device that can be used to evaluate core strength to provide an indication of the state or fitness of the intrinsic core structure of a person, including the strength of the core structure.

Accordingly, it is one aim of the present invention to provide a core strength measuring device which allows the tone or strength of the core muscles, including abdominal muscles or muscles in the abdominal region of a person, to be strengthened and/or restored, thereby improving the overall general health and well- being of the person, typically by ameliorating existing chronic back pain.

Accordingly, it is one aim of the present invention to provide a core strength measuring device that may be used to realign the pelvic area of a person suffering from pelvic misalignment by providing an evaluation of the muscles associated with pelvic positioning in the body, particularly the muscles acting on or responsible for the position of the pelvis and/or the pelvic components or structures. It is another aim of the present invention to provide a portable or transportable core strength measuring device for evaluating, monitoring and/or improving the strength of the abdominal and related regions of the body of a person using the device.

It is another aim of the present invention to provide a core strength measuring device having an improved resistance against which the abdominal and related muscles work, such as by pushing, to strengthen and/or restore the muscles in which amount of the resistance provided can be monitored and/or adjusted either in accordance with the regime and/or program of exercises required to strengthen the muscles or to determine the level or intensity of exercise that must be conducted to attain improved core strength, and to provide an indication of the amount of resistance required to strengthen the muscles.

It is another aim of the present invention to provide a core strength measuring device which is also an exercise device having improved resistance in the form of a rigid front portion forming the load or resistance against which it is possible to exercise the muscles in the abdominal region in order to increase the muscle tone and to build the abdominal muscle tissue of a person in which a measure or amount of the resistance is indicated and/or measured by a sensor for sensing the muscular forces generated.

It is an aim of the present invention to provide a core strength measuring device having an adjustable and/or variable resistance or load by providing

interchangeable resistance loads.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one form of the present invention there is provided a device for measuring the core strength of a person, comprising a rear member for contacting a portion of the back of a person to assist in locating the device with respect to the body, a substantially rigid front member for location at or towards the front of the person for contacting a portion of the abdominal region of the person during use of the device to present a load or resistance against which the muscles of the abdominal region of the person can be exercised, an adjustor for adjusting the spacing apart of the rear member and the front member to adjust the device to fit the body of the person, a detector for measuring the muscular forces generated by use of the device and a display attached to at least one part of the device to provide an indication of the amount of force produced by movement of the muscles against the load or resistance detected by the detector, wherein the effort of moving the abdominal muscles detected by the detector provides information about the condition of the muscles in the abdominal region of the person or provides information about the force being applied by the muscles against the load or resistance to determine the core strength of the person.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of measuring the core strength of a person, comprising attaching a core strength measuring device to the person, said core strength measuring device comprising a rear member for contacting a portion of the back of the person to anchor the device for exercise, a substantially rigid front member for contacting a portion of the abdominal region to present a load or resistance to movement of the muscles of the abdominal region, at least one adjustor interconnecting the front and rear members for adjusting the load presented by the device to movement of the muscles, and a detector for measuring the load or resistance of the front member provided on at least one part of the device for providing an indication of the amount of force produced by movement of the muscles in the abdominal region, adjusting the load presented by the device, and pushing, flexing or otherwise moving the muscles of the abdominal region against the front member to an extent in accordance with the measure indicated by the detector to measure the core strength of the person.

BRIEF DETAILS OF FORMS OF THE INVENTION

It is to be noted that the core strength measuring device is used to quantitatively evaluate the core strength of a person and to provide a measure of the condition of the muscles and/or alignments of the core of the body. Although there appears to be no one generally accepted definition of core strength, there are a number of descriptions of core strength that are useful in determining what constitutes core strength. One description of core strength is the strength of the underlying muscles of the torso, which help determine posture. The implication being that poor muscle strength leads to poor posture which is responsible for back pain.

Another description of referring to core strength is the intrinsic muscles that lie deep within the torso. Such muscles attach to the spine and pelvis and include the transversus abdominus, and the muscles of the pelvic floor in the lower portion of the torso and the latissimus dorsi and obliques in the middle and upper torso. A further description of core strength is the balanced development of the deep and superficial muscles that stabilise, align and move the trunk of the body, especially the abdominals and the muscles of the back.

Core strength goes beyond the surface muscles and utilises the deep internal muscles to maintain stability in motion.

Other descriptions of cores strength relates to the muscles that stabilise the spine, hips and pelvis. The core musculature includes major muscles such as rectus abdominus, multitudus. transverse abdominus, internal and external obliques, erector spinae, quadratus lumborum, iliopsoas, psoas major, trapezius, gluteus maximus/medius and minimus, scapular stabilisers, diaphragm and others.

The rectus abdominus muscles are the superficial layer of the abdominals which are perhaps more widely known as the muscles responsible for the "six-pack". This muscle runs from the ribs to the pelvis and is responsible for trunk flexion.

The multifudus is a group of muscles that run between the vertebra in the spine providing extension and rotation to each spinal segment.

The transverse abdominus is the deepest muscle layer of the abdominal.

The internal and external obliques are the intermediate layer of abdominals which extend obliquely from the pelvis or hips to the spine.

The gluteus muscles are hip muscles located on the buttock that also support and stabilise the hips and spine.

The pelvic floor muscles extend from the pubic bone in the front to the tail bone in the back.

The scapular stabilisers are also referred to as the rotator cuff, and are located on the back and around the shoulder blade.

It is to be noted that the above identified muscles and muscle groups are the major core muscles and are the superficial and deep spinal extensor muscles, abdominal muscles, pelvic floor muscles, and shoulder girdle and hip girdle muscles. The term core strength usually refers to the strength of these core muscles or core muscular structure.

In one form, the rear member of the core strength measuring device is a back support, preferably a rigid back support or a solid back support for anchoring the device with respect to the body and/or for providing support for the back in use of the device when exercising the muscles of the abdominal region. Preferably, the rear member is adapted to contact the small of the back of the wearer.

In one form, the rear member is a plate, typically a contoured plate, including a plate having a contour corresponding to the curvature of the small of the back or similar region of the back.

More preferably, the rear member is a rigid plate or similar. In one form, the contoured or shaped rigid plate is provided with a covering or is in the form of a layered or laminated structure. The form of the rear member is a composite member comprising layers or laminates of different materials, including a steel plate. In one form, the rigid plate is covered with a protective layer, typically of a contoured resilient material in the form of a pad. In one preferred form, the contour is generally arcuate comprising a compound curve in two directions from upper to lower and from side to side.

In one form, the rear member is a rigid curved plate and a resiliently deformable pad. Typically, the pad is located centrally on the curved back plate. In one form, the rear member is provided with extensions, typically located on either side of the curved central part of the back plate. In one form, the extensions are in the form of wings, typically outwardly extending wings.

In one form, the back plate can be a personally moulded, tailor-made bespoke unit by the back plate being moulded to the actual contour of an individual patient's back so that the rear plate can adopt the exact shape of the individual patient's rear upper pelvis. In one form, the back plate is moulded from thermoplastic material which can be readily shaped when softened by heat. More typically, the back plate can be remoulded to the exact shape of the back as the shape of the back changes due to an improvement in muscle tone caused by the exercise program involving the use of the device so that the measurement provided by the detector closely matches the strength of the muscles. Even more typically, the back plate is repeatedly remoulded as the pelvic area realigns through repeated use of the core strength measuring device.

In one form, the rear member anchors the core strength measuring device about the body of the person to enable the front member to provide the load or resistance offered by the device during use.

Without being bound by theory, it is thought that in some instances, the lumbar muscles work independently of the abdominal muscles and can cause back pain by "pulling" one or more of the hip bones upwardly and out of proper structural alignment, such as for example, in an athlete that uses his body along one side rather than the other side, such as for example, in the game of cricket, a pace bowler using the same arm to bowl balls, or in a baseball pitcher pitching balls using the same arm, exerting one sided, powerful lumbar muscular retractile forces, via the act of bowling or pitching can suffer back pain due to repetitive bouts of such actions.

The human pelvic structure is a force absorbing framework comprising two hip bones joined to one sacrum bone. This structure provides the foundation for lumbar, buttocks and thigh muscle groups, which all apply different directional forces to the pelvis. It is thought that abdominal muscles alone provide the stabilising forces that provide structural integrity.

To this end, the core strength measuring device provides an effective means to singularly exercise and gauge the strength gains of those abdominal muscles.

Exercising using one or other form of the core strength measuring device rejuvenates the abdominal muscles as they generate retractile forces between the hip bones.

In one form, the core strength measuring device has two or more adjustors, typically an adjustor, an adjustor assembly, or set of adjustors at or along each side of the device. In one embodiment, one end of one of the adjustors is connected to the rear member. The adjustor can be of any suitable type or form and can include interconnectors, couplers, fasteners, links or the like including flexible, rigid, or jointed adjustors for interconnecting the rear member and the front member to one another. In one form, the adjustor is adjustable so as to adjust the size of the device to the size of the person. Typically, the form or type of adjustor enhances the rigidity of the back member. Even more typically, the adjustor is rigid and/or is jointed comprising a multitude of interconnected rigid links joined to one another. However, the adjustor can be flexible, being in the form of webbing, strapping, or the like. The adjustors on either side of the device can be the same or different.

Forms of the core strength measuring device have a single adjustor or adjustor system or assembly located at one side only of the device. Typically, the fixed forms of the device have the single adjustor. In such forms, the front and rear members are more or less permanently interconnected to each other. In these forms, release of the adjustor at one side allows the person to gain access to the device through this side such as to step into or stand into the device or to sit into the device through the open side. In one form, the side that is more or less permanently interconnected, is adjustable.

In one form, the rear plate or member is fixed and the position of the front plate or member is movable, such as for example, towards and away from the rear plate to adjust the device to the size of the torso of the person using the device. In one form, the front plate is slidably located on an arm so that the front plate is slidably adjustable by movement along the axis of the arm to tightly contact the abdominal region of the person. In this form, the adjustor, or adjusting assembly or system, is connected to the front plate or member only. Further, in this form, there is no direct interconnection between the front and rear plates or members. This form relies on the range of movement of the front plate or member with respect to the rear plate to adjust the size of the device.

In one form, the adjustor is movable between a locked configuration and a release configuration. In the locked configuration, the device is fixedly located in place about the body, whereas in the release configuration, the device is loose about the body allowing installation and removal of the device onto and/or from the body.

Typically, the adjustor interconnecting the rear member and front member is able to be adjusted to vary the size of the device by varying the distance between the front and rear member in order to accommodate different sized people. More typically, there are one, two, three, four or more individual adjustors which contribute to adjusting the size of the device. Even more typically, the adjustors are substantially steplessly variable between extreme limits. Alternatively, the adjustors are step-wisely adjustable between limits. Typically, adjustment of the adjustors also adjusts the load or resistance presented to the wearer by the device, particularly the front member. More typically, movement of the adjustors alters the tension applied to the device or by the device, or effort that has to be exerted by the muscles when exercising to measure the core strength and/or to tone the muscles. Even more typically, the adjustors are used to adjust the position of the front plate with respect to the abdominal muscles so as to determine the length of extension of the abdominal muscles when using the device and the amount of effort required to restore strength to the muscles.

In one form, movement of the adjustor from the release position and the locked position reduces the distance between the rear and front member by tightening the device onto the body, such as for example increasing the tension being applied by the device to the body such as to tighten the device. ln one form, the front member is shaped or contoured so as to conform generally to the shape of the abdominal region located between both hip bones, above the pubic bone and on the navel of the person. Some embodiments have centrally located resistance blocks or similar adjustably connected to the front plate by suitable interconnecting coupling elements to vary the load or resistance provided by the device. For example, more abdominal muscles can generate larger retractile forces when the front member is closest to the muscles being exercised. Further, it is thought that abdominal muscles generate the highest retractile forces at the beginning of each retractile function.

In forms or constructions of the device, the front member is optionally provided with front side extensions extending outwardly from the front plate. In one form, the front side extensions are side arms, either a single side arm or a pair or a group of side arms. In one form, the front side extensions are adjustable. In one form, the side arms are adjustable so that the device can fit different sized people, typically people having different size widths, so that the positions of the front and rear members can be adjusted so the device is a firm fit against the wearer. Tensioning the side extensions allows more flexibility for the wearer/user. On some embodiments, the side arms can be replaced with ratchets, Velcro or any other type of adjustable fastening. In other forms, the device is provided with turnbuckles or similar threaded metal parts, particularly interlinked turnbuckles in jointed relationship to each other so as to maintain the exact spacing on the rear and front members with respect to each other to provide maximum resistance when using the device, to measure the core strength of a person, or to provide information during use of the device.

In one form, the front member is provided with a central raised resistance block for forming the load or resistance against which the muscles can be flexed or otherwise move.

In one form, the resistance block is predominantly in a vertical rectangular shape and typically is of a size of 100mm x 120mm or of other varying sizes and dimensions. In other forms of the device, the size, shape, and/or profile of the resistance block can vary, such as from smaller size to larger size rectangles, squares or any other suitable shapes, typically in accordance with the anatomy of the person using the device for comfort and/or maximum benefit.

In one form, the detector is a force measuring arrangement, assembly or unit. Typically, the detector measures the force applied by movement of the muscles, typically the muscles in the abdominal region. The detector can be provided on one or other part of the device. In one form, the detector includes a sensor and a visual display. The sensor and visual display can be integral, such as located in the same housing or be located remotely form each other. Preferably, the detector is provided on the front member, more preferably at a position or location in which the display of the device is visible when in use so as to be able to provide a visual indication of the magnitude of the force to be, or being exerted by flexing of the abdominal muscles during use while wearing the core strength measuring device. Although in some forms, the sensor and display of the detector are integral within the one housing, in other forms of the detector, the sensor and display are separate from each other being located within different housings, but directly linked or connected to each other such as being electrically connected, mechanically connected, pneumatically connected, hydraulically connected, or the like, including combination of two or more.

Forms of the detector include pressure detectors, preferably pressure differential detectors, and more particularly pressure sensors that can be embedded within the front member, such as for example, within the front pad or similar, for sensing the deflection under strain of a metal plate, rod, bar, support or similar located within the front plate. In one form, the detector is a strain gauge or other pressure or force sensor, a load cell sensor, or the like.

In one form, there is a single pressure sensor whereas, in other forms, there are two or more pressure sensors located at different locations, including different locations on the same component of the device, such as on the front plate, or on other components, such as on the removable blocks of varying sizes

interchangeably connected to the front plate, or on different components of the device, such as one sensor being located on the front plate and another sensor being located on the rear plate, or one sensor being located on the front plate and another sensor being located on the front side extension. In some forms, the output signals from the sensors are combined to provide a single readout on the display, whereas in other forms, there are multiple readouts corresponding to different muscle groups.

In one form, the pressure sensor or sensors, are located on the inside of the front plate, such as on the inwardly facing side of the front plate in direct contact with the body of the person. In other forms, the sensors are embedded within the front plate.

It is to be noted that the sensor of the detector in the form of a pressure measuring component can be of any suitable type or style, such as for example, a flexi-force loadcell located between two substantially inflexible plates. One form of the detector will now be described. One form of the detector is a sensor for force measurement, typically a FlexiForce® sensor which includes sensors having ultra-thin and flexible printed circuits. This form of the detector is a versatile durable piezo resistive force sensor that is available in a range of shapes and sizes. In one form, the resistance is inversely proportional to the applied force. One form of the detector is a contact force detector. Suitable detectors include FlexiForce® models A201 , A301 , A401 , HT201 , ESS301.

Other forms of the detector include force or pressure sensors available from Little Bird Electronics Company, including load sensor SEN-10245 which is capable of sensing loads up to about 50kg.

Typical operating and/or performance parameters, specifications and/or characteristics of forms of the detector include the following:

TABLE 1

The pressure measuring components used in the device are variously known as pressure transducers, pressure transmitters, pressure senders, pressure indicators, piezometers, manometers, and other names.

The pressure measuring device can have any suitable output signal such as a millivolt output, a milliamp output or other. The detector and/or sensor can be of any suitable type and the transmission of information from the detector or sensor to the display can be of any suitable type, such as for example, electronically, being hard wired, wirelessly using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth communication, or microwave, infrared radiation or the like, including light sensing units, such as fibre optics, or other such as X-rays or the like.

The display of the pressure measuring device can be an analogue display such as a needle movable with respect to a scale, such as to form a gauge or similar, or a digital display having a numerical readout, or a combination of analogue and digital displays.

Forms of the detector include hydraulic forms, pneumatic forms, digital forms, electronic forms, mechanical forms, analogue forms, or combinations thereof.

In one form, the pressure sensor is a strain type gauge or similar embedded within the front plate, so that any force applied to or movement of or within the front plate is detected by the strain gauge and a corresponding signal sent by any suitable means in any suitable manner, to the display to provide a measure of the force applied by flexing of the muscles against the inner surface of the front plate.

Alternatively, the pressure sensor can be located in one or other of the adjusters interconnecting the rear and front plates, such as for example, carried on webbing or strapping extending between the front and rear plates. The sensor on the adjuster can be a substitute for the sensor on the front plate or in addition to the front plate sensor.

In one form, the detector can be preset to a predetermined value, such as for example, initially when using the device is commencing to use the device, the preset value may be, say, 210 kilopascals, but later, say after two weeks, the preset value may be reset to 400 kilopascals, whilst still later, such as for example, after four weeks of using the device, the preset value can be reset to 800 kilopascals or whatever other kilopascal value the user may desire. This measurement may also be measured in pounds per square inch or any other unit for providing a measure of the pressure applied including reading in kilopascals, PSI or other. In other forms, the display may indicate merely numerical units which are derived from measured amounts of force.

In forms of the device, use of the sensor provides information about converting abdominal muscular grunt/strength into measurable gradients. For example, information provided can relate to how strong are the abdominal muscles? How much strength has been gained by using the device in accordance with specific exercise regimes? Can pain abatement experienced by a user be related to the measured abdominal strength gains? Can the increased lower back stability gains be related to the increased abdominal strength as determined by measurements? At what abdominal muscular force gradient did the abdominal muscles lever the pelvic bones into proper alignment? At what abdominal force gradient was leg socket pains eliminated? Did use of the device generate sufficient force to eliminate chronic sciatic pain symptoms? At what muscular force gradient did exercising abdominal muscles switch off the pain occurring in the back, neck or lower back regions? How much abdominal muscular force was needed to be generated, to switch off the sport, work, or other activities causing the back pain? What front plate depth generated the greatest abdominal force gradients?

Forms of the core strength measuring device include a portable form which is portable or transportable, or a fixed form which is fixedly installed on a suitable substrate, such as in a gymnasium or similar location by being fixedly connected to the floor of the building or similar or is provided as a stand-alone device supported on its own support, typically in the form of a base plate.

Embodiments of the fixed form of the device include a form in which the person uses whilst standing, a form that a person uses whilst sitting, and a form which is convertible between different exercise modes including between a standing mode and a seated mode.

In one form, the device can be used to condition the abdominal region of a person by moving the muscles in that region against the device whilst that person is engaged in another activity, such as for example an activity involving sitting down. More typically, the person wears the device whilst seated, standing up or laying on their stomach, or the like.

Typically, the device operates on the principle of supporting the lower back in direct proportion to the pressure being exerted by the abdominal muscles on the front plate as measured by the sensor of the pressure measuring component. This allows the user to exercise abdominal muscles in accordance with the value displayed on the pressure measuring device to gain maximum benefits from the exercise regime and also to provide an indication as to whether the abdominal muscles are becoming stronger.

For example the user may start at, say, 200 kilopascals (or PSI) or the like and after 3 or 4 weeks may be abdominal exercising at 400 kilopascals (or PSI) or the like which gives the user an indication that their abdominal muscles are becoming stronger and hence their core strength is improving. However, it is to be noted that the force of pressure of exercising may be greater or less than 200 kilopascals depending upon many factors to do with the health and wellbeing of the person.

In one form, the device is useful for a person producing singular abdominal strength gradients up to 40 kilograms weight/psi/kilograms per square centimetre.

In one form, the device is useful for a person producing singular abdominal strength gradients up to 49 kilopascals or PSI.

In using forms of the device, irrespective of the time taken for the exercising program to pull misaligned pelvic bones into correct alignment, the remedial program involves continuous daily rejuvenation of the abdominal muscles. Daily use of the device results in daily strength gains, for both the abdominal muscles and ligament bonding tissues that hold the pelvis together. It is believed that abdominal strength gains and pelvic ligament bonding strength gains occur at the same time. These lower back stability increases are a major benefit of the remedial program.

Embodiments of exercise devices offer hope and a remedy to those that live with a pelvic structural misalignment condition. For example, confirmation that the exercise regime or program using forms of the device are an effective means of restoring proper stabilised pelvic structural alignment with resulting elimination of chronic back, disproportionate compression of L5-S1 disc, lower back, leg socket, sciatic and more related conditions.

It is to be noted that the back plate of the exercise device serves dual functions, being to rigidly contain the lower back region skeletal frame, and to be an immovable foundation to which the front plate of the exerciser is anchored.

Typically, the core strength measuring device when fitted correctly, is worn such that the adjusters located at either side of the device are arranged to be clear of the hip bones and pelvic bones of the user. Additionally, the device is so shaped and arranged that the front plate block or pad does not contact the hip or pelvic bones but rather the front member contacts the fleshy part of the abdominal region.

More typically, the exercise device of the present invention is unique in that its rigidity and clearance from the hip and pelvic bones offers the user the opportunity of exerting maximum abdominal muscle tension without causing pressure pain to the hip and pelvic bones or the tissue covering these bones.

Typically, use of the core strength measuring device re-aligns the pelvis and/or pelvic contours of the person using the device. It is thought that when a patient's pelvic frame realigns, there is a reduction in the pain experienced by the patient. Continued use of the device may well result in complete pain relief or at least a substantial reduction in the amount of pain experienced by the patient.

More typically, the exercise program involving the use of the device is as follows:

1 ) Clip the device around the abdominal region of the body and tighten the adjustors at either side until the device feels firm but not tight.

2) Repeatedly tense and relax the stomach muscles in turn over the period of exercise.

3) In some forms, the back plate can be remoulded, optionally if required, after a period of time of exercising (such as for example after some weeks) and continue exercising, repeating the previous steps.

Typically, the pelvic bones are realigned as a result of the continued exercising, which necessitates a remoulding of the back plate.

Without being bound by theory, it is believed that using the core strength measuring device rejuvenates the abdominal muscles inside the pelvic basin and equally rejuvenates the holding strength of the bonding ligament tissues, responsible for holding these bones together.

Ligament rejuvenation occurs when the abdominal muscles pull the hips inwardly. Each tensing exercise produces degrees of inward pressure, which simply transfers to the ligament tissues, such as for example, when abdominal muscles tense to produce 30kg of pressure against the front plate exercising block, 30kg of retractile force is equally applied to ligament tissues that hold the structure together.

These muscles are actually doing retractile actions as they pull from the hip bones. Subtle bone flexing actions effectively transfer the muscular forces generated, which causes ligament stretching actions.

All skeleton anchored muscles work by pulling between the bones to which they are anchored. As an example, arm muscles retract, irrespective of the direction the arm bones move. Neck muscles do the same, as do leg muscles, jaw muscles, lumbar muscles, and similar.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the core strength measuring device will now be described by way of example to illustrate forms of the device and the scope of protection with reference to the accompany drawings in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of one form of each of the rear and front members of one form of the device shown separated from each other;

Figure 2 is a rear view of the rear member of the device of Figure 1 shown in situ when worn by a person;

Figure 3 is a front view of the front member of the device of Figure 1 shown in situ when worn by a person.

Figure 4 is a perspective view of another form of the device.

Figure 5 is a perspective view from the front of the form of the device of Figure 4 showing different forms of the interchangeable front pad.

Figure 6 is a top plan view of the form of the device of Figure 4.

Figure 7a is a side elevation view of one form of a front pad in a retracted position.

Figure 7b is a side elevation view of the form of the front pad in an expanded position.

Figure 8 is a schematic perspective exploded view of one form of the pressure sensor and display for measuring the amount of force exerted when using the form of the device of Figures 4 to 7b.

Figure 9 is a one side rear perspective view of another form of the core strength measuring device.

Figure 10 is another side front perspective view of the form of the device of Figure 9.

Figure 1 1 is a one side rear perspective view of another form of the core strength measuring device.

Figure 12 is another side front perspective view of the device of Figure

1 1.

Figure 13 is a schematic view of the scheme of communication between various components of the detector.

SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

In Figure 1 there is shown an exploded view of one form of the main components of one embodiment of a core strength measuring device, which device is generally denoted as 2. The device 2 comprises a rear support pad 4 or similar made from a rigid material providing a back support. The support pad 4 may be made from any suitable material, such as for example, an internally located rigid metal plate or similar frame member covered with an outer covering of resilient padding material such as a synthetic foam material. Examples of synthetic foam materials include polyurethane foam, polyether foam or similar synthetic foam material or the like. It is to be noted that the rear member may be partially or entirely covered with the resilient material. Preferably, the front facing or forwardly directed surface of pad 4 is covered with resilient synthetic material. Pad 4 being in contact with the back of a person in use of device 2, supports the back during use of the device and produces or at least contributes to the load or resistance provided by the device when being used by being rigid.

Although the internally located rigid metal plate or framework member may be flat and/or straight, or alternatively curved or dished or the like, the outer surface or covering of pad 4 is contoured to be positioned in the small of the back of the user of device 2. Accordingly, the pad 4 is contoured from top to bottom in a convex shape in accordance with the general shape of curvature of this part of the back, and is contoured from side to side in a concave curve also generally in accordance with the curvature of this part of the back. A pair of pins or lugs 6, or similar, are provided on either lateral side of the support member extending outwardly in spaced apart relationship to each other. Each pin or lug 6 is provided with a looped head or ring 8 at their respective distal ends. In one embodiment, the pins are ring bolts or similar screw-threadingly received in threaded bores in the metal plate or frame of pad 4. It is to be noted that although two ring bolts are shown extending laterally from either side of support pad 4, any number of ring bolts can be used. It is to be noted that any form of coupling or fastener can be used in place of the ring bolts for connecting rear pad 4 to the front member as will now be described in detail.

Suitable adjustment means in the form of adjustors, are connected to heads 8 of ring bolts 6. One form of the adjustor is an adjustable turnbuckle 10 having a threaded ring bolt 12 and a threaded hook 14 both received in a threaded central portion 16 and extending outwardly therefrom in opposite directions. Although adjustable turnbuckles 10 having looped heads and hooked ends are shown, any suitable adjustor, such as webbing, springs, belts, strapping or similar couplings or connectors, may be used, provided there is sufficient clearance between the adjustor and the hips of the person so that the adjustor does not contact the hips when device 2 is fitted into place around the torso of the person. Further, although four adjustable turnbuckles 10 are shown being connected to respective ring bolts 6, two on either side, any number of turnbuckles 10 or adjustors generally can be used. It is to be noted that the adjustors can take any suitable or convenient form. Turning now to the front member 20, one form of the front member 20 is provided with a pair of transversely extending bars 22 located in spaced apart, parallel relationship to each other extending from one side of the device to the other. Each end of each bar 22 is provided with a coupling means for co-operatively engaging with the hooked end 16 of the adjustable turnbuckles 10 connected to the rear support member 4. One form of the coupling is a ring bolt 23 securely fastened to one end of transverse bar 22 to which is connected a shackle 24 having an internally threaded release sleeve 26 for selectively opening and closing the link. In use, hook 16 located at one end of the adjustable turnbuckle 10 is received through threaded shackle 24 so as to interconnect the front member 20 with the rear pad 4.

Front member 20 further comprises a contoured front pad 28 or similar which is fixedly connected to the spaced apart transverse bars 22. Front pad 28 comprises a main body portion 30 and a pair of sidewardly curved, inwardly extending front side extensions in the form of arms 32. The front surface of pad 28 including arms 32 is curved generally to match the contour of the abdominal region of the person using device 2. In use, the front surface of pad 28 is designed to contact the abdominal region of the user when worn so that pad 30 provides a resistance, load or reaction surface against which the muscles in the abdominal region may be moved by forcing the abdominal region against pad 30 and arms 32 by pushing, flexing, expanding or otherwise moving the abdominal muscles to place the muscles in tension against front pad 28. The muscles can be maintained under tension for variable periods of time to enable a measure of the core strength of the person to be determined. Continued use of device 2 in an exercise mode further strengthens and tones the muscles of the core, including repeatedly flexing and relaxing the muscles sequentially.

The contoured front pad 28 having arm members 32 may be made from any suitable material such as an internally located metal or wooden plate or similar, or a combination of suitable materials such as a composite or laminate. It is to be noted that the construction of the front pad is such that it is extremely rigid to provide the necessary load or resistance against which the abdominal region can be moved. In particular, the metal plate is securely connected to the two transverse bars 22 to form a rigid unit. The outer surface of front pad 28 may be resilient or flexible and can be moulded to shape or otherwise formed as required. Front pad 28 and arms 32 are covered with a suitable covering of resilient material, particularly the inner surface of the pad and arms for contacting the body in use of device 2 so that device 2 overall is comfortable to use without risk of injury to the person.

One form of device 2 is provided with a pressure sensor 40, typically embedded in front pad 28, such as for example, a strain gauge which is part of or attached to the metal plate of pad 28 and is electrically connected or connected wirelessly by WiFi or Bluetooth or the like, or by any other means, to a suitable display 42, mounted either on the upper edge of front pad 28 or more typically as shown in Figure 1 , on one of side arms 32. Display 42 is provided with a screen 44 having a digital read out showing a numerical indication of the amount of force being exerted by movement of the abdominal muscles against front plate 28 generally and thus provides a measure of core strength. Any suitable pressure sensor or detector may be used depending upon circumstances, any suitable or convenient display may be used to provide an indication of the measure.

In use, device 2 is attached to the body by the rear member 4 being located in the small of the back of the user and the front support member 20 being located at an approximate position in front of the abdominal region with the adjustor at one side interconnecting both members. When in the approximate position, the adjustor on the other side is put in place to interconnect the front and rear members on both sides. When the rear and front members are positioned in a comfortable position, the adjustors are adjusted to adjust the position of the front and back members with respect to each other so as to maintain them in a comfortable but firm position under the desired tension about the torso of the person. It is to be noted that a desired position is one in which device 2 feels slightly tight to the wearer, thus ensuring that the abdominal muscles have a load or resistance to work against. In this position, the abdominal muscles are flexed against the resistance or load provided by the front surface of the front support member 20, particularly the front surface of the body 28 and arm 32, to provide resistance for the muscles. Such flexing, or more particularly the force exerted by such flexing is detected by pressure detector 40 embedded in front pad 28. The muscles can be tensioned to maintain the abdominal region in abutting relationship with device 2 to strengthen and measure the core strength and to provide a measure useful to condition the abdominal region, including the abdominal muscles. Movement of the muscles can be periodic, intermittent or continuous, depending on need. The force generated by the movement of the muscles is displayed as a numerical value on the screen 44 of display 42 after being detected by detector 40, thus providing a quantitative measure of the core strength of the person. One example of an exercise program or regime useful for improving the core strength of a person, such as for example, in realigning the pelvic area or pelvic contour of the user of the device is to repeatedly tense the stomach muscles, particularly against the resistance provided by the front plate, and then relax the abdominal muscles. This sequence of tensing and relaxing is repeated for the duration of the exercise regime. After some weeks of such exercise or movement in this manner, it is often necessary to remould the back plate. With the newly remoulded back plate in position against the small of the back, the exercise regime is repeated by alternately tensing and relaxing the muscles against the load or resistance provided by the front member 20 or front plate 28 of the device. It may well be that after some more weeks of using the device 2, it is necessary to further remould the back plate and continue with the sequence of alternately tensing and relaxing the abdominal muscles. However, in some embodiments, the back plate is of a fixed shape and is used over time without changing its shape.

It is to be noted that having a visual display displaying a quantitative measure of the force being applied to the pressure sensor of the detector provides an indication of the core strength of the person.

Modifications of the core strength measuring device include the following. The rear pad 4 may be made as a single piece, such as for example by moulding or similar, or may be made as two or more separate pieces which can be used in conjunction with each other, such as for example in the form of a pad of thermoplastic material which may be loosely strapped directly to the skin of a person by using elastic cords or similar, and when the person is dressed, a rigid frame, plate or similar may be fitted to or over the pad to provide the necessary rigidity, strength, reinforcement or similar.

Similarly, front pad 28 may be made as a one-piece construction or may be made from two or more pieces connectable together, such as for example in a manner similar to the modified rear pad. Where the pads and corresponding frames are separate components connected or connectable to each other, any suitable frame members for providing rigidity may be employed and any form of adjustor may be used to interconnect them.

Another embodiment of the core strength measuring device will now be described.

In Figures 4 to 8 there is shown another form of the device, generally denoted as 102, provided with a detector having a sensor for measuring the pressure exerted when using the device. Device 102 is also a portable or transportable form of the exercise device.

Device 102 has a rear support pad or back plate 104 made from rigid material having a coating of soft feel material. Back plate 104 is shaped to match the contour of the back of a person. A padded insert 105 or similar is provided centrally on the inwardly facing surface of back plate 104. Back plate 104 is provided with a side extension on either side in the form of wings 103a, 103b which extend outwardly from the central portion of back plate 104 covered by padded insert 105.

An adjustable side connection in the form of adjustors 106a, 106b is provided on either side of device 102. One end of side connection 106a is securely connected to wing 103a and one end of side connection 106b is securely connected to wing 103b. As both side connections 106a, 106b are the same, only one side connection will be described in detail. Side connection 106 includes a rear flexible member in the form of a rear strap 108 fixedly connected to the corresponding wing 103 at one end of rear plate 104 and at the other end adjustably connected to one side of a suitable coupling, typically in the form of a buckle 1 10. One end of a similar front strap 1 12 is adjustably connected to the other side of buckle 1 10 and the other end of front strap 1 12 is fixedly connected to one side of front resistance pad or front plate 1 14. In one form, the coupling is a two-part side squeeze release buckle or the like, in which one part has resiliently deflectable fingers extending outwardly on the one part of the buckle for being received in the second part which is correspondingly shaped socket of the other part of the buckle. When the fingers are inserted into the socket, the buckle is locked into position preventing withdrawal of the fingers from the socket. When the fingers are squeezed laterally, the fingers are released from engagement within the socket, allowing the two parts of the buckle to be separated to open the adjustor.

The fixed ends of each front strap 1 12 are secured by a suitable lock located on either side of front plate 1 14. In one form, the lock is an adjustable lock, typically an over centre lock or similar mechanism that tensions and shortens strap 1 12 when the lock is moved from the release position to the locked position. In one form, the lock is provided with a cam which, when rotated, applies tension to strap 1 12. A second similar adjusting arrangement is provided on the other side of device 102.

In one form, there is a single rear strap 108 extending along the rear of rear plate 104 from one side to the other side as illustrated more particularly in Figure 5, whereas in other forms, there are two individual rear straps (not shown) secured to rear plate 104 by suitable anchor blocks or similar, at either side of rear plate 104, typically provided in wings 103.

The adjustable joining of both front strap 1 12 and rear strap 108 to buckle 1 10 allows the size of device 102 to be adjustable to suit the actual size of the person using the device.

Turning now to front plate 1 14, one form of front plate 1 14 has a generally arcuate shape having a central portion 1 15 which bows outwardly to provide space or clearance for a suitable fitting in the form of a front resistance block mount 1 18 fixedly connected to front plate 1 14 or provided on front plate 1 14. Mount 1 18 is provided with a main body 120 pivotally connected to front plate 1 14 by hinge 122 located along the upper edge of mount 1 18. Mount 1 18 is provided with an elongate dovetail-like connector 122 having a generally trapezium-like cross-section consisting of a central portion 124 and two undercut sides 126a, 126b, one on either side of the central portion, each provided with an inwardly inclined surface. Mount 118 is provided for slidably receiving a resistance pad 128 thereon to provide a load or resistance against which a person can push during use of device 102. The load is formed in part by differently sized resistance pads 128 which are interchangeably mounted on mount 1 18. Three such resistance pads 128 are illustrated in Figure 5. Resistance pads 128 are arranged to have different profiles, depending upon the person using the device, such as whether the person is male or female, whether the person has a larger girth, or requires extensive rehabilitation or the like. Forms of resistance pad 128 may have differently inclined inner faces 130, including being upwardly inclined 130a, straight 130b, or downwardly inclined 130c, in order to adjust the position and shape of the outer face 132 against which the abdominal muscles are flexed. Inner face 130 is provided with an elongate slot 134 of a size, shape and profile which is complementary to the size, shape and profile of connector 122 so that connector 122 is slidably received with corresponding slot 134 to securely attach pad 128 to mount 1 18. Slot 134 is provided with a central portion located intermediate to inclined side portions. In one form, a suitable detector having one or more sensors (not shown) is provided in front plate 1 14 or associated with interchangeable pads 128.

A display 140 is provided at the upper surface of the central part of front plate 1 14 to provide a visual indication of the amount of pressure exerted against resistance pad 128 during use of device 102 when measuring, monitoring or evaluating the core strength of the person. Display 140 is electrically connected or otherwise connected, such as being hydraulically connected, wirelessly connected, or the like, to a suitable pressure measuring device having a suitable sensor, such as a strain gauge, embedded in front plate 1 14.

In use of this form of device 102, the relevant front resistance pad 128 is selected and slidably attached to mount 1 18 by the central connector portion 124 of connector 122 being received in slot 134 of pad 128. Adjustors 106 at either side of device 102 are loosened sufficiently to allow device 102 to be fitted in place around the torso of the body with back plate 104 in contact with the back of a person and resistance pad 128 in contact with the abdomen. Connection 106 is tightened using straps 108, 1 12 and buckle 1 10 to secure device 102 in place. In this position, the core strength of the person can be measured by the abdominal muscles pushing against the detector and optionally commencing the chosen exercise regime to measure the core strength and/or to strengthen the core muscles by repeatedly extending and relaxing the abdominal muscles.

The forms of the device for measuring the core strength of a person illustrated in Figures 1 to 3 and in Figures 4 to 8 are portable or transportable that can be stored in a suitable place when not in use but can be quickly and easily attached to the body of a person when required using suitable adjustors in the form of webbing, strapping, jointed rigid members or similar as described.

Other forms of the device, being fixed forms, will now be described with reference to Figures 9 to 12.

One form of the device for measuring core strength is a fixed device, such as being fixed to a substrate such as the floor of a room, building or other permanent surface, say the floor of a gymnasium. Alternatively, the form is provided with a base for supporting the device on the surface of the floor. Device 200 is provided with a base which typically is in the form of or has a base plate 202 which is either able to be attached to the floor directly by suitable fasteners, or is a stand-alone device supported on base 202.

A pedestal 204 extends upwardly from base plate 202 at or towards the front of device 200. Pedestal 204 is adjustable in length to raise and lower the operative part of device 200. Pedestal 204 is provided with lower outer hollow square section tube 206 and upper inner hollow square section tube 208 which is

telescopically received in outer tube 206 to alter the height of device 200. A generally bent T-section 210 having an inclined forward arm 212 and a rear arm 214 is located at the upper end of upper section 208 to extend outwardly from upper section 208 in opposite directions in which forward arm 212 extends in a generally forward direction and rear arm 214 extends in a generally rearward direction.

A control panel 216, optionally including a screen for displaying relevant information and touch controls, is located at or towards the distal end of inclined forward arm 212. In one form, panel 216 includes a display for quantitatively displaying the amount of force being generated in use of device 200 when measuring core strength.

A front member incorporating a front plate 220 of device 200 is fixedly connected to the top of pedestal 204 in an orientation so that the inner surface of plate 220 faces towards the front of the person using the device. In one form, front plate 220 is fixed to pedestal 204 whereas in other forms, the front plate is movably connected to the top of the pedestal, typically adjustably connected so that the height that the front plate can adopt is adjustable by being able to be raised and lowered. Additionally, the position of the front plate can be adjusted laterally from side to side. In some embodiments, the angle of the inclination of the front plate to the horizontal and/or vertical can be adjusted, as can the lateral inclination be adjusted by the front plate being able to be tilted in any direction for comfortable contact with the abdominal muscle region of the body during use of device 200.

In one form, one side extension 222 of front plate 220 of device 200 is flexibly connected to one side extension 228 of rear plate 230 located at a spaced apart location by a suitable adjustor 226. One form of adjustor 226 includes webbing 232 and a releasably securable adjustable buckle 234, preferably a side squeeze buckle or similar coupling or the like.

In one form, buckle 234 of adjustor 226 is opened or released on one side of device 200 to allow the device to be fitted around the body. When front plate 220 and rear plates 230 are in position, device 200 can be adjusted to tightly engage with the abdominal region and the small of the back, by locking buckles 234 of both adjustors 226 on the sides of device 200. Front plate 220 is provided with a detector 240 located centrally on the inwardly facing surface of front member 220. One form of detector 240 is a pressure sensitive load cell or strain gauge located within a suitable housing, such as a protective cover fixedly connected to front plate 220. The detector housing is provided with a fitting for attaching interchangeable resistance blocks to front plate 220. One form of a suitable fitting is a groove or channel, typically in the form of two intersecting grooves forming a generally "X" shape 244, as shown more particularly in Figure 9. A display housing 238 is provided at the top of front plate 220 for housing a suitable display in the form of a screen for displaying quantitatively the core strength detector by detector 240. In use of device 200, having display housing 238 with digital readout and/or screen is integrated with, or connected or attached to the front plate either directly or indirectly, so that measurement of the core strength is displayed in response to flexing the abdominal muscles against detector 240 provided in the front plate to provide a measure of the core strength when standing up, such as for example, when standing upon the base or base plate 202 of device 200.

Another embodiment of the fixed form of the device is a seated form in which the device is provided with a support structure incorporating a seat, typically a padded seat so that a person can flex their abdominal muscles when seated within the device. One form of this embodiment, which is device 302, is illustrated in Figures 1 1 and 12. Device 302 is provided with a base plate or base structure 304 from which central fixed upright post 306 extends for supporting seat 308. Seat 308 is provided with downwardly extending stem 310 telescopically received in post 306. Post 306 and stem 310 adjustably support seat 308 so that the position and/or height of the seat can be adjusted within the device, preferably by raising and lowering the seat through a manual adjustment allowing the stem to telescopically expand and contract within post 306. In this embodiment, device 302 is retained in place at the top of rear stem 312 which is telescopically received in rear post 314 located towards the rear end of base plate 304. Device 302 includes rear plate 320 fixedly connected to the top of movable stem 312. Front plate 330 of device 302 is flexibly connected to rear plate 320 by suitable adjustors, such as adjustors 332 including flexible webbing or straps 324 and releasably securable buckles 326.

Front plate 330 is provided with a detector 332, having a housing for a sensor for measuring core strength and a display for digitally displaying quantitatively the amount of force generated by flexing the core muscles.

A third upright in the form of a front pedestal 340 is provided at or towards the front of base plate 304 for fixedly retaining a control panel 342 in place, such as a touch screen.

A fourth upright in the form of a side pedestal 346 is located towards one side of base plate 304. This upright has a holder 348 located at or towards the top for storing front plate 330 when not in use. In one form, holder 348 is of a generally J- shape or truncated U-shape having a curved lower edge or shelf 350 for receiving thereon front plate 320 when separated and removed from rear plate 320. In this embodiment, the screen display and control console 342 is fixedly mounted to the top of front pedestal 340 for providing information, typically digital information, about the strength of the core muscles of the person.

One form of the communication between the various forms of the device will now be described with reference to Figure 13. In this embodiment which utilises a hybrid communication, one part of the communication is via electrical conductors in the form of wires, and another part of the communication occurs wirelessly. In this embodiment, force applied to detector 400 is sensed by a group of four individual sensors in the form of load cells or equivalent 402 which send an electrical signal in the form of an input signal to a load signal processor 404 as one component of a printed circuit board. The output signal from load signal processor 404 is sent through a wire conductor 406 to one form of a display 408 for displaying quantitatively the measure of the core strength. Additionally, the output signal from load signal processor 404 is sent to a suitable transmitter 410 for transmitting wirelessly to a suitable electronic device, such as a mobile phone 412 or the like for displaying on a screen thereof, the core strength measure.

At first, the adjustors are adjusted to provide a relatively weak or low load or resistance. Adjustments are usually required during each session of use of the device, because stomach muscles tend to shift, resulting in the front plate becoming a loose fit. After repeated use, when the condition of the abdominal muscles improves, additional tension can be applied by the adjustors to provide a greater resistance or load for further strengthening or conditioning the abdominal muscles as detected by the sensors of the detectors and relayed to the display screen.

After repeated and prolonged use of the device, the abdominal muscles can be conditioned to such an extent that back pain or other malfunctions or disorders are eliminated or at least minimised or ameliorated, particularly back pain caused by pelvic misalignment, since the device is useful in realigning the pelvic region through measurement and monitoring core strength to improve core muscle strength.

Even when sitting down working at a desk or seated in a motor vehicle, forms of the device may be attached around the body and tensioned to a desired tension so that the muscles can be successively tensioned and relaxed to exercise the muscles.

One modification is to the front and rear pads which may be made from suitable material which can be moulded to the actual contours of the back and abdominal regions of the individual person using the device. In one form, the material is a thermoplastic material. However, any suitable mouldable material can be used. In this way, the pads can be made more comfortable to use and more effective since the abdominal muscles are in direct contact with the pads so that immediately upon flexing the muscles encounter a load or resistance and accordingly there is no wasted effort. Once cold, the thermoplastic pads have their original rigidity so can present the same load. If additional rigidity is required, a brace, frame, plate or similar reinforcing member may be added to the thermoplastic pads on its outer surface in use. If needed, the device is provided with interchangeable pads removably secured to the rear plate so that each person can fit their own individually contoured plate to the rear part when they are about to use the device to measure and monitor their core strength or to the device to improve their core strength.

Another modification of the device of the present invention relates to having bespoke front and rear pads made from thermoplastics material moulded to the exact shape of an individual's body. The pads are located in contact with the relevant part of the body and attached to each other by connection means, such as adjustable straps, belts, Velcro fasteners® or similar or the interconnection means as described previously or combinations thereof, all of which can be used to adjust the tension applied to the pads and thus the load or resistance offered by the exerciser.

In another embodiment, an outer frame is provided incorporating both front and rear members and the interconnection means. In this embodiment, the frame incorporating the interconnection means at the side is hinged or otherwise jointed at the side of the front and/or rear pads in order to allow adjustment of the tension applied to the muscles and to vary the size of the exerciser. A further modification is to provide a cover for the frame and plates whilst still achieving the required clearances away from the hips.

In another embodiment, the pads are interconnected to each other by adjustable springs either alone or in combination with other components. The adjustable springs are provided to apply a preselected tension to the pads. The springs may be connected to the front pad, the rear pad or the rods, belts, straps, cords or similar, or any combination thereof located on the sides of the exerciser.

Another modification of the exercise device of the present invention includes providing a heating element or similar within or connected to the rear support or back plate. In this modification, a heating element, such as for example an electrically operated heating element, is embedded within or located adjacent the material from which the remouldable back plate is made in order to heat and/or soften the back plate, so that it can be remoulded to the changing shape of the back of the person using the exerciser. In this manner, the back plate is shaped to the contour of the back to support the user's skeletal frame as it progresses through the realignment phases.

In a further modification, the heating element is powered by connecting it to a suitable power supply such as the battery or electrical system of a motor vehicle, such as for example the power outlet or cigarette lighter socket located in the dashboard or similar region of the vehicle, or by power supply for the device when the device is of a fixed form. By using this modification, it is possible to reshape the back plate of the exerciser whilst using the device when travelling in the motor vehicle, or when using the fixed form of the device.

ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

Advantages of forms of the device include the following:

Forms of the device are compact and portable and readily transportable so that it may be used at home, in the office, or when seated in a car or other vehicle.

The adjustment allows the load to be varied in accordance with the condition and tone of the muscles in the abdominal region, and the amount of exercise required.

As forms of the back pad and/or front pad are each made of thermoplastic material, they may be repeatedly remoulded individually to the changing contour of the back of the patient and re-used.

It has been observed that one advantage of using the device to tone or strength the abdominal muscles is that the pelvic contours of the body are realigned, thereby improving the health and wellbeing of the person.

In one form, the present invention is particularly useful as an exerciser that allows a person to exercise the abdominal regions of the body even when the person is in a sedentary position or engaged in a sedentary activity, such as sitting at desk, seated on a train or in a motor vehicle or similar.

It is thought that such damaged or misaligned regions can be given an appropriate and natural support to rebuild the abdominal muscles, which ultimately results in the user's health returning. Further, it is thought that exercising to the devices recommended program, increases the blood flow to the lower back region, thus providing improved circulatory effects to a region that normally has poor circulation.

The described arrangement has been advanced by explanation and many modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention which includes every novel feature and novel combination of features herein disclosed.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention described herein is susceptible to variations and modifications other than those specifically described. It is understood that the invention includes all such variations and modifications which fall within the spirit and scope.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1 . A device for measuring the core strength of a person characterised in that the core strength measuring device comprises a rear member for contacting a portion of the back of a person to assist in locating the device with respect to the body, a substantially rigid front member for location at or towards the front of the person for contact with a portion of the core structure of the person during use of the device to present a load or resistance against which the muscles of the person can be moved, an adjustor for adjusting the relative spacing apart of the rear member and the front member to adjust the device to fit the body of the person,

a detector for detecting the force of movement of the core muscles against the detector during use of the device, and

a display attached to at least a part of the device to provide an indication of the amount of force produced by movement of the core muscles against the load or resistance being sensed by the detector, the detector and display being in

communication such that the display displays a value corresponding to the core strength of the person.

2. A method of measuring the core strength of a person as determined by the force of movement of muscles in the core of the body of the person, the method characterised in that the method comprises attaching a core strength measuring device about the body of a person, said measuring device comprising a rear member for contacting a portion of the back of a person to assist in locating the device with respect to the body, a substantially rigid front member for contacting a portion of the core muscles of the person to present a load or resistance to movement of the core muscles, at least one adjustor interconnecting the front member and the rear member for adjusting the relative spacing apart of the front and rear members with respect to each other so that the device fits around the torso of the person, a detector for measuring the muscular forces generated by flexing the core muscles, and a display for displaying the core strength sensed by the detector or for displaying the amount of force generated against the detector, the display being in communication with the detector to display the force measured by the detector, and pushing, flexing or otherwise moving the core muscles against the detector.

3. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the rear member is a rigid back support or solid back support for anchoring the device.

4. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the rear member is a contoured plate having a curvature corresponding to the curvature of the small of the back or similar region of the back.

5. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which

5 the back member has a central curved or arcuate portion and two outwardly extending side extension portions.

6. A core strength measuring device according to claim 5 in which the central curved portion is provided with a resiliently deformable covering or similar.

7. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which0 the rear member is moldable to conform to the back of the person using the device.

8. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the position of the rear member is fixed or is adjustably movable including being movable between a raised and lowered position, being movable from a lateral extending position on one side to a lateral extending position on the other side, and/or5 is adjustably movable in an inclined position including being angularly inclined to the vertical, the horizontal, or laterally.

9. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the adjustors include two or more adjustors, preferably an adjustor or two or more adjustors on either side of the device for releasably securably interconnecting the rear o member and the front member.

10. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the adjustor enhances the rigidity of the back member.

1 1. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the adjustor is rigid or is jointed comprising a multitude of interconnected rigid links 5 joined to one another allowing movement of the rigid links with respect to each other, typically with respect to contiguous links.

12. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the adjustor is movable between a locked configuration and a release configuration in which, when in the locked configuration, the front and rear members are fixedly spaced0 apart with respect to each other, whereas in the release configuration, the relative spacing apart of the front and rear members is adjustable.

13. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the movement of the lock of the adjustor from the release configuration to the locked configuration applies increased tension or restriction of movement of, or reduces the5 spacing apart of the front and rear member.

14. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the moveable adjustor is an over centre mechanism, or assembly.

15. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the front member is substantially rigid.

16. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the front member is provided with side extensions extending outwardly from the front member on either side of the front member.

17. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the front side extensions are adjustable to alter the size of the device, particularly the width of the device.

18. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the front member is provided with a central raised resistance block for forming the load or resistance of the device against which the muscles can be flexed or otherwise moved.

19. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the resistance block is an interchangeable resistance block.

20. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the front member is provided with a fitting for use in attaching the interchangeable resistance blocks to the front member.

21. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the front plate is provided with the detector, preferably the detector is embedded in the plate of the front member.

22. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the front plate or front member is provided with the display for displaying the force exerted by flexing muscle against the detector.

23. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the detector and display are in communication with each other so that the display displays the value of the force detected by the detector in which the communication is electrical communication, pressure communication, piezo electric communication, hydraulic communication, mechanical communication, pneumatic communication or a telecommunication communication including wired communication, wireless communication, WiFi communication, Bluetooth communication, infrared

communication, or microwave communication.

24. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the detector is a pressure detector, a pressure differential detector, a pressure sensor, a strain gauge, a load cell, or other device for detecting and/or measuring applied force to the detector or changes in applied force to the detector.

25. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the device is provided with two or more detectors located at spaced apart locations, typically on the front member or front plate in which the output of the detectors is combined as a single input for a processor before being sent to the display.

26. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the pressure detector is located on the inside of the front plate or front member or is embedded within the body of the front plate or front member.

27. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the detector is a pressure transducer, a pressure transmitter, a pressure sender, a pressure indicator, a peizo electric meter or similar.

28. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the detector is able to measure forces up to about 210 kilopascals.

29. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim in which the device is a portable or transportable device, a fixed device being either a stand up fixed device in which a person stands when using the device, or a sit down device in which the person using the device is seated whilst using the device, said fixed device being fixedly connected to a suitable support.

30. A core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim for measuring and/or monitoring and/or evaluating the strength of the core structure of a person wherein the core structure includes rectus abdominus, multitudus transverse abdominus, internal and external obliques, erector spinae, quadratus lumborum, iliopsoas, psoas major, trapezius, gluteus maximus/medius and minimus, scapular stabilisers, diaphragm or the like.

31. A method according to claim 2 using a core strength measuring device according to any preceding claim for measuring, monitoring and/or evaluating the core strength of a person.

32. A core strength measuring device and/or method of using a core strength measuring device for improving the condition of the core muscles of a person substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.