WO2020077418A1

WO2020077418A1 - A multiuse exercise platform

Info

Publication number: WO2020077418A1
Application number: PCT/AU2019/051144
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael Edward Schwarer
Original assignee: Body Organics Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2018-10-19
Filing date: 2019-10-21
Publication date: 2020-04-23

Abstract

A body conditioning platform including: at least one magnetically attracted region; a base located beneath magnetically attracted region and including one or more rocker engagement formations arranged to releasably engage a rocker assembly in a first configuration for horizontal use of the platform and a bracket for attachment to the base in a second configuration for vertical use of the platform; wherein magnetically attracted body conditioning appliances may be fastened to the board in the second configuration by magnetic attraction to said magnetically attracted region.

Description

A MULTIUSE EXERCISE PLATFORM

RELATED APPPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority from Australian provisional patent application No. 2018903972 filed 19 October 2018, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention concerns a platform that can be used for a number of body conditioning activities including as a balance deck. Prior art platforms that are sometimes used for balance training purposes may be referred to as“work platforms” or“stability platforms”“balance trainers”,“balance boards”,“rocker boards”,“wobble boards”,“balance decks”,“jump boards”,“slant boards” and “padded foot plates”.

BACKGROUND ART

Any references to methods, apparatus or documents of the prior art are not to be taken as constituting any evidence or admission that they formed, or form part of the common general knowledge.

Physical conditioning is increasingly important for people that spend many hours of their waking time in sedentary activities. Loss of balance and muscle tone are two indicators of aging in an individual and thus exercises which avoid the loss of mobility and assist the individual to maintain muscle tone are particularly desirable.

People may find it difficult or painful to perform rehabilitation exercises lying down and so need the ability to perform these exercises whilst standing. Also as people progress through various stages of rehabilitation they may be able to move from performing exercises only while standing to lying down or a combination of lying and standing. Many rehabilitation aids and exercise devices can only be used in one plane, for example either horizontal or vertical but not both.

A person may undertake physical activity at home or in a studio or gymnasium that is equipped for such a purpose. In either case it would be desirable if an exercise appliance were provided that would facilitate more than one body conditioning activity and which could be readily reconfigured from a first configuration for facilitating a first activity to a second configuration for facilitating a second or additional activity.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a platform for body conditioning that addresses one or more of the needs which have been discussed above.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a body conditioning platform including:

at least one magnetically attracted region;

a base located beneath the magnetically attracted region and including one or more rocker engagement formations arranged to releasably engage a rocker assembly in a first configuration for horizontal use of the platform; and a bracket for attachment to the base in a second configuration for vertical use of the platform;

wherein magnetically attracted body conditioning appliances are fastenable to the board in the second configuration by magnetic attraction to said magnetically attracted region.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a body conditioning platform including:

at least one magnetically attracted region; a base located beneath the magnetically attracted region and including one or more rocker engagement formations arranged to releasably engage a rocker assembly in a first configuration for horizontal use of the platform; and a bracket for attachment to the base in a second configuration for vertical use of the platform and a third configuration for sloped use of the platform; wherein magnetically attracted body conditioning appliances are fastenable to the board by magnetic attraction to said magnetically attracted region.

Preferably the magnetically attracted region comprises a layer of metal. In a preferred embodiment of the invention the platform includes a non-slip layer such as a metal plate wherein the layer of metal is disposed between the non- slip layer and the base.

The non-slip layer may be a mat of elastomeric material such as a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Alternatively the non-slip layer may be a synthetic fabric such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or natural material such as leather or linoleum.

In a preferred embodiment the base may be formed from a material such as aluminium. Advantageously, aluminium provides a thin profile that imparts lightness and strength thereto. The aluminium may be anodised or powder coated for protection and aesthetically appealing visual appeal appearance.

Alternatively the base may be formed from laminated wood material such as plywood or bamboo.

In a preferred embodiment, the base comprises two surfaces. In a preferred embodiment, the platform comprises at least two magnetically attracted regions, wherein each of the two surfaces of the base has at least one of the at least two magnetically attracted regions attached thereto.

In other alternative embodiments, the base may be formed with a honeycomb construction for imparting lightness and strength thereto. The base may be made of a suitably strong material such as high density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic.

A peripheral shell, rim or border may be located about the outer edges of the non-slip layer, the layer of metal and the base for sealing and concealing the outer edges thereof.

In a preferred embodiment the peripheral shell, rim or border incorporates elongated slots or apertures for attaching the bracket. Preferably, the elongated slots or elongated apertures can be attached to straps or stretch bands for use while performing balance exercises.

Timber strips may be located along one or more sides of the peripheral shell, rim or border for imparting an aesthetically appealing visual appearance.

Preferably one or more rocker stops or“bumpers” are affixed to an underside of the base.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention the platform is elongate with a long axis and a short axis. In one embodiment of the invention the rocker assembly has an arc shaped profile. The rocker assembly may comprise two spaced apart arcuate rockers that are attached to a rocker base. The rocker base may be formed with opposed pairs of cutouts. The rockers and rocker base may be made of a suitably strong material such as aluminum though other material may also be used.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the rocker assembly includes a plurality of plugs for engagement by the one or more rocker engagement formations of the platform. Preferably the one or more rocker engagement formations are shaped as sockets for receiving the plugs.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the rocker assembly includes a plurality of sockets for engagement by the one or more rocker engagement formations of the platform. Preferably the one or more rocker engagement formations are shaped as plugs for engaging the sockets.

Preferably the base includes magnets for the sockets. In a preferred embodiment of the invention the plugs of the rocker assembly enclose respective magnets for attraction to the magnets of sockets to thereby produce a releasable attachment of the rocker assembly to the base of the platform.

Preferably the one or more rocker engagement formations comprise one or more ribs. Preferably the ribs extend away from the base toward the magnetically attracted region.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention the rocker assembly comprises two spaced apart adjacent arcuate rockers which attach to the rocker base. The plugs may extend from the rockers through openings formed through the rocker base.

Treads may be attached over each rocker for reducing slip of the rockers on a work surface.

The rocker assembly may be provided in a first version for rocking along the long axis wherein the rocker of the first version has a base that is longer than it is wide.

Alternatively, the rocker may be provided in a second version for rocking along either the long axis or the short axis wherein the rocker of the second version has a rocker base that is as wide as it is long for rotation of the base through ninety degrees and reattachment to the one or more rocker engagement formations of the base.

Preferably the base is formed with a plurality of the rocker assembly attachment formations sufficient for attaching either the first version of the rocker or the second version of the rocker. In the preferred embodiment of the invention the plugs of the rocker define a rectangle in the case of the first version of the rocker or a square in the case of the second version of the rocker.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the platform includes at least one bracket mounting formation for mounting of a bracket assembly thereto.

The bracket mounting formation may comprise a first pair of mounting bracket formations for mounting the bracket assembly parallel to the long axis for supporting the platform in the second configuration.

The bracket mounting formation may comprise a second pair of mounting bracket formations for mounting a bracket assembly parallel to the second axis for supporting the platform in the second configuration.

The bracket assembly is preferably integrally formed and includes slots or keyholes for connection to the body conditioning platform. In a preferred embodiment the bracket assemblies may be formed from a material such as spring steel for its combination of strength, pliability and elasticity to allow attaching the bracket assembly to a variety of profiles and widths. The spring steel may be anodised or powder coated for protection and aesthetically appealing visual appeal appearance.

The bracket assembly is preferably comprised of a clip and a hanging bracket fastened together.

Preferably the hanging bracket is elongate with feet disposed at opposed ends thereof.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention each of the bracket mounting formations comprise keyhole slots for receiving and retaining complementary feet of the hanging bracket. In a preferred embodiment of the invention the base is formed with a locking member such as a locking tab that engages the hanging bracket. For example, the locking member may comprise a tab that extends from the base and which is biased toward the hanging bracket for reception in a recess or opening of the hanging bracket upon insertion of the hanging bracket into the keyhole slots of the base.

Preferably the base is formed with a first locking member disposed between each of the first pair of bracket mounting formations and a second locking member disposed between each of the second pair of mounting bracket formations.

The body conditioning platform may be provided in combination with a rocker assembly of the first version and/or of the second version.

The body conditioning platform may be provided in further combination with the bracket assembly.

The body conditioning platform may be provided in further combination with one or more of the magnetically attracted body conditioning appliances.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for body conditioning for a person with a platform of the type that has been described comprising the steps of:

affixing the rocker assembly to a base of the platform;

placing the platform with rocker assembly affixed on a horizontal surface for the person to balance thereon;

removing the rocker assembly;

affixing the bracket assembly to the underside of the platform;

hanging the platform vertically from a suitable support structure by means of the platform for the person to perform exercises with the platform in the vertical configuration. According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for body conditioning for a person with a platform of the type that has been described comprising the steps of:

affixing the rocker assembly to a base of the platform;

removing the rocker assembly;

affixing the bracket assembly to the underside of the platform;

positioning the platform diagonally from a suitable support structure by means of the platform for the person to perform exercises with the platform in the sloped configuration.

affixing the rocker assembly to a base of the platform;

removing the rocker assembly;

affixing the bracket assembly to the underside of the platform;

hanging the platform vertically from a suitable support structure by means of the platform for the person to perform exercises with the platform in the vertical configuration;

removing the platform from the support structure; and

The method may include attaching body conditioning appliances to the platform and applying pressure to the person’s body with the body conditioning appliances. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way. The Detailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings as follows:

Figure 1 is an isometric view of the top side of a platform according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention

Figure 2 is an isometric view of the underside of the platform

Figure 3 is an exploded view of the platform.

Figure 4 is an isometric view of the underside of the platform and of a first rocker assembly for attachment to the platform

Figure 5 is an isometric view of the top side of the platform and of the first rocker assembly.

Figure 6 is an exploded view of the first rocker assembly.

Figure 7 comprises plan top side, underside and side views and a number of cross sectional views of the first rocker assembly.

Figure 8 is an end view of the platform with first rocker assembly attached. Figure 9 is a plan view of the underside of the platform with the first rocker assembly attached.

Figure 10 is a plan view of the underside of a second rocker assembly. Figure 1 1 is a plan view of the base identifying engagement formations for attachment of the second rocker assembly thereto.

Figure 12 is a plan view of the underside of the platform with the second rocker assembly attached in a first orientation.

Figure 13 is a plan view of the underside of the platform with the second rocker assembly attached thereto.

Figure 14 is an isometric view of the underside of the platform and a hanging bracket assembly for attachment thereto.

Figure 15 is an exploded view of the hanging bracket assembly. Figure 16 is an end view of the platform with the hanging bracket assembly attached parallel to a short axis of the platform.

Figure 17 is a plan view of the underside of the platform with the hanging bracket assembly attached parallel to the short axis. Figure 18 is an end view of the platform with the hanging bracket assembly attached parallel to a long axis of the platform.

Figure 19 is a plan view of the underside of the platform with the hanging bracket assembly attached parallel the long axis.

Figure 20 is a rear view of the platform hung vertically on a support structure with the long axis vertical.

Figure 21 is a rear view of the platform hung vertically on a support structure with the short axis vertical.

Figure 22 is a front view of the platform hung vertically on a support structure with the short axis vertical and with a number of magnetically attracted pressure hemispheres fastened magnetically to the platform.

Figure 23 is a side view of the platform attached diagonally on a support structure.

Figure 24a is a side view of the platform resting upon an upturned rocker with the short axis parallel to the rocker.

Figure 24b is a side of the platform resting upon the upturned rocker with the long axis parallel to the rocker.

Figure 25 is an isometric view of the top side of a platform according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 26 is an isometric view of the underside of the platform of Figure 25. Figure 27 is an exploded view of the platform of Figure 25.

Figure 28 is an isometric view of the top side of a platform according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 29 is an isometric view of the underside of the platform of Figure 28. Figure 30 is an exploded view of the platform of Figure 28.

Figure 31 is an isometric view of the top side of a platform according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 32 is an isometric view of the underside of the platform of Figure 31 . Figure 33 is an exploded view of the platform of Figure 31 . Figure 34 is a view of a mounting bracket assembly attached to the platform of Figure 31 .

Figure 35 is a side view of the mounting bracket assembly attached to the platform shown in Figure 34.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Figure 1 is an isometric view of the topside of a body conditioning platform 100 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention whereas Figure 2 is a corresponding view of the underside of the platform 100. An exploded view of platform 100 is provided in Figure 3.

With reference to Figure 3, the platform 100 includes a non-slip mat 101 of elastomeric material such as thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) with a magnetically attracted region in the form of a metal plate 3 located beneath mat 101 .

As will be described further, in use, magnetically attracted body conditioning appliances, for example pressure domes, may be fastened to the platform by magnetic attraction to the metal plate 3.

Below the metal plate 3 there is located a base 4 that is made of a suitably strong material such as high density polyethylene (FIDPE) plastic. The base 4 is formed with a honeycomb construction for imparting strength and rigidity thereto.

A peripheral shell comprised of vertically opposed upper and lower portions 1 and 2 locates about outer edges of the non-slip layer 101 , the layer of metal 3 and the base 4 for sealing their outer edges together. Timber strips 5 are received into opposite sides of the peripheral shell portions 1 and 2 for imparting an aesthetically appealing appearance to the platform 100. Rocker stops 12, 13 are affixed to an underside of the base 4. The base 4 is formed with rocker engagement formations in the form of sockets 105a, 105b that are arranged to releasably engage a rocker assembly in a first configuration for horizontal use of the platform. Each of the rocker engagement sockets 105a, 105b is fitted with neodymium disc magnets 15 and retaining discs 16 that keep the disc magnets 15 in the base of the sockets 105a, 105b.

The shell, portions 1 , 2 and metal plate 3 are all fastened together with screws 7, threaded insert 6, hex nut 8, and nut retainer 9.

Keyhole slots 107a, 107b are formed in the base 4 for retaining the feet of a bracket of a hanging assembly as will be discussed. The keyhole slots 107 are covered internally by caps 1 1 which are screwed into place with screws 10.

Referring now to Figure 4, there is shown an underside of the platform 100 with a rocker assembly 1 15 displaced therefrom prior to attachment to the base 4. It will be observed that the platform is elongate with a long axis 109 and a short axis 1 1 1 as indicated in Figure 4. Figure 5 is a topside view of the platform 100 and rocker 1 15 corresponding to Figure 4.

Figure 6 is an exploded view of the rocker assembly 1 15. Rocker assembly 1 15 is comprised of two spaced apart arcuate rockers 1 17 that are attached to a rocker base 1 19. The rocker base 1 19 is formed with two opposed pairs of cutouts 121 and 123 to make the base lighter and require less material in manufacture. The rockers 1 17 and rocker base 1 19 may be made of a suitably strong material such as aluminum though other material may also be used.

In the presently described preferred embodiment of the present invention the rocker assembly 1 15 includes a plurality of plugs 125a for engagement by the sockets 105a of the base.

The plugs 125a of the rocker assembly 1 15 enclose respective magnets 127 for attraction to the magnets 15 adjacent the sockets 105a to thereby produce a releasable attachment of the rocker assembly 1 15 to the base 4 of the platform. The magnets are retained inside the plugs with retaining discs 6.

Treads 129 are attached over each rocker by means of tread covers 151 for reducing slip of the rockers on a hard support surface, for example floor surfaces of timber, tiles or concrete. Tread covers 151 are greater width than treads 129 so provide increased surface area for greater support on soft surfaces, for example carpet. The tread covers 151 include protrusions 153 for retaining the magnets 127 within the hollow plugs 125a.

Further constructional details of the particular embodiment of the rocker 1 15 can be discerned from Figure 7 which sets out a number of cross sections through the rocker assembly 1 15.

Figures 8 and 9 comprise end views and plan underside views of the rocker 1 15 attached to the platform 100. The dimensions which appear in the drawings are in millimeters and are exemplary only.

The rocker assembly 1 15 comprises a first version of a rocker assembly for rocking along the long axis 109 and it will be noted that rocker assembly 1 15 has a base that is longer than it is wide wherein the plugs 125a are set out on a corner of a rectangle that corresponds to the placement of the sockets 105a that are shown in Figure 4.

Alternatively, the rocker may be provided in a second, short version 1 15b, which is shown in Figure 10, for rocking along either the long axis or the short axis. The rocker 1 15b has a rocker base 1 19b that is as wide as it is long for rotation of the base through ninety degrees and reattachment to the one or more rocker engagement formations 105b of the base of the platform. The plugs of the rocker 1 15b define a rectangle in the case of the first version of the rocker and a square in the case of the second version of the rocker. Consequently the short rocker 1 15b may be attached to sockets 105b by means of plugs 125b either parallel to the long axis 109 or parallel to the short axis 1 1 1 as shown in Figures 12 and 13.

Accordingly it will be realized that the base 4 is formed with a plurality of the rocker assembly attachment formations 105a, 105b sufficient for attaching either the first, long version of the rocker 1 15 or the second short version of the rocker 1 15b depending on the type of balance training that is desired. Figure 14 is a view of the underside of the platform 100 showing a mounting bracket assembly 131 for attachment to the base 4.

As previously mentioned, the base 4 is formed with bracket mounting formations in the form of a first pair of mounting bracket formations comprising keyhole slots 107a. The keyhole slots 107a are for mounting the bracket assembly 131 parallel to the long axis 109.

The bracket mounting formation also comprises a second pair of mounting bracket formations comprising keyhole slots 107b for mounting the bracket assembly parallel to the second axis 1 1 1 for supporting the platform in the second configuration.

With reference to Figure 15, which is an exploded view of bracket assembly 131 , the bracket assembly is comprised of a clip 133 and a hanging bracket 135 that are bolted together.

It will be observed that the hanging bracket 135 is elongate and spans the width of the clip 133 with feet 137 disposed at opposed ends thereof for insertion into the pairs of keyhole slots 107a or 107b.

Referring again to Figure 14, the underside of base 4 is formed with first and second locking members in the form of first and second locking tabs 139a and 139b. The locking tabs engage a complementary formation of the hanging bracket 135 and clip 133 in the form of a recess or opening 141 . Accordingly, locking tab 139a is disposed between each of the first pair of bracket mounting keyholes 107a and the second locking tab 139b is disposed between each of the second pair 107b of mounting bracket keyhole slots.

The locking tabs 139a and 139b extend from the surrounding surface of the base 4 and are biased toward the hanging bracket for reception in the recess or opening 141 of the hanging bracket 135 upon insertion of the hanging bracket into the keyhole slots 107a or 107b of the base 4. Figures 16 and 17 are end views and plan views of the underside of the base showing the hanging bracket assembly 131 engaged by keyholes 107a so that the hanging bracket assembly is parallel to the short axis 1 1 1 .

Figures 18 and 19 are end views and plan views of the underside of the base showing the hanging bracket assembly 131 engaged by keyholes 107b so that the hanging bracket assembly is parallel to the long axis 109.

Figure 20 is a rear view of the platform 100 fitted with a bracket hanging assembly and hung vertically on a support structure in the form of a short ladder 180 so that the long axis of the platform is vertical and the short axis is horizontal.

Figure 21 is a rear view of the platform fitted with a bracket hanging assembly and hung vertically on the short ladder 180 so that the short axis of the platform 100 is vertical and the long axis is horizontal.

Figure 22 is a front view of the platform corresponding to the view in Figure 21 wherein a number of body conditioning appliances in the form of magnetic pressure hemispheres have been attached to the platform by virtue of magnetic attraction to the metal plate that is contained within the platform.

In an additional use, the platform 100 can also be attached to the mounting bracket assembly 131 and then mounted to a support assembly, such as short ladder 180, in a sloped configuration (see Figure 23).

Furthermore, the rocker assembly 1 15 may be overturned such that the curved surface of the rocker is facing away from a surface (such as the floor or ground) and the platform 100 may be leaned against the upturned rocker assembly 1 15

In one embodiment, the platform 100 is positioned so that a longitudinal axis of the rocker assembly 1 15 and axis 109 of the platform 100 extend substantially parallel to each other (see Figure 24a). In another embodiment, the platform 100 is positioned that a longitudinal axis of the rocker assembly 1 15 and axis 1 1 1 of the platform 100 extend substantially parallel to each other (see Figure 24b)

Figure 25 is an isometric view of the topside of a body conditioning platform 200 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention whereas Figure 26 is a corresponding view of the underside of the platform 200. An exploded view of platform 200 is provided in Figure 27.

With reference to Figure 27, the platform 200 includes a non-slip mat 201 of elastomeric material such as thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) with a magnetically attracted region in the form of a metal plate 23 located beneath mat 201 .

As will be described further, in use, magnetically attracted body conditioning appliances, for example pressure domes, may be fastened to the platform by magnetic attraction to the metal plate 23.

Below the metal plate 23 there is located a base 24 that is made of a suitably strong material such as aluminium. The base 24 is formed with a honeycomb pattern on the underside for reducing overall material and weight.

Timber strips 25 are received into opposite sides of the base 24 for imparting an aesthetically appealing appearance to the platform 200.

The base 24 is formed with rocker engagement formations in the form of sockets 205a, 205b that are arranged to releasably engage a rocker assembly in a first configuration for horizontal use of the platform. Each of the rocker engagement sockets 205a, 205b is fitted with neodymium disc magnets 215 and retaining discs 216 that keep the disc magnets 215 in the base of the sockets 205a, 205b.

Accordingly it will be realized that the base 24 is formed with a plurality of the rocker assembly attachment formations 205a, 205b sufficient for attaching either the first, long version of the rocker 1 15 or the second short version of the rocker 1 15b depending on the type of balance training that is desired. Located around a periphery 220 of the base 24 are a number of bracket mounting formations in the form of elongate apertures 221 a-d for retaining the feet of a bracket of a hanging assembly as will be discussed.

In use, a bracket mounting assembly can be attached between elongate apertures 221 a, 221 c (or between elongate apertures 221 b, 221 d) to allow the platform 200 to be used in a portrait or upright configuration such that the bracket mounting assembly would be perpendicular to axis 209 of the platform 200.

Alternatively, a bracket mounting assembly can be attached between elongate apertures 221 a, 221 b (or between elongate apertures 221 c, 221 d) to allow the platform 200 to be used in a landscape or horizontal configuration such that the bracket mounting assembly would be perpendicular to axis 210 of the platform 200.

Figure 28 is an isometric view of the topside of a body conditioning platform 300 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention whereas Figure 29 is a corresponding view of the underside of the platform 300. An exploded view of platform 300 is provided in Figure 30.

With reference to Figure 30, the platform 300 includes a non-slip mat 301 of elastomeric material such as thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) with a magnetically attracted region in the form of a metal plate 33 located beneath mat 301 .

As will be described further, in use, magnetically attracted body conditioning appliances, for example pressure domes, may be fastened to the platform by magnetic attraction to the metal plate 33.

Below the metal plate 33 there is located a base 34 that is made of a suitably strong material such as aluminium. The base 34 is formed with a honeycomb pattern on the underside for reducing overall material and weight.

Timber strips 35 are received into opposite sides of the base 34 for imparting an aesthetically appealing appearance to the platform 300. The base 34 is formed with rocker engagement formations in the form of sockets 305a, 305b that are arranged to releasably engage a rocker assembly in a first configuration for horizontal use of the platform. Each of the rocker engagement sockets 305a, 305b is fitted with retaining discs 316 that engage the rocker assembly (either rocker 1 15 or rocker 1 15b).

Accordingly it will be realized that the base 34 is formed with a plurality of the rocker assembly attachment formations 305a, 305b sufficient for attaching either the first, long version of the rocker 1 15 or the second short version of the rocker 1 15b depending on the type of balance training that is desired.

Located around a periphery 320 of the base 34 are a number of bracket mounting formations in the form of elongate apertures 321 a-d for retaining the feet of a bracket of a hanging assembly as will be discussed.

In use, a bracket mounting assembly can be attached between elongate apertures 321 a, 321 c (or between elongate apertures 321 b, 321 d) to allow the platform 300 to be used in a portrait or upright configuration such that the bracket mounting assembly would be perpendicular to axis 309 of the platform 300.

Alternatively, a bracket mounting assembly can be attached between elongate apertures 321 a, 321 b (or between elongate apertures 321 c, 321 d) to allow the platform 300 to be used in a landscape or horizontal configuration such that the bracket mounting assembly would be perpendicular to axis 310 of the platform 300.

Figure 31 is an isometric view of the topside of a body conditioning platform 400 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention whereas Figure 32 is a corresponding view of the underside of the platform 300. An exploded view of platform 400 is provided in Figure 33.

With reference to Figure 33, the platform 400 includes a non-slip mat having four portions 401 of elastomeric material such as thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) with a magnetically attracted region in the form of four metal plates 43, one plate of the four metal plates 43 each being located beneath a portion of the mat 401.

The platform 400 includes a second non-slip mat having four portions 401 A of elastomeric material such as thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) with a second magnetically attracted region in the form of four metal plates 43A, one plate of the four metal plates 43A each being located beneath a portion of the mat 401 A As will be described further, in use, magnetically attracted body conditioning appliances, for example pressure domes, may be fastened to the platform by magnetic attraction to the metal plates 43, 43A.

Between the metal plates 43, 43A there is located a base 44 that is made of a suitably strong material such as aluminum. The base 34 is formed with eight recessed portions 403 (four on each side) for receiving one metal plate of the eight metal plates 43, 43A. The recessed portions 403 on each side of the base 44 are defined by a rocker engagement formation in the form of a rib 402a, 402b. That is, the respective rib 402a, 402b extends from the base 44 dividing the base 44 into four recessed portions 403 on opposite sides of the base 44.

The ribs 402a, 402b do not extend beyond the outward facing surface of the respective non-slip mat 401 , 401 A such that a recess is formed where the base of the recess is defined by the rib and the walls of the recess are defined by the edges of the non-slip mats 401 , 401 A adjacent the ribs 402a, 402b. In some embodiments, a rocker assembly is provided having ribs that are shaped reciprocally to the recess of the platform 400 to connect the platform 400 and the rocker assembly together.

Timber strips 45 are received into opposite sides of the base 44 for imparting an aesthetically appealing appearance to the platform 400.

Located around a periphery 420 of the base 44 are a number of bracket mounting formations in the form of elongate apertures 421 a-h for retaining the feet of a bracket of a hanging assembly as will be discussed. In use, a bracket mounting assembly can be attached between elongate apertures 421 a, 421 e (or between elongate apertures 421 b, 421 f or between elongate apertures 421 d, 421 h or between elongate apertures 421 c, 421 g) to allow the platform 400 to be used in a portrait or upright configuration such that a length of the bracket mounting assembly would be perpendicular to axis 409 of the platform 400.

Alternatively, a bracket mounting assembly can be attached between elongate apertures 421 a, 421 d (or between elongate apertures 421 b, 421 c, or between elongate apertures 421 e, 421 h, or between elongate apertures 421 f, 421 g) to allow the platform 400 to be used in a landscape or horizontal configuration such that the bracket mounting assembly would be perpendicular to axis 410 of the platform 400.

Turning to Figures 34 and 35, platform 400 is shown in combination with a bracket mounting assembly 231. The bracket mounting assembly 231 includes a pair of clips 233 and a hanging bracket 235 that can be connected together (by bolting, for example).

It will be observed that the hanging bracket 235 is elongate and connects to the platform 400 at opposite ends 236, 237 which are respectively received through apertures 421 b, 421 c. In some embodiments, a shorter hanging bracket can be provided so that the hanging bracket connects through two apertures formed at a same end of the platform, such as apertures 421 a, 421 e, for example.

A foot 236a of end 236 of the hanging bracket 235 can be seen passing through the aperture 421 b from one side of the base 44 to the other. To ensure that the foot 236a cannot pass back through the aperture 421 b, the foot 236a is elongate and is rotatable or swivelable such that, in use, the foot 236a can be orientated to pass through the aperture 421 b and then rotated approximately 90°.

The bracket mounting assembly 231 is only shown in use with body conditioning platform 400. However, it should be appreciated that bracket mounting assembly 231 can be used with each of paltforms 200, 300, 400, described herein.

It will be realized that the body conditioning platform may be provided separately or in combination with one or both of the rocker assemblies. Similarly, the platform may be provided in further combination with the bracket assembly.

The body conditioning platform may also be provided in further combination with one or more of the magnetically attracted body conditioning appliances.

The platform may be used to provide a method for body conditioning for a person by affixing the rocker assembly to an underside of the base and placing the platform with rocker assembly affixed on a horizontal surface for the person to balance thereon. The rocker assembly can be removed and the hanging bracket assembly can then be attached to the underside of the base. With the hanging bracket assembly attached the platform can be hung vertically, or at an angle, from a suitable support structure by means of the bracket assembly for the person to perform exercises. As shown in Figure 22 magnetically attracted body conditioning appliances, such as pressure hemispheres may be easily attached to the platform and can be used for applying pressure to the person’s body.

In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. The term“comprises” and its variations, such as“comprising” and“comprised of” is used throughout in an inclusive sense and not to the exclusion of any additional features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described herein comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art. Throughout the specification and claims (if present), unless the context requires otherwise, the term "substantially" or "about" will be understood to not be limited to the value for the range qualified by the terms. Any embodiment of the invention is meant to be illustrative only and is not meant to be limiting to the invention. Therefore, it should be appreciated that various other changes and modifications can be made to any embodiment described without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Features, integers, characteristics, compounds, chemical moieties or groups described in conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment or example of the invention are to be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or example described herein unless incompatible therewith.

Claims

1 . A body conditioning platform including:

at least one magnetically attracted region;

2. A body conditioning platform including:

at least one magnetically attracted region;

a base located beneath the magnetically attracted region and including one or more rocker engagement formations arranged to releasably engage a rocker assembly in a first configuration for horizontal use of the platform; and a bracket for attachment to the base in a second configuration for vertical use of the platform and a third configuration for sloped use of the platform; wherein magnetically attracted body conditioning appliances are fastenable to the board by magnetic attraction to said magnetically attracted region.

3. A body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the magnetically attracted region comprises a layer of metal.

4. A body conditioning platform in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, wherein the platform includes a non-slip layer, wherein the one or more magnetically attracted regions ared disposed between the non-slip layer and the base.

5. A body conditioning platform in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base is aluminum.

6. A body conditioning platform in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base comprises two opposed surfaces and wherein the platform comprises at least two magnetically attracted regions.

7. A body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 6, wherein each of the two surfaces of the base has at least one of the at least two magnetically attracted regions attached thereto.

8. A body conditioning platform in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, wherein the platform is elongate with a first axis and a second axis, wherein the first axis extends along a length of the body conditioning platform and the second axis extends along a width of the body conditioning platform.

9. A body conditioning platform in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, the body conditioning platform further comprising a rocker assembly, wherein the rocker assembly comprises two spaced apart arcuate rockers that are attached to a rocker base.

10. A body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 9, wherein the rocker assembly includes a plurality of plugs for engagement by the one or more rocker engagement formations of the base of the body conditioning platform, wherein the one or more rocker engagement formations of the base are shaped as sockets for receiving the plugs.

1 1. A body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 10, wherein the rocker assembly includes a plurality of sockets for engagement by the one or more rocker engagement formations of the base of the platform, wherein the one or more rocker engagement formations of the base are shaped as plugs for engaging the sockets.

12. A body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 10, wherein the base includes magnets located in the sockets.

13. A body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 12, wherein the plugs of the rocker assembly enclose respective magnets for attraction to the magnets of sockets to thereby produce a releasable attachment of the rocker assembly to the base of the platform.

14. A body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the one or more rocker engagement formations comprise one or more ribs.

15. A body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 14, wherein the ribs extend away from the base toward the magnetically attracted region.

16. A body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 8, wherein the rocker assembly is provided in a first version for rocking along the first axis wherein the rocker of the first version has a base that is longer than it is wide.

17. A body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 8, wherein the rocker assembly is provided in a second version for rocking along either the first axis or the second axis wherein the rocker assembly of the second version has a rocker base that is as wide as it is long for rotation of the base through ninety degrees and reattachment to the one or more rocker engagement formations of the base.

18. A body conditioning platform in accordance with claims 16 and 17, wherein the base is formed with a plurality of the rocker assembly attachment formations sufficient for attaching either the first version of the rocker or the second version of the rocker.

19. A body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 8, wherein the body conditioning platform includes at least one bracket mounting formation for mounting of a bracket assembly thereto.

20. A body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 19, wherein the at least one bracket mounting formation comprises a first pair of mounting bracket formations for mounting the bracket assembly parallel to the first axis for supporting the platform in the second configuration.

21. A body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 20, wherein the at least one bracket mounting formation comprises a second pair of mounting bracket formations for mounting a bracket assembly parallel to the second axis for supporting the platform in the short configuration.

22. A body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 21 , wherein the bracket assembly is integrally formed and includes slots or keyholes for connection to the body conditioning platform.

23. A body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 21 , wherein a periphery of the base includes one or more bracket mounting formations comprising one or more elongate apertures formed in the base for attaching the bracket to the base.

24. A body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 23, wherein the bracket assembly comprises a clip and a hanging bracket fastened together.

25. A body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 24, wherein the hanging bracket is elongate with feet disposed at opposed ends thereof.

26. A body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 25, wherein each of the bracket mounting formations comprise keyhole slots for receiving and retaining complementary feet of the hanging bracket.

27. A body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the body conditioning platform is in combination with a rocker assembly.

28. A body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 27, wherein the body conditioning platform is provided in further combination with a bracket assembly.

29. A body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 28, wherein the body conditioning platform is provided in further combination with one or more magnetically attracted body conditioning appliances.

30. A method for body conditioning for a person with a body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 1 , the method comprising the steps of:

affixing the rocker assembly to a base of the platform;

removing the rocker assembly;

affixing the bracket assembly to the underside of the platform;

hanging the platform vertically from a suitable support structure by means of the platform for the person to perform exercises with the platform in the vertical configuration.

31. A method for body conditioning for a person with a body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 2, the method comprising the steps of:

affixing the rocker assembly to a base of the platform;

removing the rocker assembly;

affixing the bracket assembly to the underside of the platform;

32. A method for body conditioning for a person with a body conditioning platform in accordance with claim 2, the method comprising the steps of:

affixing the rocker assembly to a base of the platform;

removing the rocker assembly;

affixing the bracket assembly to the underside of the platform;

removing the platform from the support structure; and

33. A method in accordance with any of claims 30-32, the method further including the step of attaching body conditioning appliances to the platform and applying pressure to the person’s body with the body conditioning appliances.