WO2022174341A1

WO2022174341A1 - Apparatus for exercising

Info

Publication number: WO2022174341A1
Application number: PCT/CA2022/050225
Authority: WO
Inventors: Christopher FITZ-HARDY
Original assignee: Fitz Hardy Christopher
Priority date: 2021-02-17
Filing date: 2022-02-16
Publication date: 2022-08-25
Also published as: CA3109034A1

Abstract

An exercise apparatus having selectively adjustable resistance levels. The exercise apparatus includes a resistance assembly for housing a plurality of resilient members which extend from a first end of the resistance assembly to an opposite second end of the resistance assembly. At least one of the resilient members has a coupling at a first end thereof, allowing that resilient member to be selectively engaged by a selector assembly which is positioned in contact with the first end of the resistance assembly. While performing an exercise, a user pushes or pulls the selector assembly away from the first end of the resistance assembly. In doing so, the resilient member(s) that are engaged by the selector assembly are stretched, thereby providing resistance for the exercise being performed.

Description

APPARATUS FOR EXERCISING

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims the benefit of Canadian Patent Application No. 3109034 for an Adjustable Resistance Exercise Device, filed on 17/02/2021 , which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND 1. Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to exercise equipment using resilient force-resisters of the extension type, such as found in CPC A63B 21/055.

2. Description of Related Prior Art

[0003] The background description provided herein is for the purpose of generally presenting the context of the disclosure. The following documents presented in this section are neither expressly nor impliedly admitted as prior art against the present disclosure.

[0004] Resistance bands are often used as a form of resistance for exercising. There are generally two types of resistance bands: flat loop bands and tube bands. Each type of resistance band is an elastic member that can be stretched; the more it is stretched, the greater the resistance. Typically, the larger the cross-sectional area of the tube or the flat loop, the greater the resistance that it provides. For both types of resistance bands, the most common method of adjusting resistance is by simply adding or removing resistance bands to a respective handle, or other pulling implement. Tube resistance bands are usually supplied with a coupling at each end, such as a carabiner; and the handle, or other pulling implement, usually has a ring for connecting one or more of said carabiners thereto. For flat loop resistance bands, the user can simply stack them up on their hands. Some systems provide a bar with a hook at each end thereof for attaching one or more flat loop resistance bands thereto.

[0005] US10463905B1 discloses an exercise device comprising up to three elastic resistance members having cylindrical ends which are inserted into a correspondingly shaped opening of a buckle at each end of the elastic resistance member(s), wherein each of the elastic resistance members are locked into the buckle via a pin. US4328964A discloses another system wherein at least one elastic resistance member is engaged to an exercise bar via a pin. US9675832B2, DE3042549A1 , US7798945B2 and US8961378B2 each discloses a system comprising at least three elastic resistance members having end couplings which fit into a corresponding quick-release coupling on a handle. US7819787B2 discloses elastic resistance tubes having carabiners at each end for attaching to or releasing from a handle. The downside with these systems that use carabiners or so-called quick-release couplings is that they still require a significant amount of time to switch from one level of resistance to another. To better explain this, the user must first determine which or what combination of resistance band(s) are required to achieve the desired level of resistance. Next, the user must find the desired resistance band(s), which may be tangled in a pile with other resistance bands. Then, a first end of the resistance band(s) must be coupled to a first handle (or other pulling implement); and a second end of the resistance band(s) must be coupled to a second handle (or other pulling implement). These exercise devices have the benefit of being portable. However, they also share the disadvantage of being rather cumbersome and time-consuming when it comes to changing the level of resistance.

[0006] Another form of altering the resistance level in a resistance band system is by simply increasing or decreasing the length of the resistance band. US2020/0298054A1 discloses an exercise device comprising a pair of handles having an opening for receiving a coupling of a resistance band, wherein the resistance band comprises a plurality of couplings spaced apart along its length such that each coupling provides a different level of resistance. US2015/0367159A1 and US8403818B1 each discloses a system comprising an elastic resistance member attached at each of its ends to a handle, wherein the distance of elastic resistance member between the two handles is adjustable so as to alter the resistance. US6036626A and US4762318A each discloses yet another system wherein the length of the elastic resistance member is adjustable so as to provide varying degrees of resistance. This type of a system is not ideal as the range of resistance is limited by the resistance band. The minimum level of resistance is dictated by the resistance band’s longest usable length. Likewise, the maximum level of resistance is dictated by the resistance band’s shortest usable length. Thus, the range of resistance between the maximum level of resistance and the minimum level of resistance can be quite small. However, perhaps the biggest drawback is the fact that as the resistance level increases the range of motion decreases. This is due to the fact that the useable length of the tube or band decrease as resistance level increases. The shorter the useable length, the shorter the distance that it can be pulled before it snaps. Thus, these devices also have the benefit of being portable. However, each one of these devices only offer a very small range of resistance, wherein the higher levels of resistance result in a lower range of motion due to the shortening of the resistance band.

[0007] US10675498B2 discloses an exercise device using elastic cables wherein a dial can be turned to choose from three levels of resistance. Although this system represents a true quick adjustable resistance system, it is not without its setbacks. Specifically, and as mentioned above, there are only three levels of resistance which does not provide a lot of choice. The system is also rather large as it is a cylinder of approximately 25” in length. Although this size makes it portable, it is still rather large and not as compact as a typical system comprising a pair of handles with three resistance bands which can easily fit into a small pouch. Yet another drawback of this system, is that it must be anchored to a structure for use, unlike a typical resistance band system that can also be used without a structure (the user can stand upon the resistance bands for use). Finally, unlike a traditional resistance band system that has a handle at each end, this system can only be pulled at one end as the other end is attached to a structure. This greatly limits its productiveness and versatility. Thus, this device benefits from being somewhat portable as well as offering turn-dial resistance adjustments. However, the fact that there are only a mere three levels of resistance; just a single pull; and the need to always anchor the device to a structure, are all considerable drawbacks with this particular device.

[0008] There also exist a variety of exercise devices that utilize elastic members as a means of resistance wherein the resistance level is selected by inserting a pin or turning a dial. US5700232A, for example, discloses a system wherein the resistance is changed from one level to another by the turn of a dial such that a predetermined set of elastic member(s) are engaged for a given resistance level. US5039092A discloses yet another system wherein the elastic resistance members are selected and engaged via a pin. US8968167B1 , US7887468B2, US7981014B2, US10709954B1 and US7597653B1 each discloses an exercise device utilizing elastic members for providing resistance wherein the level of resistance is easily adjusted by the turn of a dial. Although these systems provide for easy adjustment of the resistance level, all of them except for the exercise device of US5700232A, relate to large stationary exercise equipment. Thus, they are not portable. The exercise device of US5700232A may be considered portable, however, it requires significant assembly for use and then significant take-down for storage. Thus, the aspect of portability comes at a rather large cost of time in set-up and take-down. Thus, each one of these devices benefits from selectively adjustable resistance changes. However, only one of them (US5700232A) is portable and that comes at the cost of time-consuming disassembly. Additionally, as shown in figure 8 of US5700232A, the device only has a single pull, thus, limiting the level of versatility.

[0009] In view of the prior art, there exists a need for a truly portable exercise device capable of quick resistance level changes. Conventional resistance bands provide portability but take too long to change from one level of resistance to another. Thus, there is a need for a selectively adjustable resistance band system, preferably one that behaves like a typical resistance band kit that can be pulled at both ends.

SUMMARY

[0010] The present disclosure describes an exercise apparatus utilizing stretchable resilient members, such as but not limited to resistance bands, preferably of the tube type. The resilient members provide resistance for exercising. The resilient members are arranged together such that they are easily engageable depending upon the desired level of resistance. Preferably, the resilient members are engaged by a selection assembly which further has an input means, such as but not limited to a turn dial, for choosing the desired level of resistance.

[0011] The present disclosure also describes a method for using an exercise apparatus. The method includes anchoring a portion of the exercise apparatus and applying a pulling or pushing motion to the exercise apparatus so as to stretch the resilient members which provide resistance for the exercise. The step of anchoring a portion of the exercise apparatus may involve the user stepping on it so that it cannot move. The user may also anchor the exercise apparatus to a door using an attachment accessory or to a structure by simply wrapping it around said structure. The method further includes the step of turning a dial to select the desired level of resistance.

[0012] A first embodiment of the invention may provide a resistance assembly for exercising, said resistance assembly comprising a housing having a first end; a plurality of resilient members passing within said housing, said resilient members having a first end, at least one of said resilient members having a first coupling affixed to said first end; a first cradle assembly positioned at the first end of the housing, said first cradle assembly comprising at least one opening for allowing said plurality of resilient members to pass through said first cradle assembly, and wherein said housing is capable of twisting and/or bending movement.

[0013] A second embodiment of the invention may provide a resistance assembly comprising a housing having a first end and a second end; a first resilient member and a second resilient member positioned at least partially within said housing, each of said first and second resilient members having a first end and a second end, each of said resilient members having a first coupling affixed to said first end of said resilient member and a second coupling affixed to said second end of said resilient member; a first cradle assembly positioned at the first end of the housing and a second cradle assembly positioned at the second end of the housing, each of said cradle assemblies comprising at least one opening for allowing said first resilient member and said second resilient member to pass through said cradle assemblies.

[0014] A third embodiment provides a resistance assembly for use in exercising, comprising: a housing having a first end; a plurality of resilient members passing within said housing, each of said resilient members are stretchable when pulled so as to provide resistance for an exercise, each of said resilient members having a first end and an opposing second end, at least one of said resilient members having a first coupling affixed to said first end; a first cradle assembly positioned at the first end of the housing, said first cradle assembly comprising at least one opening for allowing said plurality of resilient members to pass through said first cradle assembly, said at least one opening being sized to prevent the first coupling from entering into the housing; the second end of each resilient member being secured to said housing so as to bring the first coupling of said each resilient member into contact with said at least one opening of said first cradle assembly; and wherein said housing is capable of twisting and/or bending movement.

[0015] A fourth embodiment provides a resistance assembly for use in exercising, comprising: a housing having a first end and a second end; a plurality of resilient members passing within said housing, each of said resilient members are stretchable when pulled so as to provide resistance for an exercise, each of said resilient members having a first end and an opposing second end, at least one of said resilient members having a first coupling affixed to said first end and a second coupling affixed to said second end; a first cradle assembly positioned at the first end of the housing, said first cradle assembly comprising at least one first opening for allowing said plurality of resilient members to pass through said first cradle assembly, said at least first one opening being sized to prevent the first coupling from entering into the housing; a second cradle assembly positioned at the second end of the housing, said second cradle assembly comprising at least one second opening for allowing said plurality of resilient members to pass through said second cradle assembly, said at least one second opening being sized to prevent the second coupling from entering into the housing; the length of housing between the first and second cradle assemblies being sized so as to bring the first coupling of said each resilient member into contact with said at least one first opening of said first cradle assembly and to bring the second coupling of said each resilient member into contact with said at least one second opening of said second cradle assembly; and wherein said housing is capable of twisting and/or bending movement.

[0016] A fifth embodiment provides a resistance assembly for providing resistance to an exercise movement, said resistance assembly comprising: a housing including a first end and an opposite second end; a first cradle assembly positioned at the first end of the housing, said first cradle assembly including a first plurality of seats, each one of said first plurality of seats being formed as an opening extending from a bottom surface of the first cradle assembly to a top surface of the first cradle assembly; a second cradle assembly positioned at the second end of the housing, said second cradle assembly including a second plurality of seats, each one of said second plurality of seats being formed as an opening extending from a bottom surface of the second cradle assembly to a top surface of the second cradle assembly; a plurality of resilient members located inside the housing and extending from the first end of the housing to the second end of the housing, each one of said plurality of resilient members having a first end with a first coupling attached thereto and an opposite second end with a second coupling attached thereto, the first couplings including a lower portion shaped to substantially correspond to a shape of the first seats and the second couplings including a lower portion shaped to substantially correspond to a shape of the second seats; wherein the shape of the first and second seats prevents the first and second couplings, respectively, from being pulled past the first and second cradle assemblies, respectively, into the housing; and wherein at least one of the first couplings and at least one of the second couplings are capable of being pulled outwardly and away from the first and second cradle assemblies, respectively, thereby stretching the resilient member(s) attached to the first coupling and the second coupling, which provides resistance for the exercise movement.

[0017] A sixth embodiment provides an exercise apparatus comprising: a resistance assembly including: a housing including a first end and an opposite second end; a first cradle assembly positioned at the first end of the housing, said first cradle assembly including a first plurality of seats, each one of said first plurality of seats being formed as an opening extending from a bottom surface of the first cradle assembly to a top surface of the first cradle assembly; a second cradle assembly positioned at the second end of the housing, said second cradle assembly including a second plurality of seats, each one of said second plurality of seats being formed as an opening extending from a bottom surface of the second cradle assembly to a top surface of the second cradle assembly; a plurality of resilient members located inside the housing and extending from the first end of the housing to the second end of the housing, each one of said plurality of resilient members having a first end with a first coupling attached thereto and an opposite second end with a second coupling attached thereto, the first couplings including a lower portion shaped to substantially correspond to a shape of the first seats and the second couplings including a lower portion shaped to substantially correspond to a shape of the second seats; the shape of the first and second seats prevents the first and second couplings, respectively, from being pulled past the first and second cradle assemblies, respectively, into the housing; a first selector assembly comprising means for selectively engaging one or more of the first couplings, the first selector assembly comprising means for pulling or pushing the first selector assembly away from the first cradle assembly so as to stretch the resilient member(s) of the engaged first coupling(s); and a second selector assembly comprising means for selectively engaging one or more of the second couplings, the second selector assembly comprising means for pulling or pushing the second selector assembly away from the second cradle assembly so as to stretch the resilient member(s) of the engaged second coupling(s).

[0018] A seventh embodiment provides a resistance assembly for providing resistance to an exercise movement, said resistance assembly comprising: a housing including a first end; a first cradle assembly positioned at the first end of the housing, the first cradle assembly having a first plurality of seats; a plurality of resilient members located inside the housing, each one of said plurality of resilient members including a first end and an opposite second end, the first end having a first coupling attached thereto, and the second end being secured to the housing; the first coupling of each resilient member rests in a respective seat of the first plurality of seats in the first cradle assembly, the first couplings being sized and shaped such that they cannot be pulled through their respective seat and into the housing, the first couplings are only capable of being pulled outwardly and away from the first cradle assembly, thereby stretching the resilient member attached to the first coupling which provides resistance for the exercise movement; and wherein said housing is capable of bending and/or twisting.

[0019] Another embodiment is described as an exercise apparatus comprising: a resistance assembly including: a housing including a first end, said housing being capable of bending and/or twisting; a first cradle assembly positioned at the first end of the housing, the first cradle assembly having a first plurality of seats; a plurality of resilient members located inside the housing, each one of said plurality of resilient members including a first end and an opposite second end, the first end having a first coupling attached thereto, and the second end being secured to the housing; the first coupling of each resilient member rests in a respective seat of the first plurality of seats in the first cradle assembly, the first couplings being sized and shaped such that they cannot be pulled through their respective seat and into the housing, the first couplings are only capable of being pulled outwardly and away from the first cradle assembly, thereby stretching the resilient member attached to the first coupling which provides resistance for the exercise movement; and a first selector assembly comprising means for selectively engaging one or more of the first couplings, the first selector assembly comprising means for pulling or pushing the first selector assembly away from the first cradle assembly so as to stretch the resilient member(s) of the engaged first coupling(s).

[0020] The present disclosure also provides for a method of exercising, comprising: providing an exercise apparatus including: a resistance assembly having a plurality of resilient members, each of said resilient members having a first end and an opposite second end; a first selector assembly for selectively engaging the first end of one or more of said resilient members; a second selector assembly for selectively engaging the second end of one or more of said resilient members; using the first selector assembly for selectively engaging the first end of one or more of said resilient members; using the second selector assembly for selectively engaging the second end of one or more of said resilient members; and pulling or pushing the first selector assembly and/or the second selector assembly away from the resistance assembly, thereby stretching the engaged resilient member(s) so as to provide resistance for exercising.

[0021] Also disclosed is a method of exercising comprising: providing an exercise apparatus including: a resistance assembly having a plurality of resilient members, each of said resilient members having a first end and an opposite second end; a first selector assembly for selectively engaging the first end of one or more of said resilient members; using the first selector assembly for selectively engaging the first end of one or more of said resilient members; securing the resistance assembly to a structure or a body part by bending at least a portion of said resistance assembly around at least a portion of said structure or said body part; and pulling or pushing the first selector assembly away from the resistance assembly, thereby stretching the engaged resilient member(s) so as to provide resistance for exercising.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0022] The detailed description set forth below references the following drawings:

[0023] Figure 1A is a first perspective of an exercise apparatus according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein said exercise apparatus is in a resting position; [0024] Figure 1 B is a view of the exercise apparatus shown in Figure 1A, wherein each handle is in an extended position;

[0025] Figure 2A illustrates the exercise apparatus in use at a start position;

[0026] Figure 2B illustrates the exercise apparatus in use at an extended position;

[0027] Figure 3A is a view of an end portion of the exercise apparatus set at the highest level of resistance;

[0028] Figure 3B is a view of an end portion of the exercise apparatus set at the lowest level of resistance;

[0029] Figure 3C is a view of an end portion of the exercise apparatus in a resting position;

[0030] Figure 4A is a detailed view of the internal engagement mechanism;

[0031] Figure 4B illustrates the interaction between the engagement wheels and the couplings; [0032] Figures 5A-5D illustrate various housing cross-sections;

[0033] Figure 6A illustrates a housing with foot placement markings thereon;

[0034] Figure 6B illustrates a housing with integrated handles;

[0035] Figures 7A and 7B illustrate an embodiment utilizing a pin;

[0036] Figures 8A-8D illustrate a variety of resistance input means;

[0037] Figures 9A and 9B illustrate a resilient member tensioning means; and

[0038] Figures 10A and 10B illustrate a single-pull embodiment of the exercise apparatus.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] A plurality of different embodiments of the present disclosure is shown in the Figures of the application. Similar features are shown in the various embodiments of the present disclosure. Similar features across different embodiments have been numbered with a common reference numeral and have been differentiated by an alphabetic suffix. Also, to enhance consistency, the structures in any particular drawing may share the same alphabetic suffix even if a particular feature is shown in less than all embodiments. Similar features are structured similarly, operate similarly, and/or have the same function unless otherwise indicated by the drawings or this specification. Furthermore, particular features of one embodiment can replace corresponding features in another embodiment or can supplement other embodiments unless otherwise indicated by the drawings or this specification.

[0040] Figures 1A and 1 B show a complete assembly of the exercise apparatus (1 ) according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1A shows the exercise apparatus (1) in the rest position. Figure 1 B shows the exercise apparatus (1 ) in the extended position whereby a pulling force has been applied in the direction of the arrows. The exercise apparatus (1) comprises a resistance assembly (2), at least one selector assembly (3) and at least one handle (4). The exercise apparatus

(1 ) shown in Figures 1A and 1 B includes a first selector assembly (3a), a second selector assembly (3b), a first handle (4a) and a second handle (4b). As shown in Figure 1 B, the resistance assembly

(2) comprises a plurality of resilient members (5). Preferably the resilient members are resistance bands and more preferably, they are tube resistance bands.

[0041] Figures 2A and 2B show the exercise apparatus (1) in use. Figure 2A shows a user in the start position and Figure 2B shows the user at full muscle contraction wherein the exercise apparatus (1 ) is in the most extended portion of the exercise, being a bicep curl. As seen in Figure 2A, when the exercise apparatus is in the start position of an exercise, it may already be in a partially extended position, such that the engaged resistance bands are exposed. The level of extension, from no extension to considerable extension, depends upon the length of the exercise apparatus (1 ) in relation to the height of the user as well as the exercise being performed. For example, if the user is performing a standing shoulder press, the start position for this exercise will already have the exercise apparatus in a considerably extended position, similar to that shown in Figure 2B. Typically, a good quality tube resistance band can be safely stretched to three times their resting length. More than that can cause permanent failure. In fact, there are tube resistance bands on the market that have a cord passing through their inner channel such that the cord’s length represents the maximum pull length for that particular tube resistance band. Other tube resistance bands utilize an outer sheath to limit the pull length of the tube resistance band. For each one of these length-restricting means, the inner cord or the outer sheath is in a substantially bunched-up position when the tube resistance band is in its resting position. However, when the tube resistance band is pulled, the inner cord or the outer sheath will unbunch and eventually reach its fully extended position, thereby restricting any further lengthening of the tube resistance band. Not only do these two length-restriction means prevent over-pulling of tube resistance bands but they also prevent dangerous snap-back when a resistance band fails. The inner cord will cause the two portions of the failed tube resistance band to remain on the cord thereby preventing them from whipping outwards towards the user. Likewise, the outer sheath will constrain the two failed portions of the tube resistance band within its inner chamber. Either one of these length restriction means may be incorporated into the exercise device of the present invention. Alternatively, due to the design of the exercise apparatus (1 ) according to the present invention, one large outer sheath (not shown) may be positioned over the resistance assembly (2) so as to extend from the first selector assembly (3a) to the second selector assembly (3b), such that all of the engaged resilient members (5) are enclosed within the outer sheath. Likewise, a cord or multiple cords (not shown) could extend from the first selector assembly (3a), through the resistance assembly (2), to the second selector assembly (3b). Both of these sheath(s) and cord(s) could be bunched-up in the resting position of the exercise apparatus (1 ), and then fully extended to a maximum length thereby limiting the pulling length of the exercise apparatus (1 ). [0042] Figure 3A shows an end portion of the exercise apparatus (1 ), wherein the resistance level is set to the highest position. In the highest resistance level setting, all of the resilient members (5) are engaged by the selector assembly (3). In this particular embodiment, the resistance assembly (2) comprises a first, second, third, fourth and fifth resilient member (5a-5e). However, it is possible to design the resistance assembly (2) to function with as little as two resilient members (5), wherein if each of the two resilient members (5) are selectively engageable, then such an arrangement would be capable of providing three levels of resistance; as long as both resilient members (5) are of different resistances. Likewise, it would be possible for the resistance assembly (2) to comprise a number much larger than five resilient members (5), however, this comes at the expense of size; the greater the number of resilient members (5), the greater the size and bulkiness of the overall exercise apparatus (1 ). Preferably, the resistance assembly (2) contains between three and six resilient members (5) so as to provide a reasonable number of resistance levels, yet at the same time remain somewhat compact and portable.

[0043] Figure 3B shows an end portion of the exercise apparatus (1), wherein the resistance level is set to the lowest position. In the lowest resistance level setting, only the resilient member (5) having the lowest resistance (usually the one with the smallest diameter) is engaged by the selector assembly (3). In this particular embodiment of the present invention, the lowest level resilient member (5c) is positioned in the middle of the five resilient members (5a-5e). This is one of a few different arrangements. More specifically, there are configurations in which all of the resilient members (5) are selectively engageable, meaning that any one resilient member (5) may be engaged or not engaged by the selector assembly (3). Then there are configurations in which some resilient members (5) are selectively engageable while others are not. The resilient members (5) which are not selectively engageable are always engaged by the selector assembly (3) for all levels of resistance. It is possible, however, to provide a setting on the selector assembly (3) by which all resilient members (5) are not engaged by the selector assembly (3). Such a setting could be denoted by an “R” symbol so as to designate the release position, in which the selector assemblies (3) may be released from the resistance assembly (2). Such a release setting could be used for swapping out resilient members (5) or for making the overall exercise apparatus more compact for storage. There are two preferred configurations in which at least one resilient member (5) is always engaged to the selector assemblies (3a, 3b) throughout all levels of resistance. In the first configuration, each of the outer resilient members (5a, 5e) are engaged for all levels of resistance. In a resistance assembly (2) comprising five resilient members (5) with the two outer ones constantly engaged throughout all levels of resistance, such a configuration provides eight levels of resistance. The advantage of such a configuration is that it is symmetrical and therefore, the selector assembly (3) is always guided smoothly back towards the resistance assembly (2). Furthermore, by always having the two outer resilient members (5a, 5e) engaged, this provides stability for the selector assembly (3) by maintaining it substantially parallel to an upper end portion of the resistance assembly (2). For example, if only resilient member (5a) was engaged by the selector assembly (3), then the selector assembly (3) would be more pulled down on that side and more upwards pointing on the opposite side, which is not ideal for many reasons. The other preferred configuration in which at least one resilient member (5) is always engaged to the selector assemblies (3) throughout all levels of resistance, is that shown in Figure 3B. In this specific arrangement, the middle resilient member (5c) is constantly engaged by both selector assemblies (3a, 3b) throughout all levels of resistance. For a resistance assembly (2) comprising five resilient members (5a-5e) wherein the middle resilient member (5c) is always engaged for all levels of resistance, such an arrangement will provide sixteen levels of resistance. Thus, having only the middle resilient member (5c) constantly engaged provides twice as many levels of resistance than when only the two outer resilient members (5a, 5e) are engaged. However, this configuration is not without its setbacks. More specifically, at the lowest level of resistance when only the middle resilient member (5c) is engaged, the selector assembly (3) may freely rotate about the longitudinal axis of the middle resilient member (5c) and possibly move out of alignment with the resistance assembly (2). There are at least three ways to remedy this problem. First, the ends of the resistance assembly (2) may be provided with a directional seating arrangement such that the selector assembly (3) will only fully sit on the ends of the resistance assembly (2) in one direction and not the other direction. Thus, it would be apparent to the user that they have lowered the selector assembly onto the ends of the resistance assembly (2) in the incorrect sense as these two components would fail to seamlessly engage with each other. Secondly, the selector assembly could be provided with integrated or removable accessories (such as handles) that are rigid so that the user can easily guide each selector assembly back (3) onto the respective end of the resistance assembly (2). Thirdly, the mechanism for selectively engaging the resilient members (5a-5c) may be designed such that the lowest level of resistance is a combination of the middle resilient member (5c) and the lowest resistance resilient member from the remaining four resilient members (5a,5b,5d,5e). This would only drop the levels of resistance from sixteen to fifteen, thus, only losing one level of resistance. However, the advantage would be that there would always be at least two resilient members (5c and one or more of 5a, 5b, 5d and 5e) engaged by the selector assemblies (3a, 3b), thereby preventing the selector assemblies (3a, 3b) from freely rotating. Additionally, always having at least two resilient members (5) engaged by the selector assemblies (3a, 3b) ensures that each selector assembly (3a, 3b) is smoothly guided back towards the ends of the resistance assembly (2) in the proper orientation. Any one or any combination of these three designs may be used in accordance with the present invention.

[0044] As explained directly above, the number of resilient members (5) as well as which ones are selectively engageable and which ones are not, affects the number of resistance levels afforded by the exercise apparatus (1). To summarize, there are three preferable configurations: all resilient members are selectively engageable; only the middle resilient member is constantly engaged; and only the two end resilient members are constantly engaged. In a system wherein all of the resilient members are selectively engageable, such a system will provide the following levels of resistance: three resilient members - maximum of seven levels of resistance; four resilient members - maximum of fifteen levels of resistance; and five resilient members - maximum of thirty-one levels of resistance. In a system wherein only the middle resilient member is constantly engaged, such a system will provide the following levels of resistance: three resilient members - maximum of four levels of resistance; and five resilient members - maximum of 16 levels of resistance. In a system wherein only the two end resilient members are constantly engaged, such a system will provide the following levels of resistance: four resilient members - maximum of four levels of resistance; five resilient members - maximum of 8 levels of resistance; and six resilient members - maximum of 16 levels of resistance.

[0045] Figure 3C provides a close-up view of an end of the exercise apparatus (1) when it is in the resting position. When not in use, the selector assembly (3) is biased towards the ends of the resistance assembly (2) under the force of the engaged resilient member(s) (5). This will be discussed in greater detail below. It should also be noted that other means or additional means may be provided to temporarily hold the selector assembly (3) to the respective end of the resistance assembly (2). The temporary holding means may comprise of magnets and/or clips. A locking means may also be used to temporarily hold the selector assembly (3) to the respective end of the resistance assembly (2). It is important that the selector assembly (3) is held in position against the respective end of the resistance assembly (2) so that the internal mechanism of the selector assembly (3) properly aligns with the end of the resistance assembly (2) such that the resistance level may be adjusted whereby the required resilient members (5) become engaged by the internal mechanism of the selector assembly (3).

[0046] As shown in Figures 3A-3C, the resistance assembly (2) comprises a housing (6) and a cradle assembly (7) positioned at an end of the housing (6). At least one of the resilient members (5) comprises a coupling (8) at an end thereof, preferably at both ends thereof. The coupling (8) allows the resilient member (5) to be selectively engageable by the selector assembly (3). In Figures 3A and 3B, four of the resilient members (5a,5b,5d,5e) each comprise a coupling (8) at an end thereof. Only the middle resilient member (5c) does not have a coupling (8) as this resilient member (5c) is constantly attached for all levels of resistance and therefore, this particular resilient member may have a different connection means for attaching it to the selector assembly (3). Alternatively, it may also be possible for all of the resilient members (5a-5e) to comprise the same type of coupling (8) such that they are all engageable, however, the internal mechanism of the selector assembly (3) may be capable of constant engagement with the middle resilient member (5c) and selective engagement with the other resilient members (5a,5b,5d,5e). Figure 3A shows the lower portions of the couplings (8) as they are all engaged by the selector assembly (3). Preferably, the lower portion (9) of the coupling (8) is frustoconical in shape. Figure 3B shows the upper portion of the couplings (8) which comprises a shoulder portion (10), a neck portion (11) and a head portion (12). Figure 3B also shows how the couplings (8) that are not engaged by the selector assembly (3) remain left behind in a respective seat (13) on the top surface (14) of the cradle assembly (7). The shoulder portion (10) of the coupling (8) has a large enough diameter so as to prevent the coupling (8) from slipping beneath the top surface (14) of the respective cradle assembly (3). The seats (13) are shaped so as to correspond to the couplings (8). Preferably, the seats (13) have a frustoconical shape so as to match the frustoconical shape of the lower portion (9) of the coupling (8). It can also be seen in Figures 3A- 3C that the selector assemblies (3) each have a turn dial (15) positioned at an end thereof. Each turn dial (15) is connected to an internal mechanism within the selector assembly (3). The turn dial (15) may be turned to various predetermined positions, each one representing a different resistance level. There may also be one dial setting for releasing all of the resilient members (5) such that none of them are engaged by the respective selector assembly (3), as was previously discussed above. Although Figures 3A-3C show a turn dial (15), other input means may also be used, such as but not limited to an insertion pin, a button, or even by manually attaching the coupling (8) to the selector assembly (3), as will be discussed in greater detail below. Figures 3A-3C also show a connecting means (16) for releasably attaching the handle (4) to the respective selector assembly (3). The connecting means (16) comprises a male portion (17) on the selector assembly (3) for inserting into a female portion (18) on the handle (4), wherein the female portion (18) includes a button (19) for quickly detaching the handle (4) from the respective selector assembly (3). It should be noted that the handle (4) may comprise the male portion instead of the selector assembly (3), and vice versa. Although only a handle (4) is shown in Figures 3A-3C, other accessories with a complimentary female portion (18) may be provided such as but not limited to an ankle/wrist strap, a straight bar, a EZ curl bar, a door anchor, a loop anchor, a pull-up foot loop with bar anchor, a thigh strap, and a belt. [0047] The overall length of the resistance assembly (2), from the first cradle assembly (7a) to the second cradle assembly (7b), is configured to be long enough to maintain the non-engaged couplings (8) in their respective seats (13). Preferably, the resilient members (5) are slightly shorter than the overall length of the resistance assembly (2) so that the resilient members (5) are slightly stretched thereby forcing the couplings (8) at each end of the resilient members (5) into their respective seats (13). Providing the resilient members (5) under tension ensures that the couplings (8) rest in their respective seats (13). This tension force provided by the resilient members (5) also biases the selector assemblies (3a, 3b) back to their respective cradle assemblies (7a, 7b) and holds these two parts together so that the internal mechanism of each selector assembly (3a, 3b) aligns with the couplings (8) which allows the resistance level to be adjusted.

[0048] Figure 4A illustrates a detailed view of an end portion of the exercise apparatus (1) without the handle (4). However, the selector assembly (3) comprises a loop connecting means (16’) for attaching an accessory, such as but not limited to a handle (4), wherein each of the accessories may comprise a carabiner for releasably coupling the accessory to the selector assembly (3). The selector assembly (3) comprises an enclosure (20) for enclosing an internal engagement mechanism (21). The turn dial (15) is rotatably connected to the enclosure (20) via a shaft (22). The turn dial (15) has multiple settings (23) indicated thereon for alignment with a marker (24) on the enclosure (20). Only two settings (23a, 23b) are shown in Figure 4A, however, there may be as many as seventeen settings including sixteen resistance level settings and a release setting. The shaft (22) has the turn dial (15) connected at one end thereto and an indexing wheel (25) connected at the opposite end thereof. Also shown are bolt holes (26) for attaching the front and rear parts of the cradle assembly (3) together. Positioned on the shaft (22) are a plurality of engagement wheels (27), in this embodiment: five independent engagement wheels (27a-27e). Each engagement wheel (27a-27e) is individually designed for a specific resilient member (5a-5e). At each setting (23) on the turn dial (15), each engagement wheel (27a-27e) will either have an opening (28) larger than the head portion (12) of the coupling (8) or a narrow slot (29) which is wider than the neck portion (11 ) of the coupling (8) but narrower than a width/diameter of the head portion (12) of the coupling (8). The slots (29) are used to engage the coupling (8) to the engagement wheel (27), thereby utilizing the respective resilient member (5) for resistance when performing an exercise. Alternatively, the openings (28) allow the engagement wheel (27) to be lifted away from the coupling (8) without engaging it. Therefore, the coupling (8) will remain in its respective seat (13) as the selector assembly (3) is pulled away from its respective cradle assembly (7). Thus, the resilient member (5) associated to that specific engagement wheel (27) will not provide resistance for the exercise being performed.

[0049] Figure 4A further shows the connection between the housing (6) and the cradle assembly (7). There are numerous ways in which these two components may be interconnected. However, Figure 4 shows the use of rods (30) positioned inside the cradle assembly (7) for holding the housing (6) in place. The housing may be provided with a plurality of openings (31), preferably each one being reinforced with a grommet (32). The openings (31) are placed onto the rods (30). Preferably, each cradle assembly (7) is formed from two parts: a front part and a back part. The back part may comprise the rods (30) such that the front part comprises recesses for accepting the ends of the rods (31) such that the housing (6) is secured onto the rods (30) and sandwiched between the front part and the back part of the cradle assembly (7) when the two parts are connected together for use. [0050] Although not shown in Figure 4A, the internal engagement mechanism (21 ) may further comprise means to ensure that the turn dial (15) may only be rotated to another setting when the selector assembly (3) is properly seated on top of its respective cradle assembly (7). The cradle assembly (7) may be provided with a protruding member which unlocks a locking means on the selector assembly (3) such that the turn dial (15) may freely rotate when the selector assembly (3) sits on top of the cradle assembly (7). However, when the selector assembly (3) is spaced from the cradle assembly (7), the protruding member would not be able to unlock the locking mechanism, thus, the turn dial (15) would be locked in position. Such a locking mechanism would prevent unwanted movement of the turn dial (15) during use. If the turn dial (15) was to accidentally rotate during use, a resilient member (5) could be set free and fling out of the selector assembly (3), possibly causing harm to the user or anyone/anything nearby.

[0051] Figure 4B provides a view of the interaction between the engagement wheels (27) and the couplings (8). Each coupling (8) has a neck portion (1 T) and a head portion (12’). The neck portion (1 T) is sized such that the engagement wheel (27) can freely rotate about its axis (42) with the neck portion (1 T) positioned within the peripheral slot (41) of the engagement wheel (27). At each setting (23) on the turn dial (15), the engagement wheels (27) will align with the couplings (8) such that either an opening (28) is positioned around the head portion (12’) of the coupling (8) or a slot (29) is positioned around the neck portion (11 ’) of the coupling (8). A slot (29) is used to engage the resilient member (5), thereby providing resistance for the exercise; whereas, an opening (28) is used to leave the resilient member (5) behind in its seat (13), thereby not contributing to the resistance.

[0052] Figures 5A-5D illustrate various housing designs. Figure 5A shows a cross-sectional view of a housing (6a) having a separate channel (33a-33e) for each resilient member (5a-5e). The housing (6a) may also comprise longitudinal reinforcing elements (34) disposed therein. The reinforcing elements (34) may run longitudinally through the housing (6a) so as to prevent longitudinal compression of the housing (6a). The housing (6a) should maintain its length so as to keep the couplings (8) of the resilient members (5a-5e) in their seats (13) when not engaged by the selector assembly (3). Preferably, the housing (6) should not compress in length so as to keep the resilient members (5) in at least a minimum amount of tension. Figure 5B shows a cross-sectional view of a housing (6b) having just one channel (33) to accommodate all of the resilient members (5a-5e). This housing (6b) does not show a longitudinal reinforcing member, however, one or more could be included. Although not shown, it may be possible for the housing to provide a combination of single resilient member channels and larger multi-resilient member channels. Furthermore, the exterior surface of the housing (6) may be rippled as shown in Figure 5A or it may be flat as shown in Figure 5B. Figure 5C shows a cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of a housing (6c). The housing (6c) is a combination of the two elements: flat and rippled. The housing (6c) of Figure 5C is a fabric sleeve comprising a flat base portion (35) and a channeled top portion (36) comprising a plurality of channels (33). The fabric sleeve may be formed from a single piece of fabric; or it may be formed from one piece of fabric for the base portion (35) and a separate piece of fabric for the top portion (36). The fabric must be relatively thick and strong so as to not be too flimsy. As seen in Figure 5C, the top portion (36) is stitched to the base portion (35). The stitching (37) runs longitudinally forming the channels (33). The channels (33) house the resilient members (5). The stitching (37) further provides longitudinal stiffness to the fabric sleeve. The fabric material should be chosen such that when it is stitched together to form the sleeve shown in Figure 5C, the fabric sleeve is capable of bending and twisting yet at the same time the fabric sleeve must substantially maintain its length, thereby resisting longitudinal compression under the tension of the resilient members (5). Preferably, a nylon material is used such as a nylon CORDURA™ webbing or a ballistic nylon. The fabric sleeve further comprises openings (31 ) reinforced with grommets (32). As mentioned above, these openings (31) allow for each end of the housing (6c) to connect to the respective cradle assembly (7). Figure 5D illustrates yet another embodiment of the housing (6), wherein this particular housing (6d) is formed from a plurality of hollow articulating members (38) connected to each other. The use of articulated sleeves for other applications is already known in the art (The one shown in Figure 5D is taken from U.S. Patent Application 2011/038064A1 ). However, the use of an articulated sleeve for a resistance band assembly is not known in the art. The plurality of hollow articulating members (38) are formed from a solid material, such as but not limited to a plastic. The hollow interior of each articulating member allows the resilient members (5) to pass through the housing (6d) from one end to the opposite end. Figure 5D provides a cross-sectional view (CSV) taken from planes Ή” and “V”. The interconnected hollow articulating members (38) allow this housing (6d) to bend about a user’s foot, in the same way as the exercise apparatus (1 ) shown in Figures 2A and 2B. The advantage of this housing (6d) being solid is that it does not compress under the feet of the user, as do some of the other housings (6) that have been presented thus far. If the housing (6d) does not compress, then the resilient members (5) are free to move within the housing (6d). This means that the full length of each resilient member (5) is being utilized. For other housings (6) that compress, the portion of each resilient member (5) under the user’s feet as well as the portion between the user’s feet is not usable, as the user’s bodyweight prevents these portions from moving.

[0053] The housing’s (6) primary purpose is to maintain each of the resilient members (5) in a substantially elongated position such that the couplings (8) of each resilient member (5) remain in their respective seats (13) when they are not engaged by the selector assembly (3) during use or when the exercise apparatus (1) is in its resting position. However, the housing (6) also provides the added benefit of protecting each of the resilient members (5) from the surrounding environment, especially when a user is standing upon the exercise apparatus (1 ), as seen in Figures 2A and 2B. Yet another benefit of having a housing (6) is shown in Figure 6A. The housing (6e) is provided with markings (39) across the flat surface thereof. These markings (39) allow the user to space their feet at an equal distance from a center point marking (39a) on the housing (6e) so that the handles (4a, 4b) on each side of the exercise apparatus (1) are at the same height, relative to the ground surface. Preferably, these markings (39) are printed directly onto the housing (6e). The markings (39) may also be provided on both sides of the housing (6e).

[0054] Figure 6B shows yet another feature that may be incorporated into the housing (6f). In this embodiment of the present invention, a housing (6f) is provided with hand grips (40). The hand grips (40) may be integrated with the housing (6f) or they may be releasably attachable thereto. The hand grips (40) may be flat so as to not get in the way when not being used. Alternatively, the hand grips (40) may be provided with a tubular portion for better gripping. The tubular portion may comprise a narrow slot along the full length of its tubular body such that it may be releasably attached to the flat hand grip. The hand grips (40) allow the user to grip the housing (6f) for performing exercises. Under such circumstances, the exercise apparatus (1 ) could include ankle or foot straps attached to the selector assemblies (3a, 3b) instead of the handles (4a, 4b). This would allow the user to attach the two ends of the exercise apparatus (1 ) to their feet or ankles, and then push the housing (6f), using the hand grips (40), in a direction away from their feet. Since the user is not stepping on the housing (6f), each of the resilient members (5) is able to freely move within the housing (6f), thereby utilizing the full effective length of each resilient member (5) for exercise resistance. The ends of the exercise apparatus (1) may instead be provided with anchoring means so as to attach each end to a structure such as but not limited to a door, post, fence, wall or tree. This too would allow the user to push or pull the housing (6f) in a direction away from the structure, for performing a variety of exercises. Pushing or pulling the housing (6f) using the hand grips (40) is similar to training with a sandbag. [0055] Figures 7A and 7B illustrate a system that uses a pin as the input means instead of a turn dial. More specifically, Figure 7A shows an alternative embodiment of the present invention wherein the exercise apparatus comprises a housing (6g) for accommodating a plurality of resilient members (5). The housing (6g) being inserted into the cradle assembly (7). The selector assembly (3) has a handle (4) attached thereto. This embodiment of a selector assembly (3) comprises a selection pin (50) which is inserted into one of a plurality of resistance level apertures (51 ) located along the side of selector assembly (3) so as to obtain the desired level of resistance. In Figure 7A, only one resistance level aperture (51 ) is shown. The selector assembly (3) may include at least one magnet (52) adjacent the resistance level apertures (51 ). Preferably, the selection pin (50) is formed from a ferrous metal so that the magnet(s) (52) releasably holds the selection pin (50) in place. The selector assembly (3) may also comprise magnets (53) adjacent magnets (54) on the cradle assembly (7) so that these two components (3,7) temporarily hold together when the selection pin (50) is released when choosing another resistance level. In this embodiment, the couplings (8”) at the ends of the resilient members (5) are designed differently from those previously mentioned. Figure 7A shows a front cross-sectional view of the coupling (8”), while Figure 7B shows a side view of the coupling (8”). As shown in both Figures 7A and 7B, the couplings (8”) comprise slots (55) and apertures (56). Some couplings (8”) may comprise just apertures (56). Such a coupling (8”) would ensure that its respective resilient member (5) is engaged at every level of resistance. This may be desirable for symmetry and balancing the selector assembly, as was discussed above. It should be noted that there will be different couplings (8”), differentiated by their slot/aperture positioning. This is what allows for varying degrees of resistance. It should also be noted that the each one of plurality of resistance level apertures (51 ) aligns with a slot (55) or an aperture (56) on the coupling (8”). Furthermore, each one of the resistance level apertures (51 ) is labelled so as to indicate to the user which level of resistance is being selected. The selection pin (50) is inserted into a resistance level aperture (51 ) and through a slot (55) or aperture (56) of each coupling (8”). When the selection pin (50) is inserted into an aperture (56) of a coupling (8”), the corresponding resilient member (5) is used for resistance. However, when the selection pin (50) is inserted into a slot (55) of a coupling (8”), the corresponding resilient member (5) is left behind in the cradle (7) and housing (6g) and therefore, that resilient member (5) does not contribute to the resistance. It should also be noted that the resilient members (5) may be identical or different, with respect to their designated resistance. Preferably, more than two resilient members (5) are different so as to provide a larger array of resistance levels through various combinations of resilient members (5). The selector assembly (3) may be capable of engaging any one resilient member (5) by itself or any combination of resilient members (5). Of course, the resilient member(s) that are engaged depends entirely upon their respective coupling (8”). Although this embodiment shows five resilient members (5), the system could be designed for any number of resilient members (5). The design of each coupling (8”) will determine how many levels of resistance are available. In one configuration of the exercise device shown in Figure 7A, if each resilient member (5) was a different level of resistance and could be independently engageable by the selection pin (50), there would be a total of thirty-one resistance levels. However, thirty-one resistance level apertures (51 ) could cause the selector assembly (3) to be rather large. Alternatively, it is often desirable to utilize at least one resilient member (5) as a means for guiding the selector assembly (3) to a mating configuration with the cradle assembly (7). If one resilient member (5) is always engaged as the guiding member, then only four of the five resilient members (5) can be independently engaged by the selection pin (50) resulting in sixteen levels of resistance. Likewise, if the two end resilient members (5) are always engaged as the guiding member, then only three of the five resilient members (5) can be independently engaged by the selection pin (50) resulting in eight levels of resistance. If the exercise apparatus is designed such that one or two resilient member(s) (5) are to be engaged throughout all levels of resistance, then these resilient members (5) may be releasably attached directly to the selector assembly (3) such that the selector assembly (3) is biased towards the cradle assembly (7) by these resilient member(s) (5). In such a configuration, the selection pin (50) would only be engageable with the remaining resilient members (5).

[0056] Figures 8A-8D provide views of different means for inputting the desired resistance level. Figure 8A shows the possibility of placing the turn dial (15a) on the front face of the selector assembly (3). Figure 8B shows the possibility of the turn dial (15b) being positioned on the top face of the selector assembly (3). For both of these configurations, the internal mechanism could be provided with gearing so as to translate the rotational movement of the front turn dial (15a) or the top turn dial (15b) to the shaft which rotates the engagement wheels. The system shown in Figure 8B may even be configured such that the resilient members (5) are positioned radially beneath the top turn dial (15b) about an axis upon which the top turn dial (15b) rotates. The internal mechanism could comprise a disc having a separate circular slot for each coupling. The slots will engage their respective coupling and apertures on said slots will not engage the coupling. Figure 8C shows yet another means of selecting the resilient members (5f,5g,5h). Each resilient member (5f,5g,5h) is associated with a corresponding push-button (60a, 60b, 60c). Therefore, when a button (60a, 60b, 60c) is pushed in, its corresponding resilient member (5f,5g,5h) is engaged, thereby contributing to the resistance for the exercise. This type of system may require a label or card indicating which combination of bands are required for a given level of resistance. For example, all three buttons (60a, 60b, 60c) must be pushed in for the highest level of resistance, whereas only button “1” (60a) will be pushed in for the lowest level of resistance. For the configuration shown in Figure 8C, a pin and aperture arrangement could be used instead of buttons. Referring to Figure 8D, this system also uses push-buttons (60), however, each push-button (60) represents a different resistance level: button “1” is for the lowest resistance level and button is for the highest resistance level. Each button (60) is associated with an internal member that is capable of engaging one or more couplings at once. For example, when button “1” is pushed in, it pushes in its corresponding internal member which engages the lightest resilient member (5f) which produces the lowest resistance. When button “7” is pushed in, it pushes in its corresponding internal member which engages all of the resilient members (5f,5g,5h) which produces the highest level of resistance. It should be noted that the embodiments disclosed in Figures 8A-8D are only examples and are in no way limiting. It is possible to use other known input means that would provide the same function. Additionally, it may be possible to provide a selector assembly (3) having an open front face such that the couplings (8) are exposed through the open front face. This particular selector assembly may provide manual means for engaging the required resilient members (5). For example, one or more clipping means may be provided in the open face of the selector assembly (3) such that when the selector assembly (3) is resting upon its respective cradle assembly (7), the user may manually clip the couplings (8), which may have clipping loops thereon, of the required resilient members (5).

[0057] As previously mentioned, when using the exercise apparatus (1), it is preferable to maintain the resilient members (5) in a slightly stretched state such that the couplings (8) on the ends of the resilient members (5) are forced down into their respective seats (13) in the cradle assembly (7). When the exercise apparatus is not in use for prolonged periods of time, it may be beneficial to relieve the tension in the resilient members (5). Figures 9A and 9B illustrate a mechanism that is capable of applying tension to the resilient members (5) or leaving them in a natural, at rest state (not stretched). The tensioner mechanism (70) may be placed anywhere along the housing (6), but preferably at the center of the housing (6) or one at each end of the housing (6). The tensioner mechanism (70) may also be connected to or be a part of the cradle assembly (7). As shown in Figures 9A and 9B, the overall housing (6) comprises the tensioner mechanism (70) with a first housing (71 ) on one side and a second housing (72) on the opposite side. The resilient members (not shown) are able to pass through all three parts (70,71 ,72) of the housing (6) as they extend from the first cradle assembly (not shown) to the second cradle assembly (not shown). The tensioner mechanism (70) comprises a first internal telescopic member (73) and a second external telescopic member (74). The two telescopic members (73,74) can be releasably locked together in a retracted position (see Figure 9A) and in an extended position (see Figure 9B) relative to each other. A spring pop-up pin (75) may be used to hold the two telescopic members (73,74) together in each of the two positions. When the exercise apparatus (1) is not being used, the tensioner mechanism (70) may be set to the retracted position in which no tension is applied to the resilient members (5). However, when the exercise apparatus (1) is being used, the tensioner mechanism (70) may be set to the extended position in which the overall housing (6) is lengthened thereby slightly stretching the resilient members (5) such that the couplings (8) at the ends thereof, are pulled into their respective seats (13) in the cradle assembly (7).

[0058] It may also be possible to use other means to keep the couplings (8) secured in their respective seats (13) when they are not being pulled by the selector assembly (3). It may be possible to use magnetic means or mechanical means. Magnets may be placed in the seats (13) and in the couplings (8). Alternatively, either one of the seats (13) or the couplings (8) may comprise magnets, while the other one may comprise a ferrous metal.

[0059] Figures 10A and 10B each illustrate yet another embodiment of the present invention wherein the exercise apparatus (101 ,201 ) is a single-pull device. The exercise apparatus (101 ) of Figure 10A comprises a selector assembly (103) with a handle (104) releasably attached thereto. Thus, other accessories may be used instead of the handle (104). A cradle assembly (107) is positioned at one end of a housing (106). At the opposite end of the housing (106) is an anchor (110). The anchor (110) comprises an attachment point (111 ) for connecting an accessory such as but not limited to a foot strap, a door anchor and an adjustable loop. Likewise, the exercise apparatus (201 ) of Figure 10B comprises a selector assembly (203) with a handle (204) releasably attached thereto. Thus, other accessories may be used instead of the handle (204). A cradle assembly (207) is positioned at one end of a housing (206). The exercise apparatus (201 ) is shown in the pulled position, thus, the resilient members (205) and the couplings (208) are exposed. At the opposite end of the housing (206) is stopper (220). Positioned along the housing (206) is a length-adjusting mechanism (221) for adjusting the length of the overall exercise apparatus (201 ) and locking it at that length. The length adjusting mechanism (221 ) may comprise attachment means for attaching accessories thereto, such as but not limited to a foot loop (222). The stopper (220) is designed to be large enough such that it cannot pass through the length-adjusting mechanism (221 ) so as to prevent the length-adjusting mechanism (221 ) from falling off.

[0060] it should be noted that for most embodiments of the present exercise apparatus, each resilient members extends from one end of the resistance assembly to the opposite end of the resistance assembly. However, it may be possible to use a first set of resilient members for a first side of the exercise apparatus and a second set of resilient members for the second side of the exercise apparatus, wherein a middle portion (which the user stands upon) is free of resilient members. [0061] It should be obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art that the components of the exercise apparatus according to the present disclosure may be constructed from a variety of materials such as but not limited to metals and polymers. Aluminum and steel may be used for load-bearing components, whereas, plastic and other polymeric materials may be used for housings and/or enclosures. The housing for the resistance assembly may be constructed from a polymeric material or a fabric material such as but not limited to nylon.

[0062] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to the aforementioned exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed as the only modes contemplated for carrying out this present disclosure, but that the present disclosure will include embodiments not disclosed but falling within the scope of the appended claims and any claims of any divisional or continuation application. The right to claim sub elements, subcomponents, and/or sub-combinations that are disclosed herein is hereby unconditionally reserved. The apparatus and disclosed components may be claimed as a combination. Subcomponents of the apparatus may be claimed without other components of the apparatus. The use of the word "can" or “may” or “it is possible” in this document is not an assertion that the subject preceding the word is unimportant or unnecessary or "not critical" relative to anything else in this document. The word "can", “may”, or “it is possible” is used herein in a positive and affirming sense and no other motive should be presumed. More than one "invention" may be disclosed in the present disclosure; an "invention" is defined by the content of a patent claim and not by the content of a detailed description of an embodiment of an invention.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A resistance assembly for use in exercising, comprising: a housing having a first end and a second end; a plurality of resilient members passing within said housing, each of said resilient members are stretchable when pulled so as to provide resistance for an exercise, each of said resilient members having a first end and an opposing second end, at least one of said resilient members having a first coupling affixed to said first end and a second coupling affixed to said second end; a first cradle assembly positioned at the first end of the housing, said first cradle assembly comprising at least one first opening for allowing said plurality of resilient members to pass through said first cradle assembly, said at least first one opening being sized to prevent the first coupling from entering into the housing; a second cradle assembly positioned at the second end of the housing, said second cradle assembly comprising at least one second opening for allowing said plurality of resilient members to pass through said second cradle assembly, said at least one second opening being sized to prevent the second coupling from entering into the housing; a length of housing between the first and second cradle assemblies being sized so as to bring the first coupling of said each resilient member into contact with said at least one first opening of said first cradle assembly and to bring the second coupling of said each resilient member into contact with said at least one second opening of said second cradle assembly; and wherein said housing is capable of twisting and/or bending movement.

2. The resistance assembly of claim 1 , wherein each of said resilient members is slightly stretched so as to force the first and second couplings into the at least one first and second openings, respectively.

3. The resistance assembly of claim 2, wherein said housing does not substantially compress along its longitudinal axis, under the force of the resilient members.

4. The resistance assembly of claim 1 , wherein the length of the housing is enough to bring the first and second couplings into contact with the at least one first and second openings, respectively, without having to stretch any of the resilient members.

5. The resistance assembly of any one of claims 1-4, wherein said housing comprises a plurality of inner channels for separating said resilient members.

6. The resistance assembly of any one of claims 1-5, wherein said housing comprises a single channel for accommodating all of said resilient members.

7. The resistance assembly of any one of claims 1-6, wherein said housing is formed from a fabric material, a soft polymer, or a combination thereof.

8. The resistance assembly of any one of claims 1-7, wherein said housing comprises a plurality of articulating members.

9. The resistance assembly of any one of claims 1-8, wherein said housing is releasably attached to each one of said first and second cradle assemblies.

10. The resistance assembly of any one of claims 1-9, wherein said at least one first and second openings include an opening for each one of said resilient members.

11. The resistance assembly of any one of claims 1-10, wherein said resilient members are tube resistance bands.

12. The resistance assembly of any one of claims 1-11 , wherein said plurality of resilient members are selected from the group consisting of: tube resistance bands, flat loop resistance bands, bungee cords or any elastic element that is capable of being stretched and then returning to its original state.

13. An exercise apparatus comprising: a resistance assembly including: a housing including a first end and an opposite second end; a first cradle assembly positioned at the first end of the housing, said first cradle assembly including a first plurality of seats, each one of said first plurality of seats being formed as an opening extending from a bottom surface of the first cradle assembly to a top surface of the first cradle assembly; a second cradle assembly positioned at the second end of the housing, said second cradle assembly including a second plurality of seats, each one of said second plurality of seats being formed as an opening extending from a bottom surface of the second cradle assembly to a top surface of the second cradle assembly; a plurality of resilient members located inside the housing and extending from the first end of the housing to the second end of the housing, each one of said plurality of resilient members having a first end with a first coupling attached thereto and an opposite second end with a second coupling attached thereto, the first couplings including a lower portion shaped to substantially correspond to a shape of the first seats and the second couplings including a lower portion shaped to substantially correspond to a shape of the second seats; the shape of the first and second seats prevents the first and second couplings, respectively, from being pulled past the first and second cradle assemblies, respectively, into the housing; a first selector assembly comprising means for selectively engaging one or more of the first couplings, the first selector assembly comprising means for pulling or pushing the first selector assembly away from the first cradle assembly so as to stretch the resilient member(s) of the engaged first coupling(s); and a second selector assembly comprising means for selectively engaging one or more of the second couplings, the second selector assembly comprising means for pulling or pushing the second selector assembly away from the second cradle assembly so as to stretch the resilient member(s) of the engaged second coupling(s).

14. The exercise apparatus of claim 13, wherein said housing is capable of bending and/or twisting.

15. The exercise apparatus of claim 13 or 14, wherein in a resting state, each of said resilient members is slightly stretched so as to force the first and second couplings into their respective seats in their respective cradle assembly.

16. The exercise apparatus of claim 15, wherein said housing does not substantially compress along its longitudinal axis, under the force of the resilient members.

17. The exercise apparatus of claim 13 or 14, wherein the length of the housing is enough to bring the first and second couplings into contact with their respective seats, without having to stretch any of the resilient members.

18. The exercise apparatus of any one of claims 13-17, wherein the resilient members are selected from the group consisting of: tube resistance bands, flat loop resistance bands, bungee cords or any elastic element that is capable of being stretched and then returning to its original state.

19. The exercise apparatus of any one of claims 13-18, wherein the housing is formed from one of a fabric material, a bendable polymeric material, a plurality of articulating members, or any combination thereof.

20. The exercise apparatus of any one of claims 13-19, wherein each of the selector assemblies comprises a turn dial for selecting the desired level of resistance, wherein the turn dial rotates a shaft which rotates a plurality of engagement wheels which include slots to engage the couplings or openings to disengage the couplings.

21. The exercise apparatus of any one of claims 13-19, wherein each of the selector assemblies comprises an insertion pin for selecting the desired level of resistance, wherein the insertion pin passes through the respective selector assembly and through the corresponding couplings which have apertures for engaging with the pin and slots for disengagement with the pin.

22. The exercise apparatus of any one of claims 13-19, wherein each of the selector assemblies comprises a plurality of push buttons for selecting the desired level of resistance, wherein each push button engages one or more resilient member(s).

23. The exercise apparatus of any one of claims 13-22, wherein at least one resilient member is engaged for every level of resistance.

24. The exercise apparatus of any one of claims 13-22, wherein each resilient member is selectively engageable by the selector assemblies.

25. The exercise apparatus of any one of claims 13-24, wherein the selector assemblies and the cradle assemblies comprise magnets so that they are releasably held together.

26. A method of exercising, comprising: providing an exercise apparatus including: a resistance assembly having a plurality of resilient members, each of said resilient members having a first end and an opposite second end; a first selector assembly for selectively engaging the first end of one or more of said resilient members; a second selector assembly for selectively engaging the second end of one or more of said resilient members; using the first selector assembly for selectively engaging the first end of one or more of said resilient members; using the second selector assembly for selectively engaging the second end of one or more of said resilient members; and pulling or pushing the first selector assembly and/or the second selector assembly away from the resistance assembly, thereby stretching the engaged resilient member(s) so as to provide resistance for exercising.

27. A method of exercising comprising: providing an exercise apparatus including: a resistance assembly having a plurality of resilient members, each of said resilient members having a first end and an opposite second end; a first selector assembly for selectively engaging the first end of one or more of said resilient members; using the first selector assembly for selectively engaging the first end of one or more of said resilient members; securing the resistance assembly to a structure or a body part by bending at least a portion of said resistance assembly around at least a portion of said structure or said body part; and pulling or pushing the first selector assembly away from the resistance assembly, thereby stretching the engaged resilient member(s) so as to provide resistance for exercising.

28. An exercise apparatus comprising: a non-rigid housing; a plurality of resilient members inside said housing; and a selector assembly for selectively engaging and pulling one or more of said plurality of resilient members from said housing.

29. An exercise apparatus comprising: a housing that can bend and/or twist; a plurality of resilient members inside said housing; a selector assembly for selectively engaging and pulling one or more of said plurality of resilient members from said housing; and wherein said housing substantially maintains its length under compressional forces applied thereto by the plurality of resilient members.