Patent ID: 6270445
Filing Date: 2001-08-07
Classification: A61H

Abstract:
A method of `in-bed` exercise to strengthen and maintain muscle groups necessary for normal human functional activities, while exerciser is sitting or reclining in bed, comprising the steps of:(a) attaching a portable in-bed exercise machine to a bed in a safe and secure manner, whereby said bed and said exercise machine become an integrated unit, forming a closed force loop during exercise periods;(b) placing said exerciser's extremities, which are to be exercised, into appropriate, adjustable, force arms of said exercise machine;(c) applying programmed isometric, isotonic, or isokinetic forces actively to provide concentric and eccentric closed kinetic chain exercise, said forces being applied both in the direction of the motion of said force arms and in opposition to the direction of motion of said force arms;(d) regulating action of said exercise machine through its programmable control system to allow bilateral, unilateral and reciprocal exercise at forces up to body weight level and under exercise regimens simulating muscle actions used in performing normal human functional activities.