Exercise brace

An exercise device includes an exercise brace, a first strap, a second strap and a resistance band. The exercise brace includes a first frame member and a second frame member that pivotably couples to the first frame member. The first strap couples to the first frame member about an end portion thereof to temporarily attach the exercise device to a user. Similarly, the second strap couples to the second frame member about an end portion thereof to temporarily attach the exercise device to the user. The resistance band couples to the exercise brace such that the resistance band creates a resistance to pivoting movement between the first frame member and the second frame member.

BACKGROUND

Various aspects of the present invention relate generally to a device for exercising, and more particularly, to a brace that is worn during exercise to provide arm and/or leg workouts.

Physical exercise is a recognized beneficial bodily activity that can be used for fitness, therapeutic purposes and health purposes. In order to promote physical exercise, a wide range of exercise devices are commercially available. For instance, exercise devices may take the form of free weights, including barbells, dumbbells and kettlebells. Unfortunately, barbells require a plurality of disc plates of varying weight to provide a satisfactory workout. Also, dumbbells and kettlebells come in a wide range of weights. As such, a user may be inclined to purchase dumbbells and kettlebells in sets, requiring a large area to store the equipment.

Exercise devices may also take the form of weight resistance machines. Typical weight resistance machines require a user to sit, lay on or stand adjacent to different stations, components or features of the machine to work out different muscle groups. These machines are large, expensive and cumbersome. Even exercise devices designed to facilitate cardiovascular workouts, e.g., treadmills, stairclimbers and elliptical machines, are large, bulky and expensive.

BRIEF SUMMARY

According to aspects of the present invention, an exercise device comprises an exercise brace, a first strap, a second strap, a resistance band and at least one band engaging member. The exercise brace includes a first frame member and a second frame member that pivotably couples to the first frame member. The first strap couples to the first frame member about an end portion thereof to temporarily attach the exercise device to a user. Similarly, the second strap couples to the second frame member about an end portion thereof to temporarily attach the exercise device to the user. The resistance band couples to the exercise brace. Moreover, at least one band engaging member extends from the exercise brace, each band engaging member arranged such that when the resistance band is brought into contact with the band engaging member, the resistance band creates a resistance to pivoting movement between the first frame member and the second frame member.

According to further aspects of the present invention, an exercise device comprises an exercise brace, a first strap, a second strap and a resistance band. The exercise brace includes a first frame member and a second frame member that pivotably couples to the first frame member. The first strap couples to the first frame member about an end portion thereof to temporarily attach the exercise device to a user. Similarly, the second strap couples to the second frame member about an end portion thereof to temporarily attach the exercise device to the user. The resistance band couples to the exercise brace such that the resistance band creates a resistance to pivoting movement between the first frame member and the second frame member.

According to still further aspects of the present invention, a method of providing multiple exercises in a single exercise device is provided. The method comprises providing an exercise brace having a first frame member and a second frame member that pivotably couples to the first frame member. The method also comprises providing a first strap that couples to the first frame member about an end portion thereof to temporarily attach the exercise device to a user and providing a second strap that couples to the second frame member about an end portion thereof to temporarily attach the exercise device to the user. The method still further comprises providing a resistance band that couples to the exercise brace and providing a first band engaging member extending from the exercise brace and a second band engaging member extending from the exercise brace, each band engaging member arranged such that when the resistance band is brought into contact with a selected band engaging member, the resistance band creates a resistance to pivoting movement between the first frame member and the second frame member.

The method may further comprise positioning each of the first and second band engaging members along the first frame member such that the exercise device provides a push exercise when the resistance band is brought into contact with a first one of the first and second band engaging members, and the exercise device provides a pull exercise when the resistance band is brought into contact with a second one of the first and second band engaging members.

The method may also comprise providing at least one feature on the exercise brace that allows the user to adjust the resistance provided by the resistance band, e.g., by adjusting the position of the resistance band on the exercise brace, by adjusting the number, size, length, thickness, resilience, or other aspect of the resistance band or by using other suitable techniques, examples of which are set out in greater detail herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to the drawings, and in particular, toFIG. 1, an exercise device10is illustrated according to various aspects of the present invention. The exercise device10is illustrated in an exploded view inFIG. 1for purposes of clarity of explanation of the exercise device components. The exercise device10comprises an exercise brace12having a first frame member14and a second frame member16that pivotably couples to the first frame member14. For instance, as illustrated in the exemplary implementation, the second frame member16pivots relative to the first frame member14about a pivot point18. In the illustrative implementation, the first frame member14defines an upper structure and the second frame member14defines a lower structure of the exercise brace12. Also, as illustrated, the first frame member14is longer than the second frame member16. In this regard, the pivot point18is approximately in the middle of the overall length of the brace12when the first frame member14and the second frame member16are end to end.

A first strap20couples to the first frame member14about an end portion thereof to temporarily attach the exercise device10to a user, e.g., to a limb of the user, as will be described in greater detail herein. Analogously, a second strap22couples to the second frame member about an end portion thereof to temporarily attach the exercise device to the user. As an illustrative implementation, the first strap20(also referred to as an upper strap20), and the second strap22(also referred to as a lower strap22) may each be implemented using Velcro® or other hook and loop fastener, a strap with a buckle and clasp or other arrangement for temporarily fastening the device to a person. Moreover, the first frame member14may include a feature such as a slot arrangement24for receiving the first strap20. Similarly, the second frame member16may include a slot arrangement26for receiving the second strap22.

The exercise device10also includes a resistance band28that couples to the exercise brace12. The resistance band28provides resistance during exercise operations, to pivoting movement between the first frame member14and the second frame member16. As illustrated, the resistance band28includes a first end member30and a second member32. The first and second end members30,32provide attachment features, and in some illustrative embodiments, provide pivoting, rotating and/or other forms of movement as will be described in greater detail below. In an illustrative implementation, the resistance band28is coupled between the second frame member16and the pivot point18. However, other connection locations may alternatively be implemented. The resistance band28may comprise a cord, bungee, rubber, tubing or other material that can stretch, deform or otherwise generate resistance as the second frame member16pivots relative to the first frame member14.

The exercise device10still further comprises at least one band engaging member extending from the exercise brace12. As illustrated, there are two band engaging members,34and36that extend from the first frame member14. However, the illustrated embodiment of the present invention is not so limited. Rather, any number of band engaging members may be implemented in practice. Each band engaging member34,36can be fixedly positioned along the corresponding frame member, e.g., the first frame member14as shown. Alternatively, a band engaging member may be repositionable along the corresponding frame member, e.g., using slots that allow slidable adjustment, using predefined alignment holes, etc.

Each band engaging member is arranged such that when the resistance band28is brought into contact with the corresponding band engaging member34,36, the resistance band28creates a resistance to pivoting movement between the first frame member14and the second frame member16about the pivot point18.

The exercise device10may also optionally include a third strap38, which couples to the exercise brace12adjacent to the pivot point18where the first frame member14pivotably couples to the second frame member16. In this regard, the third strap38is also referred to herein as a middle strap.

Referring toFIG. 2, the exercise device10is illustrated as being worn by a user that intends to use the device to exercise. As illustrated, the first frame member14is strapped about the arm of the user by the first strap20. In this regard, the term “arm” is used to refer to the limb segment between the shoulder and the elbow. Correspondingly, the second frame member16is strapped to the forearm of the user by the second strap22. Here, “forearm” is used to refer to the limb segment between the elbow and wrist. The third strap34couples around the user's limb in close proximity to the user's elbow.

FIG. 3illustrates the exercise brace12positioned in a rested state with the resistance band28free floating and not connected, i.e., disassociated with all of the band engaging members34,36.FIG. 3is provided to assist the reader in better understanding the steps of moving the resistance band28such that the exercise device10can be used as bicep curl exerciser.

Referring toFIG. 4, the user has flipped over the resistance band28so as to contact the lower band engaging member34. Thus, the resistance band28is now associated with the lower band engaging member34. In this regard, the resistance band28provides relatively minimal resistance when the arm is fully extended. To perform the exercise, the user performs a bicep curl by bending the arm at the elbow. During this motion, resistance is increased while the user's arm is flexed upward for a bicep curl.

Referring toFIG. 5, the exercise device10is in a fully flexed position during a bicep curl. Bending the limb at the elbow causes corresponding pivoting of the second frame member16relative to the first frame member14about the pivot point18. This motion causes the resistance band28, in cooperation with the band engaging member34, to stretch, providing resistance to the movement.

The user performs the exercise for as many reps as deemed necessary. Each time the limb transitions from the fully extended position to the fully flexed position, the second frame member16pivots about the pivot point18relative to the first frame member14. However, because the resistance band28is routed behind the band engagement member32, the resistance band is stretched as the limb bends at the elbow.

In an illustrative exemplary implementation, the band engaging member32comprises a pulley. However, in practice, the band engaging member may comprise a post, grooved member or other device that contacts the resistance band28. In this regard, the band engaging member34may reduce friction, such as by providing a surface that rolls, rotates, slides or otherwise engages with the resistance band28.

Moreover, as illustrated, the resistance band28has a first end30that couples to the pivot point18between the first frame member14and the second frame member16. In this regard, the pivot point18serves as a central pivot point of the device10. The resistance band28also comprises a second end32that couples to the end portion of the second frame member16, e.g., adjacent to the second support strap22. In an illustrative exemplary implementation, the first and second ends30,32of the resistance band28are pivotable relative to the exercise brace12. For instance, in an exemplary implementation, the second frame member16includes a receiving hole for receiving an end of the resistance band28. The end32may snap, click, pop, or otherwise engage the receiving hole. A similar mechanism is also used to couple the first end30to the pivot point18. In this regard, the first and second frame members14,16can pivot relative to each other during exercise while allowing the resistance band28to pivot independently. However, other arrangements may alternatively be implemented.

Referring toFIG. 6, the exercise device10is positioned in a rested state with the resistance band28free floating and not connected, i.e., disassociated with all of the band engaging members34,36.

Referring toFIG. 7, the user has slipped the resistance band28around the second resistance band engaging member36, which is coupled to the first frame member14proximate to the first strap20. Thus, the resistance band28is now associated with the upper band engaging member36. The device is now suitably configured to perform as a triceps curl exerciser. Notably, the user's elbow is in a bent position and the resistance band28is generally un-stretched.

Referring toFIG. 8, the limb is fully extended during triceps extension. As the user straightens out the bend at the elbow, the resistance band28is stretched, thus applying resistance to the limb movement. The triceps exercise ofFIGS. 6-8can be performed over and over as the resistance band28stretches and relaxes in cooperation with the second resistance band engaging member36. Where the second band engaging member36comprises a pulley, the resistance for the triceps exercise is generated as the band28rolls through the pulley. However, in practice, the band engaging member36can comprise other structures, examples of which are analogous to the band engaging member32, described above.

Referring toFIG. 9, the exercise device10is strapped to a lower limb of the user. In this manner, the first frame member14is strapped to the thigh of the user by the first strap20. The second frame member16is strapped to the crus (calf/shin) of the user by the second strap22. InFIG. 9, the device10is in a rest state with the resistance band disassociated with the corresponding band engaging members34,36. This figure is illustrated to better convey an understanding of the steps of moving the resistance band28to be placed in position so that the exercise device10can be used as a leg extension to work the quadriceps muscle.

Referring toFIG. 10, the user has slipped the resistance band28around the second resistance band engaging member36, which is coupled to the first frame member14proximate to the first strap20. Thus, the resistance band28is now associated with the upper band engaging member36. The device is now suitably configured to perform as a quadriceps exerciser. Notably, the user's knee is in a bent position and the resistance band28is generally un-stretched.

Referring toFIG. 11, the limb is fully extended during quadriceps extension. As the user straightens out the bend at the knee, the resistance band28is stretched, thus applying resistance to the limb movement. The quadriceps exercise ofFIGS. 9-11can be performed over and over as the resistance band28stretches and relaxes in cooperation with the second resistance band engaging member36. Where the second band engaging member comprises a pulley, the resistance for the quadriceps exercise is generated as the band28rolls through the pulley. However, in practice, the band engaging member36can comprise other structures, examples of which are analogous to the band engaging member32, described above.

Referring toFIG. 12, the device10is in a rest state with the resistance band28disassociated with the corresponding band engaging members34,36. This FIGURE is illustrated to better convey an understanding of the steps of moving the resistance band28to be placed in position so that the exercise device10can be used as a leg extension to work the hamstring muscle.

Referring toFIG. 13, the user has slipped the resistance band28around the first resistance band engaging member34, which is coupled to the first frame member14opposite of the first strap20. Thus, the resistance band28is now associated with the lower band engaging member34. The device is now suitably configured to perform as a hamstring exerciser. In this regard, the resistance band28provides relatively minimal resistance when the leg is fully extended. To perform the exercise, the user performs a leg curl by bending the leg at the knee. During this motion, resistance is increased while the user's leg is flexed for a leg curl.

Referring toFIG. 14, the leg is bent at the knee. The exercise device10is in a fully flexed position during a leg curl. Bending the limb at the knee causes corresponding pivoting of the second frame member16relative to the first frame member14about the pivot point18. This motion causes the resistance band28, in cooperation with the band engaging member34, to stretch, providing resistance to the movement. The hamstring exercise ofFIGS. 12-14gives the user resistance while the leg is flexed inward for a leg curl to exercise to the hamstring muscle, and can be performed over and over as the resistance band28stretches and relaxes in cooperation with the second resistance band engaging member34.

According to various embodiments of the present invention, the exercise device10provides a first band engaging member34that couples to the first frame member and a second band engaging member36that also couples to the first frame member. The second frame member16pivotably couples to the first frame member14at a position along the first frame member14between the first band engaging member34and the second band engaging member36. In this manner, the device10provides a first exercise when the resistance band engages the first band engaging member34and the device10provides a second exercise when the resistance band engages the second band engaging member36. Moreover, the first and second exercises provide resistance in generally opposite directions, allowing different muscle groups to be exercised.

As noted in greater detail herein, the first band engaging member34, e.g., a pulley, couples to the first frame member14. The first band engaging member34is located along the first frame member14generally towards the first strap20. The second band engaging member36couples to the first frame member14generally towards an end portion opposite of the first strap20, i.e., towards the opposite end as the first band engaging member34.

Referring toFIG. 15, an alternative embodiment and method of resistance for the exercise device10is illustrated according to aspects of the present invention. As illustrated, the resistance band28comprises a multiple elastic cord assembly that includes, for instance, a thin elastic cord42, medium elastic cord44, and thick elastic cord46. The user selects one of the three, or a combination of the three elastic cords to use and to flip onto the appropriate resistance band engaging members34,36. This provides the user with a variety of resistance choices for exercising the bicep arm curl, triceps extension for arm, quadriceps leg extension, and hamstring leg curl. Other numbers and/or combinations of cords can alternatively be utilized.

Referring toFIG. 16, an exercise device10is illustrated according to further aspects of the present invention. As illustrated, the device utilizes a ratchet mechanism48, e.g., a central ratchet drum, which allows the elastic cord of the resistance band50, e.g., a rubber tube, to be lengthened or shortened. Thus, the user can change the length and resistance of the elastic cord by turning the central ratchet drum. This gives the user a variety of resistance choices for exercising the bicep arm curl, triceps arm, quadriceps leg extension and hamstring leg curl. Otherwise, the implementation ofFIG. 16operates substantially as set out herein.

Referring toFIG. 17, an exercise device10is illustrated according to further embodiments of the present invention. The exercise brace12is substantially as described in greater detail herein, except as noted below. As illustrated, a resistance band62is removable from the exercise brace12. For instance, a first end64, a second end66or both the first and second ends64,66can be detached from the exercise brace12. In this regard, the ends64,66can also be pivoting or implement other features in a manner analogous to that set out in greater detail herein. As illustrated, the first frame member14comprises a plurality of holes68,70therein. The end64of the resistance band28can thus be positioned in cooperation with any one of the holes68,70. The user selection of a particular hole68,70determines whether the device10provides a pulling or pushing resistance. For instance, when the end64of the resistance band62is mounted over the upper hole mount68, then exercise device10can be used on arm for triceps extension and leg for leg extension. When the end64of the resistance band62is mounted over the lower position hole70, then unit can be used on arm for bicep curl or leg for hamstring curl.

Various aspects of the present invention provide a brace for exercising that can be quickly and easily strapped onto a limb, e.g., arm or leg, for exercise. The exercise device is compact and portable. In general, the exercise device10has a first frame member14and a second frame member16that pivots therebetween such that when worn, the pivot point corresponds to a position proximate to an elbow or knee, depending upon how the exercise device is being used. The resistance band28, e.g., an elastic cord, connects the upper part of the brace with the lower part of the brace. This makes it possible to create resistance for a leg or arm exercise in a flexing or extending motion.

The exercise device10can be used while sitting down in a chair or couch. The exercise device can also be used while walking, running, dancing, doing aerobics or exercising giving the person more resistance for a more strenuous workout. Because the exercise device10is strapped onto the arm or leg it doesn't require the use of hands, wrist, ankles or feet to perform the various exercises. Because of this, the exercise device isolates the arm and leg muscles without stressing the hand, wrist, ankle, or feet muscles.

When the exercise device10is strapped to the arm, two exercises can be performed independently. A bicep curl can be performed in an upward motion when the elastic band is put into one position. A triceps extension can be performed in a downward motion when the elastic band is put into another position.

When the exercise device is strapped to the leg, two exercises can also be performed. The hamstring can be exercised in a downward motion when the elastic band is put into one position. A quadriceps muscle can be exercised in an upward motion when the elastic band is put into another position.