WEIGHT LIFTING SUPPORT DEVICE INCLUDING A RESTRICTION PANEL

Embodiments described herein are directed to a weight lifting support device. The weight lifting support device includes a panel having a pair of side edges and an elongated member. The elongated member has a first end and an opposite second end. The elongated member is coupled to the panel to define two independent loops. Each of the two independent loops has an opening on positioned either side of the panel and each of the two independent loops and openings thereof extend beyond a respective side edge of the panel. The two independent loops have an elasticity and the panel has a restriction elasticity less than the elasticity of each of the two independent loops.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present specification generally relates to weight lifting bands supporting specific joints of a wearer, such as while performing a powerlifting exercise and, more specifically, weight lifting bands that restrict the wearer's range of motion during a lifting exercise.

BACKGROUND

Weight lifting bands may be helpful in protecting the shoulders during upward/outward thrust arm movements when lifting weight. Further, lifting bands may assist the wearer by permitting an increase in the amount of weight the user can lift, by removing some of the strain and/or stress from the shoulder area. Conventional weight lifting bands are typically made from knee wrap type material that is wholly elastic. As such, the material of the conventional weight lifting bands continues to stretch or sag at a bottom end of a lifting movement. The sag creates an unstable feel to the wearer and inhibits the upward movement performance of the weight lifting band. Conventional weight lifting bands also tend to slip down the arms of the wearer during a lift, which decreases the support of the weight lifting band.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, a weight lifting support device is provided. The weight lifting support device includes a panel having a pair of side edges and an elongated member. The elongated member has a first end and an opposite second end. The elongated member is coupled to the panel to define two independent loops. Each of the two independent loops has an opening positioned on either side of the panel and each of the two independent loops and openings thereof extend beyond a respective side edge of the panel. The two independent loops have an elasticity and the panel has a restriction elasticity less than the elasticity of each of the two independent loops.

In another embodiment, a support device is provided. The support device includes a panel, an elongated member, and a plurality of exposed elongate pliable strand members. The panel has a pair of side edges, an exterior surface and an opposite interior surface. The elongated member has a first end and an opposite second end. The elongated member is coupled to the interior surface or the exterior surface of the panel to define two independent loops. Each of the two independent loops has an opening positioned either side of the panel. Each of the two independent loops and openings thereof extend beyond the pair of side edges of the panel. The plurality of exposed elongate pliable strand members positioned on at least one surface of the elongated member. The two independent loops have an elasticity and the panel has a restriction elasticity less than the elasticity of each of the two independent loops.

In yet another embodiment, a support device is provided. The support device includes a panel, an elongated member, and at least a pair of restriction seams. The panel has a pair of side edges, a first terminating edge and an opposite second terminating edge extending between the pair of side edges, an exterior surface and an opposite interior surface. The elongated member has a first end and an opposite second end. The elongated member is coupled to the interior surface or the exterior surface of the panel to define two independent loops. Each of the two independent loops have an opening positioned either side of the panel. The at least pair of restriction seams couple the elongated member and the panel. The at least pair of restriction seams are parallel to one another and extending from the first terminating edge to the second terminating edge of the panel. The two independent loops have an elasticity and the panel has a restriction elasticity less than the elasticity of each of the two independent loops.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments described herein are directed to a weight lifting support device that includes an elongated member that permits a wearer to move the wearer's arms in lateral and longitudinal directions and includes a restrictive panel that restrict the arms of the wearer from extending in the longitudinal direction beyond a predetermined distance. Such restriction prevents the wearer from increasing stress on the muscles and joints of the shoulders during upward and/or outward thrust arm movements when lifting weight such as those commonly found in an overhead press, bench press, pushups, decline and incline bench presses, and/or the like.

The weight lifting support device disclosed herein generally includes the restrictive panel having a pair of side edges and the elongated member. The elongated member is coupled by at least a pair of restriction seams to the restrictive panel at a mid-area or mid-portion of the restrictive panel such that the elongated member defines two independent loops. Each of the two independent loops includes an opening, positioned either side of the restrictive panel, and adapted to receive an arm of the wearer. The two independent loops have an elasticity that stretches, and the restrictive panel is formed from a relatively inelastic fabric to have a restriction elasticity less than the elasticity of each of the two independent loops.

The restriction panel and the at least pair of restriction seams of the present disclosure provide advantages over conventional weight lifting support bands. The restriction panel and/or the at least pair of restriction seams of the present disclosure are an improvement over conventional weight lifting support bands in that they prevent or inhibit stretching or sagging of the material of the pair of independent loops at a bottom end of the lifting movement, which causes an undesirable feeling to the wearer. Reducing and/or eliminating the sag and restricting the movement or stretch in the longitudinal direction of the weight lifting support device of the present disclosure improves desirable feeling to the wearer, reduces stresses and strains on the shoulder area of the wearer, and improves an upward movement performance of the wearer when wore on the arms of the wearer. Additionally, by reducing and/or eliminating the sag and restricting the movement or stretch in the longitudinal direction of the weight lifting support device of the present disclosure when wore on the legs of the wearer assists the wearer in squatting more weight, with more stability, and the like.

As used herein, “elasticity” refers to the ability of a material to stretch. A material having a higher, or greater, elasticity than another material stretches a further distance than the other material under the same application of force. A material having a lower, or lesser, elasticity than another material stretches a lesser distance than the other material under the same application of force. Specifically, elasticity may be measured in pounds per square inch (psi) or gigapascals (GPa) using Young's modulus or any other suitable unit for measuring elasticity and strain. For example, when a first material has a greater elasticity than a second material, the first material has a Young's modulus lower or less than the Young's modulus of the second material, e.g., the first material has a lower psi and GPa measurement than the second material. Alternatively, when the first material has a lower elasticity than the second material, the first material has a Young's modulus higher or greater than the Young's modulus of the second material, e.g., the first material has a higher psi and GPa measurement than the second material. As referred to herein, the elasticity and Young's modulus of a material is measured by an overall elasticity of the material, rather than any particular portion or region of the material. As such, the elasticity and Young's modulus of the material is generally the same regardless of a direction in which tension is applied on the material.

As used herein, “relatively inelastic” refers to fabric that does not noticeably stretch and/or minimally stretches when subjected to the stresses and strains associated with its use in a variety of lifting activities. Minimally stretches refers to fabrics that stretch less than twenty-five percent when subjected to the stresses and strains associated with its use in a variety of lifting activities. As such, relatively inelastic materials have a higher Young's modulus than material that is elastic.

As used herein, the term “lateral direction” refers to the forward-rearward direction of the device (i.e., in the +/−Y-direction depicted inFIG.1). The term “longitudinal direction” refers to the cross-device (i.e., in the +/−X-direction depicted inFIG.1), and is transverse to the longitudinal direction. The term “vertical direction” refers to the upward-downward direction of the device (i.e., in the +/−Z-direction depicted inFIG.1).

Referring now toFIGS.1-10, an embodiment of an example weight lifting support device10is schematically depicted. In some embodiments, the example weight lifting support device10may include a first panel12, a second panel13, and an elongated member14. The first panel12may include a pair of side edges24a,24b, a first terminating edge26a, an opposite second terminating edge26b, an exterior surface28a, and an opposite interior surface28b. The pair of side edges24a,24bmay extend in the vertical direction (i.e., in the +/−Z direction) and the first and second terminating edges26a,26bmay extend in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +/−X direction).

The first panel12may be a restrictive panel and include a restrictive panel portion30that may extend within the pair of side edges24a,24band from the first terminating edge26ato the second terminating edge26b. That is, the restrictive panel portion30does not extend to each of the pair of side edges24a,24b, but extends between the pair of side edges24a,24bto terminate at the first terminating edge26aand the second terminating edge26b, as best illustrated by the dashed line31inFIGS.3and5. In the illustrated embodiment, the restrictive panel portion30is a rectangular shape with a length in the vertical direction (i.e., in the +/−Z direction) greater than a width in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +/−X direction). As such, in the illustrated embodiment, the restrictive panel portion30is illustrated as a strip. This is non-limiting and the restrictive panel portion30may be any shape including, without limitation, square, circular, hexagonal, octagonal, and/or the like.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first panel12may generally be a rectangular shape. That is, the length of the first and second terminating edges26a,26bin the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +/−X direction) may extend a greater distance than a height of the pair of side edges24a,24bin the vertical direction (i.e., in the +/−Z direction). This is non-limiting and the first panel12may be any shape, including, without limitation, a square, triangular, circular, rhombus, dart, kite, and the like. It should be understood that the shape of the first panel12may provide a wearer32with varying angles of support, as discussed in greater detail herein. For example, with reference toFIG.2, an isosceles trapezoid shape of the first panel12may allow a greater range of motion for each arm34of the wearer32as each of the arms34bend, as discussed in greater detail herein.

Still referring toFIGS.1-10, and as best shown inFIG.4, the second panel13may include a pair of side edges36a,36b, a first terminating edge38a, an opposite second terminating edge38b, an exterior surface40a, and an opposite interior surface40b. The pair of side edges36a,36bmay extend in the vertical direction (i.e., in the +/−Z direction) and the first and second terminating edges38a,38bmay extend in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +/−X direction).

The second panel13may further include a restrictive panel portion42that may extend within the pair of side edges36a,36band from the first terminating edge38ato the second terminating edge38b. That is, the restrictive panel portion42is positioned between or within each of the pair of side edges36a,36band extends from and/or between the first terminating edge38aand the second terminating edge38bas best illustrated by the dashed line43inFIGS.4and6. In the illustrated embodiment, the restrictive panel portion42is a rectangular shape with a distance length in the vertical direction (i.e., in the +/−Z direction) greater than a width in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +/−X direction). As such, in the illustrated embodiment, the restrictive panel portion42is illustrated as a strip. This is non-limiting and the restrictive panel portion42may be any shape including, without limitation, square, circular, hexagonal, octagonal, and/or the like.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second panel13may generally be a rectangular shape. That is, the distance of the first and second terminating edges38a,38bin the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +/−X direction) may be larger than a height of the pair of side edges36a,36bin the vertical direction (i.e., in the +/−Z direction). This is non-limiting and the second panel13may be any shape, including, without limitation, a square, triangular, circular, rhombus, dart, kite, and the like. Further, in some embodiments, the shape of the second panel13may dimensional and geometrically match that of the first panel12. For example, in some embodiments, when the first panel12is the isosceles trapezoid shape as discussed above, the second panel13may also be an isosceles trapezoid shape. In another example, in the illustrated embodiment, the first panel12and the second panel13are each rectangular in shape and positioned to align with one another along the center. For example, a centerline CL1of the first panel12is centered within the restrictive panel portion30and a centerline CL2of the second panel13is centered within the restrictive panel portion42such that the first panel12and the second panel13are each aligned or centered with each other.

In other embodiments, the first panel12and the second panel13may be different shapes. For example, the first panel12may be rectangular in shape while the second panel13may be square in shape. It should be understood that this is non-limiting and, in other embodiments, the first panel12may be any shape and the second panel13may be any shape different from the shape of the first panel12.

In the illustrated embodiment that includes the first panel12and the second panel13, the first and second panels12,13are coupled to and/or attached to one another via a seam44. In some embodiments, the seam44may be at least a pair of restriction seams46. The at least pair of restriction seams46may extend from the first terminating edge26a,38ato the second terminating edge26b,38bwithin the restrictive panel portion30,42of the first and second panels12,13, respectively. Further, the at least pair of restriction seams46may be spaced apart from one another and may be parallel to one another extending from the first terminating edge26a,38ato the second terminating edge26b,38b. In other embodiments, the seam44may be other fastening types such as adhesive, epoxy, hook and loop, magnetic, and the like.

The first panel12and the second panel13may each be formed from a relatively inelastic fabric. Further, in some embodiments, the restrictive panel portions30,42may be formed, or reinforced, to provide a more inelastic movement compared to the rest of the first panel12and/or the second panel13, respectively. In some embodiments, the restrictive panel portions30,42may be reinforced to prevent two way or four way movement via additional seams, additional layers, additional thickness, different material types, combinations thereof, and/or the like, to restrict inelastic movement compared to the rest of the first panel12and/or the second panel13, respectively. As such, the restrictive panel portions30,42may each, either independently, or in combination together, provide increases in performance for the wearer by preventing stretching or additional movement in the lateral direction (i.e., in the +/−Y direction), preventing stretching or additional movement in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +/−X direction), and/or preventing stretching or additional movement in the vertical direction (i.e., in the +/−Z direction).

In some embodiments, as a non-limiting example, the restrictive panel portions30,42may extend one inch in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +/−X direction). This is non-limiting and the restrictive panel portions30,42may extend more than or less than one inch in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +/−X direction). Further, in some embodiments, as a non-limiting example, the first panel12and/or the second panel13may extend, or have a width, between eight inches and sixteen inches in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +/−X direction). This is non-limiting and the first panel12and/or the second panel13may extend more than sixteen inches or less than eight inches in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +/−X direction). Additionally, in some embodiments, as a non-limiting example, the first panel12and/or the second panel13may extend, or have a height, between four inches and eight inches in the vertical direction (i.e., in the +/−Z direction). This is non-limiting and the first panel12and/or the second panel13may extend more than eight inches or less than four inches in the vertical direction (i.e., in the +/−Z direction).

Examples of relatively inelastic fabrics of the first panel12and/or second panel13may include, without limitation, broadcloth, muslin cotton, cotton, ploy cotton, crepe, linen, double knit polyester, polyester, satin, sateen, chiffon, viscose, voile, canvas, denim, synthetic fiber, for example, Kevlar®, combinations thereof, and the like. It should be understood that in some embodiments, the first panel12and the second panel13may each be formed from the same material. In other embodiments, the first panel12and the second panel13may each be formed from different materials. For example, the first panel may be formed from a cotton while the second panel13may be formed from canvass (which may itself be a different cotton depending on its manner of manufacture). It should be appreciated that the first panel12and the second panel13may each be formed from combinations of multiple materials such as a blend or mixture of cotton and canvass, and/or may include portions of multiple materials.

In some embodiments, the first panel12may have a Young's modulus that is greater than the Young's modulus of the second panel13, and vice-versa. In other embodiments, the first panel12and the second panel13may have an equal Young's modulus. Further, the first panel12alone, the second panel13alone, and/or in combination together, have an elasticity that is less than the elasticity of the elongated member14, as discussed in greater detail herein. Specifically, the first panel12alone, the second panel13alone, and/or in combination together may have a Young's modulus that is greater than the Young's modulus of the elongated member14, as discussed in greater detail herein.

It should be understood that in some embodiments, the example weight lifting support device10may include either the first panel12or the second panel13, but not both That is, the first panel12or the second panel13provides the restriction of movement necessary to relieve the strains and/or stresses from the shoulders during an upward and/or outward thrust arm movements when lifting weight such as those commonly found in weight lifting exercises such as overhead press, bench press, pushup, decline and incline bench presses, and the like, as discussed in greater detail herein.

In some embodiments, the elongated member14may include a first end16and an opposite second end18and have a first edge68aand an opposite second edge68bthat traverse the length of the elongated member14. Further, the elongated member14includes an inner surface50and an opposite outer surface52. In some embodiments, the first end16and the second end18may be coupled or otherwise attached to the first panel12and/or the second panel13to form or define two independent loops20a,20b. For example, in some embodiments, the first end16and/or the second end18may be coupled or otherwise attached to the interior surface of the first panel12and/or to the exterior surface of the second panel13. In other embodiments, the first end16and/or the second end18may be coupled or otherwise attached to the exterior surface of the first panel12. Further, in other embodiments, the first end16and/or the second end18may be coupled or otherwise attached to the interior surface of the second panel13. It should be understood that the attachment or coupling of the first end16and/or the second end18to the first panel12and/or the second panel13is non-limiting and any part of the elongated member14may be attached or coupled to the first panel12and/or the second panel13. That is, portions of the elongated member14may be may be attached or coupled to the first panel12and/or the second panel13to form the two independent loops20a,20band does not necessarily need to be the first end16and/or the second end18or may include the first end16and/or the second end18and other portions of the elongated member14.

The coupling or attachment of the elongated member14to the first panel12and/or the second panel13may be via the seam44, such as the at least pair of restriction seams46, as discussed in greater detail herein. As such, the coupling or attachment of the elongated member14to the first panel12and/or the second panel13may be via the at least pair of restriction seams46positioned within the restrictive panel portions30,42of the first and second panels12,13, respectively.

In other embodiments, the second end18of the elongated member14may be coupled to the first end16to form a continuous loop. The elongated member14may be coupled to the first panel12and/or the second panel13at a mid-position of the loop of the elongated member14to form the two independent loops20a,20b. The coupling or attachment of the elongated member14to the first panel12and/or the second panel13may be via the seam44such as the at least pair of restriction seams46, as discussed in greater detail herein.

The elongated member14coupled to the first panel12and/or the second panel13forms the two independent loops20a,20b, which, in some embodiments, may be of equal size and each may have an opening48a,48bthat is equal in size. That is, the elongated member14may be coupled to the first panel12and/or the second panel13such that the two independent loops20a,20bare equally sized with openings48a,48bthat are also equally sized. In the continuous loop embodiment, the elongated member14may be coupled or attached to the first panel12and/or second panel13at a mid-position or mid-point such that the two independent loops20a,20bare equally sized.

The two independent loops20a,20bare equally sized with reference or with respect from the coupling or attachment to the first panel12and/or the second panel13. In other embodiments, the elongated member14may be coupled to the first panel12and/or the second panel13in an offset orientation such that one of the two independent loops20a,20bis larger than the other, which causes one of the openings48a,48bto be larger in size compared to the other.

Portions of each of the two independent loops20a,20band the openings48a,48bmay be positioned on either side of the first panel12and/or the second panel13. As such, each of the two independent loops20a,20binclude the inner surface50and the outer surface52. The openings48a,48bmay be defined by the thickness between the inner surface50and outer surface52and where the elongated member14is coupled to the first panel12and/or the second panel13. Further, each of the two independent loops20a,20bmay extend beyond the pair of side edges24a,24b,36a,36bof the first and second panels12,13, respectively. The elongated member14and each of the two independent loops20a,20bmay extend between the first terminating edges26a,38a, and the second terminating edges26b,38bof the first and second panels12,13, respectively.

That is, in some embodiments, the first panel12and/or the second panel13extend in the vertical direction (i.e., in the +/−Z direction) a same height of the elongated member defined by the distance between the first edge68aand the second edge68bof the elongated member14. That is, the first terminating edges26a,38a, and the second terminating edges26b,38bof the first and second panels12,13terminate at the first edge68aand the second edge68bof the elongated member14. In other embodiments, the first panel12and/or the second panel13extend in the vertical direction (i.e., in the +/−Z direction) a height less than or greater than a height between the first edge68aand the second edge68bof the elongated member14.

Further, portions of the first and second panels12,13may extend in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +/−X direction) and/or in the vertical direction (i.e., in the +/−Z direction) to cover, overlie, or overlap portions of the two independent loops20a,20band portions of the openings48a,48b. That is, in some embodiments, portions of the pair of side edges24a,24b,36a,36b, portions of the first terminating edges26a,38a, and portions of the second terminating edges26b,38bof the first and second panels12,13, overlap portions of each of the two independent loops20a,20band portions of the openings48a,48b.

As such, in some embodiments, the elongated member14extends between the first panel12and the second panel13where the elongated member14is fixed between the pair of restriction seams46. As noted above, the first panel12and the second panel13are fabricated from a restriction material having a restriction elasticity to have a relatively inelastic stretch or movement. As such, the first panel12and/or the second panel13restricts the stretching, or elastically, of the elongated member14at the coupling or attachment to the first panel12and the second panel13.

Still referring toFIGS.1-10and now referring toFIGS.11-14, the inner surface50of the two independent loops20a,20bof the elongated member14include a pair of bands58extending in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +/−X direction) the length of the inner surface50. It should be understood that this is non-limiting, and in embodiments, there may be a single band or more than a pair of bands58positioned on and/or integrated within the inner surface50of the elongated member14.

For brevity reasons, only the structure of a single band of pair of bands58will be discussed. It should be understood that any additional bands include similar structure. In some embodiments, the band58may include a plurality of exposed elongate pliable strand members60positioned on at least one surface of the two independent loops20a,20b, such as on at least the inner surface50of the two independent loops20a,20b. The plurality of exposed elongate pliable strand members60may be arranged in an offset lattice configuration such that the arrangement of the plurality of exposed elongate pliable strand members60have a coefficient of friction sufficient to provide grip and/or an anti-slip surface for the wearer32such that the example weight lifting support device10remains positioned as the wearer32intended. Each of the plurality of exposed elongate pliable strand members60may be elongate pliable members62that may be constructed of synthetic rubber. Each of the plurality of the exposed elongate pliable strand members60ingress and egress the material of the elongated member14such as the inner surface50of the two independent loops20a,20b, as best illustrated inFIG.13, and are in an offset lattice configuration, as best illustrated inFIG.11. The offset lattice configuration may involve including a small length of synthetic rubber interwoven through the inner surface50of the two independent loops20a,20b. Each of individual elongate pliable member of the elongate pliable members62ingresses into the inner fabric and extends a distance below the inner surface50. The individual elongate pliable member of the elongate pliable members62of the plurality of exposed elongate pliable strand members60egresses around each of the proximate individual elongate pliable member of the elongate pliable members62, as best illustrated inFIGS.12-14.

A plurality of small rubber loops64are wound in this arrangement, and longitudinally extend (i.e., in the +/−X direction) the length of the elongated member14. As such, additional rows of rubber loops are added adjacent to the previous row, and the point at which the plurality of the exposed elongate pliable strand members60ingress and egress the inner surface50of the independent loops20a,20bis offset, in respect to the adjacent row, as best illustrated inFIGS.12-14. A number of rows of the plurality of the exposed rubber strands adjacent to each other form the bands58on the inner surface50of the elongated member14.

In other embodiments, the band58may include a rubber coating. For example, silicone gripper tracks or other slip-resistant material that assist in proving grip and/or an anti-slip surface for the wearer32such that the example weight lifting support device10remains positioned as the wearer32intended.

Now referring toFIG.15, in a second aspect, a single band66of the plurality of exposed elongate pliable strand members60covers the inner surface50of the two independent loops20a,20b, and traverses longitudinally (i.e., in the +/−X direction) the distance of the elongated member14

Now referring toFIG.16, in a third aspect, the plurality of bands58extend in the lateral direction (i.e., in the +/−Y direction) to be perpendicular across the inner surface50. The plurality of bands58extend the distance of the elongated member between the first edge68aand the second edge68bof the elongated member14.

Referring back toFIGS.11-16, it should be appreciated that the configuration, placement, length, width, and placement of bands58may differ. For example, the plurality of exposed elongate pliable strand members60may be arranged to encompass differing patterns, and shapes, and encompass differing dimensional relationships. In some embodiments, the plurality of exposed elongate pliable strand members60may also be constructed of a different material such that the plurality of exposed elongate pliable strand members60have a coefficient of friction great enough to grip and/or provide an anti-slip surface to the forearms54of the wearer32.

As such, the bands58provide an anti-slip surface for the wearer32. That is, the bands58provide a non-slip texture for the wearer32. This holding or gripping action prevents the arms34of the wearer32from sliding and slipping off the wearer32. As such, the wearer32no longer needs to spray sticky or apply chalk to the inner surface50and no longer has to breathe toxic fumes from sticky spray or dust from chalk. Further, the arms34and clothing of the wearer32is kept clean of chalk and sticky spray.

Further, the exposed elongate pliable strand members60provide a superior rebound effect (as opposed to conventional weight lifting support bands without exposed rubber strands). The rubber is compressed during the lifting and extending exercises. The compressed rubber reacts against the arms34and/or forearms54of the wearer32, depending on how the example weight lifting support device10is worn, and rebounds with more kinetic energy return than conventional weight lifting support bands without exposed rubber strands.

Further, the configuration of the exposed elongate pliable strand members60as discussed herein does not increase the modulus and squeezing sensation of the elongated member14when tightly wound the arm34of the user that may be found in conventional wraps or other materials with exposed rubber strands. That is, the looped or braided construction and/or arrangement of the exposed elongate pliable strand members60remains relatively loose against the arms34of the wearer32at a maximum pulled length, which results in less squeezing on body tissues and provides more rubber-bulk than compared to conventional weight lifting support bands and/or wraps which utilize stretched-out rubber or wadded cloth yarn.

Now referring back toFIGS.1-10, the elongated member14is formed from stretchable material. That is, in some embodiments, the elongated member14may be a four-way stretch. In other embodiments, the elongated member14may be a two-way stretch. In some embodiments, the elongated member14may be a woven or non-woven fabric material.

In should be appreciated that the first and second panels12,13and the elongated member14may contain similar fabrics but have different properties such that the elongated member14may be elastic and the first and second panels12,13are relatively inelastic. That is, the material of the elongated member14has an elasticity greater than the first and second panels12,13. As such, the material of the elongated member14may have a Young's modulus that is less than the Young's modulus of the material of the first panel12, the second panel13, and/or the combination of the first and second panels12,13.

Further, in some embodiments, the first and second panels12,13may each, and/or the combination thereof, may have a thickness greater than the thickness defined by the inner surface50and outer surface52of the elongated member14. In other embodiments, the first and second panels12,13may be formed of a material different form the material that forms the elongated member14, where the material of the elongated member14has an elasticity greater than the first and second panels12,13. As such, the material of the elongated member14may have a Young's modulus that is less than the Young's modulus of the material of the first panel12, the second panel13, and/or the combination of the first and second panels12,13.

That is, the two independent loops20a,20bhave an elasticity and the first panel12, and the second panel13have a restriction elasticity that is less than the elasticity of each of the two independent loops20a,20b. As such the first and second panels12,13and/or the at least pair of restriction seams46provide many advantages over conventional weight lifting support bands. The first and second panels12,13and/or the at least pair of restriction seams46are at least one example of an improvement over conventional weight lifting support bands by preventing or inhibiting stretching or sagging of the material of the two independent loops20a,20bat the bottom end of the lifting movement, which causes a desirable feel to the wearer and improves upward movement performance not accomplished by conventional weight lifting support bands.

In operation, in the illustrated example, each of the openings48a,48bof the two independent loops20a,20b, respectively, receive an arm34of the wearer32and are positioned such that portions of the inner surface50is in contact with the arm34of the wearer, such as a bicep region55, as illustrated inFIGS.1-2. This is non-limiting and the two independent loops20a,20band inner surface50thereof may be positioned onto the forearms54between an elbow56and a wrist57of the wearer32.

When the arms34of the wearer32extend from the retracted position, or retracted position, as best illustrated inFIG.1, toward the extended position, or upward and/or outward position, as best illustrated inFIG.2, the stretched material of the elongated member14is limited in the at least in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +/−X direction) to relive stress and strains in the shoulder area. That is, the example weight lifting support device10restricts the elasticity of the elongated member14at least in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +/−X direction) such that when the wearer32performs upward and/or outward thrust arm movements when lifting weight, such as those commonly found in exercise such as overhead press, bench press, pushups, decline and incline bench presses, and the like, the shoulders of the wearer32are better protected by removing some of the strain and/or stress from the shoulder area in an effort to prevent undesirable conditions to the wearer32, such as injury. It should be appreciated that the weight lifting support devices disclosed herein are equally applicable in other exercises such as, for example, a powerlifting activity.

Further, the example weight lifting support device10increases the amount of weight the wearer32may lift based on improved grip of the arms34of the wearer32, improved restriction in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +/−X direction) beyond a predetermined position, storing of energy in the press activity, and reducing and/or eliminating a delayed stretch action.

That is, because elastic material stretches first at the point of pull, the further away from the points of pull on a length of elastic, the later the elastic starts stretching. This delayed stretch action causes the center of conventional weight lifting support bands to still be unstretched during an exercise, which decreases the amount of stopping power of conventional weight lifting support bands. It should be understood that stopping power is a commonly used term by weightlifters that indicates a point where, at full stretch, a lifting assist device fully supports, for example, a barbell from sinking further down. As such, stopping power acts as a shelf for the barbell to sit on which increases the wear's ability to raise the barbell upward. As such, the example weight lifting support device10also reduces and/or eliminates the delayed stretch action.

It should be understood that the example weight lifting support device10is not limited to being applied to the arms of the wearer, and may be worn on each leg of the wearer. For example, each of the openings48a,48bof the two independent loops20a,20b, respectively, receive a leg of the wearer32and are positioned such that portions of the inner surface50are in contact with the legs of the wearer, such as a thigh region. The example weight lifting support device10when wore on the legs of the wearer assists the wearer in squatting more weight, with more stability, and the like.

Referring now toFIGS.17-19, a second example weight lifting support device10′ is schematically depicted. It should be appreciated that the second example weight lifting support device10′ is similar to the example weight lifting support device10discussed above. Therefore, like reference numerals will be used to discuss like parts.

The elongated member14of the second example weight lifting support device10′ includes a first restrictive panel70aand a second restrictive panel70bpositioned along the outer surface52at an apex72a,72bof the two independent loops20a,20b, respectively. Each of the first restrictive panel70aand the second restrictive panel70binclude an exterior surface74a,76aand an opposite interior surface74b,76b, respectively. The first restrictive panel70aand the second restrictive panel70bare coupled or otherwise attached to the elongated member14such that the interior surface74b,76b, respectively, is coupled or otherwise attached to abut the outer surface52of the elongated member14.

The first restrictive panel70aand the second restrictive panel70bare formed with similar materials as the first and second panels12,13and with similar Young's modulus, as discussed herein. As such, the first restrictive panel70aand the second restrictive panel70brestrict the elasticity of the elongated member14at the apex72a,72bof the two independent loops20a,20b. As such, it should be understood that in addition to the center of the conventional weight lifting support bands that has sag or delayed stretch issues, there is an additional point of later stretch point, or sag, at the area where the elastic of the conventional weight lifting support bands rests and/or makes contact with the arms34of the wearer32causing the elastic of the conventional weight lifting support bands to experience a delay in its stretch. As such, the first restrictive panel70aand the second restrictive panel70bprevent an/or eliminate the delayed stretch in such areas as well as providing all the advantages discussed herein with respect to the first and second panels12,13.

Referring now toFIG.20, which is a flow diagram that graphically depicts an illustrative method2000of manufacturing the example weight lifting support device10. Although the steps associated with the blocks ofFIG.20will be described as being separate tasks, in other embodiments, the blocks may be combined or omitted. Further, while the steps associated with the blocks ofFIG.20will described as being performed in a particular order, in other embodiments, the steps may be performed in a different order.

The method of manufacturing the example weight lifting support device10includes, at block2005, the first panel12is formed. The first panel12is constructed from a relatively inelastic fabric, as discussed in greater detail herein. In some embodiments, at block2010, the second panel13is formed. The second panel13is constructed from the relatively inelastic fabric, as discussed in greater detail herein. At block2015, the elongated member14is formed. The elongated member includes the first end16and the second end18. In some embodiments, the first end16and second end18are coupled to one another to form a continuous loop. In other embodiments, the first end16and the second end18may remain independent or abut one another without physically attached or coupled to one another.

At block2020, the elongated member14is coupled and/or attached to the first panel12. The coupling or attaching of the elongated member14to the first panel12may be at a mid-portion or mid-area of the first panel12and the elongated member14may be coupled or attached to the first panel12to form or define the two independent loops20a,20b. In some embodiments, the elongated member14may be coupled to the first panel12via the pair of restriction seams46. In other embodiments, the elongated member14may be coupled to the first panel12via other fasteners such as adhesive, epoxy, book and loop, magnetic, and the like. The elongated member14may be coupled or attached to the exterior surface28aand/or the interior surface28bof the first panel12.

At block2025, in some embodiments, the elongated member14is additionally coupled and/or attached to the second panel13. The coupling or attaching of the elongated member14to the second panel13may be at a mid-portion or mid-area of the second panel13and the elongated member14may be coupled or attached to the second panel13to form or define the two independent loops20a,20b. In some embodiments, the elongated member14may be coupled to the second panel13via the pair of restriction seams46. In other embodiments, the elongated member14may be coupled to the second panel13via other fasteners such as adhesive, epoxy, hook and loop, magnetic, and the like. The elongated member14may be coupled or attached to the exterior surface40aand/or the interior surface40bof the second panel13.

It should be understood that the elongated member14may be coupled and/or attached to either the first panel12, the second panel13or both. In embodiments where both the first panel12and the second panel13are implemented, the pair of restriction seams46may couple and/or attach the first panel12, the second panel13, and the elongated member14to one another such that the thickness of the example weight lifting support device10is greater at the coupling point than at the apex72a,72bof the two independent loops20a,20b, respectively. In other embodiments, the first panel12, the second panel13, and the elongated member14may be coupled to one another via other fasteners such as adhesive, epoxy, hook and loop, magnetic, combinations of these other fasteners and the pair of restriction seams46, and the like.

From the above, it is to be appreciated that defined herein are weight lifting support devices that include an elongated member and a panel that restrict the arms of the wearer from extending in the longitudinal direction beyond a predetermined distance. Such restriction prevents the wearer from increasing stress on the muscles and joints of the shoulders during upward and/or outward thrust arm movements when lifting weight such as those commonly found in an overhead press, bench press, pushups, decline and incline bench presses, and/or the like.