Fitness training bags

A fitness training bag is provided and includes a body having a first interior volume therein that houses a bladder disposed within the first interior volume. The bladder defines a second interior volume therein that houses a fluid disposed within the second interior volume. A handle is coupled to the body and is configured to facilitate manipulation of the body to perform an exercise. An outer bag for a fitness bag and a fitness training bag system are also provided.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to exercise and fitness equipment and, more particularly, to fitness training bags.

Background of Related Art

Fitness training bags are known in the art for use during the course of a workout or training session. In particular, fitness training bags are lifted, carried, manipulated, thrown, and/or dropped in various ways for exercise and fitness purposes. Currently, fitness training bags take the form of a sewn sack filled with sand. Typically, the empty sacks are sold to the consumer, who then fills the sack with sand to a desired weight.

Sand-filled sacks are disadvantageous for numerous reasons. For example, due the fine particulate nature of sand, sand has a tendency to leak out of the sack after repeated use and normal wear and tear on the sack, especially during outdoor use when subject to adverse weather conditions and UV light. As can be appreciated, the leaking sand leaves behind a mess and alters the weight of the sack.

Another disadvantage of sand-filled sacks is that sand is water-absorbent, which can significantly increase the weight of the sack should water or moisture penetrate the sack. As such, sand-filled sacks are limited to indoor use or must be carefully monitored to avoid contact with water and moisture when used outdoors. In an attempt to inhibit water and moisture penetration, some sacks are formed from more solid materials. However, should water and/or moisture penetrate the more solid material and be absorbed by the sand, the solid material acts to trap that water and/or moisture within the sack. Thus, drying the sand within the sack becomes exceedingly difficult and may result in mold and mildew buildup within the sack.

Further still, sand-filled sacks are relatively stiff and lack shock-absorbing properties. As such, lifting, carrying, manipulating, throwing, and/or dropping the sack may be awkward and/or uncomfortable for the user.

Accordingly, there is a continuing for a weather-proof, durable, versatile, shock-absorbing, and comfortable fitness training bag to facilitate a user's workout or training session. Environmental friendliness, both in manufacture and use, is also desired.

SUMMARY

To the extent consistent, any of the aspects described herein may be used in conjunction with any of the other aspects described herein.

The present disclosure is directed to a fitness training bag including a body defining a first interior volume, a bladder disposed within the first interior volume and defining a second interior volume therein, a fluid disposed within the second interior volume, and a handle coupled to the body and configured to facilitate manipulation of the body to perform an exercise.

In aspects, the body includes an outer bag enclosing a first interior area therein. The bladder is disposed within the first interior area.

In other aspects, the body includes an inner bag disposed within the first interior area of the outer bag. The inner bag defines a second interior area therein.

In certain aspects, the bladder is disposed within the second interior area.

In other aspects, a first end of the outer bag defines an opening therein in operable communication with the first interior area. The outer bag includes a first closure disposed on an inner surface thereof that is configured to selectively cover the opening on an exterior portion thereof.

In aspects, the outer bag includes a second closure disposed on an inner surface thereof that is configured to selectively cover the opening on an interior portion thereof.

In certain aspects, the fitness training bag includes dehydrated water beads disposed within the second interior volume.

In aspects, the dehydrated water beads are superabsorbent polymers.

In certain aspects, the dehydrated water beads are high density cross-linking superabsorbent polymers.

In other aspects, the dehydrated water beads are low density cross-linking superabsorbent polymers.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, an outer bag for a fitness training bag system includes a body configured to enclose a first interior area therein. The body is water-permeable and includes a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion includes a first closure mechanism configured to selectively provide access to the first interior area. The first interior area is configured to receive an inner bag therein. The closure mechanism is configured to selectively close the first end portion.

In aspects, the closure mechanism includes a first strap and a second strap that are configured to selectively close the first end portion.

In certain aspects, the first strap includes a fastener system and the second strap includes a loop. The first strap is configured to pass through the loop and secure to itself via the fastener system to selectively close the first end portion.

In other aspects, the first strap includes part of a fastener system and the second strap includes a complementary part of the fastener system. The first strap is configured to secure to the second strap to selectively close the first end portion. In certain aspects, the first strap may be configured to tie the second strap to selectively close the first end portion.

In other aspects, the body includes a second closure mechanism configured to selectively close the second end portion.

In certain aspects, the inner bag defines a second interior area. A filler material is disposed within the second interior area.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a fitness training bag system includes a water-permeable outer bag enclosing a first interior area therein, the outer bag having a first end portion and a second end portion, a water-permeable inner bag disposed within the first interior area. The inner bag encloses a second interior area therein. A filler is disposed within the second interior area and includes a plurality of pieces of material. The plurality of pieces of material is non-absorbent, drainable, and non-packable. Some or more of the plurality of pieces of material are resiliently compressible so as to be shock-absorbing. A first closure mechanism is configured to selectively close the first end portion of the outer bag to enclose the inner bag within the first interior area.

In aspects, the first closure mechanism includes a first strap and a second strap. The first and second straps are configured to selectively close the first end portion.

In certain aspects, the first strap includes a fastener system and the second strap includes a loop. The first strap is configured to pass through the loop and secure itself via the fastener system to selectively close the first end portion.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Turning toFIGS. 1 and 2, a fitness training bag provided in accordance with the present disclosure is shown generally identified by reference numeral10. Fitness training bag10generally includes a body100having first and second handles210,220engaged to body100and extending therefrom.

Body100of fitness training bag10includes an outer bag102formed from a generally rectangular sheet of material having a pair of opposed long edges110and a pair of opposed short edges120. During manufacture, the sheet of material forming outer bag102is bent back upon itself to align the long edges110thereof, thus enabling the long edges110to be sewn together along an upper portion112of outer bag102, while the bend in the sheet of material defines the lower portion114of outer bag102. As a result of bending back the sheet of material forming outer bag102in the above-detailed manner, short edges120are bent in half, thus enabling the opposed halves of each of the short edges120to be sewn together to define end portions122,124of outer bag102and fully enclose an interior area “A1” (FIG. 4A) within outer bag102. As fully formed, outer bag102defines a generally tubular configuration, although other configurations are also contemplated. In embodiments the short edges120are closed by other mechanical means including, but not limited to, hook and loop fastener systems, adhesives (flexible or rigid), permanent or non-permanent snap strips, permanent or non-permanent individual snaps, heat seals (e.g., heat press or laser seals), or combinations thereof.

With continued reference toFIGS. 1 and 2, the sheet of material forming outer bag102may be a woven polyethylene cloth. The sheet of material forming the outer bag102may be water-permeable such that the material is capable of being permeated by water. Woven polyethylene cloth is advantageous in that it is strong, durable, weather-proof, water and mildew resistant, easy to clean, non-water absorbent, drainable, and resists UV-degradation. Other suitable materials for forming the sheet of material of outer bag102are also contemplated including, but not limited to, woven nylon from 400 to 1,000 denier (both coated and non-coated), polyethylene/nylon blends, vinyl (both coated and non-coated), imitation leather, leather, etc. As can be appreciated, these materials define relatively smooth, non-abrasive surfaces to inhibit catching and/or scratching during use of fitness training bag10.

Body100of fitness training bag10may define various different sizes, depending upon a particular purpose, e.g., the size and/or strength of the user, the exercises to be performed, etc. More specifically, it is contemplated that multiple fitness training bags10of different sizes and weights be provided for various different users and/or purposes, for example:an extra small bag having a length of between 5 and 26 inches and a height of between 5 and 9 inches;a small bag having a length of between 26 and 46 inches and a diameter of between 11 and 13 inches;a medium bag having a length of between 32 and 52 inches and a diameter of between 13 and 15 inches;a large bag having a length of between 32 and 52 inches and a diameter of between 15 and 17 inches;an extra-large bag having a length of between 34 and 54 inches and a diameter of between 17 and 19 inches;an extra-long bag having a length of between 54 and 96 inches and a diameter of between 14 and 17 inches.
Other size bags are also contemplated. Further, each of the fitness training bags10may define a weight of between 1 and 200 lbs. More specifically, the set of fitness training bags10may define a range of weights in equal or varied increments, and/or multiple fitness training bags10in each size may be provided, each having a different weight (due to different internal configurations thereof, as detailed below).

Referring still toFIGS. 1 and 2, first and second handles210,220are engaged to upper portion112of outer bag102of body100and extend therefrom, although it is envisioned that greater or fewer handles, and/or handles of different configuration may also be provided. In some embodiments, handles need not be provided. First and second handles210,220are sewn to upper portion112of outer bag102using a reinforced stitching pattern to ensure a secure engagement therebetween. First and second handles210,220define looped configurations wherein the end segments212,222thereof are sewn to upper portion112of outer bag102to define a loop opening214,224within each handle210,220. Openings214,224are configured for receipt of a user's fingers, hand, and/or arm, to facilitate lifting, carrying, manipulating, throwing, and/or dropping fitness training bag10. More specifically, openings214,224may each define a diameter between 3 inches and 9 inches. In some embodiments, openings214,224are sufficiently large so as to receive the body of another fitness training bag therein, as will be detailed below with respect toFIG. 3E, and/or the handle of another fitness training bag, as will be detailed below with respect toFIG. 3F.

Handles210,220are spaced-apart from one another a distance between 16 inches and 36 inches, more specifically, between 22 inches and 30 includes, or, even more particularly, 26 inches. It has been found that 26 inches is the target ergonomic spacing of handles210,220for the average person to grasp fitness training bag10with arms at shoulder-width apart; however, other distances within the above-noted ranges may alternatively be provided, depending upon the size and/or preference of the user or for a particular purpose. Further, other configurations of handles are also contemplated, such as those detailed below with respect toFIGS. 3A and 3B.

Handles210,220may be made from a nylon webbing with UV treatment. Alternatively, handles210,220may be made from polypropylene webbing, polyester webbing, or leather. These materials are advantageous in that they are strong, durable, weather-proof, water and mildew resistant, easy to clean, non-water absorbent, and resist UV-degradation. Further, by forming handles210,220from such materials, handles210,220are floppy, so as not to interfere with lifting, throwing, dropping, or otherwise manipulating fitness training bag10when not being grasped by handles210,220.

Turning now toFIG. 3A, in another embodiment of the fitness training bag10, handles310,320extend around the outer peripheral circumference of outer bag102of body100. Handles310,320are secured about body100via reinforced stitching at various locations around the peripheral circumference of outer bag102of body100and extend from upper portion112thereof to define looped portions312,322of handles310,320, respectively. As can be appreciated, having handles310,320extend around the outer peripheral circumference of outer bag102of body100provides greater strength to the engagement between handles310,320and outer bag102. Handles310,320may otherwise be configured similar to handles210,220, detailed above with respect toFIGS. 1 and 2.

With reference toFIG. 3B, in another embodiment of the fitness training bag10, handles410,420are engaged to one of the end portions122,124of body100, e.g., end portion124, although handles410,420engaged to both end portions122,124are also contemplated. In the embodiment ofFIG. 3B, handles410,420are configured as low-profile straps wherein the ends thereof are secured to outer bag102of body100of fitness training bag10at spaced-apart positions along end portion124thereof (as an alternative to the looped configurations of handles210,220which are secured together to outer bag102(FIGS. 1 and 2)). In use, a user can grasp the free, central portion of either or both of handles410,420to enable manipulation of training bag10. As an alternative to strap-style handles, handles410,420may be configured as loop handles such as those detailed above with respect to handles210,220, and vice versa; or both loop and strap-style handles may be provided. The length of handles210,220may each be between 6 and 20 inches.

Turning toFIG. 3C, fitness training bag10may further be configured for use with one or more removable handles500. Removable handle500is configured to extend about the peripheral circumference of outer bag102of body100and may be secured in position via one or more releasable securement members502, e.g., buttons, snaps, hook and latch engagements, buckles, etc. Depending upon the exercise to be performed, the number and/or positioning of removable handle500may be altered to define a desired configuration. For example, it is contemplated that removable handle500may be selectively positioned anywhere on the bag depending upon a person's size or a particular exercise routine. Moreover, personal removable handles may be separately manufactured for use with different bags. As can be appreciated this has tremendous benefits over other known bags since a user can use his or her own handles500for each bag and for each exercise eliminating obvious health concerns with multiple users of gym equipment (hygiene, bacteria, etc.).

Removable handles500may be secured by the user in any known fashion at specific location (e.g., snap fit) or may be slidingly secured to allow the user to move the handles500along any side of the outer bag102. Handles500may be easily removed and re-attached as needed. Handles500may also be easily sterilized or washed after each use.

As shown inFIG. 3D, fitness training bag10may include a carrying harness600facilitating transport of fitness training bag10. Carrying harness600includes a pair of semi-annular strap portions610,620configured to extend semi-annularly about the circumference of body100of fitness training bag10adjacent lower portion114thereof, a long strap portion630configured to extend longitudinally about body100of fitness training bag10, and a carrying strap portion640extending from long strap portion630adjacent each end portion122,124of body100of fitness training bag10. As can be appreciated, carrying harness600can be readily slipped into position about body100of fitness training bag10. Once carrying harness600is disposed about body100of fitness training bag10, carrying strap portion640may be utilized to facilitate transport thereof. Other suitable configurations of carrying harnesses are also contemplated.

Referring toFIG. 3E, as noted above, in some embodiments, openings214,224defined through handles210,220are configured to enable receipt of the opposed end portions1122,1124of body1100of another fitness training bag1000to enable tandem use thereof. As illustrated inFIG. 3E, fitness training bag1000is manipulated relative to fitness training bag10such that handles1210,1220of fitness training bag1000are disposed outwardly of handles210,220of fitness training bag10. In this configuration, grasping handles1210,1220during use helps ensure that body1100of fitness training bag1000remains disposed within openings214,224defined through handles210,220of fitness training bag10and, thus, that bags10,1000remain coupled to one another during tandem use. However, other configurations are also contemplated.

With reference toFIG. 3F, another configuration of multi-bag use is detailed. More specifically, a pair of fitness training bags1300are positioned such that the handle(s)1320of each fitness training bag1300extends through one of the openings214,224defined through handles210,220of fitness training bag10. In this configuration, grasping handles1320of fitness training bags1300during use retains handles210,220of fitness training bag10between the user's hands and body1310of fitness training bag1300, thus helping to ensure that fitness training bags1300and fitness training bag10remain coupled to one another during use. Fitness training bags1300may be configured similar to the fitness training bag10illustrated in and described with respect toFIG. 3A, may be configured similar to any of the other fitness training bags detailed herein, or may define any other suitable configuration.

Referring toFIG. 3G, the end segments212a,212bof the first handle210may be longitudinally offset from one another along the upper portion112of the outer bag102such that the first handle210has a “rainbow” configuration. Specifically, the end segment212aof the first handle210may be closer to the end portion122than the end segment212bof the first handle210. The end segment212amay be longitudinally offset from the end segment212bin a range of about zero inches to about six inches. However, in some embodiments, the end segment212ais longitudinally offset from the end segment212bmore than six inches. It is contemplated that handles having a “rainbow” configuration may allow a user to more quickly grab the handle when compared to a traditional handle where the end segments212a,212bare not offset from one another. This may be advantageous in a timed competition and/or training. Additionally or alternatively, handles having a “rainbow” configuration may improve a weight or force distribution on the outer bag102when the first handle210is grabbed by a user. In some embodiments, both the first and second handle210,220have a “rainbow” configuration. In such embodiments, the end segments, e.g., end segments212a,222, of each of the first and second handles210,220on one side of the outer bag102may be closer to the end portion122or the end segments on one side of the outer bag102may be closer to the closest end portion, e.g., end portion122or end portion124.

Turning toFIG. 4A, as noted above, body100of fitness training bag10includes an outer bag102that fully encloses an interior area “A1” therein. Disposed within the interior area “A1” of outer bag102is an inner bag104. Inner bag104may be formed from a non-woven polypropylene or polyethylene material having a fabric weight of between 8 ounces and 10 ounces. Other materials for forming inner bag104are also contemplated, as are other fabric weights thereof, e.g., between 2 ounces and 14 ounces.

Inner bag104fully encloses an interior area “A2” therein for retaining a filler150within inner bag104. More specifically, inner bag104may be formed in a similar manner as detailed above with respect to outer bag102, although other manufacturing techniques are also contemplated. The above-detailed materials forming and configuration of inner bag104is such that inner bag104is water-permeable and allows for drainage, is sufficiently dense to inhibit leakage of the filler150therefor, and provides a relatively high tensile strangle to inhibit ripping, tearing, or otherwise damaging inner bag104.

Filler150is a composition of individual pieces of material that cooperate to form a filler150that is non-absorbent, drainable, non-packable, resiliently compressible, inert to insects and animals, and durable. A non-absorbent, drainable filler150allows for fitness training bag10to be utilized in adverse weather conditions without the worry of altering the weight of fitness training bag10or damaging fitness training bag10, e.g., via mildew or mold growth. A non-packable, resiliently compressible filler150provides flexibility to fitness training bag10and allows for some “bounce,” thus making fitness training bag10more comfortable, manipulatable, and cushioning (shock-absorbing).

In order to achieve the above-noted properties, filler150may include a composition of individual pieces of chopped and/or crushed rubber sized in the range of 1/32 inches to 1 inch. In some embodiments, to facilitate environmental friendliness, the rubber is scrap material from the manufacture of molded shoe soles, such as those sold under the trademark Vibram® and produced by Quabaug Corporation of North Brookfield, Mass., USA. However it is additionally or alternatively envisioned that filler150may be made from scrap and/or recycled material from other rubber sole manufactures and/or other products such as, for example, tires, plastic pellets, pea-stone, steel shot, and combinations thereof. In embodiments, the filler150is a mixture of rubber sole scrap material of different densities, e.g., three different densities corresponding to three different types of rubber soles, although material of uniform density may also be utilized.

To achieve a desired weight of fitness training bag10, as can be appreciated, the composition thereof may be altered, e.g., via using different materials (such as those detailed above) or mixtures thereof. For example, where a heavier bag10is desired, filler150may include a mixture of rubber sole scrap and plastic pellets having a specific gravity between 1.0 and 1.8. Such plastic pellets may be talc filled polyethylene and/or talc filled polypropylene pellets, although other suitable materials are also contemplated.

Additionally or alternatively, a desired weight of fitness training bag10may be achieved by altering the amount of filler150utilized. It is envisioned that inner bag104be selected such that the interior area “A2” thereof is suitable for retaining the desired amount of filler150at 75% to 100% capacity by volume to inhibit large shifts in the filler150within inner bag104during use, although other fill percentages are also contemplated. Likewise, outer bag102is only slightly larger than inner bag104so as to inhibit substantial shifting or movement of inner bag104during manipulation of fitness training bag10. Inner bag104may further be sewn to outer bag102to retain the position thereof.

Referring toFIG. 4B, in other embodiments, inner bag104(FIG. 4A) is eliminated and filler150occupies interior area “A1” of outer bag102. In such embodiments, the material forming outer bag102is selected to be sufficiently-tightly woven so as to inhibit the escape of filler150therethrough. Alternatively, inner bag104(FIG. 4A) may still be provided and the interior area “A2” thereof retaining a first filler150, while the interior area “A1” of outer bag102that surrounds inner bag104(FIG. 4A) retains a second filler150therebetween. First and second fillers150may be similar or different, and may be formed, sized, and/or configured in any of the manners detailed above.

Referring toFIG. 4C, in still other embodiments, an intermediate bag106is provided between outer bag102and inner bag104. Intermediate bag106may be formed in a similar manner as detailed above with respect to outer bag102, although other manufacturing techniques are also contemplated. Intermediate bag106may be formed from a non-woven polypropylene or other material and is configured to serve as an additional cushioning layer. Intermediate bag106may be sewn about its perimeter to outer bag102, inner bag104, or may be free-floating therebetween. Intermediate bag106defines an interior area “A3” that may be filled with a third filler150(with or without interior area “A1” of outer bag102including second filler150disposed therein). The intermediate bag106may be formed from a water-permeable material.

With reference toFIG. 5, an outer bag702is provided in accordance with the present disclosure. The outer bag702is similar to the outer bag102detailed above with similar elements represented with a similar label with a “7” replacing the leading “1” of the previous label. As such, only the differences will be detailed herein for brevity. The outer bag702may include a first handle and/or a second handle, e.g., first and/or second handles210,220. The outer bag702may be formed from a material similar to outer bag102detailed above. The outer bag702may be provided in a variety of sizes.

The outer bag702includes end portions722,724. At least one of the end portions722,724includes a reusable closure mechanism726that allows for the respective end portion722,724to be selectively opened and closed. In some embodiments, end portion722is stitched closed in a similar manner to the end portion122detailed above and the end portion724includes the reusable closure mechanism726. In another embodiment, end portions722,724each include a closure mechanism726.

The reusable closure mechanism726closes the end portion, e.g., end portion722, such that an interior of the outer bag702is closed to secure one or more inner bags therein. The reusable closure mechanism726may include first and second closure straps728,729that selectively close the respective end portions722,724of the outer bag702. The first and second closure straps728,729may be tied together, secured together with a fastener system, secured together with a hook and loop fastener system, looped through an opening of the outer bag702, stitched through a plurality of openings in the end portion of the outer bag702, or secured together by another method to securely close the respective end portion722,724of the outer bag702. For example, the first closure strap728may include a hook and loop fastener system and the second closure strap729may include a loop such that the first closure strap728is configured to pass through the loop and secure to itself by the hook and loop fastener system to selectively close the respective end portion722,724. In embodiments, other mechanical closure systems are contemplated such has zippers, button snaps (permanent and non-permanent), snap strips (permanent and non-permanent), hook and loop fastener systems on the edges, buckles (fabric or plastic, buttons, pin and loop, adhesives, and combinations thereof.

The outer bag702may be provided as a replacement for an outer bag, e.g., outer bag102, of a fitness training bag10(FIG. 1) that has become worn and/or damaged. In such applications, an end portion of an outer bag to be replaced is opened. In some embodiments, an end portion of the outer bag to be replaced is cut open and contents of an interior of the outer bag to be replaced are moved into the interior of the outer bag702and the end portions722,724are closed. In some embodiments, a closure mechanism of an outer bag to be replaced, e.g., closure mechanism726, is opened and contents of an interior of the outer bag to be replaced are moved into the interior of the outer bag702and the end portions722,724are closed.

In some embodiments, the outer bag702allows for customization of the weight of a fitness training bag, e.g., fitness training bag10(FIG. 1). For example, one or more inner bags may be used to fill the interior of the outer bag702and the end portions722,724may be secured to enclose the inner bags within the interior of the outer bag702. The inner bags may be water-permeable or may be water-impermeable. It is contemplated that the inner bags may be filled with a filler material similar to the filler150detailed above or may be filled with sand.

With reference toFIGS. 6-8, a bag wrap800is provided in accordance with the present disclosure to secure two or more fitness training bags, e.g., fitness training bags10, together in a wrap assembly802. The bag wrap800includes a body810in the form of a substantially rectangular sheet of material. The material of the body810may be similar to the material of the outer bag102(FIG. 1). The body810is sized to envelope two or more fitness training bags10placed end to end with one another. The body810may have a liner812on an inner surface body810that provides additional structure to the wrap assembly802.

The body810has an outer surface814including end straps820, securement straps830, and holding straps840. The end straps820are arranged to run along a length of the body810and in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the fitness training bags10. The body810includes an end strap820adjacent each end816of the body810. Each end strap820includes an attached portion822and a free portion824. The attached portions822are secured to the body810by stitching or adhering to the outer surface814of the body810. The free portion824extends from the attached portion822towards an end816of the body810. The free portion824may include part of a fastener system826on an outer surface thereof and the attached portion822may have a complementary portion of the fastener system826on an outer surface thereof. The fastener system826may be a hook and loop fastener system. The outer surface814may include an end loop828adjacent each end816that is secured to the outer surface814of the body810. As detailed below, the free portion824may be passed through the end loop828and secured to the attached portion822by the fastener system826to close the end816of the body810.

The securement straps830are arranged in a direction substantially transverse to a length of the body810such that each of the securement straps830is arranged in a direction substantially perpendicular to the end straps820. Each of the securement straps830has one or more attached sections832that are secured to the body810by stitching or adhering to the outer surface814of the body810. Each of the securement straps830also has a free section834that extends from the attached section832towards an edge818of the body810. The free section834may include part of a fastener system836on an inner surface thereof and the attached sections may include a complementary part of the fastener system836on an outer surface thereof. As detailed below, when the body810is wrapped around the fitness training bags10, the securement straps830are wrapped around the body810such that the free sections834are secured to the attached sections832by the fastener system836to secure the body810about the fitness training bags10. As shown, the bag wrap800includes six securement straps830; however, the bag wrap800may include between two and ten securement straps depending on the overall length and configuration of the bag wrap800. The fastener system836may be a hook and loop fastener system.

The holding straps840are arranged in a direction along a length of the body810such that the holding straps840are substantially perpendicular to securement straps830. Each of the holding straps840may pass between one or more of the securement straps830. Each of the holding straps840have attached segments842that are secured to the outer surface814of the body by stitching or adhering to the outer surface814of the body810. The attached segments842may be disposed between the outer surface814of the body810and one of the securement straps830such that the attached segments842are stitched to the outer surface814with the respective securement strap830. Each holding strap840also includes one or more grasping segments844positioned between two attached segments842. The grasping segments844allow for a hand or arm of a user to go between the holding strap840and the outer surface814of the body810to grasp the wrap assembly802.

Continuing to refer toFIGS. 6-8, a method of forming the wrap assembly802is described in accordance with the present disclosure. Initially, the bag wrap800is laid out such that the outer surface814is against the ground or surface and the inner surface812is exposed as shown inFIG. 7. When the bag wrap800is laid out, the bag wrap800is substantially rectangular in shape. With the bag wrap800laid out, two or more fitness training bags10are laid end to end with one another on the inner surface812of the bag wrap800such that the fitness training bags10form a substantially cylindrical structure having a length equal to the sum of the length of each of the individual fitness training bags10. As shown, each of the fitness training bags10has a similar length; however, each of the fitness training bags10may have a length different from one another.

With each of the fitness training bags laid end to end on the inner surface812of the bag wrap800, a first edge818aof the bag wrap800is wrapped around the fitness training bags10such that the inner surface812is tight against the fitness training bags10. The second edge818bis then wrapped over the first edge818aand the fitness training bags10such that the free section834of each of the securement straps830engages the attached section832of the respective securement strap830. Alternatively, the fitness training bags10may be laid end to end on the inner surface812adjacent the first edge818aand the bag wrap800may be rolled over fitness training bags10until the second edge818bis against the outer surface814and the free sections834of each of the securement straps830can be secured to the attached section832of the respective securement strap830. With the free sections834secured to the attached sections832, the bag wrap800is substantially cylindrical in shape and is tight about each of the fitness training bags10such that the fitness training bags10are fixed in end-to-end relationship with one another and are prevented from sliding next to one another.

The free portions824of each of the end straps820are then passed through the respective end loop828and then secured to the attached portion822of the respective end strap820. When the fitness training bags10are wrapped inside of the bag wrap800, the end loop828is approximately halfway across the cylindrical end of the bag wrap800such that the end straps820close the end of the bag wrap800and prevent the fitness training bags10from sliding out of the ends of the bag wrap800. When the ends of the bag wrap800are closed by the ends straps820, the bag wrap800and the fitness training bags10form a wrap assembly802which is substantially cylindrical or “cigar shaped” and prevents the fitness training bags10from dislodging from the end-to-end configuration. The liner816may provide additional structure to prevent the wrap assembly802from buckling at a joint between the ends of the fitness training bags10.

In some embodiments, an end strap820of one bag wrap800may pass through an end loop828of another bag wrap800such that two bag wraps800are joined together to form a single wrap assembly, e.g., wrap assembly802, which includes two or more bag wraps800and a plurality of fitness training bags10.

As detailed above, the bag wraps800are not directly attached to the fitness training bags10while confining the fitness training bags10within the bag wraps800. This may be advantageous in preventing damage to the fitness training bags when formed into a wrap assembly, e.g., wrap assembly802. In addition, the method detailed above allows for one or more fitness training bags10to be quickly assembled into a wrap assembly802and can be reversed quickly to allow the one or more fitness training bags10to be used individually as desired.

Referring now toFIGS. 9 and 10, a rib system900may be provided for use with the fitness training bag10in accordance with the present disclosure. The rib system900includes a plurality of straps and may be secured to the fitness training bag10to allow for additional exercises to be performed with the fitness training bag10and/or to allow for different grips to be used with the fitness training bag10.

The rib system900includes securement straps930and holding straps940that form a grid. The securement straps930are aligned in a direction substantially perpendicular to each of the holding straps940. Each of the securement straps930includes a retained portion932, a retention portion934, and a free portion936. The retained portion932of each of the securement straps930is secured to each of the holding straps940at attachment sections942. The securement straps930may be secured at each of the attachment sections942by stitching the holding straps940and the securement straps930together. Each of the retention portions934has a loop937secured to an end935thereof. The free portions936are configured to pass through a respective loop937and to fold back to secure to itself to secure the securement strap930over the fitness training bag10. The free portions936may include a fastener system938disposed on a surface thereof such that when the free portions936are passed through the loop937of the fastener system938to secure the free portion936to itself and the securement strap930about the fitness training bag10. The first and second handles210,220may prevent the rib system900from sliding off the end of the fitness training bag10. The fastener system938may be a hook and loop fastener system.

As shown inFIG. 10, with the rib system900secured about the fitness training bag10, each of the holding straps940and securement straps930may be used to provide additional grips to the fitness training bag10. In addition, each of the strap securement straps930and holding straps940may be used in conjunction with the first and second handles210,220.

Referring now toFIGS. 11-15, another embodiment of a fitness training bag provided in accordance with the present disclosure is illustrated and generally identified by reference numeral1400. The fitness training bag1400is substantially similar to fitness bag10, and therefore, only the differences therebetween will be described in detail hereinbelow in the interest of brevity.

As will be described hereinbelow, the fitness training bag1400is configured to retain a fluid filler material, such as water, or the like. In this manner, the fitness training bag1400includes an outer bag1402that is substantially similar to outer bag702and may be constructed from the same or similar materials to that of outer bag702. In embodiments, the outer bag may be constructed from a soft or otherwise pliable material suitable for use indoors, such as neoprene, canvas, nylon, etc.

An end portion1402aof the outer bag1402includes a reusable closure mechanism1426capable of being selectively opened and closed. In this manner, the closure mechanism1426includes a first closure1426adisposed on an inner surface of the outer bag1402having a fastening system1426bdisposed on a complementary portion on the inside of the outer bag1402. As can be appreciated, the fastening system1426bmay be any suitable fastening system known in the art, and in one non-limiting embodiment, the fastening system1426bis a hook-and-loop fastening system. In embodiments, the closure mechanism may include a first closure1426aand a second closure1426c. The first closure1426aincludes an inner closure1426bthat is configured to initially close the closure mechanism1426from an interior portion of the outer bag1402and the second closure1426cis configured to wrap around an outer portion of the outer bag1402to cover or otherwise be placed on top of the end portion1402aand is selectively coupled to an outer portion1426dof the outer bag1402using any suitable means, such as a hook-and-loop fastener.

The fitness training bag1400includes an inner bag1404that is configured to be received within an interior portion of the outer bag1402. The inner bag1404is constructed from any suitable material, and in embodiments, is constructed from a non-woven material such as polypropylene or polyethylene and may be constructed in various thicknesses. In one non-limiting embodiment, the inner bag1404is constructed using a thick non-woven material. In this manner, the inner bag1404provides puncture, tearing, or other protection to a bladder1406that is configured to be received within an inner portion of the inner bag1404, as will be described in further detail hereinbelow.

The bladder1406is configured to be received within an inner portion of the inner bag1404and is configured to receive a fluid thereon, such as water or the like. In this manner, the bladder1406is constructed from a waterproof or otherwise water impermeable material such as vinyl, rubber, etc. The bladder1406includes a generally tube shaped configuration having first and second opposing end portions1406a,1406bthat are sealed or otherwise closed using any suitable means, such as ultrasonic welding, adhesives, etc. In one non-limiting embodiment, the first and second opposing end portions1406a,1406bare hermetically sealed.

An outer surface of the bladder1406includes a filling port1408including an inner surface1408adefining a passage1408btherethrough such that the interior and exterior of the bladder1406are in fluid communication. The filling port1408includes a closure mechanism1410having a first plug1412and a second plug1414, although it is contemplated that the closure mechanism1410may employ any suitable means for closing or otherwise sealing the filling portion1408and in embodiments may only include a single plug. In embodiments, the filling port1408is flush with the outer bag1402.

The first plug1412is configured to be received within the passage1408bof the filling port1408and is frictionally retained therein by frictionally engaging the inner surface1408aof the passage1408ausing any suitable means capable of forming a seal against the passage of fluid therethrough. In embodiments, the first plug1412may include a plurality of threads1412adefined on an outer surface thereof that is configured to threadably engage a corresponding plurality of threads1408cdefined within the inner surface1408aof the passage1408bof the filling port1408. In this manner, it is contemplated that the plurality of threads1412a,1408cmay be any suitable type of thread, such as UN/UNF, NPT/NPTF, etc.

The second plug1414includes an inner surface1414adefining a cavity1414btherein that is configured to receive the filling port1408therein. The inner surface1414aof the second plug is configured to frictionally engage an outer surface1408dof the filling port1408using any suitable means capable of forming a seal against the passage of fluid therein. In embodiments, the inner surface1414aof the second plug1414defines a plurality of threads1414ctherein configured to threadably engage a corresponding plurality of threads1408edefined on the outer surface1408dof the filling port1408. In this manner, it is contemplated that the plurality of threads1414c,1408emay be any suitable type of thread, such as UN/UNF, NPT/NPTF, etc., and may be the same or different that the plurality of threads1412a,1408c.

As can be appreciated, when in a closed position, the first and second plugs1412,1414cooperate to ensure that a water tight seal is formed on the filling port1408and inhibit fluid from passing through the passage1408band exiting the bladder1406. Alternatively, when in an open position, the first and second plugs1412,1414are moved to a position that is clear from the passage1408bof the filling port1408of the bladder1406such that a fluid, such as water, may flow therethrough and begin to fill the bladder1406. It is envisioned that the amount of fluid within the bladder1406may be varied depending upon the desired weight of the fitness training bag1400, as will be described in further detail hereinbelow.

With reference toFIGS. 11-15, in use, if initially in the closed position, the reusable closure mechanism1426is opened by first de-coupling the second closure1426cfrom the outer bag1402, and thereafter, de-coupling the first closure1426afrom the outer bag1402to expose the inner bag1404. At this point, the inner bag1404is opened to access the filling port1408of the bladder1406. The second plug1414is removed from the filling port1408, and thereafter, the first plug1412is removed from the filling port1408such that the passage1408bis free from obstruction. Water or another suitable fluid is poured or otherwise injected into the passage1408bof the filling port1408until the desired amount of fluid is contained within the bladder1406.

As can be appreciated, the weight of the fitness training bag1400can be varied depending upon the volume of fluid contained within the bladder1406. Additionally, the volume of fluid contained within the bladder1406effects the stability of the fitness training bag1400, such that as a user handles or otherwise grasps the fitness training bag1400, the fitness training bag1400deforms the fluid within the bladder1406shifts such that the center of gravity of the fitness training bag1400shifts with use, thereby providing a more rigorous fitness challenge to the user. As can be appreciated, the more the bladder1406is filled with fluid, the more the fitness training bag1400weighs and the more stable the fitness training bag1400becomes. Conversely, the less the bladder1406is filled with fluid, the less the fitness training bag1400weighs and the less stable the fitness training bag1400becomes. Additionally, the use of fluid within the fitness training bag1400provides a more pliable bag that provides for softer impacts when used as a lifting weight or as an added weight when placed on a user's shoulders.

Once the bladder1406has been filled with the desired volume of fluid, the first plug1412of the filling port1408is secured to the filling port1408, and thereafter, the second plug1414is secured to the filling port1408to ensure that fluid is inhibited from passing through the passage1408b. At this point, the inner bag1404is closed, and thereafter, the first closure1426ais coupled to the outer bag1402. To fully close the fitness training bag1400, the second closure1426cis coupled to the outer bag1402to ensure that the inner bag1404and the bladder1406are securely retained within the outer bag.

As can be appreciated, the above method may be repeated as many times as necessary and may be repeated to adjust the amount of fluid contained within the bladder1406to vary the overall weight of the fitness training bag1400.

Turning toFIGS. 11-16, it is contemplated that the fitness training bag1400may include dehydrated water beads1500that may be added to the fluid contained within the bladder1406. The dehydrated water beads1500may be any suitable type of absorbent, such as a superabsorbent polymer (SAP), etc. As can be appreciated, SAP's include a polyacrylamide (Poly(methyl acrylate) or Sodium polyacrylate) having an ability to absorb and retain large amounts of fluid relative to their own mass, and in instances may absorb up to 300 times its weight when placed in a solution of deionized and distilled water and up to 50 times its weight when placed in a solution containing up to 0.9% saline, thereby affecting the amount the dehydrated water beads1500swell and the overall consistency of the swollen dehydrated water beads1500.

In this manner, the type and degree of cross-linker used to make the SAP impacts the SAP's ability to absorb fluid and impacts the consistency of the swollen dehydrated water beads1500. Specifically, low-density cross-linked SAP's generally include a higher absorbent capacity and swell to a larger degree, thereby having a softer and “stickier” gel formation. In contrast, high-density cross-linked SAP's generally include a lower absorbent capacity and swell to a lesser degree, thereby having a firmer gel formation capable of maintaining its overall shape under pressure. In embodiments, the swollen dehydrated water beads1500may include a size variation between 6 mm and 30 mm.

The dehydrated water beads1500placed within the bladder1406of the fitness training bag absorb a portion of the fluid or water contained within the bladder1406, increasing the overall stiffness of the fitness training bag1400compared to the fitness training bag1400having only fluid contained within the bladder1406. As can be appreciated, the amount of fluid or water within the bladder1406that is absorbed within the bladder1406, and therefore the overall stiffness of the fitness training bag1400, can be varied by the amount of dehydrated water beads1500placed within the bladder1406.

In use, the stiffness of the fitness training bag1400affects the overall stability of the fitness training bag1400. As can be appreciated, the dehydrated water beads enable a user to vary the stability of the fitness training bag1400between that of a fitness training bag containing a filler150composed of rubber or other similar material, and that of a fitness training bag containing only fluid, thereby varying the effort required to utilize the fitness training bag.

In use, after filling the bladder1406of the fitness training bag1400with the desired amount of fluid or water, a desired amount of dehydrated water beads1500are added to the bladder1406depending upon the desired level of stiffness of the fitness training bag1400. As can be appreciated, the water is absorbed by the dehydrated water beads1500over the course of several hours, depending upon the type and amount of dehydrated water beads1500added to the bladder1406. After adding the desired amount of dehydrated water beads1500, the fitness training bag1400is closed using a similar procedure to that described hereinabove regarding the bladder1406being filled with fluid or water.

For example, it is contemplated that the bag may be utilized without handles for a particular purpose and to perform a particular exercise. In one instance the handles500are removed (e.g., removable handles) and a particular type of exercise is performed. In one embodiment, the bag may be constructed without handles500and simply used in this fashion. In another contemplated embodiment, the inner bag104, outer bag106or intermediate bag106may be filled with only one material (e.g., one type of filler) or one or more materials with the same density depending upon a particular purpose.