Programmable exercise bicycle

The invention pertains to a stationary exercise bike along with a display that provides instruction to lead a rider through an exercise program. The invention allows a rider to obtain benefits of a group, instructor-led class though the rider's schedule does not permit the rider to participate in the class. The invention also describes a method of exercising with the foregoing bike and display.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention generally relates to exercise devices and programs. More specifically, the invention relates to providing instructions to an exercise participant to lead the participant through an exercise program. The invention also relates to the use of a stationary exercise bike that may be programmed by the participant.

An embodiment of the invention relates to the use of an indoor exercise bike along with instructions similar to those provided by an instructor during an indoor exercise bike program. In this embodiment, the participant is instructed to assume different hand and riding positions throughout the program.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In recent years, instructor-led exercise classes using stationary exercise bikes have become increasingly popular. Since the advent of the indoor cycling exercise program, various indoor cycling classes have come into existence. In such classes, the instructor typically leads a class of participants by instructing them to assume different riding positions, such as sitting and standing in combination with different hand positions on the handlebars. The instructor also may instruct participants to vary their pedaling cadence to simulate sprinting or other riding conditions. The bikes used in these classes typically have a resistance device to vary how difficult it is to pedal, and the instructor may also instruct participants to vary the resistance to simulate different riding conditions such as hill climbing.

Many participants seek out instructor-led classes for the encouragement and expertise that an instructor may provide during the exercise program, or the camaraderie between participants. However, instructor-led classes generally adhere to a predetermined time schedule. This presents a problem to participants that cannot attend predetermined classes because of their jobs or other scheduling conflicts.

Health clubs typically have different types of stationary exercise bikes available on their floors for individuals to ride. However, these bikes typically do not have the open geometry, adjustability or other characteristics that allow an individual to experience an exercise program such as provided by indoor cycling programs. In other words, the bikes themselves are inadequate.

Certain health clubs may have indoor cycling bikes available on their floor to ride by individuals who are not participating in an instructor-led class. But without an instructor, the individual may not receive the proper instruction or guidance essential to properly adjusting the bike to ride, or essential to simulating the different riding positions and/or resistances and/or pedal cadences that an instructor typically provides during a class. Indeed, instructors such as certified SPINNING® instructors receive significant and ongoing training in order to lead classes. Accordingly, the individual that simply pedals a stationary exercise bike on a health club floor will generally not achieve the benefits of an instructor-led class. Furthermore, the lack of an instructor may increase the danger of injury if the individual is not riding the bike correctly or the bike is not properly adjusted. This may be especially so where the bike is in a direct drive or fixed gear configuration.

Accordingly, a need exists for a stationary exercise bike for use by an individual who is not participating in an instructor-led class, wherein the bike itself allows different riding positions and conditions, and also provides instruction to the individual so that the individual may receive benefits typically received during an instructor-led class. There also exists a need for the stationary bike to take the rider's ability, past exercise history and/or heart rate into account.

Previously, videos of an instructor providing instruction for an indoor cycling bike class have been available for an individual to watch as he or she rides an indoor cycling bike. However, such videos require a separate VCR and monitor to play the video. Besides requiring additional equipment, the space required may also not be available. For example, space on a health club floor is generally considered to be at a premium.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,287,239 to Hernandez purports to disclose the use of an indoor cycling bike and a display screen with a cartridge that plays music and provides directions to the rider. However, the disclosure of the '239 patent is very limited and the bike pictured in the patent would not enable a participant to simulate different riding positions and conditions, or experience an indoor exercise bike program. The '239 patent also does not disclose how the rider's ability, past exercise history and/or heart rate may be taken into account when providing instructions to the participant, or how the rider may program the exercise parameters himself or herself. The '239 patent also does not address adjusting the bike to properly set it up.

The present invention solves the above-identified and other needs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect of the invention, a stationary exercise bike for indoor cycling is used along with a display that provides instruction to lead a rider through an exercise ride.

In another aspect of the invention, a rider may program the bike to customize the exercise routine.

In another aspect of the invention, a stationary exercise bike that takes into account the rider's ability, cadence, distance, time, past exercise history and/or heart rate is described.

In another aspect of the invention, a method of exercising with the foregoing bike and display is described.

In another aspect of the invention, a display module that may be attached to existing exercise devices is disclosed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Generally, the invention serves to provide instructions to a rider that leads the rider through an exercise program. It is preferred that the instruction be similar to that provided in instructor-led classes so that the rider obtains the benefits of such classes despite the fact that the rider's schedule conflicts with pre-scheduled instructor-led classes.

FIG. 1shows a stationary exercise bike10along with a display screen100. The display screen includes a computer or other device to store and/or provide instructions. The bike10shown is an indoor cycling bike that is adjustable and has an open geometry that allows a rider to simulate different riding positions and conditions. Bike10preferably includes adjustable seat assembly12, adjustable handlebar14having multiple hand position, variable resistance mechanism16, pedal assembly18and flywheel20which is coupled to pedal assembly18in a direct drive (fixed gear) and/or non direct drive e.g., freewheeling configuration. U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,468,185 and 6,793,608 are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. A clutching mechanism may also be included which may be preferred where bike10is in a fixed gear configuration. U.S. Pat. No. 5,961,424 is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

Various pop-pins (or other suitable mechanism)22may be used to effect up/down and fore/aft adjustment of seat12, up/down adjustment of handlebar14and up/down adjustment of display100. It is preferred that the seat and handlebar be adjusted to safely accommodate different riding positions such as sitting and standing, as well as different hand positions. Handlebar14may include one or more sensors24to measure the rider's pulse and heart rate. This information may be sent to the computer (discussed below). The computer may also receive heart rate signals from a monitor/transmitter worn by the rider.

Display100may be attached to bike10by a bracket102. Display100includes screen106on which various information is input and/or displayed. Brackets different than that shown may be used, and bracket102may attach to bike10at different locations. It is preferred that display100not interfere with the rider's ability to grasp handlebar3at different locations so that the rider may assume different riding positions. For example, when the rider is standing and his or her hands are near the forward end5of handlebar3, it is preferred that display100not interfere with this position. It is also preferred that display100be located so that the rider does not excessively sweat on it. The display100preferably comprises an outer shell of plastic or other material that is resistant to sweat.

Display100may also be fitted with a hood104that may extend around the top of display100to provide better contrast between the ambient light and the information illuminated on display100. Hood104may also extend around the sides and bottom of display. Hood104may also help prevent excessive sweat from dripping on display100. Screen106may comprise a computer screen, LED or other type of visual display. In a preferred embodiment, screen106may comprise a touch screen with suitable sensors and software. Screen106may receive and/or display numerical, textual, or graphical information.

Display100is now further discussed with reference toFIGS. 2A,2B, and3. It should be noted that the exact visual components displayed on screen106of the display100may vary from that shown inFIG. 2Aor2B or be a combination thereof. A computer or other storage device (not shown) is preferably contained within display100. However, the computer or other storage device may be remotely located. The computer preferably stores riding instructions that are conveyed to the rider through display100. The computer may also receive instructions and/or data from the rider through an input device150contained within the display100so that the instructions provided during the ride may be customized per the rider's specifications.

The input device150may be accessed through a menu button152and viewed through the menu screen154. Each time the menu button152is pressed, one of a plurality of parameters is accessed. Once a particular parameter is accessed, a pair of directional arrows162may be used to scroll through the various possibilities. The left arrow156generally changes the value lower while the right arrow158generally changes the value higher. The rider may then select a particular value or parameter by pushing the select button160.

The following is a list of the various parameters which may be accessed and set through input device150, but is not intended to be exhaustive.

Time duration for the workout. Generally, a default time for the workout may be set. However, the rider may choose to shorten or lengthen the workout time as they desire. Once the workout starts, the overall time and/or time remaining may be displayed on the time display140that is located in the display screen106.

The calories to be burned during the workout. The number of calories the rider wishes to burn may be selected by the rider. As the workout begins, the number of calories burned may be displayed on the calorie display142that is located in the display screen106.

Level of intensity. Rather than selecting the number of calories burned, the rider may choose to simply select an intensity level and allow the computer to generate an appropriate workout routine. The higher the level of intensity chosen, the computer may generate a workout with greater resistance, a higher level of cadence, and/or instruct the rider to assume riding positions that are generally considered more difficult.

Type of ride, e.g., hill, flat, random or other types of preprogrammed workout. Depending on the type of workout, the display100may provide different types of instructions. For example, a hill ride might involve more sitting than standing.

Weight of the rider. The rider may enter this information to determine the effect on calories burned or other parameters.

Maximum heart rate. A maximum heart rate may be calculated using age-predicted charts, e.g., by subtracting the rider's age from 220 for male riders and subtracting from 226 for female riders. However, other medical based algorithms may be used to calculate maximum heart rate and may be programmed into the bike. A more accurate rate may be determined by undergoing a maximum heart rate test. The maximum heart rate preferably enables the computer to control the workout by decreasing or increasing the level of intensity to achieve a desired heart rate level.

Identification Number or Other Device. The rider may be assigned to an identification number, thereby allowing the computer to access and store certain information about a particular rider. Once assigned to a particular identification number, the rider may log in with the identification number to identify themselves and store various workouts in the computer. The computer may store the workout parameters and rider's fitness progress based on the duration of the workout, power exerted during prior workouts, calories burned or other parameters.

As an alternative to a rider punching in an identification number, a radio frequency identification device (RFID) may be used. For example, the rider may wear an RFID band around his or her wrist and use that to access the computer.

In this manner, the computer may automatically devise a set of instructions that push the rider to achieve a new fitness level by generating progressively more difficult workout routines. The computer may also have safeguards to prevent the rider from being advanced to quickly. For example, the computer may generate more difficult workouts only after a particular rider has had at least some number of workouts during a certain time period. The rider may also save workout routines under their identification number for easy access in the future.

As an alternative to the computer discussed above, display100may include a device to receive a CD-ROM, DVD, VHS tape or other storage medium that contains or receives riding instructions. As shown inFIG. 3, display100may include opening107to receive such a storage media.

Alternatively, display100may include a device enabling connection of the computer with the internet or some other computer network. In this embodiment, the computer may send and receive data over the internet.

The inputting of information is now more specifically described. By way of example, the first time a rider presses the menu button152, the menu screen154may flash “ID” or some other appropriate message to indicate the rider should input their identification number. The directional arrows162may be used to scroll through the various possibilities from “None” to a numerical value ranging from 1 to however many unique users may be supported by the computer's memory. It is noted that today's storage media have large memory capacities providing for the storage of information for many riders. Alternatively, the rider may punch in his or her ID number. The computer may also request a password be entered. It is also contemplated that other forms of identification may be used such as a Smart Card, memory key, or other similar device.

If “none” is selected using the select button160, the menu screen may ask the rider if they would like to be assigned to an identification number. The rider may select the next available number and provide password information. The rider can then move through and select a value for each of the parameters discussed above in a similar fashion.

At the end of each workout routine, if the workout was assigned to an identification number, the menu screen154may ask the rider if they wish to record the workout as part of their history file. Then, if the workout routine was a new routine that was not previously saved, the menu screen154will ask the user if they wish to save the workout routine. If the answer is yes, then the rider may name the workout routine.

Once again, the directional arrows162and the select button160may be used to scroll through and select letters and numbers to name the workout routine. In this manner ride profiles may be stored in the computer so that they may be recalled at a later time. For example, when the rider comes to the rider identification screen, a separate instructions display132that is located in the display screen106may list the ride profiles previously stored by the rider and ask the rider to choose one.

The computer may store and generate any number of work out routines including pre-programmed ones, routines saved by the user, and new routines based upon the rider's specific parameters.

Screen106preferably includes icons and screens that instruct the rider through the workout with different hand positions, riding positions, and varying pedaling speeds. Hand positions are shown to the rider with a handlebar icon110which may include first, second and third hand positions (110(1),110(2) and110(3)) that light up at different times signifying that the rider should change his or her hand positions. Hand positions110(1),110(2) and110(3) preferably illuminate at appropriate times.

The rider's appropriate position may be shown to the rider through a pair of arrow icons170comprised of an up arrow icon172and a down arrow icon174. When the workout requires the rider to be in the standing position, the up arrow icon172may be illuminated. When the workout requires the rider to be in the sitting position, the down arrow icon174may be illuminated. Both the up arrow icon172and the down arrow icon174may be illuminated when the rider is to alternate between standing and sitting.

Screen106may also include a target cadence display180that provides the rider with a certain range of desired cadence. The cadence range displayed may change as the riding position change. For example, a higher cadence range may be specified when the rider is seated and a lower cadence range may be specified when the rider is standing and climbing.

The computer in display100may be coupled to the pedal assembly18so that the computer may measure the rider's actual cadence. If the rider's cadence is within the desired range being displayed on a target cadence display180located in the display screen106, a cadence screen126that is also located on the display screen106may illuminate in a certain way, e.g., non-flashing. If the rider's cadence is not within the desired range shown on the target cadence display180, the rider's cadence screen showing the rider's actual cadence may illuminate in a flashing manner which preferably attracts the rider's attention so that the rider may adjust his or her cadence to bring it within the desired range.

Alternatively, screen106preferably includes a series of icons that instruct the rider through the ride with different combination of hand positions, riding positions, e.g., sitting or standing, and different riding conditions, e.g., flats, hills, climbing, sprinting, etc. The icons may be associated with a particular type of indoor cycling, or may be self-explanatory.

For example as shown inFIG. 2, the icons may comprise a graphic that illustrates a rider on a bike. Riding position icons may include seated flat112, seated climbing114, standing flat116, and standing climbing118. Each of these riding positions icons may light up at different times throughout the ride to signify that the rider should change positions. In this manner, the rider need not memorize riding position symbols that may be associated with a particular type of indoor cycling. As another alternative, or in addition to the foregoing, word text, such as “sit” or “stand”, may illuminate on screen106to help instruct the rider's position.

Screen106may also include a resistance display128that provides the rider with an instructed resistance level. The resistance displayed may vary when different riding position icons are illuminated. For example, the resistance may be increased when the standing climbing icon118is illuminated. (Generally, in this situation, hand position3(110(3) will be illuminated.) The rider may adjust the resistance device according to the resistance displayed. When the resistance value on display128changes, it may flash to attract the rider's attention so that the rider may change the resistance at the appropriate time. Alternatively, the resistance may be computer controlled and change automatically.

The cadence may be increased while the resistance remains constant to effect cadence building. The resistance may be increased while the cadence remains constant to effect resistance loading. The foregoing may be achieved by varying the numbers displayed on the target cadence display180and/or the resistance display128.

Screen106also preferably includes a heart rate display130which displays the rider's heart rate as picked up by the sensors24on the handlebar14or monitor/transmitter worn by the rider. The location of sensors24in handlebar14preferably correspond to hand positions1,2and3on handlebar icon110. The heart rate may affect the instructions provided to the rider. For instance, if too high of a heart rate is recorded for too long, the rider may be instructed to slow the pedaling cadence through the target cadence display180and/or to assume a different riding position that requires less exertion.

Additionally, the sensors24may be coupled with lights that turn on to signal to the rider the appropriate position for the rider's hand.

In addition, the display100may also include a speaker190. The speaker may be connected to a computer, a stereo, a video monitor, or other type of multi media device. The speaker190may be used to enable riders to hear audible beeps indicating a change is position is needed. The speaker190may also enable the rider to listen to instructions or information as well as various entertainment media such as music.

An alternate embodiment of bike10having frame700is now described with reference toFIG. 4. As shown, frame700may include down tube or diagonal member702, rear member or seat socket712, front member or handlebar socket722, rear shield or member732, rear support742, front support752, forks729and front shield or member762. Frame700need not include all of the foregoing elements.

It is preferred that the materials used to construct the elements of frame700are suitably strong so that bike10exhibits a rigid feel that may withstand a rider's sitting and standing, and rocking from side to side. An example material is extruded aluminum, though other materials may be used. It is also preferred that the elements are attached together through welds or other suitable means to provide rigidity. It is also preferred that rear support742and front support752are sufficiently wide so that bike10is stable even while the rider rides in a side to side rocking fashion. The supports742,752need not be of the same width.

It should be noted that the foregoing elements may comprise square, rectangular, elliptical and/or other cross-sectionally shaped members. As one example the foregoing element may comprise extruded aluminum pieces that attached together to provide an aesthetically pleasing and smooth contiguous appearance. As an alternative, after these members are attached, they may be covered by a cover or shroud for an improved appearance. In this case the cover may also provide rigidity to frame700. The cover may also protect the welds or other attachment means between the frame components from the rider's sweat.

Diagonal member702may extend upward from rear support742to front member722, and may include a hole to accommodate a crank set of pedal assembly18. Pedal assembly18may also be attached to or located near diagonal member702by other suitable means.

Rear member712may be attached to down tube712, and preferably includes a socket714to receive seat support716. Seat socket714may include an insert that fits inside rear member712and that has a bore to accommodate seat support716. Socket714may comprise plastic. Pop pin22may be disengaged to allow seat support716to be adjustable up or down. Rear shield member732may extend between seat socket712and diagonal member702and be attached thereto to provide rigidity to frame700. Rear shield732may also serve to protect moving parts such as pedal assembly18from the rider's sweat. Rear shield732may also include a non-slip cover734that may provide safety if the rider steps on rear shield732.

Front member722may be attached to diagonal member702. Front member722may include a bore724through which the variable resistance device16may extend. Front member722may also include handlebar socket726to receive handlebar support728. Handlebar socket726may include an insert that fits inside front member722and that has a bore to accommodate handlebar support728. Socket726may comprise plastic. Pop pin22may be disengaged to allow handlebar support728to adjust up or down. Forks729may extend from front member722to front support752.

Front shield or member762may extend between diagonal member702and front member722and be attached thereto. Front shield762may provide rigidity to frame700, and may also prevent the rider's sweat from contacting moving parts such as flywheel20.

Flywheel20may be mounted to brackets (not shown) that extend from forks729. Flywheel20is preferably coupled to pedal assembly18as described previously.

Display stand or bracket770may be included in or attached to frame700by upper member780and lower member790. Display stand770may comprise extruded aluminum and have an appearance similar to the components of frame700. Alternatively, a cover on frame700may extend over bracket770and upper and lower members780,790. A power cord and transformer may be included within display stand770so that display100may receive electrical power from a standard electrical outlet.

Display stand770preferably includes socket772to receive display support774on which display100may be attached. Socket772may include an insert that fits inside display stand770and that has a bore to accommodate support774. Socket772may comprise plastic. Pop pin22may be disengaged to adjust display100up or down. The connection between display100and display support774may include a hinge or other suitable mechanism so that display100may be rotated relative to display support774.

Display stand770is preferably configured to position display100at a location so that display100may be easily viewed by the rider. To this end, it is preferred that display100not interfere with the rider's hands when positioned at different locations on handlebar14. It is preferred that a suitable space exist between display100and handlebar14.

An alternate embodiment of display200, which may attach to display support774, is now described with reference toFIG. 5. As shown, display200may include frame210and screen250, and both of these components are preferably constructed of materials that withstand a rider's sweat. As discussed below, it is preferred that display200allows the rider to choose and/or program a variety of exercises. Display200also preferably displays information to optimize the rider's exercise as well as safety.

Frame210may include a jack212for headphones or other devices, location or indentation218to place a logo or other advertising material and cavity220. Cavity220may serve to physically hold an item such as an iPod™ or other device that may play music or provide audible instruction or other sounds. Alternatively, cavity220may serve as a docking station so that, for example, a rider may dock his or her iPod™ or other device in cavity220. As discussed in detail later, the iPod™ or other device may then provide video and/or audible content to display200. Display200may also include a speaker222to provide audio content such as beeps, spoken instructions, music or other audio content.

Screen250may include buttons or touch screen technology with appropriate sensors and software for the rider to enter information. Screen250may display a series of screens having different subject matters. For example, screen250may display the screen shown inFIG. 5, which is a sample setup screen270wherein the rider may input information about himself or herself and the intended ride. This screen is discussed in more detail below.

Initially, however, display200may display an initial or greeting screen260such as that shown inFIG. 6. Greeting screen260may include logos or other marketing material261, and may also include a start button262. Upon the rider's pressing start button262, an appropriate safety warning, terms of use for the bike and/or disclaimer may appear on screen250. To proceed further, it is preferred that the rider be required to hit an “I accept” or other acknowledgment.

Once the rider makes the appropriate acknowledgement, display200may display screen270as shown inFIG. 7. Screen270may include logos or other marketing material271. Screen270may also provide the user with several options on how to exercise or to otherwise proceed. As shown, the user may choose the SPINNING class videos option272, the build my own workout option274or the ride to my media option276. These options are discussed in more detail below.

Welcome screen270may also include other options that may be geared to the newer rider such as introductory video277. Video277may provide general information on how to use the bike, safety and other information. To this end, after video277is chosen, the content displayed by screen250may change to screen280, a portion of which may comprise video screen282in which the introductory video is shown. This introductory video277may comprise a tutorial on riding the bike, such as by providing instructions on basic riding positions. The introductory video may be accompanied by audible instruction through speaker222, the volume of which may be increased or decreased by buttons284aand284b. Volume indicator286may show the volume level. Volume may be decreased to mute. Screen280may include a stop/pause button280which will allow the rider to stop or pause the video.

After the introductory video is over, the rider preferably has the option to go back to screen270to select one of the exercise options mentioned above. To this end, screen280may include back button288.

Once back at screen270, the rider may choose one of the exercise options or may choose the bike setup278option. Once the bike setup option278is chosen, the screen may again assume the configuration ofFIG. 8, and video screen282may provide instructions to the rider on how to set up the bike for the exercise, e.g., appropriate adjustment of the handlebars and seat.

For example, video screen282may display a video, pictures or graphics that provide instruction for the proper positioning on the bike for control and safety purposes. The bike setup option278may aid in proper seat adjustment by showing the proper knee bend so that the rider may adjust seat height. If a video, the rider may pause the video until he or she has properly adjusted the seat. Once this is accomplished, the rider may advance the content on screen282to show how the rider's knee cap should be above the pedal in the forward most position to adjust the fore/aft position of the seat. The rider may then proceed to another screen showing a graphic or picture on screen250about handlebar height. Volume may be controlled as described above.

Once the bike setup278screens have been complete, the rider may hit back button288and return to screen270to choose an exercise program. The different exercise programs are now discussed in more detail.

If the rider chooses the build my workout option274, display200may display the screen300ofFIG. 10. As shown, screen300may display three different types of workouts that the rider may choose: split terrain302, interval challenge304and riding strong or strength306. The user may hit the information button307on any of these options and screen300may display a textual description of what that exercise entails.

For example, pressing information button307for interval304may result in the following text appearing on screen300: “Speed, tempo, timing and rhythm—requires substantial fitness base. Exercise intensity: 65% to 75% of maximum heart rate.” If this appeals to the rider, the rider may then proceed to build his or her interval workout as discussed below. If not, the rider may push the information button307associated with the other exercises displayed to obtain a preview of what the other exercise routines entail.

It should be noted that the three exercises identified above are only examples and the present invention contemplates various other exercise routines. In one embodiment, screen300may preferably scroll up or down so that other exercise routines are displayed. Other workout routines associated with SPINNING may be used. For example, recovery, endurance, strength, interval and race day workout routines may be used. The riding positions, hand positions, segments, cadences and other information associated with these workout routines may be provided by the bike of the current invention. To that end, the Manual for the SPINNER Instructor Training Program is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

To build the workout, the rider may press the arrow button309of the chosen exercise routine which preferably provides the rider with a setup screen such as that shown inFIG. 5. The inputting of information by the rider to build the rider's workout is now described with reference toFIGS. 11A-F, which represent successive steps of a setup screen such as that shown by display200as inFIG. 5.

The rider may input information starting with the workout time252as inFIG. 11A. To direct the rider's attention to this input parameter, the workout time designation may be illuminated. As shown, the workout times252available may be in five minute increments, though different increments may be used. If the rider desires a shorter or longer workout, he or she may use the arrows254to scroll left or right to a desired workout time.

When the workout time252has been chosen, the next input parameter, e.g., level256, may be illuminated to focus the rider's attention thereto as shown inFIG. 11B. Intensity level256may be presented in integer increments. If the rider desires an intensity level that is not displayed on screen250, the rider may use arrows254to scroll to the desired level256.

When the intensity level256has been chosen, the next input parameter, e.g., gender258, may be illuminated to focus the rider's attention thereto as shown inFIG. 11C.

When gender258is input, the weight242field may become illuminated and a portion of screen250may display a numerical key pad244as shown inFIG. 11C. The rider may input his or her weight. After pressing the numerals for his or her weight, the rider may press the enter button245.

As shown inFIG. 11D, the rider may then enter his or her age246using numerical keypad244and pressing the enter button245while the age284field is illuminated.

At this point, the computer may calculate the max heart rate247as shown inFIG. 11E. As discussed below, the max heart rate247may be used to help guide the rider through the workout. But if the rider desires to increase or decrease the max heart rate247, he or she may do so with arrows274.

It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to input of the types of information described above. Other information may also be input. When the foregoing parameters and/or other appropriate parameters have been inputted, the rider may hit the next button248inFIG. 11Fwhich provides a summary screen310. If the rider wants to change any of the information in screen310, he or she may hit the back button322. Otherwise, the rider may hit the start button324and begin the workout.

As shown inFIG. 12A, display200may show screen400for the rider's workout. As discussed later in more detail, the screen inFIG. 12Amay be displayed when the rider's heart beat is in the appropriate range.FIG. 12B, which is similar to the screen ofFIG. 12Abut with certain items highlighted such as the heartbeat field, may be displayed when the rider's heart rate is too low or too high. The highlighted nature is intended to bring the rider's attention to the heartbeat. Once the heart beat is in the intended range, the screen ofFIG. 12Amay again be displayed.

A portion of screen400may comprise a video screen402. The video content may comprise an instructor leading the rider through the exercise, a road or trail that simulates the riding conditions the rider is undergoing or other video like the rider's favorite TV show. The content displayed on video screen402may be changed by the rider by pressing any of the view buttons404. At the beginning of the workout, screen402may display a general graphic of the hear rate profile with text stating the goals of the program.

Throughout the workout, different instructions in riding positions and hand positions are provided at appropriate times during the workout The rider may control the volume of the instructions, music or other audio content by volume buttons406. The display may have an assortment of audio content that the rider may choose to listen to while exercising. Alternatively, the audio content may be programmed into display200to automatically accompany the type of exercise chosen by the rider. Alternatively, the rider may insert his or her iPod or other similar device in cavity220of display200. In this embodiment, cavity220may serve as a docking station and the iPod may provide the video and/or audio content.

An instruction bar or message window408may appear below video screen402and may display instructions to the rider such as for the rider to change riding or hand positions, to gradually add resistance to increase heart rate, decrease resistance to lower heart rate, etc. General messages and encouraging messages may also be displayed by window408. Along with the written instruction in bar408, the spoken instructions may also be provided through speaker222of display200.

Screen400preferably includes a ride position field418and a hand position field420which may display the posture and hand position that the rider should assume during that part of the workout. The ride position field418may show the rider in a sitting, standing or other position as described previously. The hand position field420may show different points on the handlebars where the rider's hands should be placed as described previously.

Screen400may also include a rate of perceived exertion field (RPE) field422which may display different levels of difficulty such as easy, moderate, hard or very hard that may be associated with heart rate targets with particular segments of the workout. For each heart rate target, there may be a corresponding RPE. When a rider is not wearing a heart rate strap or other device to monitor heart rate, the rider can observe the RPE to gauge their intensity.

Screen400may also include an effort level field424. The level of effort may be increased or decreased by arrows425. By adjusting the effort level, the rider's heart rate and/or cadence targets may go up or down. When the effort level is increased or decreased, the rider may be instructed to increase or decrease the resistance. In an embodiment of the invention, screen400may include a button that will transmit a signal to the resistance adjustment device to vary the resistance provided thereby.

Screen400preferably includes a stop/pause button426so that the rider may stop and pause the workout if he or she needs to dismount the bike. If button426is pressed, a screen may pop up asking the rider if he or she wants to end the workout. If the rider presses yes, the workout ends and screen200displays a workout summary screen that provides information502such as workout time, total distance, calories burned, average heart rate and average cadence as shown inFIG. 13. The rider may then press the finish button504and the screen may revert to the screen shown inFIG. 7. Referring back to the rider being prompted whether he or she wants to end the workout, If the rider presses no, the rider is taken back to the workout to resume where he or she left off.

Preferably, the workout will have different segments that make up the overall workout time. For example, one segment may simulate climbing a hill where the resistance is adjusted up, a standing riding position is assumed and the cadence is decreased. Another segment may simulate a flat section of road where the resistance is adjusted down, the rider is instructed to sit and the cadence is increased.

The overall time remaining may be displayed in time field412, and the time remaining in a particular segment may appear in segment field414. A different riding position, hand position and/or resistance adjustment setting may be associated with each segment. And as one segment ends, the instruction bar408may alert the rider that in a certain amount of time, the rider should change his or her riding position, hand position and/or resistance setting. When the segment changes the ride position in field418and the hand position in field420may change appropriately. There may also be warm up and cool down segments.

Instruction bar408may also provide messages encouraging the rider through the workout, such as “you're doing great; keep going.” These messages may also be audibly spoken through the speaker222in display200.

Workout screen400may also include a calories field416which may display the number of calories burned to that point in the workout. The number of calories burned preferably depends on the information inputted by the rider. In another embodiment, it is not dependent on personalized information of the rider.

Screen400also preferably include a cadence bar440and heart rate bar442. Cadence bar may include cadence icon441which displays the actual cadence in revolutions per minute that the rider is pedaling at. To this end, the computer in display200may be coupled to the flywheel to determine RPMs. The actual cadence may be determined by taking the gear ratio into account. Heart rate bar442may include a heart icon443that displays the rider's actual heart rate in beats per minute. Both the cadence bar440and heart rate bar442may include arrows444.

Cadence bar440may display a target zone447, e.g., between 80 and 90 revolutions per minute as shown inFIG. 12A, in which the rider should try to remain. The cadence zone447may change according to the segment of the workout. For example, if the segment involves climbing a hill, the cadence zone will be lower. While if the segment involves a flat sprint, the cadence will be higher.

The zone447part of the cadence bar440may be green to reflect that it is the desired zone. The parts of the cadence bar440to the right or left of zone447may be red to reflect that the rider should try to avoid cadences higher than 90 RPMs, or cadences lower than 80 RPMs. If the rider's cadence falls above or below zone447, the cadence bar440may turn red or be highlighted (similar to the highlighting of heart rate bar442inFIG. 12B) to bring the rider's attention that he or she should increase or decrease cadence. The instruction bar408may provide instructions to that effect, and an audio instruction may also be provided.

Heart rate bar442may also display the rider's actual heart rate though an icon. The actual heart rate may be supplied by heart rate monitor worn by the rider being connected to the display200. Display200may preferably acquire and interpret telemetric heart rate signals from coded and non-coded heart rate straps. Heart rate bar may also display a target zone449, e.g., between 140 and 150 beats per minute, in which the rider should try to remain. The heart rate zone449may be dependent on the information such as age, weight and gender input by the rider before the workout. The zone449part of the heart rate bar442may be green to reflect that it is the desired zone. The parts of the heart rate bar442the right or left of zone449may be red to reflect that the rider should try to avoid heart beat rates higher than 150 beats per minute, or lower than 140 beats per minute. If the rider's heart rate falls above or below zone449, the heart rate bar442may turn red or be highlighted as shown inFIG. 12Bto bring the rider's attention that he or she should increase or decrease heart rate.

The instruction bar408may provide instructions to lower the heart rate, e.g., decrease resistance if the rider's cadence is in the zone or lower cadence is the rider's cadence exceeds the zone. An audio instruction may also be provided.

It should be noted that the layout of workout screen400may vary without departing from the scope of the current invention. For example, cadence bar440and heart rate bar442may resemble a speedometer having a needle, wherein cadence RPMs and heart beats per minute are laid out on a dial similar to miles per hour are on a speedometer. Cadence zone441and heart rate zone443may also be laid out on the dial. The actual cadence or heart rate would be represented by the needle as are miles per hour represented in a speedometer. And if the cadence or heart rate falls outside the respective zones, the dial could turn red or be highlighted.

Once the workout is done, screen400will so indicate. At that point, display200may display the workout summary screen500ofFIG. 13. At that point, the rider may press the finish button504and return to screen270ofFIG. 7.

As noted above, another of the options on screen270is the SPINNING class videos option272. If the rider chooses this option272screen250may display the screen290ofFIG. 9. As shown, several different workout options may be shown such as split terrain292, interval challenge294and riding strong or strength296. The user may hit the information button297to obtain a textual description of what the workout entails. As with the screen300ofFIG. 10, the invention is not limited to the workout examples identified above. To that end, it is preferred that the rider may scroll across screen290to other workout options.

As shown inFIG. 9, each workout option may include a quick start button299. By hitting this button, the rider is preferably taken to workout screen400without having to go through all the set up screens250ofFIGS. 11A-F. In essence, if the rider selects option272he or she may quickly start the workout. In this embodiment, the workout may proceed irrespective of the rider's personal information, e.g., weight, age, etc.

In an embodiment of the current invention, a personalized workout may be stored on a memory device such as a memory stick. Preferably, the memory stick may be plugged into display200, e.g., plugged into a USB port in the console of display200. The information on the memory stick may be downloaded thereto from the rider's personal trainer, or may be downloaded from the internet. In any event, it is preferred that the information on the memory stick may be easily downloaded to the computer in display200. The information downloaded from the memory stick to the computer in display200may also include personal information of the rider such as weight, age, etc. As such, the downloading may perform the programming such as that performed through the setup screens described above. In this manner, the computer is preferably programmed quickly, and the rider may begin his or her workout.

The ride to my media option276on screen270is now further described. If this option is chosen, screen600may appear as shown inFIG. 14. This option may not be associated with any exercise that may be preprogrammed into display200such as those described above. Rather, screen600may simply display overall information as follows.

Screen600may include video display602that may display a video chosen by the rider by using video buttons603. The video may be a favorite TV show, video of a road simulating a bike ride, or other video content. If the rider desires music or some other audio content, the volume may be controlled by buttons610. Screen600may include a message bar604that may provide encouragement to the rider or other information. Time field606may indicate how long the rider has been riding. Calorie field608may indicate how many calories the rider has burned so far. This may be generalized or average calorie burn rate information and need not be dependent on a particular rider's personal information.

Screen600may also include cadence bar612with a cadence icon616, and heart rate bar614with a heart rate icon618. When choosing the ride to my media option276, the rider may input a max heart rate620by using buttons622. Field624may then display the percentage of max heart rate at which the rider's heart is beating. Screen600may also include a stop/pause button624that may work as described above.

As noted earlier withFIG. 5, display200may include fan216that may be controlled by fan control214. The default of fan216may be set at a non running state. The fan control214may comprise a button which when pressed will set the fan to 100% of its running capacity. If fan control button214is pressed again, fan216may adjust to some other percentage of running capacity. And if fan control button214is pressed again, fan216may turn off.

Another aspect of the invention relating to a display module700is now further described with reference toFIG. 15. As shown, display module700may exist separate and apart from an exercise bike. Display module700may include display200similar to that described above. Display module may also generally have the same configuration as display stand770described inFIG. 4.

Display module700may preferably be attached to an exercise bike thereby converting the bike to a programmable bike similar to that of the current invention. As shown, display module700may include an upper clamping member706and lower clamping members708to attach display module700to a bike or other piece of exercise equipment. Different means to attach display module700to a bike may be used, such as clamps or other suitable means such as a vice grip type arrangement, nut and bolt, etc. The type of attaching means and the configuration thereof may be altered to suit a particular brand of bike that the display module700is intended for.

Alternatively, display module700may comprise a stand alone device that is not attached to a bike. In this embodiment, the base710of display module700is preferably broad enough so that it may remain upright as the rider presses various buttons on display200.

Bike10of the current invention provides many benefits over other stationary bikes that may include some amount of computer guidance. Many such stationary bikes simply do not offer the type of workout that the current bike offers. For example, the LIFECYCLE type bike does not have the geometry to permit alternating standing and sitting in a smooth manner. In contrast, bike10of the current invention is intended for alternating standing and sitting and thus allows different riding positions. This in turn burns more calories and provides for a total body workout by using different muscle groups. For example, the standing position allows core abdominal muscles to be used. This is not achieved by the LIFECYCLE type bike.

The LIFECYCLE type bike does not provide instructions regarding various riding and handlebar positions that allow for a workout that involves a bike ride that simulates an outdoor ride with flats, hills and other conditions. Bike10of the current invention provides these type of instructions. The LIFECYCLE type bike also does not offer the variety of personalized rides that bike10of the current invention offers.

The current invention also provides an advance over indoor cycling bikes that may be located on the health club floor for random use without an instructor. These other type of indoor cycling bikes may pose a safety threat, especially when in a fixed gear configuration. Bike10of the current invention may provide instructions regarding a cadence limit, or other variables to reduce or avoid this risk. The instructions may also take the rider's health into account. Accordingly, bike10overcomes some of the risks associated with random, non-instructed use of indoor cycling bikes that are typically used in a group class led by an instructor.

Although certain presently preferred embodiments of the invention have been described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains that variations and modifications of the described embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.