Abstract:
In accordance with the invention, a uniquely constructed, lightweight calf raise exercise device is provided which is user friendly, portable, and inexpensive—providing athletes with the ability to effectively strengthen leg muscles without going to the gym, which is optimal for the busy lifestyle. The calf raise device generally includes a platform assembly having a length extending between a front side and a rear side, the platform assembly including a first surface extending a segment of the length from the front side and an elevated second surface extending the remainder of the length between the first surface and the rear side, wherein the first surface is configured to support the user&#39;s heels during operation and the second surface is configured to support the user&#39;s toes during operation and throughout the motion of the calf raise. The calf raise device also includes at least two ankle cuffs configured to receive the ankles of the user wearing the calf raise device and at least two elastic resistance members operably connecting the platform assembly with the at least two ankle cuffs respectively. The elastic resistance members are configured to provide resistance throughout the motion of the calf raise.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATION 
       [0001]    The present application claims priority to, and the benefits of, U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/297,945, filed Feb. 21, 2016, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    The present invention relates to exercise equipment, in particular, to an improved, portable, lightweight calf raise device. 
         [0003]    By way of background, calf raises are a method of exercising the gastrocnemius, tibialis posterior and soleus muscles of the lower leg. The movement that is performed is technically labeled plantar flexion and commonly known as ankle extensions or calf raises. The exercise can be performed either by standing or while in the seated position such as a bent-knee calf raise. 
         [0004]    Currently in the art, calf raise machines are only designed for commercial use in gyms and not for compact home personal use. Typically, machines designed to assist in performing the calf raise are awkwardly shaped, of larger size which make them difficult to move, and are extremely expensive—making them impractical and expensive for home use purposes. 
         [0005]    Basketball players and other athletes often desire to improve their leg strength thereby increasing their ability to vertically jump in the air which provides them with an advantage on the court. Often athletes desire to work on the calf area muscle group without the need to travel to a gym or pay membership dues for equipment that they do not need. Many athletes would like the ability to work on their vertical jumping ability which fits their busy schedule without incurring the cost of a gym membership or purchasing heavy equipment for home use. 
         [0006]    For the foregoing reasons, there is a need for an improved calf raise machine which is easy to use, portable, efficient, and adaptive with the lifestyle of today&#39;s athletes. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0007]    In accordance with the invention, a uniquely constructed, lightweight calf raise exercise device is provided which is user friendly, portable, and inexpensive—providing athletes with the ability to effectively strengthen leg muscles without going to the gym, which is optimal for the busy lifestyle. 
         [0008]    In a version of the invention, the calf raise device generally comprises: (a) a platform assembly having a length extending between a front side and a rear side, the platform assembly comprising a first surface extending a segment of the length from the front side and an elevated second surface extending the remainder of the length between the first surface and the rear side, wherein the first surface is configured to support the user&#39;s heels during operation and the second surface is configured to support the user&#39;s toes during operation and throughout the motion of the calf raise; (b) at least two ankle cuffs configured to receive the ankles of the user wearing the calf raise device; and (c) at least two elastic resistance members operably connecting the platform assembly with the at least two ankle cuffs respectively, the elastic resistance members are configured to provide resistance throughout the motion of the calf raise. Preferably, the length of the second surface is less than the length of the first surface. 
         [0009]    In a version, the platform assembly is formed by a unitary continuous sheet of rigid material, thereby providing a lightweight and portable device while reducing the overall costs of manufacturing. 
         [0010]    In a version, the first surface and second surface have either a raised textured pattern or an anti-slip material for providing traction when utilizing the calf raise device. 
         [0011]    In yet another version, the calf raise device may further comprise a first base support and a second base support for supporting the platform assembly on a flat surface, the first base support positioned at the front side of the platform assembly and the second base support positioned at the rear side of the platform assembly. 
         [0012]    Further, in yet another version of the invention, each ankle cuff may include an interior and an exterior surface having a hook and loop type fastener for securing to the ankle of the user, the interior having a padding material for providing comfort while worn and the exterior having an elastic resistance member connection ring. 
         [0013]    In an optional detailed version, each elastic resistance member comprises a length of elastic material terminating at a first end and a second end, a first connection means positioned at the first end and a second connection means positioned at the second end, wherein the first connection means is attachably removable to the platform assembly and the second connection means is attachably removable to the ankle cuff. 
         [0014]    These and other features of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following specification and drawings. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0015]    These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description and accompanying figures where: 
           [0016]      FIG. 1  is perspective view of a version of the application; 
           [0017]      FIG. 2  is a left side elevation view of the version shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0018]      FIG. 3  is a right side elevation view of the version shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0019]      FIG. 4  is a top plan view of the version shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0020]      FIG. 5  is a front elevation view of the version shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0021]      FIG. 6  is a rear side elevation view of the version shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0022]      FIG. 7  is a bottom plan view of the version shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0023]      FIG. 8  is a bottom perspective view of the version shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0024]      FIG. 9  is an up-close view of the connection assembly of the version shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0025]      FIG. 10  is an illustrative perspective view showing use of the version shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0026]      FIG. 11  is an illustrative perspective view showing use of the version shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0027]      FIG. 12  is a front perspective view of a second version of the platform assembly; 
           [0028]      FIG. 13  is a left side elevation view of the version shown in  FIG. 12 ; 
           [0029]      FIG. 14  is an illustrative right side elevation view of the version shown in  FIG. 12 ; 
           [0030]      FIG. 15  is an interior plan view of a version of the ankle cuff and elastic resistance member; 
           [0031]      FIG. 16  is an exterior plan view of the version of the ankle cuff and elastic resistance member shown in  FIG. 15 ; 
           [0032]      FIG. 17  is a perspective view of the version of the ankle cuff and elastic resistance member shown in  FIG. 15 ; 
           [0033]      FIG. 18  is a front perspective view showing a version of the platform assembly; and 
           [0034]      FIG. 19  is a left side elevation view of the version shown in  FIG. 18 . 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0035]    Referring now to the figures wherein the showings are for purposes of illustrating a preferred version of the invention only and not for purposes of limiting the same, the present invention relates to a calf raise exercise device which is compact, lightweight, and portable. The calf raise exercise device is particularly suited for home use by busy athletes of all types who simply desire to strengthen their lower legs without the need for costly equipment or the need to run to the gym. 
         [0036]    With that said, the following detailed description is of the best currently contemplated modes of carrying out exemplary versions of the invention. The description is not to be taken in the limiting sense, but is made merely for the purpose illustrating the general principles of the invention, since the scope of the invention is best defined by the appended claims. 
         [0037]    Various inventive features are described below that can each be used independently of one another or in combination with other features. 
         [0038]    With reference to the figures, particularly  FIG. 1 , a description of a version of the invention will be provided and is generally designated as numeral  100 .  FIG. 1  is a front perspective view of a first version of the calf raise exercise device  100  as positioned on a ground surface or otherwise a flat surface sufficient to support the weight of a person. Generally, the calf raise device  100  comprises a platform assembly  102 , at least two ankle cuffs  104 A, B configured to receive the ankles  30  of a user (See  FIG. 10 ), and at least two corresponding elastic resistance members  106 A, B connecting the platform assembly  102  with the corresponding ankle cuffs  104 A, B for providing resistance throughout the motion of the exercise which will be described in detail below. 
         [0039]    As best illustrated by  FIG. 1 - FIG. 11 , a first version of the platform assembly  102  generally comprises a first lower surface  108  and a second elevated surface  110 . The first lower surface  108  is configured to provide a flat platform surface to receive and support the heels  60  of a user and the second elevated surface  110  is configured to provide an elevated platform for supporting the ball and toes  50  of the user during operation. 
         [0040]    In the illustrated version, the platform assembly  102  is substantially configured to provide a standing surface area in a rectangular shape having a width W and a length L 1 . The length L 1  ( FIG. 4 ) extending between a front perimeter  112  to a rear perimeter  114 . The first lower surface  108  extends from the front perimeter  112  for a first segment L 2  of the overall length L 1 . The second elevated surface  110  is positioned in an elevated configuration which extends the remaining length L 3  of the overall length L 1  between the first lower surface  108  and the rear perimeter  114 . Other shaped configurations can certainly be envisioned to carry out the function of the calf raise device having a first lower surface  108  and a second elevated surface  110 . 
         [0041]    The following dimensions and ratio attributes of the platform assembly are specifically designed and optimally configured to provide superior comfort for the user athlete, ease of functionality, and maximize the results from the calf raise exercise movement. These dimensions specifically formulate optimal dimensions for elevation of the toes  50  on the elevated surface  110  positioning them above the heels  60  while positioning the ankle cuffs  104  in combination with the elastic resistance members  106  above the lower surface  108 . For illustrative purposes see  FIG. 10  and  FIG. 11 . 
         [0042]    In the illustrated version, the length L 3  ( FIG. 4 ) of the second elevated surface is less than the length L 2  of the lower first surface. This provides more platform area for supporting the ankle  30  and the heel  60  portion of the user&#39;s foot  40  and less space for the toes of the user which require less platform area during operation of the calf raise exercise device  100 . Preferably, the range of length L 1  of the platform assembly  102  is between 10 and 13 inches, ideally 11.5 inches. Preferably, the width W of the platform assembly  102  is between 10 and 14 inches, preferably 12 inches. Preferably, the length L 2  of the lower surface  108  is between 6 and 10 inches, ideally 8 inches and the length L 3  of the elevated surface  110  is between 2 and 5 inches, ideally 3.5 inches. Ideally, the height  113  of the lower surface  108  with reference to the ground surface is at least ½ inch, most preferably 1 inch. See  FIG. 3 . 
         [0043]    Preferably, the second elevated surface  110  is elevated above the first lower surface  108  at a height  112 . Preferably, the height  112  is at least 1.5 to 3 inches, ideally 2.5 inches. Furthermore, the height H 1  ( FIG. 2 ) of the elevated surface  110  in relation to the ground surface is preferably at least 3 to 5 inches, ideally 3.5 inches. 
         [0044]    As best illustrated by  FIG. 2  and  FIG. 3 , the platform assembly  102  may be best supported on the ground by utilizing two or more base support members  116 ,  118  which are positioned along the front perimeter  112  and at the rear perimeter  114  for providing lateral and longitudinal support in conjunction the ground or other flat surface. 
         [0045]    As best illustrated by  FIG. 1 - FIG. 3 , and  FIG. 9 , the platform assembly comprises a pair of connection rings  128 A,  128 B for positioning and connection of the elastic resistance members  106 A,  106 B. The connection rings  128 A,  128 B are symmetrically positioned laterally near the front perimeter  112  of the lower surface  108 . In particular, the connection rings  128 A and  128 B are centrally aligned with the rear of the user&#39;s heel  60  while in operation. 
         [0046]    In a second version of the platform assembly as best illustrated by  FIG. 12  and  FIG. 13 , the platform assembly  202  is constructed of a single unitary, continuous sheet of material. Ideally, the platform assembly  202  is made of a lightweight metal such as aluminum or a hardened plastic. The single unitary and continuous construction reduces the amount of materials need for construction and is more favorable for manufacturing—due to the reduced amount of independent parts. The version of the platform assembly  202  can be easily manufactured by utilizing and bending a single piece of metal or only utilizing a single injection molding regarding plastic construction such as polypropylene (PP) or polyvinylidene chloride (PVC). Preferably, one sheet of diamond plated aluminum is utilized. The sheet is initially cut into a rectangular configuration which is bent to the above described dimensions regarding platform assembly  102  during manufacturing, thereby mitigating manufacturing costs and reducing the weight of the overall device. 
         [0047]    As illustrated by the elevation view in  FIG. 13 , the version of the platform assembly  202  includes a front support member  216  and a rear support member  218  which provide lateral and longitudinally support of the platform assembly  202  while supporting the user thereon. In the version, the front and rear support members  216 ,  218  each include inward extending feet, which form an L shaped cross section, which provide an increase of surface area in contact with the ground surface. Other versions of the support members can be envisioned such as the version of the platform assembly  302  illustrated in  FIG. 18  and  FIG. 19 , wherein each front  316  and rear support members  318  each include outward extending feet having an L shaped cross section for providing superior support. 
         [0048]    In a preferred version, as best illustrated by  FIG. 1  and  FIG. 4 , a non-slip texture  122  is provided on the elevated surface  110  which extends from near the front perimeter  120  of the elevated surface  110  for at least a segment of the length L 3  thereof. For example, the non-slip texture  122  can be a non-slip tape material made of a silicon carbide. In particular, the non-slip texture  122  provides a gripping segment which is suited to grip the toe portion  50  of the user&#39;s feet  40  during operation of the calf raise exercise device  100 , thereby improving safety. Moreover, the lower surface  108  can also boast a textured surface  124  which provides a superior gripping action in conjunction with the heel  60  portion of the user&#39;s foot  40 . In the illustrated version, the textured surface  124  is an integral texture pattern of the native construction material of the platform assembly  102  as originally molded, for example the diamond plating disclosed above. Alternatively, other materials which provide a non-slip surface may be utilized such as the non-slip tape made of silicon carbide described above. 
         [0049]    With reference to the figures, particularly  FIG. 14 - FIG. 17 , the ankle cuffs  104  will be described in detail. In the illustrated version, the ankle cuffs  104  generally comprise a unitary elongated rectangular portion  126  having an interior surface  129 , an exterior surface  130 , and a connection ring  136 . The elongated rectangular portion  126  is generally flexible in nature and is configured to secure to the ankle  30  of the user during operation. The interior surface  129  and the exterior surface  130  are equipped with reciprocal hook and loop fasteners  132  utilized to secure the ankle cuff  104  to the respective ankle  30 . Moreover, in a version, the ankle cuff  104  interior surface  129  may be lined with an interior padding  134  for providing a more comfortable fit about the user&#39;s ankle  30 . The connection ring  136  is ideally located near the bottom perimeter  138  and configured to be centrally positioned at the rear of the user&#39;s ankle  30  while worn as illustrated in  FIG. 11 . 
         [0050]    Now referring to  FIG. 9 - FIG. 11 ,  FIG. 16 , the elastic resistance members  106 A, B are generally configured to connect the ankle cuffs  104  with the platform assembly  102  and provide resistance throughout the motion of the calf raise exercise. In further detail, the elastic resistance members  106 A, B are generally an elastic body that returns to its original shape after deformation such as a polymer, rubber, or latex material or spring. In the illustrated version, the elastic resistance members generally comprise a length L 4  of elastic tubing  144  or band terminating at a first free end  140  and a second free end  142 . Ideally the length L 4  is configured to be of sufficient length not to be engaged under tension when the user&#39;s heel  60  is positioned flat on the lower surface  108 . Preferably, the length L 4  of the elastic resistance member  106  is at least 3 inches, more preferably 3.54 inches (9 cm). Preferably, the length L 4  is configured so that the elastic resistance member  106  begins to stretch and provide resistance immediately after the user initiates lifting the heel  60  off the lower surface  108 . 
         [0051]    In the illustrated version, a first connection means  146  is positioned at the first free end  140  of the elastic tubing  144  and a second connection means  148  is positioned at the second free end  142 . The first and second connection means  146 ,  148  can be a caribiner configuration or a ring  150  with a hinged gate  152  is preferable ( FIG. 9 ). The connection means  146 ,  148  are configured to be attachably removable so that the elastic resistance members  106  are easily attached and removed between the platform assembly  102  and the ankle cuffs  104 . In the version, the connection means  146 ,  148  located at opposing ends  140 ,  142  attach to the connection ring  128  of the platform assembly  102  and the connection ring  136  of the ankle cuffs  104  respectively. The collective length L 5  ( FIG. 16 ) of the elastic tubing  144 , the first connection means  146 , and the second connection means  148  is preferably between 5 and 7 inches, preferably 6 inches. 
         [0052]    It is highlighted that varying degrees of resistance strengths of the elastic resistance members  106  can be utilized in order to increase the resistance throughout the workout or increase the resistance overtime to accommodate strength gains and further challenge the muscle group. Moreover, one or more elastic resistance members  106  can by combined or “doubled up” at each ankle cuff  104  in order to increase the resistance load. Preferably, the resistance load of each elastic resistance member  106  is safe and effective for the calf raise exercise movement. Ideally, latex tubing is utilized which has an internal diameter of at least 6 mm and an external diameter of at least 12 mm. The latex external diameter can be increased to increase the resistance load or decreased to decrease the resistance load depending on the athlete&#39;s needs. 
         [0053]      FIG. 10  and  FIG. 11  illustrate use of the calf raise exercise device  100 . The user initially places the exercise device  100  on a flat supportive surface. Ankle cuffs  104  are each attached at each respective user ankle  30 . Each ankle cuff  104  is attached to the respective platform assembly  102  via the respective elastic resistance member  106 . The user then steps on to the platform assembly  102 , placing both feet  40  aligned forward towards the rear of the platform assembly  102  and rear perimeter  114 , positioning the toes  50  on the elevated surface  110  and the heels  60  on the lower surface  108 . The user is now ready to perform the calf raise exercise by repeatedly elevating the heels  60  from the lower platform  10  to an elevated position above the elevated surface  110  in successive reps according to the user&#39;s workout plan which can vary between athletes and desired results. 
         [0054]    The calf raise device  100  can be made in any manner and of any material chosen with sound engineering judgment. Preferably, materials will be strong, lightweight, long lasting, economic, and ergonomic. 
         [0055]    The invention does not require that all the advantageous features and all the advantages need to be incorporated into every version of the invention. 
         [0056]    Although preferred embodiments of the invention have been described in considerable detail, other versions and embodiments of the invention are certainly possible. Therefore, the pre-sent invention should not be limited to the described embodiments herein. 
         [0057]    All features disclosed in this specification including any claims, abstract, and drawings may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose unless expressly stated otherwise.