Patent Publication Number: US-2011059829-A1

Title: Combination grip for an exercise device

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/557,050 filed on Nov. 6, 2006, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/734,145 filed Nov. 7, 2005, and which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/714,388 filed on Nov. 14, 2003, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,090,622, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/410,691 filed on Apr. 9, 2003, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,044,896. The entire contents of each of the above-listed applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein and made part of this specification. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     Certain embodiments disclosed herein relate to exercise devices, and in particular, to grips for an exercise device having an inelastic strap that is easily configurable for use in performing a wide variety of exercises. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Resistance exercise devices allow a user to exercise by providing a resistance to the movement of a user&#39;s arms, legs, or torso. The term “resistance exercise device” as used herein denotes exercise devices where resistance is provided by working one muscle against another, or by working against the weight of the user, and may include elastic bands to provide an increased resistance force. More specifically, resistance exercise devices, as used herein, do not include a significant or additional weight against which the user exercises. The usefulness of these devices depends, in part, on the ease with which a user can perform different types of exercises, the range or number of exercises that can be performed with the device, and the ease with which different users can adjust the device according to their height, weight, strength, and/or physical limitations. In addition, resistance exercise devices are often lightweight and may be portable. 
     Resistance exercise devices having elastic bands typically restrict the motion of a user&#39;s arms and/or legs, or the motion between the user and a support structure. Elastic exercise devices can be small, even portable, but have limited usefulness that result from their resistance characteristics, which depend on the length and elasticity of the elastic band. As a result of these characteristics, the elastic bands are useful for a specific length range, thus restricting the diversity of exercises for which it can be used. In addition, it may not be possible for different users to use the same device for the same exercise due to differences in height, weight, or strength between different users. Thus, for an elastic device to be generally useful, such as to provide a complete workout or to allow for different users, a plurality of elastic bands are required that must be easily interchangeable. No known prior art device provides the ease of use necessary to be generally useful across a wide range of exercises. 
     Another limitation of elastic resistance exercise devices is that the resistance is inconsistent and increases with increasing displacement, and also tends to snap back when the user decreases his or her effort. While this resistance response provides for a compact design, it is problematic as it does not recreate the resistance encountered by muscles during more natural types of exercising, such as running, swimming, etc. Yet another limitation of elastic devices is the inability to support a wide range of weight of the user—typically the devices are adapted to support only the resistance provided by the user&#39;s muscles. This creates extreme limitations in the exercises that can be performed by any individual elastic device. For this reason, elastic devices must be used over a limited range of stances, further limiting the user&#39;s workout. 
     Another type of resistance exercise device provides an inelastic strap that is attachable to a fixed location such as, for example, a door. These devices may overcome some of the limitations of the elastic devices previously discussed by providing inelastic straps that can be anchored between a door and a door jamb. One of these devices has a fixed length strap attached to a door through a pulley system that allows the user to exercise by moving the arms in opposite directions. Another of these devices has a pair of fixed length straps anchored to a door. Both of these devices are of limited usefulness because of their fixed length and the range of exercises for which they can be used. 
     There is a need to provide a resistance exercise device that is easily adjustable so that it can provide a complete workout for any user, including adjustments that allow a wide range of stances and exercises, and that provides resistance to the user&#39;s motion in a form that is useful for exercising. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In one embodiment, an exercise device comprises an inelastic portion having grips of different types. The device, which may include an anchor for fixing the device to a stationary object, is preferably adjustable over a range of lengths, and that can provide resistance ranging from nearly zero to the full body weight of the user. 
     As used herein, the noun “grip” encompasses any device that is interlockable with part of the human body, that is it can be connected in such a way that a person can transfer a force to the grip, preferably a force equal to some or all of the person&#39;s weight, and the verb “grip,” when used herein, refers to the action of interlocking the device and a body part. When used in an exercise device, a grip is attached to other elements that permit the force to be transferred to another object, including but not limited to a stationary support, a device that can store or release energy, such as an elastic cord or a spring, or another body part. Grips include devices that can be surrounded by a body part, for example flexible loop or a hook, or that a body part can surround, for example an elongated member that can fit within the grasp of the hand. In this context, a member that can be gripped, or is grippable, is one that can surround a body part or can be surrounded by a body part, and has a size and configuration that permits the transfer of forces from the user to the grip. A “hand grip” is grip that is sized for grasping by the hand. 
     In certain embodiments, the grip at one or more ends of an inelastic portion is configured as a combination of grips, such that the user may exercise, for example, by supporting either the hand or the foot. 
     In certain embodiments, an exercise device comprises an inelastic portion having at least one end, a hand grip attached to the at least one end; and a loop attached to the end, where the exercise apparatus is adapted to support the weight of a user of the exercise device by the hand grip, the loop, or some combination thereof. 
     In certain embodiments, an exercise device comprises an inelastic portion having at least one end, a hand grip attached to the at least one end; and a loop attached to the end, where the exercise apparatus is adapted to support the weight of a user of the exercise device by the hand grip, the loop, or some combination thereof. The exercise device further comprises a hand grip including a rigid portion sized to a hand, and a loop is sized to a foot. 
     In certain embodiments, an exercise device comprises an inelastic portion having at least one end, a hand grip attached to the at least one end; and a loop attached to the end, where the exercise apparatus is adapted to support the weight of a user of the exercise device by the hand grip, the loop, or some combination thereof. The exercise device further comprises a hand grip integrally attached to an end of the exercise device. 
     In certain embodiments, an exercise device comprises an inelastic portion having at least one end, a hand grip attached to the at least one end; and a loop attached to the end, where the exercise apparatus is adapted to support the weight of a user of the exercise device by the hand grip, the loop, or some combination thereof. The exercise device further comprises a hand grip and a loop integrally attached to the hand grip. 
     In certain embodiments, an exercise device comprises an inelastic portion having at least one end, a hand grip attached to the at least one end; and a loop attached to the end, where the exercise apparatus is adapted to support the weight of a user of the exercise device by the hand grip, the loop, or some combination thereof. The exercise device further comprises a hand grip and a loop removably attached to the hand grip. 
     In certain embodiments, an exercise device comprises an inelastic portion having at least one end, a hand grip attached to the at least one end; and a loop attached to the end, where the exercise apparatus is adapted to support the weight of a user of the exercise device by the hand grip, the loop, or some combination thereof. The exercise device further comprises a loop of adjustable length. 
     In certain embodiments, an exercise device comprises an inelastic portion having at two ends, a hand grip attached to each end; and a loop attached to end, where the exercise apparatus is adapted to support the weight of a user of the exercise device by the hand grip, the loop, or some combination thereof. 
     Certain embodiments are summarized above. However, despite the foregoing discussion of certain embodiments, only the appended claims (and not the present summary) are intended to define the invention(s). The summarized embodiments, and other embodiments, will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments having reference to the attached figures, the invention(s) not being limited to any particular embodiment(s) disclosed. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic front view of one embodiment of an exercise device as anchored between a door and door jamb; 
         FIG. 2  is a partial schematic sectional view  2 - 2  of  FIG. 1  showing the exercise device anchored between a door and door jamb; 
         FIG. 3  is illustrative of a user performing a high row exercise with the exercise embodiment of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of another embodiment of an exercise device; 
         FIGS. 5A and 5B  are views of the anchor portion of the exercise device of  FIG. 4 , where  FIG. 5A  is a perspective view, and  FIG. 5B  is sectional view  5 B- 5 B; 
         FIG. 6  is a schematic top view of the elongated member of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 4  having two lengthening mechanisms and two hand grips; 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view showing details of the grip and the lengthening mechanism of the embodiment of  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 8  is a sectional view  8 - 8  of  FIG. 7  showing the hand grip; 
         FIG. 9A  is a perspective view showing details of the slack sleeves of the embodiment of  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 9B  is a sectional view  9 B- 9 B of  FIG. 9A  showing details of the cam buckle and attachment of the slack sleeves to the cam buckle; 
         FIG. 10  is a schematic top view of an alternative elongated member embodiment having one lengthening mechanism and two finger grips; 
         FIG. 11  is schematic sectional view  11 - 11  of the finger grip embodiment of  FIG. 10 ; 
         FIGS. 12A-12D  are schematic drawings illustrating one embodiment of a lengthening and centering of the exercise device, where  FIG. 12A  is the initial configuration,  FIG. 12B  illustrates lengthening the elongated member, further illustrated in FIGS.  12 B′ and  12 B″,  FIG. 12C  shows the application of force to the shorter leg of the elongated member, and  FIG. 12D  shows the application of force to the grips during an exercise; 
         FIGS. 13A-13C  are schematic drawings illustrating the one embodiment of a lengthening and adjusting of the exercise device having differing arm lengths, where  FIG. 13A  is the initial configuration,  FIG. 13B  shows the application of force to one of the pair of legs, and  FIG. 13C  shows the application of force to the grips during an exercise; 
         FIG. 14A  is an alternate embodiment anchor that can be used for attaching the exercise device to a pole or railing, and  FIG. 14B  is a exercise device anchored to a pole using the alternative anchoring embodiment of  FIG. 14A ; 
         FIGS. 15A-15I  illustrate poses of a user using an embodiment of an exercise device to perform exercises, where  FIG. 15A  is a reverse combination crunch,  FIG. 15B  is a single leg L-squat,  FIG. 15C  is a gymnast dip,  FIG. 15D  is a kneeling combination crunch,  FIG. 15E  is a lying leg curl,  FIG. 15F  is a hip lift,  FIG. 15G  is a front shoulder raise,  FIG. 15H  is a crunch, and  FIG. 15I  is a triceps extension; 
         FIGS. 16A and 16B  illustrate an embodiment of the exercise device for doing one handed exercises, where  FIG. 16A  shows interlocking the handles for one handed exercises, and  FIG. 16B  illustrates the use of the exercise device in performing a one arm high row exercise; 
         FIGS. 17A and 17B  show an embodiment of a foot grip accessory as attached to a grip of an exercise device, where  FIG. 17A  illustrates the foot grip accessory gripped by the user&#39;s toes, and  FIG. 17B  illustrates a pair of foot grip accessories with one accessory on each of the pair of grips of an exercise device and grasped by one of the user&#39;s heels; 
         FIGS. 18A ,  18 B,  18 C and  18 D show a first embodiment of the foot grip accessory of  FIGS. 17A-B , where  FIG. 18A  is a perspective view of the foot grip accessory,  FIG. 18B  is a bottom view of the foot grip accessory,  FIG. 18C  is a side view of part of one of the grip attachment portions, and  FIG. 18D  is a top view of part of one of the grip accessory attachment portions; 
         FIGS. 19A ,  19 B, and  19 C show an embodiment of a finger grip accessory as attached to a grip of an exercise device, where  FIG. 19A  illustrates the one finger placed through one of the loops,  FIG. 19B  illustrates one finger be placed through each of the two loops, and  FIG. 19C  shows two fingers placed through each of the two loops; 
         FIGS. 20A ,  20 B, and  20 C show one embodiment of the finger grip accessory of  FIGS. 19A-C , where  FIG. 20A  is a perspective view of the finger grip accessory,  FIG. 20B  is a top view  20 B- 20 B of the finger grip accessory, and  FIG. 20C  is a sectional side view  20 C- 20 C of the finger grip accessory; 
         FIGS. 21A ,  21 B, and  21 C shown an embodiment of a grip accessory as attached to a grip of an exercise device, where  FIG. 21A  illustrates a hand gripping three cords,  FIG. 21B  illustrates the hand gripping two cords, and  FIG. 21C  illustrates the hand gripping one cord; 
         FIGS. 22A ,  22 B,  22 C, and  22 D show one embodiment of the grip accessory of  FIGS. 21A-C , where  FIG. 22A  is a perspective view of the grip accessory,  FIG. 22B  is a top view of the grip accessory,  FIG. 22C  is a bottom view of the grip accessory, and  FIG. 22D  is sectional side view  22 D- 22 D of  FIG. 22C ; 
         FIG. 23  shows another alternative embodiment anchor; 
         FIG. 24  illustrates the use of the anchor of  FIG. 23  to anchor an exercise device to a tree; 
         FIGS. 25 and 26  shows an embodiment of a bracket for securing an exercise device by an enlarged first end of an anchor, where  FIG. 25  is a perspective front view of a bracket for mounting an exercise device, and  FIG. 26  illustrates the use of the bracket to anchor the exercise device; 
         FIG. 27  is a perspective view of a first embodiment combination grip; and 
         FIG. 28  is a perspective view of a second embodiment combination grip. 
     
    
    
     Reference symbols are used in the Figures to indicate certain components, aspects or features shown therein, with reference symbols common to more than one Figure indicating like components, aspects or features shown therein. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Although certain preferred embodiments and examples are disclosed below, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the inventive subject matter extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention, and to obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. Thus it is intended that the scope of the inventions herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described below. For purposes of contrasting various embodiments with the prior art, certain aspects and advantages of these embodiments are described where appropriate herein. Of course, it is to be understood that not necessarily all such aspects or advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment. Modifications and variations can be made by one skilled in the art without departing from the sprit and scope of the invention including, but not limited to: the use of inelastic members, which are described herein as straps, that are round or have some other cross-sectional shape, and/or which are formed from two or more members joined together, as by stitching or with an adhesive; or the use of different mechanisms for adjusting the length of inelastic member that are known in the field including, but not limited to, cam buckles, hooks, or winding the inelastic member about a rigid element. Moreover, any one or more features of any embodiment of the invention may be combined with any one or more other features of any other embodiment of the invention, without departing from the scope of the invention. 
     Disclosed herein is an inelastic exercise device that is supported by, or that can be easily attached to, a supporting structure, and that allows a user to perform a large number of exercises by easily adjusting the length of the device and thereafter balancing the device as the user transfers his weight to the device. Several of the features will now be illustrated with reference to  FIGS. 1-3 , which show the set-up and use of an embodiment of an exercise device, and which is not meant to limit the scope of the present invention.  FIG. 1  is a schematic front view of one embodiment of exercise device  100  that is anchored at a point A between a door D and door jamb J.  FIG. 2  is a partial sectional view  2 - 2  of  FIG. 1  taken through door D and showing exercise device  100  in profile, and  FIG. 3  is illustrative of a user U exercising with the exercise device of  FIG. 1 . 
     Exercise device  100  includes an anchor  110  and an elongated member  120  having a pair of arms  122 , indicated as a first arm  122   a  and a second arm  122   b , on either side of the anchor, as shown schematically in  FIGS. 1 and 2 . A pair of grips  123  is provided, with one positioned at each end  121  of each arm  122 , specifically first arm  122   a  has a first grip  123   a , and second arm  122   b  has a second grip  123   b . Elongated member  120  is substantially inelastic and flexible with a length S between the pair of grips  123 , and includes a strap or cord or other inelastic, flexible member, and a lengthening mechanism  135  that provides for increasing or decreasing the length S, as indicated by double arrows ΔS. 
     Anchor  110  is used to provide a fixed anchor point for exercise device  100  and to support a user&#39;s weight as it is applied to arms  122  as indicated by an arrow F in  FIG. 2  and as shown in  FIG. 3 . As shown in  FIG. 2 , anchor  110  is adapted for positioning exercise device  100  in a door and providing support to elongated member  120  by having an enlarged portion  111 , a portion  113  that can be strap or cord, and an approximately triangular shaped loop  115  for slidably supporting the elongated member. With enlarged portion  111  on the opposite side of door D from elongated member  120 , anchor  110  supports the weight of a user as grips  123  are pulled. In addition, anchor  110  provides for positioning the relative length of arms  122  as shown in  FIG. 1  by double arrow C. Thus, the total length of elongated member  120  and distribution of that length between each of arms  122  can be easily adjusted through the lengthening mechanism  135  and by pulling the ends of the elongated member.  FIG. 2  shows arms  122  each having a length L. 
     When supported by a structure, such as door D (shown in  FIGS. 1-3 ) or a railing, pole or other support member (not shown) the inventive exercise device provides a pair of grips for a user to exercise against her weight according the user&#39;s position relative to the device, and provides for easily adjusting the length of the device. As described below, the inventive device can be used to exercise in any one of a large number of orientations according the selected adjustable length and according to where and how the user stands relative to the exercise device. In general, a user sets the exercise device to a desired length, positions herself on the ground near the exercise device, supports a portion of her body weight from the exercise device by her hands or feet, and exercises by moving her body with her weight supported by the ground and the exercise device. Examples of support on the ground and exercise device include, but are not limited to, standing on one or both legs, lying on the stomach or the back, kneeling, or by having the hands on the ground, and having the exercise device support ones weight by the hands or feet, as appropriate. 
     With reference to  FIG. 3 , a user U is shown in one of the many exercise positions, in particular a high row exercise, gripping the pair of grips  123  with the user&#39;s hands and having the user&#39;s feet placed a horizontal distance X from anchor point A. When anchored to a door, it is preferred that anchor point A is on the inwards side of the door (that is, that the door open away from user U) so that jamb J can support the user&#39;s weight. The user U is shown leaning away from anchor point A and supporting a fraction of his or her weight through device  100 . It is apparent that user U can vary the amount of supported weight, and thus the resistance of exercise device  100 , by adjustment of his or her stance relative to anchor point A (distance X) and the length of arms  122  (length L). The user U of  FIG. 3  performs a high row exercise by moving his body in a direction E towards and away from anchor point A. Note that other exercises are also possible with the user in this position by the user moving in other directions with the user&#39;s weight supported by the ground and exercise device  100 . 
     Several embodiments will now be described with reference to the drawings. These embodiments are meant to illustrate the invention, and are not meant to limit the scope of the invention. 
       FIGS. 4-9  are various views of another embodiment of an exercise device  400 . Referring first to  FIG. 4 , a perspective view of exercise device  400  is shown as including an anchor  410  and an elongated member  420 . Anchor  410  includes an inelastic, flexible strap  413  having an enlarged first end  411  that is wider than the strap, and a second end that forms a loop  415 . Elongated member  420  passes through loop  415 , defining a pair of arms  422 , indicated as arm  422   a  and  422   b . Each arm  422  has a respective end  421 , shown as end  421   a  and  421   b , each forming a loop  425 , shown as loop  425   a  and  425   b , to support one of a pair of grips  423 , shown as grip  423   a  and  423   b . Elongated member  420  also includes a pair of lengthening devices or buckles  435 , shown as buckle  435   a  and  435   b , at either end of a central strap  429  that provides for the adjustment of the length of the elongated member. Specifically, strap  429  has a pair of ends  431 , indicated as  431   a  and  431   b , that pass through buckle  435   a  and  435   b , respectively. As described subsequently, elongated member  420  is substantially inelastic, with the length of the elongated member being adjustable through the action of one or both of the pair of buckles  435 . 
       FIGS. 4 ,  5 A and  5 B present several views of anchor  410 , where  FIG. 5A  is a perspective view of the anchor and  FIG. 5B  is a sectional view  5 B- 5 B of the anchor. As noted previously, anchor  410  includes an inelastic, flexible strap  413 . It is preferred that the majority of lengths of anchor  410  and elongated member  420  are formed of materials that include, but are not limited, to straps of a webbing of a natural or synthetic material having a strength sufficient to support the weight of a device user. Preferred webbings include, but are not limited to, webbings made of nylon, polypropylene or other polymeric fibers. It is understood that a single length of flexible material can alternatively comprise two or more pieces that are stitched, glued, or otherwise attached to one another. It is preferred that the length of anchor  410  is from 6 to 18 inches, or more preferably, approximately 12 inches. 
     Strap  413  has an enlarged first end  411  that is wider than the strap, and a second end  417  that is attached to the strap so as to form a loop  415 . As shown in  FIG. 5B , strap  413  has an end  502  forming the core of first end  411 . Since one of the intended uses of anchor  410  is to anchor exercise device  400  between a door and jamb, it is preferable that the end  411  include materials that are soft enough to prevent damage to a wood door or door frame, yet be sturdy enough to support the weight of a user. One embodiment that is soft yet sturdy is shown in  FIG. 5B . Specifically, strap end  502  is partially surrounded by a recessed enclosure  505  and a pillow  507  that covers the strap end and the enclosure. Strap end  502  can further be held within end  411  by gluing and stitching the strap end to enclosure  505  and pillow  507 , and by closing the pillow with one or more stitches  509 . Strap  413  passes into first end  411  through a slot  504  in enclosure  505  and through slot  501  in pillow  507 . In a preferred embodiment, first end  411  is approximately 3.5″ by 2.5″ and is oriented approximately perpendicular to strap  413 . It is also preferred that enclosure  505  is formed of a high-density, closed cell foam, and that pillow  507  is formed from a felt, and includes stitches  503 . Alternatively, a second strap or piece of another material could be sewn, glued or otherwise attached to the end of strap  413  to form end  502 . In another alternative embodiment, enclosure  505  can include another rigid member, such as a metal or hard plastic plate, to increase the rigidity of strap end  411 . 
     Elongated member  420  is shown in greater detail in  FIGS. 6-9 , where  FIG. 6  is a schematic top view of the elongated member,  FIG. 7  is a perspective view of one of the pair of grips  421  and the corresponding one of the pair of buckles  435 ,  FIG. 8  is a sectional view  8 - 8  of one of the pair of grips  421 , and  FIG. 9A  is a perspective view showing details of one of the pair of buckles and the adjoining strap  429 . As shown in  FIG. 6 , the elongated member  420  has length S, and includes two inelastic strap portions  427 , indicated as  427   a  and  427   b , strap  429  and the pair of buckles  435  for adjusting the length S. The portion of elongated member  420  from each end to the nearest buckle has a fixed length—that is, each of the two portions from one of the pair of ends  421  to the corresponding one of the pair of buckles  435  has a fixed length. It is preferred that the length S is adjustable over a length that allows for a wide range of exercises. Preferably, length S can be varied in length from approximately 6 feet to 12 feet. Also preferably, elongated member  420  has a width of approximately 1.5″. It is also preferred that the surface finish of strap  429  and loop  415  allows the user to easily slide the elongated member  420  along anchor  410 , while providing enough friction so that there can be some mis-match in forces on the two ends  421  without the elongated member sliding through the anchor while a user is exercising. 
     The details of one of the pair of ends  421 , including strap  429  to grip  423 , and including buckle  435  are shown in  FIGS. 7 ,  9 A and  9 B. Buckle  435  is a cam buckle, the design and use of which are well known in the art. Buckle  435  is attached to strap  427 , and thus the length of each of end  421  is not adjustable. Buckle  435  is also slidably accepts and grips strap  429 , allowing for adjustment of the length S. 
     Buckle  435  has a frame  709 , a first strap bar  705 , a second strap bar  707 , and a user movable cam  711 . First strap bar  705  supports a loop of strap  427  that is preferably secured by stitches  703 . Alternatively, strap  427  can be secured to bar  705  through a second member, such as another looped strap or a plastic or metal piece that loops about bar  705  and provides a location to attach strap  427 . Strap  427  has an opposite end that is bound with stitches  701  to form loop  425  to secure grip  423 , as described subsequently. Second strap bar  707  and cam  711  supports strap  429 . It is understood that the use of stitches as described herein to fasten strap portions can also be accomplished through the use of other methods of fastening, such as glue or by melting strap portions together. 
     Cam  711  is spring loaded such that it normally restrains a strap  429 , and that under the action of a user, such as by pushing or pulling the cam, the cam is moved to allow the strap to move. The distance between cam  711  and bar  707  is adjusted by the user and a spring within buckle  435  by pushing on cam  711 , allowing strap  429  to slide between cam  711  and bar  707 . Thus, the length S can be adjusted by the user actuating cam  711  of buckle  435 . 
     Grip  423  is shown in greater detail in the sectional view of  FIG. 8 . Grip  423  has a generally tubular shape, with an outer cover  801  and an inner cylindrical tubular portion  803 . Cover  801  has a length and outer diameter to allow a hand to easily grab grip  423 , and is formed from a material that permits a user to hold it while exercising. A preferred material for cover  801  is a high-density foam. Portion  803  provides the strength of grip  423  and can be formed from a length and diameter of plastic or other rigid material to match the size of cover  801  and to provide space for a loop  425  to pass through the center of portion  803 . Portion  803  is preferably formed from a rigid and light material, such as PVC tubing. 
     One of the pair of free ends  431  is shown in greater detail in  FIG. 9A . Each end  431  is preferably folded back, and is held in place, for example by a stitch  901 , to form an easily manipulated end. Elongated member  420  also includes several sleeves, shown as sleeves  903 ,  905   a  and  905   b  that twice surrounds strap  429  to prevent ends  431  from moving about. Specifically, sleeves  903  and  905  are placed between buckles  435 , ends  431  and strap  429 . Thus sleeves  903  and  905  restrain the portion of strap  429  from a buckle  435  to the corresponding end  431  from moving about as exercise device  420  is moved. As shown in  FIG. 9A , sleeve  903  is affixed near end  431 , while sleeves  905  can be slid along the length of strap  429 .  FIG. 9B  is a sectional view  9 B- 9 B of  FIG. 9A  showing details of the cam buckle and attachment of sleeve  905   b . In particular,  FIG. 9B  shows a bar  907  that spans buckle  435  and a strap  909  that is attached both the bar and to sleeve  905   b . Strap  909  keeps sleeve  905   b  from sliding too far down strap  429  during adjustment of the length of the exercise device. It is preferred that sleeves  905   b  are elastic so that they can easily move and hold together the portions of strap  429 . 
     While exercise device  400  has been described with respect to a particular embodiment, there are many alternative embodiments that are within the scope of the present invention. Thus, for example, there are many embodiments that provide for an adjustable length, substantially inelastic, strap-like member that has an easily adjustable length and balance of the two sides of the strap-like member about the anchor. One alternative embodiment is shown in  FIGS. 10 and 11 , where  FIG. 10  is a schematic top view of an alternative elongated member  1020  having one cam buckle  435  as a lengthening device, and two finger grips  4001 , and  FIG. 11  is a sectional view  11 - 11  of alternative finger grips. The use of one buckle  435  provides a lighter exercise device  400 , but results in a smaller useful range of lengths for elongated member  1020 . Finger grips  4001  include four holes  4101  for the user&#39;s fingers, and allows for exercise of one or more finger muscles. Modified finger grips can alternatively be provided as an “add-on” modification to elongated member  420 , allowing the user to switch between finger and hand grips. 
     The balancing and lengthening aspects of embodiments of an exercise device are illustrated in  FIGS. 12A-12D , where  FIG. 12A  is an initial configuration,  FIG. 12B  illustrates lengthening the elongated member  420 , further illustrated in FIGS.  12 B′ and  12 B″,  FIG. 12C  shows the application of force to the shorter leg of the elongated member, and  FIG. 12D  shows the application of force to the grips during an exercise. For illustrative purposes,  FIG. 12A  is assumed to be an initial configuration of an anchored device, and it is assumed that the user wishes to increase the length S while keeping the pair of arms  422  the same length (approximately one half of S). First, the user actuates one or both buckles  435 .  FIG. 12B  schematically shows the result of actuating buckle  435   a  and elongating leg  422   a  as indicated by the arrows on that figure. FIG.  12 B′ shows the user U pushing cam  711  and grabbing end  431 , and FIG.  12 B″ shows the user pulling end  431  away from the cam, as indicated by the arrow, to shorten the device. 
     The user then preferentially pulls on the shorter leg  422   b  as indicated by force vector F 1  of  FIG. 12C . With both of the pair of legs  422  having approximately the same, longer length the user can then exercise, as indicated in  FIG. 12D , by applying equal forces F 2  to each handle grip. In practice, it is not necessary for the two forces of  FIG. 12D  to be equal, as the application of force to legs  422  away from anchor  410  increases the friction between elongated member  420  and the anchor, allowing the lengths to not change, even under some mis-match of applied forces. Alternatively, exercise device can be adjusted to provide shorter legs  422  by pulling on end  431  to shorten the length S. 
     In addition to being equally balanced between the two arms, it is possible to use the inventive device to provide differing arm lengths for exercising.  FIGS. 13A-13C  illustrate the lengthening and adjusting of exercise device  400  having differing lengths of arms  422 , where  FIG. 13A  is an initial configuration,  FIG. 13B  shows the application of force to one of the pair of arms  422 , and  FIG. 13C  shows the application of force to the grips during an exercise. For illustrate purposes,  FIG. 13A  is assumed to be an initial configuration of an anchored device, and it assumed that the user wishes to adjust the length of arms  422  to different lengths. First, the user preferentially pulls on the shorter leg  422   b  as indicated by force vector F 1  of  FIG. 13B . The user can then exercise, as indicated by the equal forces F 2  of  FIG. 13C . In practice, it is not necessary for the two forces of  FIG. 13C  to be equal, since as illustrated in  FIG. 12 , as the application of force to legs  422  away from anchor  410  increases the friction between elongated member  420  and the anchor also increases. This limits the possibility that the arm lengths will change, even under some mis-match of applied forces. The adjustment of arms  422  to different lengths can be combined with the lengthening or shortening of the length S by actuating one or both of buckles  435 . 
     Various mechanisms for providing a fixed anchor point are within the scope of the present invention. Thus, it is within the scope of the present invention to provide an exercise device that can be anchored in a door, about a pole, railing or stanchion, from a hook installed in a wall, or can be permanently affixed to a wall or exercise structure, for example.  FIG. 14A  is an alternate embodiment anchor  1410  that can be used for attaching the exercise device to a pole or railing, and  FIG. 14B  is an embodiment of an exercise device anchored to a pole using the alternative anchoring embodiment of  FIG. 14A . 
       FIG. 14A  shows alternative embodiment anchor  1410  which includes an adjustable loop  1419  and an anchor loop  1415 . As described subsequently, anchor  1410  is an alternative anchor, and can, for example, presents anchor loop  1415  for accepting strap  429  of elongate member  420  to form an exercise  1400 . Adjustable loop  1419  is formed from a flexible strap  1411  and a cam buckle  1412  as follows. Cam buckle  1412  can be, for example, cam buckle  435  shown in detail in  FIG. 9B . Flexible strap  1411  has a free, first end  1414  that is threaded through the cam portion of cam buckle  1412 , for example by threading the strap between the second strap bar  707  and movable cam  711  of cam buckle  435 . Flexible strap also has a second end  1418  that is attached to cam buckle  1412 , for example, by looping the second end about first strap bar  705  of cam buckle  435  and providing a stitching  1416  through a double thickness of strap  1411 . Strap  1411  thus threaded through buckle  1412  has forms an adjustable loop  1419  that can be increased or decreased in size by actuating cam buckle  1412  to release strap  1411 , moving the strap through the cam buckle, and releasing the cam. End  1414  is held against strap  1411  by a slack sleeve  1413 . An anchor loop  1415  is attached to strap  1411  by a stitching  1417 . 
     It is preferred that the majority of lengths of anchor  1410  are formed of materials that include, but are not limited, to straps of a webbing of a natural or synthetic material having a strength sufficient to support the weight of a device user. Preferred webbings include, but are not limited to, webbings made of nylon, polypropylene or other polymeric fibers. It is understood that a single length of flexible material according to embodiments of the present invention can alternatively comprise two or more pieces that are stitched, glued, or otherwise attached to one another. 
       FIG. 14B  shows exercise device  1400  formed from anchor  1410  and elongated member  420 . Adjustable loop  1413  of anchor  1410  is tightened about a pole P, for example, by placing the adjustable loop over the top of the pole and tightened using cam buckle  1412 . Alternatively, strap  1411  can unthreaded from cam buckle  1412 , wrapped about pole P, and then threaded through the cam buckle and tightened. In either case, end  1414  is the pulled through cam buckle  1412  and adjustable loop  1419  is tightened about pole P with sufficient force to allow exercise device  1400  to support a user&#39;s weight. 
     In addition to being attached to a pole, anchor  1410  can be tensioned to support exercise device  1400  about a railing, post, or other member. Alternately, the anchor can be attached to a carbineer that is fixed to a wall or other structure. 
       FIG. 23  shows an anchor  2300  including a flexible strap  2301  with a first end  2305  having a loop  2307  held in place with stitching  2311  and a second end  2303  having a carabiner  2304  held in place by stitching  2309 , and  FIG. 24  illustrates the use of anchor  2300  to anchor the elongated member  420  of the exercise device to a tree. It is preferred that the majority of lengths of strap  2301  are formed of materials that include, but are not limited, to straps of a webbing of a natural or synthetic material having a strength sufficient to support the weight of a device user. Preferred webbings include, but are not limited to, webbings made of nylon, polypropylene or other polymeric fibers.  FIG. 24  shows an exercise device  2400  formed from anchor  2300  and elongated member  420 . Strap  2103  is be wrapped about a tree with carabiner  2304  accepting the strap. Loop  2307  accepts strap  429 , allowing the user to exercise against a tree or other object small enough for strap  2103  to be wrapped about. 
       FIGS. 25 and 26  shows a bracket  2500  for securing exercise device  400  by enlarged first end  411  of anchor  410 , where  FIG. 25  is a perspective front view of the bracket, and  FIG. 26  illustrates the use of the bracket to anchor the exercise device. Bracket  2500  has a first flange  2503  with a mounting hole  2509  and a second flange  2505  with a mounting hole  2511  and a face  2507  that extends from the first flange to the second flange and includes a slot  2515  that extends into the face a face edge  2513  and includes a central slot  2517 . In a preferred embodiment, bracket  2500  is formed from a single sheet  2501  of sheet metal, for example that has crease  2518  in flange  2503 , crease  2523  in flange  2505 , and creases  2519  and  2521  between face  2507  and flanges  2503  and  2505 , respectively. The preferred thickness of sheet  2501  is from 0.05 to 0.10 inches, or more preferably approximately 0.0625 inches, and creases  2518 ,  2519 ,  2521 , and  2523  are placed to such that face  2507  is parallel to and separated from flanges  2503  and  2505  by a distance D of from approximately 1 to 2 inches, or more preferably approximately 1.5 inches. Mounting holes  2509  and  2511  are preferably between approximately ¼ inch and approximately ½ inch in diameter, and more preferably approximately ⅜ inch in diameter. 
       FIG. 26  illustrates the use of bracket  2500 . Bracket  2500  is mounted to a wall W, and held in place by a pair of screws  2601  through mounting holes  2509  and  2511 . A portion of anchor  410  is shown in phantom on the right side of  FIG. 26 , specifically enlarged portion  411  and flexible strap  413 . Anchor  410  is placed in bracket  2500  as indicated by the arrow. Specifically, strap  413  is slid through the slot  2515  in face edge  2513 , with enlarged portion between bracket  2500  and wall W and into central slot  2517 . Slot  2515  is sized to be large enough to allow strap  413  to slide through the slot but not so large as to allow enlarged portion  411  to pass through the slot. The use of bracket  2500  allows for exercise device  400 , which was previously shown as being mountable in a door jamb, to be mounted against any wall to which the bracket can be mounted. 
     The inventive exercise device allows for a wide range of exercises. Examples of the many exercises that are possible are presented in TABLE 1 for the inventive device placed over the top of a door.  FIGS. 3 and 15  illustrate three of the many exercise positions. In each of these positions the user has selected a length for exercise device  100  or  400 , adjusted as explained with reference to  FIG. 12  or  13 , has positioned himself on the ground a desired horizontal distance X from anchor point A with a portion of his weight being supported by the exercise device. With his weight so supported, as shown in  FIGS. 3 and 15 , he moves his body in directions appropriate to the type of exercise to be performed, for example by moving his body toward or away from the wall or ground, by bending his arms or legs while supporting his weight by the exercise device, or performing other movements that exercise his muscles. 
     Specifically illustrated in  FIGS. 3 and 15  are single poses of a user U performing a variety of exercises including a high row exercise ( FIG. 3 ), a reverse combination crunch ( FIG. 15A ), a single leg L-squat ( FIG. 15B ), a gymnast dip ( FIG. 15C ), a kneeling combination crunch ( FIG. 15D ), a lying leg curl ( FIG. 15E ), a hip lift ( FIG. 15F ), a front shoulder raise ( FIG. 15G ), a crunch ( FIG. 15H ), and a triceps extension ( FIG. 15I ). It is apparent from  FIGS. 3 and 15  that many different types of exercises are possible with the inventive exercise device according to the length of the device, the positioning of the body, and how the handles are gripped. 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
             
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Several Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced Over the Door Anchor Exercises. 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
            
               
                 Basic Exercises 
                 Intermediate 
                 Advanced 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Pull functions 
                 Pull functions 
                 Pull/lateral functions 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Low row 
                 One-arm low row 
                 Lateral raise 
               
               
                 High row 
                 One-arm high row 
                 Front shoulder raise 
               
               
                 Pull-up 
                 One-arm pull-up 
                 Reverse-grip curl 
               
               
                 High curl 
                 One-arm high curl 
                 Combination row/kickback 
               
               
                 Low curl 
                 One-arm low curl 
                 Internal rotator cuff 
               
               
                 Back fly 
                 Lower chest/lat crunch 
                 External rotator cuff 
               
               
                 Wrist curl 
                 Reverse-grip wrist curl 
                 2-Way forearm flexors 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Core Strength 
                 Core Strength 
                 Core Strength 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Crunch 
                 Kneeling combination crunch 
                 Standing combination crunch 
               
               
                 Reverse single leg raise 
                 Reverse leg raise 
                 Reverse leg raise w/ hip lift 
               
               
                 Oblique crunch 
                 V-sit-up 
                 Reverse oblique raise 
               
               
                 Reverse crunch 
                 Hip lift 
                 V-balance 
               
               
                 Bicycle 
                 Reverse bicycle 
                 Reverse combination crunch 
               
               
                 Back Bridge 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Legs 
                 Legs 
                 Legs 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Squat 
                 Lying hamstring pedal 
                 Lying hamstring curl 
               
               
                 Hip hinge 
                 Tip-toe squat 
                 Single-leg hip hinge 
               
               
                 Squat lunge 
                 Step-back lunge 
                 Single leg L-squat 
               
               
                 Sumo squat 
                 Single leg squat 
                 Diagonal Step-back lunge 
               
               
                 Side-to-side lunge 
                 Single calf raise 
                 Crossover off-balance squat 
               
               
                 Calf raise 
                 Jumping Ski PT 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Push functions 
                 Push functions 
                 Push functions 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Standard press 
                 One-arm incline press 
                 Triceps kickback 
               
               
                 Chest fly 
                 Low chest press (outside grip) 
                 One-arm concentration fly 
               
               
                 Shoulder press 
                 Reverse Push-up 
                 Reverse crunch/push-up 
               
               
                 Overhead triceps 
                 One-arm triceps 
                 combo 
               
               
                 extension 
                 extension 
                 One-arm shoulder press 
               
               
                 Lat-Pullovers 
                   
                 Gymnast dip 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     In addition, the inventive device can be used to perform one handed exercises as illustrated in  FIGS. 16A and 16B . Specifically,  FIG. 16A  shows an exercise device  400 ′ having interlocking the ends  421   a  and  421   b  for one handed exercises, and  FIG. 16B  illustrates the use of the exercise device  400 ′ in performing a one arm high row exercise. 
     Alternative Exercise Device Grips 
     The utility of exercise devices is greatly extended by providing a number of grips for the device, specifically by providing alternative grip devices which may be removable from the device (that is, are an “add-on,” or “accessory” to the exercise device), or which form part of the device that is not removable (that is are “integral” to the exercise device). 
     In general, several embodiments of grips described herein are attached to, or are attachable to, one of the pair of grips that are part of an exercise device, including but not limited to grips  123  of exercise device  100 , and provide an accessory grip whereby the user can exercise by applying forces to various part of the body, including the neck, all or part of the hand, arms, legs, toes, or the heel. Grip accessories allow the user to grip, such as by squeezing with sufficient force to support her weight, and include devices that can hold the user within a loop or hook as the user pulls on the exercise device. In this context, a “grippable” portion refers to the ability to either wrap a body part around and squeeze a that portion of the grip accessory, or place a portion of the body through a loop or hook of the grip accessory so that the user can pull against the exercise device and keep the body part within the grip accessory. 
     The user may choose to exercise with the pair of grips having the same or different accessories, or without a grip accessory. In addition, several embodiments of the exercise device include a grip attachment portion to removably attach the grip of an exercise device, such as exercise device  100  or any exercise device having two grips, and a portion that is grippable by the hand, foot, fingers, or other parts of the body. The use of grip accessories allow a user to build additional strength in the hand or fingers by providing for different types of hand or finger gripping, and allows for additional exercises to be performed, as with the foot grip accessory. In addition, the pair of grips can be coupled, as discussed in reference to  FIGS. 16A and 16B , allowing a user to exercises using one grip accessory. 
     One example of a grip accessory is foot grip accessory  1700 , which is illustrated in  FIGS. 17A-17B  as being attached to grips  123  of exercise device  100 . Specifically,  FIG. 17A  illustrates foot grip accessory  1700  attached to exercise device  100  and gripped by toes T, and  FIG. 17B  illustrates a pair of foot grip accessories, one on each of the pair of grips  123 , and each grasped by one of the user&#39;s heel H 1  and H 2 . Each foot grip accessory  1700  has a flexible loop  1710  and a grip attachment portion  1720 . It is preferred that the portion of loop  1710  that extends from grip  123  is approximately 12 inches long to provide enough room for either a user&#39;s heel or toe fit through the loop. With foot grip accessory  1700  so secured, the toes ( FIG. 17A ) or heel ( FIG. 17B ) can be placed through loop  1710 , and a force can be exerted by the foot against exercise device  100 . 
     It is preferred that the majority of foot grip accessory  1700  is formed of materials that include, but are not limited, to straps of a webbing of a natural or synthetic material having a strength sufficient to support the weight of a device user. Preferred webbings include, but are not limited to, polymeric fiber webbings made of, for example, nylon or polypropylene or some other polymeric fiber. It is understood that a single length of flexible material according to the present invention can alternatively comprise two or more pieces that are stitched, glued, or otherwise attached to one another. 
     In one embodiment, each of the pair of grips  123  is provided with one foot grip accessory  1700 , facilitating exercises including, but not limited, to those illustrated in  FIGS. 15A  and E. 
     In a first embodiment foot grip accessory  1700 , flexible loop  1710  is removably attachable, as discussed subsequently, to one of the pair of grips  123 . A specific embodiment of foot grip accessory  1700  is illustrated in  FIGS. 18A-D , where  FIG. 18A  is a perspective view of the foot grip accessory,  FIG. 18B  is a bottom view of the foot grip accessory,  FIG. 18C  is a side view of part of one of the grip attachment portions, and  FIG. 18D  is a top view of part of one of the grip accessory attachment portions. As shown in  FIGS. 18A and 18B , foot grip  1700  is formed from three straps: a loop strap  1801  and two attachment straps  1803 . With the three straps attached, as described subsequently, loop strap  1801  forms loop  1710  and the two attachment straps  1803  forms the grip attachment portion  1720 . 
     Loop strap  1801  is formed from a length of strapping having ends that are joined to form a loop. Loop strap  1801  is preferably polymeric fiber webbing 20 inches long and 1.5 inches wide. In the preferred embodiment, the loop includes two triangular shaped double stitched portions  1815 , one of which joins the two ends of loop strap  1801 . Each of the two grip attachment straps  1803  is formed from a length of strapping having a first end  1807  with a first fastening surface  1809  and a second end  1811  with a second fastening surface  1813 . Attachment straps  1803  are preferably polymeric fiber webbing having a length of 7.5 inches and a width of 1.5 inches. Fastening surfaces  1809  and  1811  are preferably attached to loop strap  1801  by double stitching  1817 , and grip attachment straps  1803  are preferably joined midway between ends  1807  and  1811  to the loop strap by double stitching  1805 . 
     Each attachment strap  1803  includes fastening surfaces  1809  and  1813  are on opposite sides of the strap. It is preferred that fastening surfaces  1809  and  1813  are matching surfaces, such as matching hook and loop surfaces of a hook and loop fastening system, such as VELCRO® brand hook and loop fasteners. In a preferred embodiment, fastening surfaces  1809  and  1813  are each approximately 2 inches by 1.25 inches. 
     Foot grip accessory  1700  is removably attachable and is used as follows. Grip attachment portion  1720  of foot grip accessory  1700  is removably attachable to one of the pair of grips  123 , by wrapping the length of each strap  1703  about grip  123   a  and contacting fastening surfaces  1809  and  1813  on each strap  1803 . Stitching  1815  allows loop  1710  to open without twisting and provides a secure strap for securing the foot. 
       FIG. 27  is a perspective view of a grip which may be used as either a hand grip or a foot grip, and which is referred to herein without limitation as a “combination” grip  2700 . Grip  2700  may be generally similar to the grips or accessory grips of exercise devices  100 ,  400 , or  1700  except as further detailed below. Where possible, similar elements are identified with identical reference numerals in the depiction of the embodiments of  FIGS. 4 ,  7 ,  17 ,  18 , and  27 . 
     In general, combination grip  2700  includes two elements which may be used as grips, which may be at one end or at both ends of the exercise device including, but not limited to, exercise device  100  or  400 . Thus, for example, combination grip  2700  may be at both of ends  121 , on both of ends  421 , or on one of ends  421   a  or  421   b . In the embodiment of  FIG. 27 , grip  2700  includes a hand grip  423   a  supported by loop  425   a  from strap  427   a . Specifically, the material of strap  427   a  continues through loop  425   a  and is affixed to the strap by stitching  2711 . Grip  2700  further includes a loop  2710  supported at end  421   a.    
     In one embodiment, loop  2710  is a strap formed from one or more inelastic pieces that are attached together to form a continuous loop through portion  803 , and the loop is thus integrally attached to hand grip  423 . Thus, for example, hand grip  423   a  has a first end  423   a - 1  and  423   a - 2  that correspond to a first end  802 - 1  and a second end  803 - 2 , respectively, of inner cylindrical tubular portion  803 . In one embodiment, loop  2710  is formed from one or more pieces of webbing with ends sewed together form a single loop through portion  803 , resulting in a portion of the loop hanging below the hand grip. 
       FIG. 28  is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a combination grip  2800  which may be generally similar to grip  2700 , except as further detailed below. Where possible, similar elements are identified with identical reference numerals in the depiction of the embodiments of  FIGS. 4 ,  7 ,  17 ,  18 ,  27 , and  28 . 
     Combination grip  2800  includes a flexible loop  2810  that includes a strap  2811  having an end  2812 , and a length adjustment mechanism  2813 . Strap  2811  passes through tubular portion  803  and length adjustment mechanism  2813  permits the size of loop  2810  to be adjusted by moving end  2812  through the mechanism. Mechanism  2813 , which may be, for example, a cam buckle, as illustrated, or a VELCRO® brand hook and loop fastener, permits the user to adjust the length of loop  2810  to the user&#39;s body size. Strap  2811  may either be removable from hand grip  423   a , or may have ends that are too large to permit removal of the grip, and thus is not removable from the hand grip. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), strap  2811  and end  2812  have matching fasteners, such as a VELCRO® brand hook and loop fastener, to prevent dangling of the strap end. 
     The user of a combination grip, including but not limited to one of combination grips  2700  or  2800  has the choice of exercising using either hand grip  423   a  to exercise as shown, for example, in any one of  FIGS. 15A through 151 ,  16 A, or  16 B. Alternatively, the user of combination grip  2700  or  2800 , may exercise, for example, by placing one&#39;s foot between hand grip  423  and loop  2710  or  2810 , similar to the use of grip  1700  as illustrated in  FIG. 17A  or  17 B. 
     In one embodiment, grip  423  is 5 inches long, and loop  2710  is approximately 20 inches long. In another embodiment, a portion of loop  2710  that is not within portion  803  is padded with ⅛ inch of a soft material, including but not limited to a rubber based on polychloroprene, such as neoprene. In another embodiment, and loop  2810  is adjustable from approximately 12 inches long to approximately 23 inches long. 
     In yet another embodiment, loop  2711  or  2811  does not form a loop through portion  803 , but is attached at or near the ends  803 - 1 ,  803 - 2 . 
     Another example of a grip accessory is finger grip accessory  1900 , which is illustrated in  FIGS. 19A-19C  with three different exercises when attached to grips  123  of exercise device  100 . Finger grip assembly  1900  has loops  1910  adapted for receiving and being gripped by the thumb and one or more fingers and a grip attachment portion  1920  for attaching the accessory to the grip of an exercise device. Grip attachment portion  1920  is removably attachable to one of the pair of grips  123 . In one embodiment, there are two loops  1910 : a first loop  1910   a , and a second loop  1910   b . With finger grip accessory  1900  so secured, a finger F 1  can be placed through one of the loops, for example first loop  1910   a  as shown in  FIG. 19A , a finger F 1  can be placed through the first loop and a finger F 2  can be placed through second loop  1910   b  as shown in  FIG. 19B , or two fingers, F 1  and F 2  can be placed through the first loop and a finger F 3  and a finger F 4  can be placed through the second loop, as shown in  FIG. 19C . 
     In one embodiment, each of the pair of grips  123  is provided with one finger grip accessory  1900 . With the finger or fingers so placed through at least one of loops  1910 , a force can be exerted by the pulling against exercise device  100 . Finger grip accessory  1900  has similar functionality as finger grips  4001 . 
     A specific embodiment of finger grip accessory  1900  is illustrated in  FIGS. 20A-C , where  FIG. 20A  is a perspective view of the finger grip accessory,  FIG. 20B  is a top view  20 B- 20 B of the finger grip accessory, and  FIG. 20C  is a sectional side view  20 C- 20 C of the finger grip accessory. Finger grip accessory  1900  includes two loops  1910 , first loop  1910   a  and second loop  1910   b , and grip attachment portion  1920  includes three portions  1920   a ,  1920   b , and  1920   c . More specifically, finger grip accessory  1900  is formed from five straps: a loop strap  2001 , three attachment straps  1803 , and a backing strap  2003 . With the five straps attached, as described subsequently, loop strap  2001  forms first loop  1910   a  and finger loop  1910   b , that can each receive one or more fingers, and each of the three attachment straps  1803  forms one of grip attachment portion  1920   a ,  1920   b , and  1920   c . It is preferred that the majority of finger grip  1900  is formed of the same materials as hand grip  1700 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, loop strap  2001  is constructed from a polymeric fiber webbing having a length of 21.5 inches long and a width of 1 inch, and backing strip  2003  is preferably a polymeric fiber webbing having a length of 2 inches and a width of 1 inch. Preferred attachment straps  1803  have been discussed previously. Finger grip accessory  1900  is assembled by three stitches  2007  that each pass through one of the three attachment straps  1803  and through loop strap  2001  and backing strap  2003 . In the preferred embodiment, stitching  2007  is double stitched portions. As is shown in  FIGS. 20A and 20C , a portion of loop strap  2001  protrudes between each of the three attachment straps  1803  to form loops  1910   a  and  1910   b . It is preferred that loops  1910   a  and  1910   b  are formed from lengths of loop strap  1901  that are approximately 8 inches. Loop strap  2001  preferably extends the length of backing strap  2003 , with two loops  1910   a  and  1910   b  between adjacent attachment straps  1803 . 
     Finger grip accessory  1900  is removably attachable and is used as follows. Grip attachment portion  1920  of finger grip accessory  1900  is removably attachable to one of the pair of grips  123  by the contact of fastening surfaces  1809  and  1813  on each strap  1803 . With finger grip accessory  1900  so secured, a finger may be placed through one of the loops, for example loop  1910   a  as shown in  FIG. 20A , one finger can be placed through each of loop  1910   a  and  1910   b  as shown in  FIG. 20B , or two fingers can be placed through each of loop  1910   a  and  1910   b  as shown in  FIG. 20C . With the finger or fingers so placed through at least one of loops  1910 , a force can be exerted by the user against exercise device  100 . 
     A third example of a grip accessory is grip accessory  2100 , which is illustrated in  FIGS. 21A-21C  as being attached to grips  123  of exercise device  100 . Grip accessory  2100  has several cords  2110  that can be gripped in different combinations, as explained subsequently, and a grip attachment portion  2120 . In general, the number of cords  2110  can be from one to five, or more, with four being a preferred number, and with each cord having the same diameter and length. It is also preferred that the cords have a grippable length large enough for a human hand, for example a length from 4 inches to 6 inches, and that there is enough additional length to allow the user to pass her hand between cords, as illustrated in  FIGS. 21A-21C . In one embodiment, grip accessory  2100  has four cords, denoted as a first cord  2110   a , a second cord  2110   b , a third cord  2110   c , and a fourth cord  2110   d . The cords can be gripped in almost any combination so that a user can grip any number of cords, from one cord to all 4 cords.  FIG. 21A  illustrates hand H gripping three cords, for example the first cord  2110   a , second cord  2110   b , and third cord  2110   c ,  FIG. 21B  illustrates the hand gripping two cords, for example the first and second cords, and  FIG. 21C  illustrates the hand gripping one cord, for example the first cord. 
     Grip attachment portion  2120  is removably attachable, as discussed subsequently, to one of the pair of grips  123 . With grip accessory  2100  so secured, between one and all of cords  2210  can be gripped, and a force can be exerted by pulling against exercise device  100 . In one embodiment, each of the pair of grips  123  is provided with one grip accessory  2100 . 
     A specific embodiment of grip accessory  2100  is illustrated in  FIGS. 22A-D , where  FIG. 22A  is a perspective view of the grip accessory,  FIG. 22B  is a top view of the grip accessory,  FIG. 22C  is a bottom view of the grip accessory, and  FIG. 22D  is sectional side view  22 D- 22 D of  FIG. 22C . Grip accessory  2100  is formed from four straps, specifically a backing strap  2205 , a front strap  2207 , and two attachment straps  1803 , and two cords  2201  and  2203 . Cords  2110  are formed from two longer cords  2201  and  2203 , and grip attachment portion  2120  is formed from straps  2205 ,  2207 , and  1803 . 
     The two straps  1803  forming grip attachment portion  2120  are attached at their respective central portions between the ends of backing strap  2205  and front strap  2207 . The four cords  2110   a - d  are formed from the longer cords  2201  and  2203 . Specifically, as shown in  FIG. 22B , cords  2101  and  2103  are side-by-side and folded in half. Each cord forms a loop  2213  near the middle of cords  2101  and  2103 , with both cords lashed together by whipping  2109  and to form a loop  2113  and with the four ends of cords  2101  and  2103  lashed by whipping  2109 . In the sectional view of  FIG. 22D , cord  2203  is shown with a first end  2213  and second end  2217  lashed together by whipping  2209 , and a central portion  2215  forming loop  2213  about strap  2207 . Each cord  2101  and  2103  is folded in half, and thus each cord forms two cords between whippings  2109  and  2111 . Specifically, cord  2101  form cords  2210   a  and  2210   b , and cord  2103  forms cords  2210   c  and  2210   d.    
     Straps  2105  and  2107  are preferably polymeric fiber webbings. Backing strap  2105  preferably has a length of 5 inches and a width of 1 inch, and front strap  2107  preferably has a length of 6 inches and a width of 1 inch. Cords  2101  and  2103  are preferably cotton cord having a length of from approximately 20 inches to approximately 30 inches, and more preferably from approximately 22 inches to approximately 26 inches, and still more preferably approximately 24 inches in length. Cords  2101  and  2103  have a diameter that is preferably from ½ inch to 1 inch, and more preferably approximately ¾ inches. The joints between straps  2105  and  2107  and attachment straps  1803  are preferably double stitched. The resulting grip attachment  2100  has four cords with approximately 10 inches of grippable length, allowing enough room for a human hand to pass between and grip cords  2110 . 
     Grip accessory  2100  is removably attachable and is used as follows. Grip attachment portion  2120  is removably attachable to one of the pair of grips  123  by the contact of fastening surfaces  1809  and  1813  on each strap  1803 . With finger grip accessory  2100  so secured, one, two, three, or all four of cords  2110   a - d  may be gripped by the hand. For example,  FIG. 22A  illustrates cords  2110   a ,  2110   b , and  2110   c  gripped by a user,  FIG. 22B  illustrates cords  2110   a  and  2110   b  gripped by a user, and  FIG. 22C  illustrates cord  2110   a  gripped by a user. With cords  2110  so gripped, a force can be exerted by the user against exercise device  100 . 
     Although the invention(s) presented herein have been disclosed in the context of certain preferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the invention(s) extend beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention(s) and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the invention(s) herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular embodiments described above, but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.