Patent Publication Number: US-2023158361-A1

Title: Leg training device

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     Exemplary arrangements relate to a leg training device. The exemplary arrangements relate to a training device that is usable for high intensity training of hip flexors while simultaneously training the extensors of hip and knee joints. 
     BACKGROUND 
     There is often a need for leg training and rehabilitation of the legs and hips of individuals. Various devices have been developed for such purposes. However, such devices may benefit from improvements. 
     SUMMARY 
     Exemplary arrangements provide a leg training device for leg strength training and rehabilitation that provides convenient and stable application of a resistance force to the movement of the legs and feet of a device user. The exemplary arrangements include foot fixings that are operative to releasably hold a respective foot of a user and serve to connect the user&#39;s foot and leg to the device. Exemplary foot fixings provide precise application of the resistance force so that it is directed axially with respect to the tibia of the user&#39;s leg as the foot fixing is moved vertically against the resistance force. Exemplary device arrangements provide a selectively variable resistance force that is suited to the particular leg training or rehabilitation required by the user. 
     Exemplary arrangements are usable to provide muscle balance in the lower limbs and pelvic girdle. The exemplary balance achieved corresponds to stabilization of posture (including elements relating to the control of pelvic tilt and pelvic portion, as well as to the depth of spine curvatures) and related motor abilities such as balance. Exemplary devices are usable to provide activity in which the muscle group of hip flexors (mainly the muscles iliopsoas, tensor fasciae latae, gluteus minimus and gluteus medius) are subject to a high intensity strength training with simultaneous training of muscles of the hip and the extensors (mainly the muscles gluteus maximus, piriformis, gemelli, internal obturator, quadrates femoris and vastus) and stabilizing muscles. Exemplary arrangements provide for proper positioning of the body and forward support during use of the device, as well as for providing a complex movement pattern that is useful for reducing more morphofunctional disproportions within the muscle groups that are crucial for stabilization. 
     Exemplary device arrangements provide for the quick and safe mounting of the user&#39;s feet to the foot fixings as well as comfortable use of the device. Exemplary arrangements further provide secure engagement of the user&#39;s feet to the foot fixings to avoid unwanted movement of the foot relative to the structures which comprise the foot fixings. 
     Exemplary arrangements provide a leg training device that comprises a support frame with a mechanism operative to provide resistance to foot and leg movement. Connectors in operative connection with the mechanism provides the resistance to movement connected by fasteners to the foot fixings. 
     In some exemplary arrangements the support frame is connected to the foot fixings using connectors such as a pair of horizontally disposed elongated bars. Each exemplary bar includes a first end and a second end. The first end is in operative connection with a respective pivot while the second end is in operatively attached connection with a respective foot fixing. In exemplary arrangements the pivots are coaxial and the bars are configured such that each user foot in engagement with a respective foot fixing is enabled to move vertically as the bar rotates about a pivot. As used herein reference to vertical movement of the foot and foot fixing refers to substantially vertically which is vertically ±30°. 
     In some exemplary arrangements the elongated bars of the support frame have gradually bent profiles such that the second ends are disposed further away from one another than the first ends. In some exemplary arrangements at least one weight is in operative connection with the bars such that vertical movement of the foot fixings by a user foot in operative engagement therewith is carried out against a resistance force provided by the at least one weight. In some exemplary arrangements the at least one weight is in operative connection with the spindle. The exemplary spindle is rotatable about a spindle pivot that extends coaxially with the elongated bar pivots. In such exemplary arrangements vertical movement of a foot fixing by a user foot is operative to rotate the respective bar, which bar movement is carried out against the resistance force provided the at least one weight associated with the spindle which is operative to rotate about the spindle pivot responsive to movement of the user foot. 
     In other exemplary arrangements the exemplary device includes elongated bars that are rotatable about respective pivots at respective first ends and which are engaged to respective foot fixings at the respective second ends. The respective elongated bars are in operative connection with a rotatable wheel. Movement of the elongated bars responsive to vertical movement of the foot fixings by the user&#39;s legs is operative to rotate the wheel. In some exemplary arrangements rotation of the wheel responsive to movement of the elongated bars is carried out through a respective ratchet in operative connection with the respective elongated bars. The respective ratchet is operative to impart motion to the wheel to cause wheel rotation in a first rotational direction by resisting movement of a roller or other member which is operatively engaged with the respective bar and wheel, in a first roller rotational direction, while enabling relatively free rotation in a second roller rotational direction as the wheel rotates in the first rotational direction. 
     In some exemplary arrangements the wheel is in operative connection with a brake. In some exemplary arrangements the brake may be operative to provide a selectively variable brake force which resists wheel rotation in a first rotational direction. In some exemplary arrangements the brake force may include a magnetic system that is operative to position a magnet assembly at a selectively variable distance from the wheel. Such distance may be set in some exemplary arrangements using an adjustable pulley system and a tie rod system suspended in a support frame of the device. In some exemplary arrangements a resistance mechanism may be supported by a magnetic module embedded in a shaft and placed in a support frame of the exemplary leg training device. 
     In some exemplary arrangements the resistance mechanism provided by the brake includes an electromagnetic system with an electronic module that fixes an electromagnetic assembly. In such exemplary arrangements the force of the electromagnetic field is regulated through the use of electromagnets which are in operatively supported connection with the support frame of the device. 
     In other exemplary arrangements the device includes a support frame that includes a base and a column. The exemplary base includes side beams, a front beam, a middle beam and a landing mounted on the base. The exemplary support frame further includes a profile arrangement with crossbars and guide rollers with a pulley block system. In an exemplary arrangement a flexible tie rod is guided on the pulley block system. The exemplary tie rod includes first and second ends each of which respective end is in fixed operative connection with the respective foot fixing. 
     In exemplary arrangements the tie rod is coupled with at least one weight which is movably positioned in the column. The exemplary tie rod is guided by the pulley block system and passes through the weights of a ballasting system. Exemplary arrangements provide for the foot fixings to be in operative connection through the tie rod with the weights such that vertical movement of the foot fixings by a user&#39;s foot in engagement therewith is operative to raise at least one weight. Raising of the at least one weight requires overcoming the resistance force provided by gravity acting against the at least one weight. 
     In exemplary arrangements a regulating system is provided. The exemplary regulating system may include a lever or other suitable mechanism that is operative to change at least one of a point of application of the resistance force during vertical movement of the foot fixing and the resistance force that must be overcome to vertically move the foot fixing to a given vertical level. Further in exemplary arrangements the continuous tie rod is operative to so that as one foot fixing is moved vertically upward from a base against the resistance force produced by the at least one weight, the other foot fixing is biased downward toward the base. Of course these approaches are exemplary. 
     In other exemplary arrangements the leg training device includes one or more springs which are operative to provide a resistance force against the vertical movement of the foot fixings. In some exemplary arrangements the springs may comprise air springs or similar springs that include pistons in operative connection with piston rods. In exemplary arrangements tie rods, bars or other similar structures are operative to connect the foot fixings and the springs such that vertical movement of the foot fixings is resisted by the springs. In some exemplary arrangements elongated bars that are rotatable about respective pivots at a first bar end, and in operatively fastened connection with a respective foot fixing at a second bar end, may have respective piston rods in hinged connection therewith. Movement of the respective bars responsive to movement of the foot fixings is resisted by the fluid force which opposes movement of the pistons within the air springs. Of course other arrangements utilizing air springs or other types of springs may be utilized. 
     Other exemplary arrangements include a device having a frame which includes a housing. The housing includes a lid and has an interior area with perforated metal sheets and fixing structures. In this exemplary arrangement a mechanism that is operative to provide resistance to movement of foot fixings includes springs in the form of spiral springs which may be alternatively referred to herein as torsion springs. The exemplary springs are coaxially embedded together with drums. Connectors in the form of tie rod portions are affixed to the drums and free ends of the tie rod portions are in fixed connection with the respective foot fixings through at least one fastener. 
     In exemplary arrangements the torsion springs which provide the resistance force are in operative connection with a resistance control mechanism that is usable to selectively vary the resistance force. In exemplary arrangements the resistance control mechanism includes a motor that is in operative connection with an input device that receives manual inputs. Manual inputs to the input device are operative to cause the motor operation that selectively varies the resistance force. 
     The exemplary mechanism includes dividers between respective springs. The springs are located coaxially with drive sprockets, with adjusting sprockets, with sprockets, with adjusting springs and with cogged guides. These elements cooperate in the exemplary arrangement with drive shaft sprockets which are driven by the motor to provide a selectively variable resistance provided by the torsion springs. Of course it should be understood that these arrangements and configurations are exemplary. 
     Further details of exemplary arrangements are provided in the following Detailed Description. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
         FIG.  1    is a front perspective exploded view of a first exemplary leg training device including a first resistance arrangement. 
         FIG.  1 A  is a rear perspective view of the leg training device shown in  FIG.  1   . 
         FIG.  2    is a rear perspective exploded view of an alternative leg training device including a resistance arrangement including a rotating wheel. 
         FIG.  2 A  is a left rear perspective view of the training device shown in  FIG.  2   . 
         FIG.  3    is a right front perspective exploded view of a further alternative leg training device including a resistance arrangement that includes a plurality of weights arranged in a vertical column. 
         FIG.  3 A  is a left front perspective view of the leg training device shown in  FIG.  3    with a manually adjustable ballasting system set in a first condition. 
         FIG.  3 B  is a left front perspective view of the leg training device shown in  FIG.  3    with the manually adjustable ballasting system set in a second condition. 
         FIG.  4    is a left front perspective partially exploded view of a further alternative training device including a resistance arrangement including springs which comprise air springs including pistons and piston rods. 
         FIG.  4 A  is a left front perspective view of the alternative training device shown in  FIG.  4   . 
         FIG.  5    is a back top left perspective exploded view of the further alternative training device including a selectively variable resistance force arrangement. 
         FIG.  5 A  is a front top right perspective view of the exemplary training device shown in  FIG.  5   . 
         FIG.  6    is a top front right exploded perspective view of an exemplary foot fixing of an exemplary leg training device. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Referring now to the drawings and particularly to  FIG.  1    there is shown therein an exemplary leg training device generally indicated  50 . 
     The exemplary device  50  includes a pair of foot fixings  48 . Each foot fixing is configured to releasably engage and hold a respective foot of the user in engagement with the device during use. The exemplary device provides a resistance mechanism that is operative to resist the vertical movement of the foot fixings by the user. In this exemplary arrangement the device is operative to apply a resistance to vertical movement of each foot fixing  48  in a vertically upward direction. However in other arrangements the device may provide resistance to vertical movement of the foot fixings both in an upward and in a downward direction. 
     The exemplary foot fixing that is common to all of the leg training device arrangements described herein is shown in greater detail in  FIG.  6   . As each of the foot fixings in the exemplary arrangement is the same, only one of the foot fixings will be described. The exemplary foot fixing includes a generally flat foot engaging platform  10 . As used herein generally flat means that a majority of an upper surface  52  of the platform extends in a common plane. In the exemplary arrangement the platform  10  has an elongated generally rectangular configuration with rounded ends and is comprised of a rigid material such as metal or a rigid plastic. The foot engaging platform is configured to engage the bottom of a foot of the user and is of sufficient length to underlie the toes, sole, arch and heel of the user&#39;s foot. Of course it should be understood that this configuration for the platform is exemplary and in other arrangements different configurations may be used. 
     The exemplary foot fixing  48  further includes a rear wall  30 . In the exemplary arrangement the rear wall comprises a curved rear wall that has a U-shape in a transverse horizontal cross section. The exemplary rear wall extends upward from the upper surface  52  of the foot engaging platform. The exemplary rear wall includes a pair of transversely spaced forward portions  54 . The forward portions extend on opposed transverse sides of the upper surface  52  of the platform. The exemplary rear wall further includes a back portion  56 . In the exemplary arrangement the forward portions  54  are lower in vertical height than the back portion  56 . 
     The exemplary foot fixing further includes a resilient deformable rear cushion  4 . In the exemplary arrangement the rear cushion  4  is positioned vertically above the platform and is in fixed operative connection with the platform by being in engagement with the back portion  56  of the rear wall  30 . The exemplary rear cushion includes a curved leg engagement surface  58 . The leg engagement surface extends perpendicular to the upper surface  52  of the platform in the undeformed condition. The exemplary curved leg engagement surface is configured to engage the back side of a user&#39;s leg above the heel when a user&#39;s foot and leg is in operative connection with the foot fixing. The exemplary rear cushion  4  further includes an outer U-shape surface  60 . The exemplary outer U-shape surface generally corresponds to the inner surface  62  of the back portion  56  of the curved rear wall  30 . In the exemplary arrangement the rear cushion  4  is held in fixed engagement with the inner surface  62  by an adhesive or other fastener. However it should be understood that in other exemplary arrangements the rear cushion  4  may be made releasably connectable with the rear wall to facilitate replacement thereof, selective vertical positioning and/or the use of a rear cushion that is customized for use by the particular user. Of course it should be understood that these approaches are exemplary and in other arrangements other approaches may be used. 
     The exemplary foot fixing further includes a resilient deformable front cushion generally indicated  6 . The exemplary front cushion includes an inwardly curved instep engagement surface  64 . The exemplary instep engagement surface bounds an inner surface of the front cushion and includes a front portion  66  that is configured to engage and extend over the top of a user&#39;s instep, and a pair of side portions  68  that extend downward on each opposed side of the front portion. In the exemplary arrangement the instep engagement surface  64  provides a generally continuous deformable surface that may firmly engage the user&#39;s foot across the instep. The exemplary front cushion further includes an outer surface  70 . In an undeformed condition the outer surface  70  generally corresponds to the inner instep engagement surface. Of course it should be understood that the configuration of the outer cushion  6  is exemplary and in other arrangements other configurations may be used. 
     The exemplary foot fixing further includes a profile spacer  5  which may alternatively be referred to herein as a profile washer. The exemplary profile spacer is comprised of a more rigid material then the front cushion  6 . In some exemplary arrangements the profile spacer may be comprised of a generally rigid plastic material. The exemplary profile spacer includes a curved profile spacer surface  72 . The curved profile spacer surface  72  is in facing relation with the outer surface  70  of the front cushion  6 . In exemplary arrangements the curved profile spacer has a configuration that is designed to engage the front cushion in a manner that holds the user&#39;s foot through engagement with the instep in generally fixed operative connection with the foot fixing. In some exemplary arrangements the configuration of the curved profile spacer surface may be configured to deform and hold the front spacer in the desired location in underlying relation of the profile spacer during use of the device. In some exemplary arrangements different structures such as projections or fasteners may be provided for purposes of assuring that the curved profile spacer surface and the front cushion maintain their desired positions during use. 
     The exemplary profile spacer  5  further includes an outer surface  74 . The outer surface includes guides  76 ,  78 . In the exemplary arrangement the guides are configured to engage and hold in position the releasable bindings  7   a  and  7   b  which are later discussed. In the exemplary arrangement the guide  76  includes a curved outer surface that is configured for engagement with an overlying inner face  80  of releasable binding  7   b . The exemplary guide  78  includes a curved forward facing surface that is configured for engagement with an inner face  82  of releasable binding  7   a . Of course it should be understood that these guides are exemplary and in other exemplary arrangements guides may have different structures to accommodate holding in position other types of releasable bindings. Such guides in alternative arrangements may include projections, recesses, apertures, hooks or other suitable structures that are operative to hold releasable bindings in the appropriate position during use. 
     The exemplary foot fixing includes the pair of releasable bindings  7   a  and  7   b . Each releasable binding includes an adjustable fastener  84 . The adjustable fasteners of the exemplary arrangement comprise adjustable straps that enable the longitudinal length of the respective releasable binding to be varied. This may be done through a suitable ratchet, ridge, aperature, slotted, buckle or loop arrangement or other type of adjustable fastener that enables the length of the adjustable strap to be changed to a length that is suited for holding the foot of the user in operative engagement with the foot fixing. The exemplary releasable binding further includes a release  86 . In exemplary arrangements the release  86  may comprise a suitable buckle or tab. Actuation of the exemplary release  86  is operative to change the releasable binding between an engaged condition and a disengaged condition. 
     In the exemplary arrangement the releasable binding  7   b  includes opposed ends  88  and  90 . The opposed ends  88  and  90  of the releasable binding  7   b  are in operative engagement with the transversely disposed forward portions  54  of the back wall  30 . The ends  88  and  90  may be engaged to the forward portions through suitable fasteners schematically represented  92 . In exemplary arrangements the fasteners may extend through openings in the forward portions that enable the releasable binding  7   b  to be somewhat rotatably movable relative to the upper surface  52  of the platform  10 . Of course this approach is exemplary and in other arrangements other types of fasteners may be used. 
     Releasable binding  7   b  includes opposed ends  94 ,  96 . In the exemplary arrangement the opposed ends are attached to the opposed sides of the U-shaped back portion  56 . Opposed ends  94 ,  96  are attached to the back portion  56  through fasteners schematically indicated  98 . Fasteners  98  in the exemplary arrangement may also be fasteners of the type that provide rotational movement of the releasable binding  7   a  relative to the platform. As can be appreciated, in the exemplary arrangement in the engaged condition of the releasable binding  7   a , the releasable binding extends in engagement with the rear portion on both of the opposed sides of the rear cushion. This helps to hold the leg of the user in engagement with the foot fixing  48  with only a suitable limited degree of relative movement of the foot and leg to the foot fixing. 
     The exemplary foot fixing further includes a resilient anti-slip overlay generally indicated  20 . In the exemplary arrangement the anti-slip overlay comprises a resilient layer or pad of deformable material that overlies the upper surface  52  of the foot engaging platform and extends in underlying relation of the bottom of the user&#39;s foot. In the exemplary arrangement the anti-slip overlay comprises a generally flat planar pad that conforms to the configuration of the upper surface  52 . However it should be understood that in other arrangements the anti-slip overlay may have a configuration designed to conform to the shape of the bottom of the user&#39;s foot. This may include for example the overlay including raised areas or areas providing greater cushioning that conform to the contour the arch of the foot, the area of the toes, or the heel. Further in some exemplary arrangements the anti-slip overlay may be customized to the foot of the user. Of course these approaches are exemplary and in other arrangements other approaches and structures may be utilized. 
     In the exemplary arrangement the platform  10  of each of the foot fixings is engaged with at least one fastener which is schematically indicated  99 . The exemplary at least one fastener  99  which is alternatively referred to herein as a connector, is operative to connect the foot fixing in a manner that causes the resistance force that is applied by the leg training device, to resist vertical movement of the foot fixing and the leg and user foot of the user during use of the device. In exemplary arrangements the at least one fastener  99  and the foot fixing are configured so that when the foot of the user is in operatively engaged relation with the foot fixing, the resistance force is applied to the foot fixing in a manner that is directed coaxial with the tibia of the leg of the user that is in operative engagement with the respective foot fixing. In this exemplary arrangement the foot fixing operates to direct the resistance force in a manner that assures that the user receives the maximum benefit from the use of the device in strengthening the desired musculature structures and also minimizes the risk of injury to other body structures that could result from the resistance force being improperly directed. 
     In the exemplary arrangement the pair of releasable bindings are operative to releasably hold a user&#39;s foot and leg in operative engagement with the foot fixing. In the exemplary arrangement in the engaged condition of the binding, the releasable bindings extend in outwardly overlying relation of the outer surface  74  of the profile spacer  5  and in outwardly overlying relation of the front cushion  6 . In the engaged condition of the releasable bindings the foot of the user is held in operatively engaged relation with the foot fixing  48  in a manner that assures that the resistance force is applied coaxially with the tibia of the user&#39;s leg in engagement with the foot fixing. In the exemplary arrangement each of the releasable bindings are changed from the engaged position to the disengaged position through actuation of the release  86  of the respective releasable binding. In the disengaged condition the foot of the user is enabled to disengage from the foot fixing. Exemplary arrangements are configured to readily enable the user to place the releasable bindings in the disengaged conditions and position their feet in the respective foot fixings  48  of the leg training device. Once the user&#39;s feet are positioned in the respective foot fixings  48 , the exemplary bindings may be adjusted and placed in the engaged condition so as to hold the feet of the user in operative engagement with the foot fixings such that the vertical movement of the user&#39;s legs and feet are operative to move the respective foot fixings against the resistance force as applied by the device in the manner later discussed. 
     Returning to the discussion of the exemplary leg training device  50  shown in  FIGS.  1  and  2   , the exemplary device includes a resistance mechanism generally referred to as  100  which in the exemplary arrangement operates to provide the resistance force that opposes the vertical movement of the foot fixings  48 . In this exemplary arrangement the foot fixings are attached by the respective at least one fasteners  99  to respective horizontally transversely disposed elongated bars and  120 ,  122 . The elongated bars are alternatively referred to herein as connecting members  500 . The exemplary device includes a support frame generally indicated  200 . Bushings  110 ,  111  and  112  are operative to provide movable pivots for the elongated bar members. A first end of bar  120  is in operative connection with and rotatable about a pivot  124  while the second opposed end of the bar  120  is in attached connection with the respective foot fixing  48 . A first end of elongated bar  122  is in operative connection with a pivot  126 . The pivots extend along a common axis  113 . The second opposed end of elongated bar  122  is in fixed operative connection with a foot fixing  48 . In the exemplary arrangement the elongated bars  120 ,  122  have a shaped profile such that they are horizontally closer together at the first ends than at the second ends to which the foot fixings are attached. The foot fixings are disposed horizontally apart at a distance that is suited to the spacing of the feet of the user. 
     In the exemplary arrangement a spindle  19  comprises an attached weight  128 . The spindle  19  includes a pair of support profile bar members  14 ,  15  which are in attached connection and disposed in angular relation. A first end of each support bar profile member  14  is in operative connection with a respective spindle pivot  130 . Each spindle pivot is rotatable about the axis  113 . The profile bar members  15  of the spindle  19  are connected by a transversely extending upper beam  16  and a transversely extending lower beam  17 . In the exemplary arrangement the lower beam  17  is generally at about the vertical height of the top surface of each of the elongated bars  120 ,  122 . In the exemplary arrangement a cushioning rubber cover  18  is provided on the lower surface of the lower beam  70 . In the exemplary arrangement the weight  128  is in fixed attached connection with the upper beam  16 . 
     In the exemplary arrangement the undersides of the second ends of the elongated bars  120 ,  122  each have attached thereto resilient pad members  132 . The exemplary resilient members serve to absorb impact forces and prevent scraping or other damage to an underlying floor surface by the bottoms of the second ends of the bars during operation. In the exemplary arrangement the outer surfaces of the bushings  112  also include resilient annular covers  134 . The resilient covers serve to also prevent damage to the underlying floor as well as to prevent unwanted movement of the training device during operation. 
     In the exemplary arrangement the spindle  19  with the weight  128  attached thereto is operative to apply a downward gravitational force which acts against each of the elongated bars  120 ,  122 . As the user operates the device to vertically lift a respective foot fixing  48  with their foot the spindle along with the weight thereof applies a resistance force which opposes the upward movement of the elongated bar and the respective foot fixing. As the user moves one of the foot fixings upward, the elongated bar in operative engagement with the lower beam  17  of the spindle  19  causes the spindle to rotate about the spindle pivot  130 . As the user lifts their foot the spindle pivot rotates in a common rotational direction with the pivot at the first end of the elongated bar which is being raised by the user&#39;s foot. After the user has raised the foot a sufficient distance, the user may move their foot downward, moving with the force applied by the spindle. The spindle and the elongated bar rotate in a common rotational direction opposed to the direction in which they rotate while the foot is being lifted, until the pad on the bottom of the elongated bar is again in engagement with the floor or other supporting surface. The user may then carry out a similar activity, raising their other foot. The raising of the other foot will be similarly resisted by the resistance force produced by the weight  128  and the spindle  19 . 
     It should be understood that while in the exemplary arrangement the weight is attached in operative connection in centered relation with the upper beam  16 , in alternative arrangements other configurations may be used. For example in some arrangements a transverse beam associated with a spindle may be set to extend vertically upwards. Alternatively in other arrangements the weight may have different configurations or extend at different angles or in different locations. Further in other exemplary arrangements the transverse member of the spindle may be in the form of a platform that includes weights of different configurations thereon. Such a platform may include a platform of a horizontally elongated configuration. Further in some exemplary arrangements the spindle may be configured with a support to which a plurality of weights may be added or removed. This may include for example one or more rods which may engage openings in weights to hold them in aligned arrangement. Weights may be added or removed in exemplary arrangements to achieve a variable resistance force that opposes movement of the foot fixings in the vertical direction. Of course it should be understood that these configurations are exemplary and in other arrangements other approaches may be used. 
       FIGS.  2  and  2     a  show a further alternative arrangement of a leg training device generally indicated  136 . In this exemplary arrangement a magnetic system is operative to provide a resistance force to the vertical movement of the foot fixings  48 . This exemplary system includes connectors generally referred to  500  which comprise elongated bar members  22   a  and  22   b  with bent profiles. Similar to the previously discussed arrangement respective foot fixings  48  are in attached connection with the respective second ends of the elongated bars. The exemplary device  136  includes a support frame  200 . The frame includes a rectangular horizontally disposed side frames  25  with a truncated top corner and a series of crossbars such as an upper beam  28  a front beam  29  and a rear beam  210 . The lower profile members  231  of the side frames  25  provide a supporting function and are provided with rubber covers  26   a  and  26   b  which provide cushioning, provide a stabilizing function and prevent movement and damage to the underlying floor structure. 
     In this exemplary arrangement a resistance mechanism again generally referred to as  100  includes a rotatable wheel  220 . In the exemplary arrangement the rotatable wheel is a wide wheel which is rotatable about a shaft  211  which extends along an axis  138 . A fixed magnet assembly  221  is secured upon the support frame  200  using a magnetic module frame  222 . In the exemplary arrangement the distance of the magnet assembly relative to the wheel is adjustable through a tie rod system  227 . In the exemplary arrangement the wheel comprises a steel alloy to interact with the magnet assembly  221  so as to achieve providing a selectively variable resistance force. It should be understood that in some arrangements the wheel  220  may be comprised entirely of a steel alloy material while in other arrangements only an outer ring or other components may be comprised of steel material. 
     In the exemplary arrangement the elongated bar profile bar members  22   a  and  22   b  are each movably mounted in operative connection with the frame through a respective pivot that is rotatable about the axis  138 . Each of the profile bar members  22   a  and  22   b  has forward extensions  140  that extend beyond the respective pivot in a direction opposed of the direction toward the foot fixings. Each of the extensions have at a distal end thereof away from the pivot, a respective ratchet  24 . In the exemplary arrangement the respective ratchet  24  is in operative connection with a roller, gear or similar member that extends outward from the extensions  140  and is configured to engage the wheel  220 . For purposes of this description all such members engaged with the ratchet shall be referred to as a roller. In exemplary arrangements the roller is configured to engage an inner circumferential surface of the rotatable wheel  200 . In exemplary arrangements the ratchet is configured so that the roller in engagement with the wheel is prevented from rotating in one rotational direction so that during movement of the extension in a first direction the roller is prevented from moving so that the movement of the extension urges rotation of the wheel in a first rotational direction. The exemplary ratchet is further configured such that movement of the extension in an opposed direction enables the roller to rotate relatively freely such that the extension and the elongated member may move in the opposed direction without applying a counterforce that impedes the rotation of the wheel in the first direction. Of course it should be understood that this approach is exemplary and in other arrangements other approaches may be used. 
     The exemplary structure includes a shaft  211  that extends along the axis  138 . The shaft  211  connects the rear vertical profiles of the support frame  200 . The shaft  211  is operative to provide the support for the rotatable wheel  220  and the elongated profile members  22   a  and  22   b  and supported in engagement there with. Each of the elongated bar members is operatively connected with the shaft  211  through a bearing  217  that is recessed into a bushing  218  at an end thereof connected next to the wheel  220 . At the underside second ends of the elongated profile members  22   a ,  22   b  and underline relation of the foot fixings are cushioning rubber covers  23 . The shaft  211  further extends through spacing dividers  216 . The spacing dividers operate to separate the outboard side of each elongated profile member  22   a ,  22   b  from the adjacent upright frame to facilitate the movement of the elongated profile member. 
     The exemplary wheel  220  is in supported movable relation on the shaft  211  using a bearing  219 . The exemplary arrangement of the wheel  220  with the magnetic module frame  222  which fixes the magnet assembly  221  a variable distance from the wheel, is controlled by a pulley lock system  226 ,  228  and  229  and a tie rod system  227  that is suspended in the support frame  200 . The exemplary magnetic system that provides resistance to wheel and foot fixing movement is supported on the bottom side by a magnetic module frame  222  that has an arm  222   a  with an opening embedded on a shaft  212  located in the support frame  200  between the side frames. Of course it should be understood that this configuration is exemplary. 
     The rotatable wheel  220  is wider in the peripheral portion than in a central area. On the inside of the wheel a circumferential outward extension of the wheel  220  may be serrated in a way that corresponds to the roller or other rotatable member that is in operative connection with the ratchet  24  on the extensions  140  of the elongated profile bars  22   a ,  22   b . In this exemplary arrangement the ratchet is configured so that resistance is only generated against movement of the user lifting their leg that is positioned in a foot fixings  48  that is coupled to an elongated profile bar member. The resistance to movement of the foot fixings is provided by a magnetic module frame  222  having a shape similar to that of the wheel  220 . The magnetic module frame is provided with an arm  222   a  and a pulley block fixings system of the tie rod system  227 . The exemplary tie rod system  227  includes a lower pulley lock system  226 , a wire rope  227   a , a pulley block  228  of the tie rod system  227 , and the upper pulley block system  229 . A magnet assembly  221  fixed by the side profiles  223  is provided inside the fixing magnetic module frame  222  that fixes the magnet assembly  221  of the resistance mechanism. The exemplary arm  222   a  of the magnetic module frame  222  has an end when a bushing  224  and a bearing  225  that allows the magnetic module frame  222  to rotate relative to the axis  138  defined by the shaft  212 . The exemplary shaft  212  is embedded on profiles of the support frame  200 . In the exemplary arrangement the configuration of the elongated profile bars  22   a ,  22   b  have a shape that is configured so that the foot fixings  48  pass above the shaft  212  during operation of the device. 
     The resistance mechanism is suspended in the support frame  200  from the upper, top side of the magnetic module frame  222  and is suspended using a lower pulley block system  226  of the tie rod system  227  for adjusting the resistance to vertical movement of the foot fixings. In the exemplary arrangement the distance of the magnetic module frame  222  from the wheel  220  varies the resistance force using an upper pulley block system  229  located on the shaft  213  of the tie rod system  227 , in which the shaft  213  is located between the diagonal profiles of the side frames  25  of the upper support frame  200 , and below the upper beam  28  of the support frame  200 . Below the shaft  213 , between the oblique beams of the side frames  25 , there is a shaft  214  of the pulley block  228  of the tie rod system  227 , on which there is a drum  228  provided on one side of a sprocket wheel  228   a  that corresponds to a smaller sprocket wheel  215   a  formed on the shaft  215  of an adjusting crank  27 . The shaft  215  is located below the shaft  214  of the pulley block  228 , and when recessed into the side frame  25 , has the adjusting crank  27  at the end of the right side of the side frame  25  as shown. A wire rope  227   a  which serves as a tie rod in the tie rod system  227 , is wound onto the pulley block  228  during adjustment by rotating the adjusting crank  27  and passes through the two pulley block systems  226 ,  229  several times. 
     In alternative arrangements an electromagnetic system may be utilized in which the force of the magnetic field is made variable. This may be achieved in such alternative arrangements through the use of circuitry which is operative to adjust the magnetic force produced by electromagnets. In alternative arrangements the distance between the magnet assembly and the rotatable wheel  200  may be made adjustable. This may be accomplished in some arrangements by using a motor driving a tie rod shaft or in alternative arrangements by using a chain so as to provide a selectively variable resistance force. Of course it should be understood that these arrangements are exemplary and in other arrangements other structures for providing a suitable resistance force may be utilized. 
     A further alternative exemplary leg training device  142  is shown in  FIGS.  3 ,  3     a  and  3   b . This exemplary arrangement comprises a system that has some similar features to the others previously described and provides a resistance force against the vertical movement of the user&#39;s legs and feet that are in operatively engaged relation with foot fixings  48 . Also like the other arrangements previously discussed herein, this exemplary arrangement is operative to apply the resistance force which opposes vertical leg movement in axially aligned relation with the tibia of the user&#39;s leg. 
     The exemplary arrangement provides a resistance force based on a stationary weight system which includes a column  333  with a weight stack, and a tie rod system that includes a tie rod  310  and a pulley block system  37 ,  314  and  331 . In the exemplary arrangement the exemplary tie rod  310  which is alternatively referred to herein as a flexible tie bar, is a single continuous flexible member. In the exemplary arrangement a first end of the tie rod is in fixed operative connection with a first one of the foot fixings  48  through operative engagement of the at least one fastener  99  which operatively engages the platform  10  thereof with the flexible tie rod. A second opposed end of the tie rod is in fixed operative connection with the other of the foot fixing  48  through the respective at least one fastener  99  thereof. The exemplary arrangement of the leg training device which provides for the flexible tie rod to be in operative connection with the weight, provides a resistance force against the vertically upward movement of a foot fixing and causes the other foot fixing to be biased downward holding the other foot fixing that is not raised in engaged relation with profile members  312  which provide a lower base upon which the foot fixings are operatively supported in their lowermost positions. 
     In other exemplary arrangements the exemplary profile members  312  may include spindles with spacers  313 . In such exemplary arrangements any slack in the flexible tie rod  310  may be taken up so that it remains in a position that is unchanged. In some exemplary arrangements the flexible tie rod  310  may comprise a wire rope. Further in exemplary arrangements the profiles  312  may be configured in such a way that they correspond to supporting profile bars  311   a  and  311   b  which in exemplary arrangements may extend obliquely and serve as cross bars for support of the device frame which is generally indicated  144 . 
     The exemplary support frame  144  comprises a base  332 . The base includes side beams  32 , a front beam  34 , a middle beam  35  and a landing  33  which is mounted on the base. In the exemplary arrangement, front beam  34  and middle beam  35 , function as supports and have a suitable rubber cover  36   a  and  36   b . Arranged in front of the support profile bars  311   a ,  311   b , on the side beams  32  of the base  332 , there is a landing  33  in the form of a rectangular platform. Below the support profile bars  311   a ,  311   b , there are two ledges forming crossbars  38  upon which pairs of guide rollers  39  are arranged. The guide rollers  39  are operative to hold the position of the tie rod  310  within the limits of lateral reflections below the support profile bars. Extending from the guide rollers  39  the flexible tie rod passes through the pulley blocks  37  that is secured on the middle beam  35 . The flexible tie rod then changes direction passing at the top to the pulley blocks  314  of the ballasting system  319  to the column  333  of the resistance mechanism. 
     In the exemplary arrangement the ballasting system  319  comprises a lever  319   a  with a limiting module  320 . Crossbars  318  are attached to the lower part of the lever  319   a  in the form of longitudinal L-shaped bar profiles, with a first side profile  317   a  at its end. Side profile  317   a  is located at the profile of the side beam  32  of the support frame  144 . At the at the second side beam  32  profile, there is a second symmetrical side profile  317   b . A system of shafts  315 ,  316  serve as connectors on which the profiles of the ballasting system  319  rotate relative to the support frame  144 . On the main shaft  315  of the ballasting system  319  which is located between the distal ends of the side profiles  317   a ,  317   b  of the ballasting system  319 , there are pulley blocks  314  on which the tie rod rotates. The other two rollers comprise side shafts  316  which connect the proximal ends of the side profiles  317   a ,  317   b  of the ballasting system  319  with side beams  32  of the base  332  of the support frame  144  to form a transverse axis of rotation. The exemplary ballasting system also has a limiting module  320  that operates to limit the movement range of the lever  319   a  located on the right side beam  32  of the support frame  144 . The exemplary C-shaped limiting module  320  provides only two stable positions for the lever  319   a . In a distal position of the lever  319   a  the lever is directed toward the column  333  of the resistance mechanism, thereby causing strain relief of the tie rod  310 . In a proximal position of the lever  319   a  the lever causes the tension in the tie rod  310  and the weighing down of the resistance mechanism. Thus in the exemplary arrangement the ballasting system  319  enables control of at least one of the vertical level of the foot fixing at which the resistance force is encountered and the magnitude of the resistance force for a given level of vertical displacement of the foot fixing. Of course it should be understood that this approach is exemplary and in other arrangements other approaches may be used. 
     The weight column  333  is connected to the support frame  144  using a transverse lower beam  321  of the column. Due to its supporting nature the lower beam  321  has lateral rubber covers  36   c . The frame shaped column  333  also includes two side beams  322  on profile members, an upper beam  323 , an upper crossbar  324  and a lower crossbar  325  which includes a cushion  325   a  for the weight stack  326 . The exemplary weight stack  326  of the resistance mechanism is located on the lower crossbar  325 . Between the upper crossbar  324  and the lower crossbar  325 , there are two guiding profile members  328  which in the exemplary arrangement comprise tubes. However it should be understood that in other exemplary arrangements there may be different cross-sectional shapes for the guiding profile members  328  as well as for the other profile members which serve as guides in the device. The exemplary tie rod  310  runs inside the guiding profile  328 . In the weight stack  326  there is provided a perforated ledge  327   a  and a spindle  327   b  with a knob. This arrangement comprises a load regulation system  327  of the weight stack  326  which enables selectively varying the resistance force opposing vertical movement of the foot fixings  48 . 
     The exemplary tie rod  310  which is attached at its opposed ends to the foot fixings, passes through the pulley block system  37  and successively through the pulley block system  314  of the ballasting system  319 . The tie rod then enters the column  333  through the bottom pulley block system  331 , passes vertically through the guiding profile member  328  of the weight stack, passes through the top pulley block system  330  located on the bottom side of the transverse upper beam  323 , and returns to the central pulley block  329  which is engaged with the perforated edge  327   a  that binds the weight stack. The exemplary tie rod  310  then returns sequentially through the top pulley block system  330  to the bottom pulley block system  331 , sequentially into the pulley block system  14  of the ballasting system  319 , through the pulley block system  37 , connecting at its end with the foot fixing  48  through the respective at least one fastener  99  thereof. 
     In exemplary arrangements the ballasting lever  319   a  of the ballasting system  319  may be used to reduce the backlash in the initial phase of foot lift movement. The exemplary tie rod  310  is connected at its respective ends to the foot fixings  48  by passing through the spindles placed in the profiles  312  which have a shape corresponding to two inclined profile bars  311   a ,  311   b  which in the exemplary arrangement comprise diagonally arranged crossbars placed on the support frame  144  which operatively provide support for the support base for the foot fixings  48 . In exemplary arrangements the tie rod is directionally stabilized by the pulley block systems  37 ,  314 ,  329 ,  330  and  331  and at this stage between the support profile bars  311   a ,  311   b  as well as at all locations of a directional change. While in other exemplary arrangements other configurations may be utilized for the base profiles  312 , it may be useful that the return path of each foot fixing  48  from a vertically elevated position above the base downward, operative engagement with the base is unequivocal to prevent twisting or shifting of the foot fixing  48  relative to the structures that are provided for the receipt thereof by the support profile bars  311   a ,  311   b . Of course it should be understood that these arrangements are exemplary and in other arrangements other approaches may be used. 
     A further alternative arrangement of the leg training device  146  is shown in  FIGS.  4  and  4     a . This exemplary arrangement includes a pair of foot fixings  48  that are each respectively in attached operative connection with respective elongated profile bars  148 ,  150  which are generally referred to as connectors  500 . The exemplary arrangement includes a support frame  152 . The support frame is rotationally connected to the elongated bars  148 ,  150  through respective pivots  154 ,  156  using bushings  410 . In the exemplary arrangement resistance to vertical movement of the bars and foot fixings is provided by springs  480  which in the exemplary arrangement comprise air springs. The exemplary springs include cylinders  480  in which internal pistons  158  are longitudinally movable in operative connection with piston rods  481 . In the exemplary arrangement the movement of the pistons  158  within the cylinders is resisted by fluid pressure on one or both transverse sides of the pistons. 
     The exemplary support frame  152  includes lower beams  420  and side beams  430  that are connected by a transversely arranged upper crossbar  440  and a lower crossbar  450 . The configurations of the lower beams  420  of the support frame  152  and the bars  148 ,  150  include transverse bushing sleeves  410  at a distal end such that the pivots  154 ,  156  are constrained to rotate about a common axis. The respective foot fixings  48  are in operatively fixed connection at the ends of the bars  148 ,  150  an opposed ends from the pivots. The lower ends of the bars  148 ,  150  are provided with cushioning rubber cover pads  460 . In the exemplary arrangement the lower crossbar  450  is attached on the bottom side to the lower beams  420  at a proximal portion thereof where the lower beams  420  connect with the side beams  430 . The upper crossbar  440  is located at the top of the side beams  430 . 
     The upper crossbar  440  includes upper hinge fixings  490  which are configured to rotationally engage the upper mounting apertures of the cylinders  480 . The piston rods  481  of the cylinders  480  are in rotationally engaged connection at their proximal ends to suitable hinged fixings  470  that are positioned on the respective bars  148 ,  150 . As a result the air springs as provided by the cylinders  480 , are configured in some exemplary arrangements to provide resistance force that opposes the upward vertical movement of the foot fixings. Alternatively in other arrangements with different cylinder configurations the movement of the foot fixings both vertically upward and vertically downward may be subject to a resistance force. Various resistance force arrangements may be achieved by controlling the pressure on the transverse sides of the respective pistons  158  within the cylinders  480 . 
     The exemplary device  146  implements a solution in which the resistance from the resistance mechanism generally referred to  100  may be transferred from the cylinders  180  mounted on the support frame  152  through the piston rods  481 . In this exemplary arrangement the axis of rotation of the pivots  154 ,  156  is spaced from the foot fixings  48  and the point of engagement of the cylinders such that the piston rods are connected thereto in a manner that provides the desired level of resistance to vertical movement of the foot fixings. Of course it should be understood that these approaches are exemplary and in other arrangements other approaches may be used. 
       FIGS.  5  and  5     a  show a further alternative exemplary arrangement of the leg training device generally indicated  160 . This exemplary arrangement also comprises a pair of foot fixings  48  for which the vertical movement thereof is resisted by a selectively variable resistance force. Again as with the other exemplary arrangements herein, resistance force is applied through the leg fixings in axially aligned relation with the respective tibias of the legs of the user. 
     In this exemplary arrangement the resistance force is provided by a spring-loaded mechanism that includes a series of spiral springs  510  which may alternatively be referred to herein as torsion springs. The springs  500  are coaxially arranged with drums  511 . In the exemplary arrangement each drum is operatively connected via a flexible tie rod portion  162  to a respective foot fixing  48 . In the exemplary arrangement the tie rod portions comprise wire ropes that are wound onto the drums  511 . The exemplary arrangement includes a resistance control system. The resistance control system includes a motor  521 . The motor is in operative connection with an input device  523 , which is operative to receive manual inputs. The exemplary input device  523  may comprise a rotatable dial. The input device  523  is operatively connected to the motor through a suitable electric cable  524 . 
     In the exemplary arrangement the device  160  includes housings  512 . The respective springs  510  are attached externally to the housing. The springs are attached internally to sprockets  513  and are separated by spacers  514  that are positioned on rings. The housings  512  of springs  510  are attached via fixing profile members  515  to a housing  201  which serves as a support frame. Perforated metal sheets  202  that are fixed to the housing are also in operatively attached connection with the housings  512 . Perforated metal sheets  205  are provided for engagement of the housings at the proximal and distal walls, while perforated metal sheets  206  are provided at the sidewalls. 
     In the exemplary arrangement the force from the springs  510  is transferred to a respective tie rod portion  162  through a drive sprocket  516  which conforms to a sprocket  511   a  formed in the drum  511 , and the sprockets  513  of the springs  510 . The adjusting sprocket  517  conforms with the sprockets  513  of springs  210  and stabilizing sprockets  202   a  disposed in the perforated metal sheets  202  behind the mechanism including the springs  510 . The sprockets are disposed on a common axis  518  with the drive sprocket  516 . The position of the drive sprocket  516  and the adjusting sprocket  570  is adjusted by a cogged guide  519  on the proximal side and by the adjusting spring  520  on the distal side. The cogged guide  519  conforms to sprockets  522   a  that are provided on the driveshaft  522  connected to the motor  521 . The cogged guides  519  and the adjusting spring  520  are movably mounted by supporting bearings  525 . 
     Spacers  514  are provided on rings, which rings are an integral part of the spacers  514  and have a diameter that allows them to slide freely over the adjusting sprocket  517  and the drive sprocket  560 . The adjusting sprocket  517  and the drive sprocket  516  have a similar cross section and are aligned with sprockets  513  of the springs  510  in such a way that if the drive sprocket  516  is located inside the sprocket  513  of the spring  510 , it transfers the torque generated during the deflection of the spring  510  from the rotational movement of the drive sprocket about the axis. If the adjusting sprocket  517  is located in the sprocket  513  of the spring  510 , it prevents the spring  510  from unwinding while maintaining its base resistance via the sprocket  202   a  and the perforated metal sheet  202  located behind the housing  512  of the springs  510 . In the exemplary arrangement the rings in spacers  514  allow for given margin of error, a room for maneuver in the adjustment system because they do not have a sprocket like cross section and are a point where the stationary (rotationally relative to the axis, adjusting sprocket  517 ) and the rotationally movable drive sprocket  516  meet. 
     The cogged guide  519  is moved along the axis using transverse strips. Therefore the position of the point of contact between the drive sprocket  516  and the adjusting sprocket  517  is varied. This point of contact can have a position between the drum  511  and the first spring  510 . The point of contact may alternatively be under the spacer ring between the first and second rings  510 . A further alternative position of the point of contact may be under the spacer ring  514  between the second and third springs  510 . The point of contact may also be under the spacer ring  514  between the third and fourth spring  510 . The point of contact may also be between the port spring  510  and the sprocket  202   a  located in the perforated metal sheet  202  behind the spring housing  512  of the springs  510 . 
     The cogged guide  519  which controls the point of contact between the drive sprocket and the adjusting sprocket is selectively moved by the driveshaft  522  which is driven by the motor  521 . The rotation of the driveshaft is controlled responsive to manual inputs to the input device  523 . As a result the resistance force which resists the vertical movement of each of the foot fixings may be selectively variable. 
     The exemplary sheet metal housing  201  which serves as a support frame in this exemplary device arrangement, includes a lid  203 . The lid is perforated so as to have openings where the tie rod portions  162  pass therethrough. The exemplary lid includes a respective top rubber cover  204   a ,  204   b  located in the area where the points of contact occur with the under sides of the platforms  10  of the foot fixings  48 . In the exemplary arrangement the user is enabled to selectively vary the resistance force to the vertical movement of each of the foot fixings  48  by providing the inputs to the input device  523  during use of the device  160 . Of course these approaches are exemplary and in other arrangements other approaches and configurations may be used. 
     Thus the exemplary arrangements of the leg training devices described herein achieve improved operation, eliminate difficulties encountered in the use of prior devices and systems, and attain the useful results that are described herein. 
     In the foregoing description certain terms have been used for brevity, clarity and understanding. However no unnecessary limitations are to be implied therefrom because such terms are used for descriptive purposes and are intended to be broadly construed. Moreover the descriptions and illustrations herein are by way of examples and the new and useful features of the exemplary arrangements are not limited only to the features and relationships that have been shown and described. 
     Further it should be understood that the features and/or relationships associated with one exemplary arrangement can be combined with features and/or relationships from another arrangement. That is, various features and/or relationships from the various arrangements can be combined in further arrangements. The new and useful scope of the disclosure is not limited only to the arrangements that have been shown and described herein. 
     Having described the features, discoveries and principles of the exemplary arrangements, the manner in which they are constructed and operated, and the advantages and useful results attained, the new and useful features, devices, elements, configurations, parts, combinations, systems, equipment, operations, methods, processes and relationships are set forth in the appended claims.