Patent Description:
Knowing the maximum power value generatable by a user during a resistance training exercise (e.g., a sled training exercise) on an exercise machine (e.g., a treadmill) is very important as it allows setting a suitable push load on the exercise machine for performing a set push training exercise in an optimal and safe manner, achieving the expected results in terms of performance and improvement of physical fitness and avoiding as much as possible excessive fatigue, risk of injury, and so on.

Nowadays, in order to know the maximum power value generatable by a user during a sled training exercise on an exercise machine, the user performs a test in which, using different push loads, he/she attempts to develop the maximum power, defined by the product between the overcome resistance vs. push load and the displacement speed.

The values calculated following the tests performed are compared with one another and the greater value is assigned to the user as an estimated maximum power value generatable by the user during a sled training exercise on an exercise machine.

However, this type of test still seems to be inaccurate and therefore not very reliable.

In light of this, there is a strong need to be able to estimate a maximum power value generatable by a user during a sled training exercise on an exercise machine that is as accurate and reliable as possible in order to set a push load value on the exercise machine that allows performing a set push training exercise in an optimal and safe manner, increasing the possibility of achieving the expected results in terms of performance and improvement of physical fitness and avoiding as much as possible excessive fatigue, risk of injury, and so on.

<CIT> discloses a training apparatus including arithmetic means which acquires a characteristic value possessed by a waveform corresponding to one unit of a training action, evaluates the acquired characteristic value compared with a predetermined value and, based on the evaluation, executes a control of a load generation unit.

It is the object of the present invention to devise and provide a method for estimating a maximum power value generatable by a user during a resistance training exercise on an exercise machine that is as accurate and reliable as possible in order to set a push load value on the exercise machine that allows performing a set push training exercise in an optimal and safe manner, increasing the possibility of achieving the expected results in terms of performance and improvement of physical fitness and reducing as much as possible the excessive fatigue, the risk of injury, and so on.

Such an object is achieved by a method in accordance with claim <NUM>.

Preferred embodiments of said method are defined in the dependent claims.

The present invention also relates to an exercise machine according to claim <NUM>, adapted to implement such a method, and to a system according to claim <NUM>, comprising such an exercise machine, adapted to implement such a method.

Further features and advantages of the method, the exercise machine and the system according to the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments, given by way of indicative, nonlimiting example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:.

It should be noted that, in the aforesaid figures, equivalent or similar elements are indicated by the same numeric and/or alphanumeric reference.

With reference to <FIG>, reference numeral <NUM> indicates, as a whole, an exercise machine usable in the method for estimating a maximum power value generatable by a user during a resistance training exercise on an exercise machine, in accordance with the present invention.

"Resistance training exercise" or "passive mode training exercise" means an exercise in which a user opposes the resistance of a push load such as, for example, both a push training exercise (e.g., a sled training exercise) and a pull training exercise consisting in providing a hook for the user, for example at the waist level, with the same execution and control modes as the push training exercise.

It should be noted that "exercise machine" means any exercise machine usable by the user to perform a resistance training exercise such as, for example, a flat treadmill, a curved treadmill, an elliptical machine, a bike or exercise bike, and so on.

In the example in the figures, the exercise machine <NUM> is a flat treadmill.

It should be noted that, in particular in <FIG>, only some components of the exercise machine <NUM> are shown, simply representing them by means of a block diagram in order to better highlight the technical features of the exercise machine <NUM> and its components, which are essential and important for the present invention.

With reference to any one of <FIG>, the exercise machine <NUM> comprises a base <NUM> extending along a longitudinal axis L, indicated in the figures by a dashed line.

The base <NUM> comprises a first rotating element <NUM> and a second rotating element <NUM> adapted to rotate about respective rotation axes (first rotation axis A1 for the first roller <NUM>, second rotation axis A2 for the second roller <NUM>) transverse to the longitudinal axis L of the base <NUM> of the exercise machine <NUM> (<FIG>).

It should be noted that the first rotating element <NUM> is arranged at a first end of the base <NUM> while the second rotating element <NUM> is arranged at a second end of the base <NUM>, which is located, along the longitudinal axis L of the base <NUM>, in the opposite position with respect to the position in which the first end is located.

The base <NUM> further comprises a physical exercise surface <NUM> operatively connected to the first rotating element <NUM> and the second rotating element <NUM>.

For the purposes of the present description, "physical exercise surface" means the rotatable surface of the exercise machine <NUM>, for example the treadmill, on which, by placing his/her feet or lower limbs in general, a user U (diagrammatically depicted in <FIG>) can perform a physical exercise such as running, walking, push training exercises, pull training exercises, for example, or any other type of physical exercise that the treadmill <NUM> allows to perform.

Moreover, it should be noted that the term "rotating element" means any mechanical element adapted to rotate about a respective rotation axis so as to impart a rotation to the "physical exercise surface" operatively associated with one or more of these rotating elements.

The type of rotating elements, some examples of which will be described below, depends on the type of physical exercise surface to be rotated.

In greater detail, the rotation of the first rotating element <NUM> also drives the physical exercise surface <NUM> and the second rotating element <NUM> into rotation. Quite similarly, the rotation of the second rotating element <NUM> drives the first rotating element <NUM> and the physical exercise surface <NUM> into rotation.

When the physical exercise surface <NUM> is moving, the advancement direction of the physical exercise surface <NUM>, indicated in <FIG> by the reference symbol S1 (for example, from right to left), is opposite to the advancement direction of the user U on the physical exercise surface <NUM>, indicated in <FIG> by the reference symbol S2 (for example, from left to right).

In accordance with an embodiment, shown in <FIG>, the physical exercise surface <NUM> has a lateral profile substantially parallel to longitudinal axis L of the base <NUM>.

Therefore, in this embodiment, the exercise machine <NUM> is a flat treadmill.

In accordance with a further embodiment, alternative to the previous one and not shown in the figures, the physical exercise surface <NUM> has a lateral profile substantially curved with respect to longitudinal axis L of the base <NUM>.

Therefore, in this embodiment, the exercise machine <NUM> is a curved treadmill.

In accordance with an embodiment, in combination with any one of those just described, the physical exercise surface <NUM> comprises a belt or pad wound around the first rotating element <NUM> and the second rotating element <NUM>, and a support deck (not shown in the figures), arranged between the first rotating element <NUM> and the second rotating element <NUM> along the longitudinal axis L of the base <NUM>, on which the belt or pad runs, defining the physical exercise surface <NUM>.

In this embodiment, the first rotating element <NUM> and the second rotating element <NUM> comprise two respective rollers, each rotatably coupled to the base <NUM> of the exercise machine <NUM> at the first and second ends of the base <NUM>, to which the belt or pad is connected.

In accordance with a further embodiment (not shown in the figures), the physical exercise surface <NUM> comprises a plurality of strips transverse to the longitudinal axis L of the base <NUM>.

In this embodiment, both the first rotating element <NUM> and the second rotating element <NUM> comprise two respective pulleys arranged close to the lateral portions of the base <NUM>, transversely to the longitudinal axis L of the base <NUM>, adapted to support the plurality of strips at the lateral edges of each strip.

In other words, in this further embodiment, the physical exercise surface <NUM> has a shutter configuration.

In particular, this shutter configuration is applied to both rotating pads with a physical exercise surface <NUM> having a lateral profile substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the base <NUM> (flat treadmill) and rotating pads with a physical exercise surface <NUM> with curved lateral profile (curved treadmill).

Generally returning to the exercise machine <NUM> in <FIG>, the exercise machine <NUM> further comprises a frame <NUM> extending substantially in a vertical direction with respect to the base <NUM> having a shape so as to allow the user U to perform sled training exercises on the physical exercise surface <NUM>.

The frame <NUM> is a combination of uprights and tubular elements operatively connected to one another and distributed so as to define a support structure substantially surrounding the user U when he/she is on the physical exercise surface <NUM>.

Such a support structure comprises one or more supports for the user U, for example one or more bars, handles, grab bars, backrest or dedicated support for his/her torso or shoulders, and possibly also one or more hooks for pulling (not shown in the figures).

In particular, for performing a sled training exercise, such as that shown in <FIG>, for example, the frame <NUM> comprises a pair of vertical uprights <NUM> (only one of which can be seen in the figures) that the user U can hold when pushing with his/her feet on the physical exercise surface <NUM>.

It should be noted that any hooks for pulling, alternatively or in combination with those present on the frame <NUM> of the exercise machine <NUM>, can be outside the exercise machine <NUM>, for example distributed on an outer structure (e.g., an upright) positioned close to the exercise machine <NUM> or on a wall near which the exercise machine <NUM> is positioned.

Generally returning to the embodiment in <FIG>, the exercise machine <NUM> further comprises an actuation device <NUM> of the physical exercise surface <NUM> operatively associated with at least one of said first rotating element <NUM> and second rotating element <NUM>.

The actuation device <NUM> of the physical exercise surface <NUM> will also simply be referred to as the actuation device below.

It should be noted that "actuation" means any action that can be performed on the physical exercise surface <NUM> such as to condition the rotation thereof, i.e., operation, speed increase or decrease, braking, and so on.

The actuation device <NUM> comprises at least one element (for example of electric, magnetic or electromagnetic type), operatively associated with the base <NUM> of the exercise machine <NUM> in a rotatable manner.

The actuation device <NUM> is operatively associated with at least one of the first rotating element <NUM> and the second rotating element <NUM> so that a rotation of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM> corresponds to a rotation of the actuation device <NUM>, and conversely a rotation of the actuation device <NUM> corresponds to a rotation of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM>.

"Rotation of the actuation device" means the rotation of the at least one electric member (not shown in the figures) of the actuation device <NUM> operatively associated with the base <NUM> of the exercise machine <NUM> in a rotatable manner.

It should be noted that, in an embodiment, the actuation device <NUM> is operatively connected to at least one of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM> in a direct manner.

In accordance with a further embodiment, alternative to the previous one and not shown in the figures, the actuation device <NUM> is operatively connected to at least one of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM> by means of at least one respective transmission member.

In an embodiment, the actuation device <NUM> is configured to apply a braking action to at least one of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM> and therefore to the physical exercise surface <NUM>.

In this embodiment, the exercise machine <NUM>, for example the treadmill as shown in <FIG>, is configured to operate in a "passive" mode (for push or sled training exercises), in which the braking action control is enabled/activated.

Moreover, in a further embodiment in combination with the previous one, the actuation device <NUM> is configured to apply a driving action to at least one of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM> and therefore to the physical exercise surface <NUM>.

In this embodiment, the exercise machine <NUM>, for example the treadmill as shown in <FIG>, is configured to operate in an "active" mode (for traditional running/walking).

With general reference to <FIG>, in an embodiment, the exercise machine <NUM> further comprises a data processing unit <NUM>, e.g., a microprocessor or microcontroller.

The data processing unit <NUM> is operatively connected to the actuation device <NUM>.

The exercise machine <NUM> further comprises a memory unit <NUM>, operatively connected to the data processing unit <NUM>.

The memory unit <NUM> can be either inside or outside (as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, for example) the data processing unit <NUM>.

It should be noted that the memory unit <NUM> is configured to store one or more program codes executable by the data processing unit <NUM> for controlling the exercise machine <NUM> and in particular for controlling the actuation device <NUM>, for the purpose of operating the physical exercise surface <NUM>.

In greater detail, the data to be stored in the memory unit <NUM> comprise data on the operation of the actuation device <NUM>, based on which the data processing unit <NUM> can control the actuation device <NUM>, as will be reiterated below.

More generally, further data to be stored in the memory unit <NUM> of the exercise machine <NUM> are data on the training programs/algorithms based on which the processing unit <NUM> can control the actuation device <NUM>.

In further embodiments, which will also be reiterated below, the memory unit <NUM> is configured to store one or more program codes executable by the data processing unit <NUM> to fully or partially carry out the method for estimating a maximum power value generatable by a user during a resistance training exercise on an exercise machine in accordance with the present invention.

Returning to the actuation device <NUM>, in an embodiment shown in <FIG>, the actuation device <NUM> comprises a motor <NUM>, operatively associated with and controllable by the data processing unit <NUM>.

In this embodiment, the motor <NUM> is configured to apply both the driving action and the braking action to at least one of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM>, therefore to the physical exercise surface <NUM>, based on commands received from the data processing unit <NUM>.

In this embodiment, examples of motor can be the "brushless" electric motor, the asynchronous electric motor, the switched-reluctance electric motor, the DC electric motor, and so on.

Note that in this embodiment, the actuation device <NUM> is a device that transforms electrical energy into mechanical energy and vice versa.

In a further embodiment, alternative to the previous one and shown in <FIG>, the actuation device <NUM> comprises a brake <NUM>, operatively associated with and controllable by the data processing unit <NUM>.

In this embodiment, the brake <NUM> is configured to apply the braking action to the physical exercise surface <NUM>, based on commands received from the data processing unit <NUM>.

Note that the braking action by the brake <NUM> on the physical exercise surface <NUM> is applied by acting on at least one of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM>.

In this embodiment, examples of brake <NUM> can be a regenerative brake (e.g., a generator), a magnetic brake with permanent magnets, an eddy current brake, a mechanical friction brake, and so on.

In a further embodiment, alternative to the previous ones and shown in <FIG>, the actuation device <NUM> comprises a motor <NUM> and a brake <NUM>, both operatively associated with and controllable by the data processing unit <NUM>.

In this embodiment, the processing unit <NUM> is configured to separately control the motor <NUM> and the brake <NUM>.

In this embodiment, the motor <NUM> is configured to apply the driving action to the physical exercise surface <NUM> for operating the exercise machine in the "active" mode, based on respective commands received from the data processing unit <NUM>, while the brake <NUM> is configured to apply the braking action to the physical exercise surface <NUM> for operating the exercise machine <NUM> in the "passive" mode, based on respective commands received from the data processing unit <NUM>.

It should be noted that the motor <NUM> is adapted to apply the driving action to the physical exercise surface <NUM> by acting on at least one of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM>.

On the other hand, it should be noted that the brake <NUM> is adapted to apply the braking action to the physical exercise surface <NUM> by acting on the motor <NUM>.

Referring now to any one of the embodiments described above, reference is generally made below to the actuation device <NUM> again, regardless of the aforementioned embodiments, to be considered in combination or alternatively with one another.

If the actuation device <NUM> is configured to apply a braking action to the physical exercise surface <NUM> based on commands received from the data processing unit <NUM>, it is understood that this braking action is applied by the motor <NUM> or brake <NUM>.

Returning to <FIG>, for example, the exercise machine <NUM> further comprises at least one sensor <NUM> for detecting at least one first parameter representative of the interaction between the user U and the physical exercise surface <NUM>, hereinafter simply referred to as at least one sensor <NUM>.

For the purposes of the present description, "parameter representative of the interaction between the user and the physical exercise surface" means any detectable parameter on the exercise machine <NUM> (e.g., kinematic parameters such as the speed or acceleration of the physical exercise surface <NUM> or the rotational speed of at least one of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM> or of the actuation device <NUM>, or dynamic parameters such as the braking torque of the actuation device <NUM> or of at least one of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM>) or any detectable parameter on the user U (e.g., the heart rate) the variation of which is related to the interaction between the user U and the physical exercise surface <NUM> when using the exercise machine <NUM>.

With reference to the term "torque" or "braking torque", it should be noted that "torque" or "braking torque" means, depending on the actuation device <NUM> used according to one of the embodiments in <FIG>, the braking torque applied by the motor <NUM> if the actuation device <NUM> preferably comprises only the motor <NUM> (<FIG>) or the braking torque applied by the brake <NUM>, if the actuation device <NUM> comprises only the brake <NUM> (<FIG>) and if the actuation device <NUM> comprises both the motor <NUM> and the brake <NUM> (<FIG>).

In the description below, reference will also be made simply to "torque", in any case always meaning the "braking torque" as defined above.

The at least one sensor <NUM> comprises a sensor positioned and selected depending on the parameter that needs to be detected for controlling the braking action of the actuation device <NUM>, by operating the motor <NUM> or the brake <NUM>, in accordance with one or more embodiments, in combination or alternatively with one another.

In an embodiment, the at least one sensor <NUM> comprises a speed sensor for detecting kinematic parameters.

Examples of the speed sensor are: an encoder, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a combination thereof or other technical equivalent.

In another embodiment, in combination or alternatively to the previous one, the at least one sensor <NUM> comprises a torque sensor for the detection of dynamic parameters.

Examples of the torque sensor are: a torque meter, one or more load cells, one or more strain gauges, a combination of these or other technical equivalent, and so on.

In further embodiments, more in detail, the at least one sensor <NUM> can also be one or more combinations of the sensors indicated above.

In accordance with an embodiment, in combination with any one of those described above, the data processing unit <NUM> is configured to control the actuation device <NUM> in torque to allow the user U to use the exercise machine <NUM> for performing a resistance training exercise, for example allowing the exercise machine <NUM> to be used with constant torque control.

For this purpose, in an embodiment, the data processing unit <NUM> is configured to monitor at least one first parameter representative of the interaction between the user U and the physical exercise surface <NUM>, such as the advancement speed of the physical exercise surface <NUM> or the rotational speed of at least one of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM> or of the actuation device <NUM>, for example.

Therefore, in this embodiment, the at least one sensor <NUM> is a speed sensor.

In this embodiment, the data processing unit <NUM> is configured to monitor at least one second parameter representative of the interaction between the user U and the physical exercise surface <NUM>, for example the braking torque of the actuation device <NUM> or of at least one of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM>.

In this embodiment, the data processing unit <NUM> is configured to control at least one electrical control parameter of the actuation device <NUM>, for example the electric absorption current of the actuation device <NUM>, based on the change in the advancement speed of the physical exercise surface <NUM> or the rotational speed of at least one of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM> or of the actuation device <NUM> detected by said at least one sensor <NUM> to keep the braking torque of the actuation device <NUM> or of at least one of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM> substantially equal to the set reference value of the braking torque.

"To control at least one electrical control parameter of the actuation device <NUM>" means modulating the value of said at least one electrical control parameter of the actuation device <NUM> so that it is substantially kept equal to a reference value corresponding to a set reference value of the braking torque and to a range of values within which the advancement speed of the physical exercise surface <NUM> or the rotation speed of at least one of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM> or of the actuation device <NUM> detected by said at least one sensor <NUM> can vary.

In a second embodiment, alternative to the previous one but always relating to constant torque control, the data processing unit <NUM> is configured to monitor at least one first parameter representative of the interaction between the user U and the physical exercise surface <NUM>, such as the braking torque of the actuation device <NUM> or of at least one of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM>.

Therefore, in this embodiment, the at least one sensor <NUM> comprises a torque sensor.

In this embodiment, the data processing unit <NUM> is configured to control at least one electrical control parameter of the actuation device <NUM>, for example the electric absorption current of the actuation device <NUM>, based on the change in the braking torque of the actuation device <NUM> or of at least one of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM> detected by said at least one sensor <NUM> to keep the braking torque of the actuation device <NUM> or of at least one of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM> substantially equal to a set reference value of the braking torque.

"To control at least one electrical control parameter of the actuation device <NUM>" means modulating the value of said at least one electrical control parameter of the actuation device <NUM> so that is substantially kept equal to a reference value corresponding to the set reference value of the braking torque to be kept constant.

Without prejudice to the foregoing, regardless of the sensor used (speed or torque sensor), in accordance with a further embodiment in which the actuation device <NUM> comprises the motor <NUM>, the set reference value of the braking torque is equal to a reference function with a time-varying trend, in particular varying from a first reference value corresponding to a braking action applied by the motor <NUM> to a second reference value representative of the driving action of the motor <NUM>.

In particular, the data processing unit <NUM> is configured to control said at least one electrical control parameter of the actuation device <NUM> to keep the braking torque substantially equal to the set first reference value, so as to oppose the motion of the user U on the physical exercise surface <NUM>.

In an embodiment, in combination with any one of those described above, shown in <FIG>, the exercise machine <NUM> further comprises a user interface module <NUM> operatively connected to the data processing unit <NUM>.

The user interface module <NUM> is configured to allow the user U to interact with the exercise machine <NUM> and possibly to provide information on the execution of the method for estimating a maximum power value generatable by a user during a resistance training exercise on an exercise machine.

In an embodiment, the user interface module <NUM> can be of the touchscreen type.

In a further embodiment, alternative to the previous one, the user interface module <NUM> can be a push-button keyboard.

In an embodiment, in combination with any one of those described above, shown in <FIG>, the exercise machine <NUM> further comprises a display module <NUM> operatively connected to the data processing unit <NUM>.

The display module <NUM> is configured to show contents representative of a training program to the user, e.g., identification or authentication screen, initial menu screen for setting the workout, screen with parameters and/or graphics being updated while the exercise is performed, workout summary screen, and so on.

Moreover, the display module <NUM> is configured to show to the user the results obtained at the end of the execution of the method for estimating a maximum power value generatable by a user during a resistance training exercise on an exercise machine in accordance with the present invention.

In an embodiment, shown in <FIG>, in which the user interface module <NUM> is of the touchscreen type, the display module <NUM> can coincide with the user interface module <NUM> (see <FIG>, for example).

Note that, in this embodiment, the display module <NUM> is also configured to show the user interface module <NUM> to the user, in addition to the representative contents of a training program and/or the results provided at the end of the method for estimating a maximum power value generatable by a user during a resistance training exercise on an exercise machine.

Referring now to <FIG>, a system <NUM> adapted to implement the method for estimating a maximum power value generatable by a user during a resistance training exercise on an exercise machine in accordance with the present invention is now described.

The system <NUM> comprises an exercise machine <NUM>, described above in accordance with various embodiments, usable by a user U for performing a resistance training exercise, e.g. a sled training exercise.

The system <NUM> further comprises a remote electronic calculator <NUM>, e.g., a remote server or cloud, operatively connected to the exercise machine <NUM> through a data communication network NTW, e.g., the Internet network.

The central electronic calculator <NUM> comprises a respective data processing unit <NUM>, e.g., a microcontroller or microprocessor.

The central electronic calculator <NUM> further comprises a memory unit <NUM> operatively connected to the data processing unit <NUM>.

The memory unit <NUM> can be inside (as diagrammatically shown in <FIG>) or outside the data processing unit <NUM> (embodiment not shown in the figures).

The data processing unit <NUM>, by uploading and executing one or more program codes, stored in the memory unit <NUM>, is configured to communicate (transmit and receive) data with the exercise machine <NUM> when used by the user U (authentication, workout execution, exercise machine control, workout end management, data saving, and so on).

Also referring now to <FIG>, a method <NUM> for estimating a maximum power value generatable by a user during a resistance training exercise on an exercise machine in accordance with the present invention is now described, also referred to as the estimation method <NUM> or simply method <NUM> below, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The exercise machine <NUM>, in accordance with various embodiments, has already been described above.

The estimation of a maximum power value generatable by a user during a resistance training exercise on an exercise machine that is as accurate and reliable as possible allows setting a push load value on the exercise machine <NUM> that allows the user U to perform a set push training exercise in an optimal and safe manner, increasing the possibility of achieving the expected results in terms of performance and improvement of physical fitness and reducing as much as possible the excessive fatigue, the risk of injury, and so on.

The push load value corresponds to the braking action that can be applied by the exercise machine <NUM> as opposed to the movement of the user U when performing a resistance training exercise, e.g. a sled training exercise.

In greater detail, if the exercise machine <NUM> is a treadmill, as in the embodiments in <FIG>, the push load value corresponds to the braking action that the actuation device <NUM> (by means of the motor <NUM> or the brake <NUM>) applies to the physical exercise surface <NUM> (directly or indirectly by acting on at least one of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM>) based on commands received from the data processing unit <NUM>.

The method <NUM> comprises a symbolic step of starting ST.

The method <NUM> comprises a step of (a1) performing <NUM>, by the user U, a resistance training exercise on an exercise machine <NUM> pushing a first push load WS1 over a set distance D1, the value of which corresponds to a set first percentage P1 of the body weight W1 of the user U.

For example, the exercise machine <NUM> is in the "passive" mode with a constant torque control, as described above.

The set distance is, for example, in the range of <NUM>-<NUM> meters, preferably <NUM> meters.

For example, the resistance training exercise is a sled training exercise like that diagrammatically shown in <FIG>.

Over the whole set distance, the user U performs the sled training exercise with maximum effort and maximum push speed.

The first percentage P1 of the body weight W1 is <NUM>%, for example.

The method <NUM> further comprises a step of (a2) determining <NUM>, by a data processing unit <NUM> (<NUM>), a first value of power peak VP1 generated by the user U when performing the resistance training exercise by pushing the first push load WS1 over the set distance.

For example, in the case of a sled training exercise performed on a treadmill, once the first push load WS1 is set, the data processing unit <NUM> (<NUM>) knows the resistant torque (force) applied by the user to oppose the resistance represented by the first push load WS1.

Therefore, once the first push load WS1 is known and the advancement speed of the physical exercise surface <NUM> is determined (measured directly or determined from the rotation speed of at least one of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM> or of the actuation device <NUM>, the latter measured by an encoder, for example), the first value of power peak VP1 is determined, by the data processing unit <NUM> (<NUM>), by multiplying the first push load value WS1 (set first percentage P1 of the body weight W1 of the user U) for the peak value of the determined advancement speed of the physical exercise surface <NUM>. The peak value of the advancement speed of the physical exercise surface <NUM> is the maximum value among those determined (for example, at sampling time instants) during the sled training exercise.

The method <NUM> further comprises a step of (b1) performing <NUM>, by the user U, the resistance training exercise on the exercise machine <NUM> by pushing a second push load WS2 over a set distance D1, the value of which corresponds to a set second percentage P2 of the body weight W1 of the user U.

Also in this case, for example, the exercise machine <NUM> is in the "passive" mode with a constant torque control, as described above.

The set distance D1 is, for example, in the range of <NUM>-<NUM> meters, preferably <NUM> meters.

Over the whole set distance, the user U performs the resistance training exercise with maximum effort and maximum push speed.

The second percentage P2 of the body weight W1 is <NUM>%, for example.

The method <NUM> comprises a step of (b2) determining <NUM>, by a data processing unit <NUM> (<NUM>), a second value of power peak VP2 generated by the user U when performing the resistance training exercise by pushing the second push load WS2 over the set distance D1.

For example, again in the case of a sled training exercise performed on a treadmill, once the second push load WS2 is set, the data processing unit <NUM> (<NUM>) knows the resistant torque (force) applied by the user to oppose the resistance represented by the second push load WS2.

Therefore, once the second push load WS2 is known and the advancement speed of the physical exercise surface <NUM> is determined (measured directly or determined from the rotation speed of at least one of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM> or of the actuation device <NUM>, the latter measured by an encoder, for example), the second value of power peak VP2 is determined, by the data processing unit <NUM> (<NUM>), by multiplying the second push load value WS2 (set second percentage P2 of the body weight W1 of the user U) for the peak value of the determined advancement speed of the physical exercise surface <NUM>. The peak value of the advancement speed of the physical exercise surface <NUM> is the maximum value among those determined (for example, at sampling time instants) during the sled training exercise.

The method <NUM> comprises a step of (c1) comparing <NUM>, by the data processing unit <NUM> (<NUM>), the first measured value of power peak VP1 with the second measured value of power peak VP2.

The method <NUM> comprises a step of (c2) determining <NUM>, by the data processing unit <NUM> (<NUM>), a value of a third push load WS3, which value corresponds to a set third percentage P3 of the body weight W1 of the user U, based on the comparison of the first measured value of power peak VP1 with the second measured value of power peak VP2.

The method <NUM> comprises a step of (c3) performing <NUM>, by the user U, the resistance training exercise on the exercise machine <NUM> by pushing the third push load WS3 equal to the determined value over the set distance D1.

The method <NUM> comprises a step of (c4) determining <NUM>, by the data processing unit <NUM> (<NUM>), a third value of power peak VP3 generated by the user when performing the resistance training exercise by pushing the third push load WS3 over the set distance D1.

For example, again in the case of a sled training exercise performed on a treadmill, once the third push load WS3 is set, the data processing unit <NUM> (<NUM>) knows the resistant torque (force) applied by the user to oppose the resistance represented by the third push load WS3.

Therefore, once the third push load WS3 is known and the advancement speed of the physical exercise surface <NUM> is determined (measured directly or determined from the rotation speed of at least one of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM> or of the actuation device <NUM>, the latter measured by an encoder, for example), the third value of power peak VP3 is determined, by the data processing unit <NUM> (<NUM>), by multiplying the third push load value WS3 (set third percentage P3 of the body weight W1 of the user U) for the peak value of the determined advancement speed of the physical exercise surface <NUM>. The peak value of the advancement speed of the physical exercise surface <NUM> is the maximum value among those determined (for example, at sampling time instants) during the sled training exercise.

The method <NUM> comprises a step of (d1) determining <NUM>, by the data processing unit <NUM> (<NUM>), an estimated maximum power value VS generatable by a user U during a resistance training exercise on the exercise machine <NUM> based on the determined first value of power peak VP1, the determined second value of power peak VP2, and the determined third value of power peak VP3.

The method <NUM> further comprises a symbolic step of ending ED.

In an embodiment, in combination with any one of those described above and shown with dashed lines in <FIG>, the step of (d1) determining <NUM> comprises a step of (d2) determining <NUM>, based on a first pair of coordinates (x1, y1) of the determined first value of power peak VP1, on a second pair of coordinates (x2, y2) of the determined second value of power peak VP2, and on a third pair of coordinates (x3, y3) of the determined third value of power peak VP3, coefficients a and b of a mathematical function.

Such a mathematical function can be represented on a graph having, on a vertical axis of ordinates y, values of power peaks, and on a horizontal axis of abscissas x, values of resistant torque (force) applied by a user U in opposition to the resistance represented by a set push load (set percentage of the body weight W1 of the user U).

For example, such a mathematical function is representative of a parabola.

Therefore, in such a case, the mathematical function is: y = ax<NUM>+bx, where:.

It should be noted that the step of (d2) determining <NUM> is performed by applying a mathematical model of least squares regression (known per se in the literature), for example.

In the embodiment just described, the step of (d1) determining <NUM> further comprises a step of (d3) determining <NUM> the pair of coordinates xV, yV of the vertex point of the mathematical function based on the determined coefficients a and b.

The ordinate value of the pair of coordinates xV, yV of the vertex point of the mathematical function represents the estimated maximum power value VS generatable by a user U during a resistance training exercise.

For example, if the mathematical function is a parabola, the pair of coordinates xV, yV of the vertex point of the parabola can be determined as follows: <MAT> <MAT>.

The ordinate value yV represents the estimated maximum power value VS generatable by a user U during a resistance training exercise.

In accordance with an embodiment, in combination with any one of those described above, the method <NUM>, between step (c4) and step (d1), for performing an i-th push training exercise, for <NUM> < i < N, with N being an integer, comprises steps of:
based on a determined push load value WSi-<NUM>:.

For example, again in the case of a sled training exercise performed on a treadmill, once the further push load WSi is set, the data processing unit <NUM> (<NUM>) knows the resistant torque (force) applied by the user to oppose the resistance represented by the further push load WSi.

Therefore, once the further push load WSi is known and the advancement speed of the physical exercise surface <NUM> is determined (measured directly or determined from the rotation speed of at least one of the first rotating element <NUM> or the second rotating element <NUM> or of the actuation device <NUM>, the latter measured by an encoder, for example), the further value of power peak VPi is determined, by the data processing unit <NUM> (<NUM>), by multiplying the further push load value WSi (set third percentage P3 of the body weight W1 of the user U) for the peak value of the determined advancement speed of the physical exercise surface <NUM>. The peak value of the advancement speed of the physical exercise surface <NUM> is the maximum value among those determined (for example, at sampling time instants) during the sled training exercise.

In this embodiment, the step (d1) of determining <NUM>, by the data processing unit <NUM> (<NUM>), the estimated maximum power value VS generatable by a user U during a resistance training exercise on an exercise machine <NUM> is performed based on the determined first value of power peak VP1, the determined second value of power peak VP2, the determined third value of power peak VP3, and each further determined value of power peak VPi.

In an embodiment, in combination with any one of those described above and shown in <FIG> with dashed lines, the method <NUM> comprises a step of (f1) determining <NUM>, by the data processing unit <NUM> (<NUM>), at least one value x1 of push load WSS or a range of values x1 - x2 of push load WSS as a function of the estimated maximum power value VS to be given to the exercise machine <NUM> for performing the resistance training exercise during a workout of the user U.

In accordance with an embodiment, shown with dashed lines in <FIG>, the step of (f1) determining <NUM> comprises the steps of:.

In accordance with an embodiment, in combination with any one of those described above and shown with dashed lines in <FIG>, the method <NUM> comprises a step of (h1) providing <NUM> the user U, by the data processing unit <NUM> (<NUM>) through a display module <NUM> of the exercise machine <NUM>, with a plurality of information representative of the execution of the resistance training exercise from the method <NUM>, including one or more of:.

In accordance with an embodiment, in combination with any one of those described above and shown with dashed lines in <FIG>, the method <NUM> comprises a step of (i1) storing <NUM> in a memory unit <NUM> of a remote electronic calculator <NUM>, by the data processing unit <NUM> (<NUM>), a plurality of information PI-U representative of the user U at the end of the execution of the method <NUM>.

Such a plurality of information PI-U comprises:.

In accordance with an embodiment, in combination with any one of those described above and shown with dashed lines in <FIG>, the method <NUM> further comprises a step of (<NUM>) providing <NUM> the user U, by the data processing unit <NUM> (<NUM>), with user data D-U stored in a memory unit <NUM> of a remote electronic calculator <NUM>.

The user data D-U comprise: name and surname, sex, age, body weight, current date.

In accordance with an embodiment, in combination with any one of those described above, the steps of the method <NUM> performed by the data processing unit are performed by a data processing unit <NUM> of the exercise machine <NUM> or a data processing unit <NUM> of a remote electronic calculator <NUM> operatively connected to the exercise machine <NUM> through a data communication network NTW.

In accordance with a further embodiment, alternative to the previous ones, the steps of the method <NUM> performed by the data processing unit are performed in part by a data processing unit <NUM> of the exercise machine <NUM> and in part by a data processing unit <NUM> of a remote electronic calculator <NUM> operatively connected to the exercise machine <NUM> through a data communication network NTW.

Referring now to the above figures, an example of implementation of the method for estimating a maximum power value generatable by a user U during a resistance training exercise on an exercise machine <NUM> is described, in accordance with the present invention.

For example, the resistance training exercise is a sled training exercise like that diagrammatically shown in <FIG>, and for example, the exercise machine <NUM> is a treadmill as in <FIG>.

The treadmill <NUM> is set to operate in the "passive" mode with constant torque control.

The user U performs a sled training exercise on the treadmill <NUM> by pushing a first push load C1, the value of which corresponds to a set first percentage P1 (e.g., <NUM>%) of the body weight W1 of the user U, over a set distance D1, such as <NUM>, for example.

A data processing unit <NUM> of the treadmill <NUM> measures a first value of power peak VP1 generated by the user U when performing the sled training exercise by pushing the first push load WS1 over the set distance.

The user U performs a recovery exercise (running/walking) on the treadmill for three minutes. For this recovery exercise, the treadmill <NUM> is set to operate in the so-called "active" mode.

The treadmill <NUM> is set again to the "passive" mode with constant torque control and the user U performs the sled training exercise on the treadmill <NUM> by pushing a second push load WS2, the value of which corresponds to a set second percentage P2 (e.g., <NUM>%) of the body weight W1 of the user U, over the set distance.

The data processing unit <NUM> of the treadmill <NUM> measures a second value of power peak VP2 generated by the user U when performing the resistance training exercise by pushing the second push load WS2 over the set distance.

The data processing unit <NUM> of the treadmill <NUM> compares the first measured value of power peak VP1 with the second measured value of power peak VP2.

The data processing unit <NUM> of the treadmill <NUM> determines a value of a third push load WS3, which value corresponds to a set third percentage P3 of the body weight W1 of the user U, based on the comparison of the first measured value of power peak VP1 with the second measured value of power peak VP2.

For example, in the present case, if VP2 > VP1, then WS3 = <NUM>% W1.

The user U performs the recovery exercise (running/walking) on the treadmill for three minutes. For this recovery exercise, the treadmill <NUM> is set to operate in the so-called "active" mode.

The treadmill <NUM> is set again to the "passive" mode with constant torque control and the user U performs the sled training exercise on the exercise machine <NUM> by pushing the third push load WS3 equal to the determined value over the set distance.

The data processing unit <NUM> of the treadmill <NUM> measures a third value of power peak VP3 generated by the user U when performing the sled training exercise by pushing the third push load WS3 over the set distance.

The data processing unit <NUM> of the treadmill <NUM> determines an estimated maximum power value VS generatable by a user U during a sled training exercise on an exercise machine <NUM> based on the first measured value of power peak VP1, the second measured value of power peak VP2, and the third measured value of power peak VP3.

The data processing unit <NUM> of the treadmill <NUM> determines a push load value WSS corresponding to the estimated maximum power value VS to be given to the exercise machine <NUM> for performing the resistance training exercise during the workout of the user U.

The data processing unit of the treadmill <NUM> provides the user with the push load value WSS and the estimated maximum power value VS through a display module <NUM> of the exercise machine <NUM>.

As can be seen, the object of the invention is fully achieved.

In fact, with the method in accordance with the present invention, the estimated maximum power value generatable by a user during a resistance training exercise is more accurate and reliable as it is determined following the execution of at least three resistance training exercises in which the push load to be set for the third execution of the resistance training exercise depends on the comparison of the last measured power peak value with the power peak values measured during the previous executions of the resistance training exercise.

Such an estimation is even more accurate, thus reliable, when further executions of the resistance training exercise are planned, in which the push load for each subsequent execution, starting from the third one, will be determined based on the comparison of the last measured power peak value with the power peak values measured during the previous executions of the resistance training exercise.

In this embodiment, the more executions of the resistance training exercise are performed by the user, the greater the reliability of the estimated maximum power value generatable by a user during a resistance training exercise.

An accurate, reliable estimated maximum power value generatable by a user during a resistance exercise on an exercise machine allows setting a push load value on the exercise machine such as to allow the user to perform a set resistance training exercise in an optimal and safe manner, increasing the possibility of achieving the expected results in terms of performance and improvement of physical fitness and reducing as much as possible the excessive fatigue, the risk of injury, and so on.

Claim 1:
A method (<NUM>) for estimating a maximum power value generatable by a user (U) during a resistance training exercise on an exercise machine (<NUM>), comprising steps of:
- (a1) performing (<NUM>), by the user (U), a resistance training exercise on an exercise machine (<NUM>) pushing a first push load (WS1) for a set distance (D1), the value of which corresponds to a set first percentage (P1) of the body weight of the user (U);
- (a2) determining (<NUM>), by a data processing unit (<NUM>; <NUM>), a first value of power peak (VP1) generated by the user (U) during the performance of the resistance training exercise by pushing the first push load (WS1) for the set distance (D1);
- (b1) performing (<NUM>), by the user (U), the resistance training exercise on the exercise machine (<NUM>) pushing a second push load (WS2) for a set distance (D1), the value of which corresponds to a set second percentage (P2) of the body weight of the user (U);
- (b2) determining (<NUM>), by a data processing unit (<NUM>; <NUM>), a second value of power peak (VP2) generated by the user (U) during the performance of the resistance training exercise by pushing the second push load (WS2) for the set distance (D1);
- (c1) comparing (<NUM>), by the data processing unit (<NUM>; <NUM>), the first value of power peak (VP1) measured with the second value of peak power (VP2) measured;
- (c2) determining (<NUM>), by the data processing unit (<NUM>; <NUM>), a value of a third push load (WS3), the value of which corresponds to a set third percent (P3) of the body weight of the user (U), based on the comparison of the first value of power peak (VP1) measured with the second value of peak power (VP2) measured;
- (c3) performing (<NUM>), by the user (U), the resistance training exercise on the exercise machine (<NUM>) pushing the third push load (WS3) equal to the determined value for the set distance (D1);
- (c4) determining (<NUM>), by the data processing unit (<NUM>; <NUM>), a third value of power peak (VP3) generated by the user during the performance of the resistance training exercise by pushing the third push load (WS3) for the set distance (D1);
- (d1) determining (<NUM>), by the data processing unit (<NUM>; <NUM>), a set maximum power value (VS) generatable by a user (U) during a resistance training exercise on the exercise machine (<NUM>) based on the determined first value of power peak (VP1), the determined second value of power peak (VP2), and the determined third value of power peak (VP3).