Patent Document

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a Continuation Application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/824,493, filed on Jun. 28, 2010, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/223,381, filed Jul. 7, 2009. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to the field of exercise and therapeutic equipment and more particularly to a portable whole body exercise apparatus with multiple purpose use as a core fitness development apparatus, as an accessory to general fitness, Pilates exercises, as a therapeutic and/or rehabilitative aid, to aid with general stretching, body rolling, balance training, or to perform specific sports related exercises, such as, for example, golf exercises, tennis exercises, volleyball exercises, or sailing exercises. 
     BACKGROUND 
     There are numerous exercise equipment options for home use on the market, all of which target specific or multiple muscle groups, but none that are known by the inventors that can be utilized in the numerous ways that the disclosed embodiments of a portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device can be, for general fitness, therapeutic aid, rehabilitative aid, and exercise. 
     One such device is a Multi-purpose Exercise Device U.S. Pat. No. 5,681,248 to Vani (1997), comprising a cylindrical pillow (12) and a pair of handles (14) that extends beyond the lateral portions of the pillow. Each handle is attached to the ends of flexible tubing (16) that runs through the core of the cylindrical pillow. While you can perform some exercises with the device you are limited in range of motion and orientation of resistance. 
     Another device is U.S. Pat. No. 6,872,175 to Lin (2005) which discloses an Exercise Balance Trainer comprising an elongated hard board (20) connected to a resilient ball body (10). The board has a plurality of through holes (24) that may receive flexible ropes (31, 32). The flexible ropes have handgrips (313, 312) attached to one end. The body ball is a dome shape resilient body attached to one side of the board. The disclosed embodiments of a portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device provide an improved way of exercising with a cylindrical roller that the spine can be aligned with during exercise with or without balancing. 
     Another device U.S. Pat. No. 6,634,998 to Siaperes (2003) is a Multipurpose Exercise Apparatus that is rectangular in shape with a box-like body and a hinged cover that can be raised in order for the user to be reclined on the device while performing resistance type exercises. The resistance is supplied by bands that attach to the side of the box frame, but the device is cumbersome and not easily transportable. 
     Another apparatus known as a Manually Operated Therapeutic Roller and Exercise Device, U.S. Pat. No. 3,298,687 discloses a cylindrical roller made of hard material hollow core with a foam rubber covering glued to the roller and a flexible rubber sheet secured over the foam rubber covering. A cylindrical rotatable shaft is secured to each end of the cylindrical roller that allows for rotational motion between the core and shaft. Extending through a socket in each end of the shaft is a grip handle that is attached to an elastic cord. The elastic cord extends from said first socket internally through the shaft to a return pulley secured to the opposite socket and is attached to the opposite internal lateral surface of said first socket. This device is also limited in capability because the elastic cords are in fixed locations and cannot be relocated for increased exercises. 
     Another device is known as a foam roller. The foam roller is well known to the fitness and rehabilitation industry and is seen in nearly every gym today. The foam roller is used for stretching and flexibility improvement as well as for rehab of the pine, core trunk muscles, and limbs. While a foam roller is easily transportable it is limited in what exercises can be done with the roller alone, whereas the disclosed embodiments of a portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device provide attachable accessories which can be utilized for a wide range of exercises. 
     Another style of exercise, Pilates, is a form of exercise that develops and strengthens core muscles by conducting certain movements of the body and limbs with applied resistance and in particular physiological posture to attain improved postural control and core strength. Exercises are conducted that focus on core muscles and muscle control during prescribed movements with the use of proper breathing techniques in order to strengthen muscles and prevent injury. Injury recovery is one of the key goals of the Pilates method. 
     Disclosed embodiments of the current invention incorporate a unique configuration that allows for a wide range of general fitness, Pilates type, therapeutic, rehabilitative, and core strengthening exercises for the beginner all the way up to one advanced in the art of fitness Pilates and/or rehabilitative movements or exercises. 
     Existing equipment used for Pilates exercises are large and expensive and typically what you would find in a Pilates studio, not in one&#39;s home or with someone on the go like personal trainers. The ability to perform Pilates-type exercises while traveling would also be a tremendous benefit to those whose work life takes them away from home and their Pilates studio. 
     One such piece of equipment is known as the Pilates Reformer. The Reformer is a large device used for core strengthening exercises. The device is the size of a twin bed and is meant to be stationary, not portable. The device is constructed much like a bed frame with the dynamic portions secured to the inside of the frame enabling use for different Pilates exercises. This type of device is to be used for Pilates workouts in the studio or private gym setting and cannot be transported without great effort. 
     Another apparatus used for Pilates exercise, is known as the Cadillac. This type of device is another large device that is designed to be used in the studio or other stationary setting. It has a similar base frame to the Reformer, although it is taller and also has extension bars that run vertically off of each corner of the base frame, with a cross bar connected at the top of each vertical bar. Certain exercises and stretching routines are performed in conjunction with these extension bars, but again this large device is used in the studio setting and is very costly. 
     Thus, there is a need for a portable apparatus that allows individuals to perform general fitness, Pilates-type, core strengthening, therapeutic and rehabilitative exercises in the comfort of their own home or while traveling. Furthermore, there is a need for such an apparatus that is affordable and can be used within the personal trainer or rehabilitation setting or in the traditional gym class setting for group training. 
     Accordingly, the disclosed embodiments of a portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device have the ability to store accessories which are easily removed and configured to perform a wide range of general fitness, Pilates-type, core strengthening, therapeutic and rehabilitative exercises. The disclosed embodiments of a portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device can easily be transported with minimal effort. The disclosed embodiments of a portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device can also easily be setup with minimal effort. A wide range of adaptable accessories can also be utilized with the disclosed embodiments of a portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device that will enable the user to perform a wide range of exercises. 
     SUMMARY 
     Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device which can be used to perform a wide range of general fitness, Pilates-type, core strengthening, therapeutic and rehabilitative exercises. The portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device is made of a rigid tube, sometimes referred to as a “roller,” in the range of 5 to 8 inches in diameter and 3 to 4 feet in length. The rigid tube may be made of hard plastic, aluminum or another rigid material and must be strong enough to withstand the weight of the user when lying along the length of the tube, when standing or when kneeling on the tube. The wall thickness of the tube may be in the range from ⅛″ to ½″ depending on the material used. 
     The center portion of the outer surface of the rigid tube is covered with an interchangeable resilient material such as foam or rubber, which can range in thickness from ½″ to 2″. The resilient material will provide a cushioning interface between the rigid roller surface and the body of the user. The cover may be interchanged with resilient material of different firmness and thickness depending upon the preference of the user. The ends of the rigid tube portion of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device extend beyond the resilient covering, and are sometimes referred to herein as “exposed” or “extruded” ends. The exposed ends have holes and notches to receive different types of resistance attachments. Such attachments might be rigid extension bars with Variable Resistance Modules (VRM). In an exemplary embodiment, the attachments can be extracted out from inside of the rigid core of the tube and folded out into receivable notches. 
     Another attachment might be hollow rods with resistance bands with hand loops that run through the hollow center of the rod. Direct flexible attachments such as bungee cord or elastic bands could also be attached directly to the holes in the exposed ends of the rigid core. Thus the user has a wide range of options for the various attachment mechanisms depending upon the individual&#39;s needs or exercise practice. 
     In an exemplary embodiment, the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device includes retractable extensions bars that withdraw from the hollow rigid core and fold outward perpendicular to the long axis of the core roller. The extension bars have a Variable Resistance Module (VRM), that are removable and can attach to the ends of said extension bars or anywhere along said extension bar. Other resistance mechanisms could also be attached to the ends of said extension bars, to allow for a wide range of general fitness, Pilates-type, core strengthening, therapeutic and rehabilitative exercises. 
     In this exemplary embodiment, two sets of extension bars are juxtaposed within each end of the hollow core of the roller and slide within a channel member that is attached to the inner surface of the rigid roller. The channels have slots in both legs of each channel that receive a retention pin that is attached to the end of each extension bar and about which each extension bar pivots. The extension bars are withdrawn from the center of the rigid tube and fold outward and perpendicular to the axis of the core roller. 
     When not in use, the extension bars fold back toward themselves and slide back inside the hollow core of the tube. Removable end caps may be placed over the ends of the roller to close each end and to secure the extension bars during transportation. A shoulder strap or a carrying case with shoulder strap may be used to assist with easy transport. 
     Another exemplary embodiment has extension bars 12 to 24 inches in length that store loosely inside the core roller and may be removed and secured through holes in the exposed ends of the core roller. Swivel brackets allow for a Variable Resistance Module (VRM) or other removable resistance mechanisms, including exercise bands, to be attached to the extension bars for resistance training exercises. 
     Resistance bands made of flexible resilient material in narrow sheet form may also be connected directly to the ends of the core roller, with the extension bars removed, or to the extension bars for general fitness, Pilates-type, core strengthening, stretching, resistance training, therapeutic or rehabilitative exercises. 
     An additional exemplary embodiment has a rigid board with a through hole cut out to receive the rigid end of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device. The rigid board acts to stabilize the core roller. Holes and notches are provided along the periphery of the board to receive high stretch bands for resistance exercises. The rigid stabilization board could come in various shapes and sizes. Several exemplary embodiments are described. 
     Other accessories may be provided that could assist the user with exercising as well as for storage and transportation of the device. 
     One such accessory is stabilizing wedges which fit under the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device and stabilize the roller while performing exercises. The stabilization wedges would be made of firm material with a flat surface that engages the floor and a semi-circular surface that engages the roller surface to help stabilize the roller during use. 
     Another accessory is a roller floor stand, which is used to hold the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device in a vertical position. Certain exercises could be performed with the roller in the vertical position. The floor stand would also allow for easy access with minimal floor space coverage during non-use. 
     Additional accessories can include a pelvis supporting pad, which can be positioned between the roller and a user to support the pelvic region, and a stability box, which can be provided over the roller to provide a larger and more stable supporting surface for a user to sit or lie upon. 
     In an alternate embodiment, a removable and storable extension bar is provided, which can be selectively locked in place at an open end of the roller by using a removable and lockable end cap that is inserted into the open end of the roller. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device with extension bars stowed; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device with lateral extension bars extended on one side with swivel bracket for Tension Pulleys, a Weight Load Mechanism, a Variable Resistance Module (VRM) and hand loops; 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device with lateral extension bars extended and vertical extension bar mounted, all shown with swivel bracket for Tension Pulleys, a Weight Load Mechanism or a Variable Resistance Module (VRM) and hand loops, and the use of stabilization wedges; 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device with lateral and vertical extension bars positioned at both ends of the roller, and the use of stabilization wedges; 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective cross section view of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device showing the extension bar assembly with the extension bars in an extracted position; 
         FIG. 6  is a top cross section view of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device showing extension bars partially extracted; 
         FIG. 7  is a top cross section view of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device showing extension bars in their stored position; 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device with removable end caps; 
         FIG. 9  is a view of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device contained in a back pack for transport; 
         FIG. 10  is examples of six types of exercises that could be performed on the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device; 
         FIG. 11   a  is a perspective view of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device with detachable extension rods placed at one end of the roller; 
         FIG. 11   b  is a top cross section view of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device with detachable extension rods shown with a swivel bracket and a Variable Resistance Module (VRM) shown in their possible stored locations; 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device attached to a stabilization board; 
         FIG. 13  and  FIG. 14  are perspective views of the floor stand and the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device; 
         FIG. 15   a  is perspective view of a Variable Resistance Module (VRM) attached to the swivel bracket; 
         FIG. 15   b  is a front, side &amp; bottom view of the Variable Resistance Module (VRM) attached to the swivel bracket; 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device; 
         FIG. 17  is a partial perspective exploded view of a removable and lockable end cap for one end of the embodiment of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device shown in  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIGS. 18   a  and  18   b  are partial perspective views of the locking mechanism of the removable and lockable end cap of the embodiment of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device shown in  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIG. 19  is a partial perspective view of a swivel bracket (clevis) and Variable Resistance Module (VRM) attached to one of the extension arms of the embodiment of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device shown in  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIG. 20  is a partial perspective view showing the clevis and Variable Resistance Module (VRM) of  FIG. 19  with a rotation stop in an engaged and stopped orientation; 
         FIG. 21  is a perspective view of the Variable Resistance Module (VRM) with one half of the cover removed to show the inner components thereof; 
         FIGS. 22   a  and  22   b  are side and top views, respectively, of the Variable Resistance Module (VRM) shown in  FIG. 21 , with the resistance selection button in the depressed configuration; 
         FIGS. 23   a  and  23   b  are side and top views, respectively, of the Variable Resistance Module (VRM) shown in  FIG. 21 , with the resistance selection button in the undepressed configuration; 
         FIGS. 24   a  and  24   b  are partial top views of the resistance selection button in the depressed configuration and undepressed configuration, respectively; 
         FIG. 25  is a top view of the resistance selection button in isolation; 
         FIGS. 26   a  and  26   b  are side views showing the clevis and Variable Resistance Module (VRM) of  FIG. 19  with the clevis providing rotation of at least 180 degrees; 
         FIG. 27  is a perspective view of the Variable Resistance Module (VRM) and clevis showing the rotation limiting mechanism for the clevis; 
         FIG. 28  is a perspective view of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device, including a cushioned pad; 
         FIG. 29  is a perspective view of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device, including a stability box; 
         FIG. 30  is a perspective view of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device, including stability steps; 
         FIG. 31  is a perspective view of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device, including a vertical extension bar; 
         FIG. 32  is a side view of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device, including a vertical extension bar having a clearance curvature; 
         FIG. 33   a  is a perspective view of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device, including the extension bar disassembled, and also including an inner case; and 
         FIG. 33   b  is a side view of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device having the extension bar retained within the inner case, which is retained inside the core of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device. 
     
    
    
     It should be noted that the drawing figures are not necessarily drawn to scale, but instead are drawn to provide a better understanding of the components thereof, and are not intended to be limiting in scope, but rather to provide exemplary illustrations. It should further be noted that the figures illustrate exemplary embodiments of a portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device and the components thereof, and in no way limit the structures or configurations of a portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device and components thereof according to the present disclosure. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     A. Context of Various Embodiments 
     The portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device is designed for use by persons who want to perform general fitness, Pilates-type, core strengthening, therapeutic, and rehabilitative exercises. Some embodiments encompass less than portable features and are designed to be accompaniments for the home, studio or outdoor use. The basic unit is designed to be portable with extending attachments for easy setup and use. 
     Since there are a large range of human physiques, there is a need for larger size apparatus for individuals greater than 6 feet, 3 inches tall. The larger model would be longer in length and larger in diameter, but would have the same extension and attachment features as the basic device. Additionally, a smaller model could be provided for use by persons of less than average size. 
     B. Detailed Description of Various Embodiments 
     The portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device can be utilized in different configurations depending upon which types of exercising or stretching is required. For example,  FIG. 1  is a perspective view of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device with extension bars in their stored position. The rigid core roller  11  is covered by a resilient covering  12  over the middle outer surface of the roller with the extents (or extruded ends) of the rigid portion  11  exposed. The resilient covering  12  is attached to the outer surface of core  11 , and can be changed out after extensive wear. Each end of the rigid core  11  has notches  20  and holes  21  for receiving tension bands and extension bars. The portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device in this configuration can be utilized for general fitness, Pilates, stretching and other exercises typical to a foam roller. 
     A side perspective of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device with lateral extension bars  13   a  and  13   b  extracted on one end of the core roller  11  and nested in notches  20  is shown in  FIG. 2 . Variable Resistance Modules (VRM)  15   a  and  15   b  are attached to extension bars  13   a  and  13   b  via the Swivel Bracket  14   a  and  14   b . Hand or foot loops  16   a  and  16   b  are connected to a pull cord inside the Variable Resistance Module (VRM)  15   a  and  15   b  for resistance exercises. The Variable Resistance Module (VRM)  15   a  and  15   b  can be configured to provide selectable incremental resistance in ranges of, for example, 3, 6, and 9 pounds of resistance, or for example, in ranges of 5, 10, and 15 pounds of resistance, or any other suitable incremental weight ranges. 
     A side perspective of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device with both lateral extension bars  13   a  and  13   b  extracted and vertical extension bar  17   a  placed in hole  21   a  at one end of the rigid core roller  11  is shown in  FIG. 3 . Resistance mechanism  15   c  and  15   d  are securely attached to vertical extension bar  17   a  and can be used via hand or foot loops  16   c  and  16   d  for overhead strengthening exercises when the user is laying face up lengthwise on top of the core roller with head adjacent to vertical extension bar  17   a.    
     The cylindrical shape of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device allows for advanced users to perform exercises with the Variable Resistance Modules (VRM) while balancing on the core roller. For users that are less apt for that level of exercise, stabilization wedges  30  and  31  are provided. These are used to stabilize the roller while lying on the roller lengthwise and using the Tension Pulleys, a Weight Load Mechanism or the Variable Resistance Module (VRM) for strengthening exercises. The wedges can each be formed from a single rectangular block having a generally semi-circular cut out along a longitudinal side thereof to accommodate the circumference of the roller. Alternatively, the wedges can be formed of two mirror image shaped pieces that when placed end to end have the same general configuration of the single block wedge. 
     As shown in  FIG. 4 , the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device includes lateral extension bars,  13   a ,  13   b ,  13   c ,  13   d , and vertical extension bars,  17   a  and  17   b  in position at both ends of portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device. Additionally, stabilization wedges  30  and  31  can be provided to prevent the roller from moving on the supporting surface. 
     One of the truly unique features to this exemplary embodiment is the storability of the extension bars.  FIG. 5  is a perspective cross section view of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device showing extension bars  13   a  and  13   b  in their extracted position. Extension bars  13   a  and  13   b  can slide within channels  40   a  and  40   b , and can be secured to channel  40   a  and  40   b  by pins  42   a  and  42   b . Pins  42   a  and  42   b  slide in slots  41   a  and  41   b  respectively to secure extension bars within the core roller. 
       FIGS. 6 and 7  are top cross section views showing extension bars  13   a  and  13   b  in partially extracted, and fully retracted positions without Swivel Brackets or Tension Pulleys, a Weight Load Mechanism, or a Variable Resistance Module (VRM) attached. 
       FIG. 8  shows the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device with removable end caps  46  used for storage and transportation of the roller. 
       FIG. 9  shows the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device in a carrying bag for easy transport. 
       FIGS. 10   a - h  show six types of exercise that can be performed on the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device. For example, a triceps exercise is shown in  FIG. 10   b , an abdominal/oblique cross exercise is shown in  FIG. 10   c , a parallel toes exercise is shown in  FIG. 10   d , a seated row exercise is shown in  FIG. 10   e , a butterfly (“pec fly”) exercise is shown in  FIG. 10   f , a “seated rotating swing” exercise is shown in  FIG. 10   g , and a standing squat exercise is shown in  FIG. 10   h . The inventors envision numerous exercises that can be performed but are not shown here. For example, as listed in Table 1, various types of warm up exercises, stretches, sport specific exercises (for example golf or tennis swing exercises), and general fitness exercises can be performed. 
     
       
         
               
               
             
               
               
               
             
               
               
             
               
               
               
             
               
               
             
               
               
               
             
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Exercise Type 
                 Description 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 Warm Up #1: 
                 Roll Down 
               
               
                   
                 Bend and Strengthen Knees 
               
               
                   
                 Come to Knees 
               
               
                   
                 Round and Stretch - Cat stretch 
               
               
                   
                 Cross and Swivel to back to roller 
               
               
                   
                 Option #1 Bent Knees 
               
               
                   
                 Option #2 Straight Knees 
               
               
                   
                 Roll Back 
               
               
                   
                 Bend Knees 
               
               
                   
                 Basic Ab Curl 
               
               
                   
                 Ab Curl with Rotation 
               
               
                 Warm Up #2: 
                 Roll Down to pyramid 
               
               
                   
                 Leg Switches 
               
               
                   
                 Pyramid with Roll back 
               
               
                   
                 Bend knees to roll over to 
               
               
                   
                 Ankles on Roller to 
               
               
                   
                 Roll Back 
               
               
                   
                 Full Roll Ups 
               
               
                   
                 Option #1 Spine Twist 
               
               
                   
                 Option #2 Pendulum 
               
               
                   
                 Single Leg taps (Includes chest lift) 
               
               
                   
                 Single Leg Tap with rotation 
               
               
                   
                 Option #1 Bent Knee 
               
               
                   
                 Option #2 Straight Leg 
               
               
                 Miscellaneous: 
                 Teaser prep sitting 
               
               
                   
                 Ab Curl sitting 
               
               
                   
                 Oblique curl sitting 
               
               
                   
                 Tilt 
               
               
                   
                 Round-about 
               
               
                   
                 Ab-punches - Sitting, standing 
               
               
                   
                 Pec fly and pec press - Sitting, standing, supine 
               
               
                   
                 Single arm pec fly 
               
               
                   
                 Single arm pec press 
               
               
                   
                 Up Pulses Abs - oblique slide with long arms 
               
               
                   
                 Down Pulse Abs 
               
               
                   
                 Half circle abs w/arms 
               
               
                   
                 Split squat biceps 
               
               
                   
                 Split squat shoulders 
               
               
                   
                 Split squat hammer curl 
               
               
                   
                 Standing cross deltoid pull 
               
               
                   
                 Standing chest expansion 
               
               
                   
                 Standing leg extension 
               
               
                   
                 Side-line leg press 
               
               
                   
                 Side-line clamshells 
               
               
                   
                 Side-line oblique twist 
               
               
                   
                 Kneeling arm series 
               
               
                   
                 Side-line oblique reach/posterior deltoid reach 
               
               
                   
                 Side-line oblique crunch 
               
               
                   
                 Side-line oblique crunch with leg 
               
               
                   
                 extension/retraction 
               
               
                   
                 Single Leg crosses with low back on roller 
               
               
                 Side Sitting: 
                 Beg 
               
               
                   
                 Adduction 
               
               
                   
                 Abduction 
               
               
                   
                 Push and pull 
               
               
                   
                 Arms 
               
               
                   
                 Cross pull bent arm 
               
               
                   
                 Cross pull straight arm 
               
               
                   
                 Triceps 
               
               
                   
                 Rotation 
               
               
                   
                 Swing 
               
               
                   
                 External Rotation 
               
               
                   
                 Internal Rotation 
               
               
                 Side Lying: 
                 Butt Buster Series/Side Plank 
               
               
                   
                 Single leg 
               
               
                   
                 Leg Extension 
               
               
                   
                 Single leg circles 
               
               
                   
                 Mermaid 
               
               
                   
                 Superman 
               
               
                   
                 Swan 
               
               
                 Sports: 
                 Tennis: 
               
               
                   
                 Underhand 
               
               
                   
                 Backhand 
               
               
                   
                 Overhead Serve 
               
               
                   
                 Basketball 
               
               
                   
                 Jumpshot 
               
               
                   
                 Golf 
               
               
                   
                 Swing - Standing, Side Lying, Sitting 
               
               
                   
                 Standing side: 
               
               
                   
                 Squats-golf swing 
               
               
                 Perpendicular  
                 Mermaid series 
               
               
                 to Roller:  
                 Mermaid with pushups 
               
               
                 (Lateral  
                 Mermaid with ab crunch 
               
               
                 Flexion end  
                 Mermaid with back/single arm back pulses 
               
               
                 of series) 
                 Superman with lifted arms 
               
               
                   
                 Back Extension 
               
               
                   
                 Side - single leg series 
               
               
                   
                 Plank - with trunk rotation 
               
               
                   
                 Side plank - with leg in 
               
               
                   
                 Pushups 
               
               
                   
                 Tricep pushup 
               
               
                   
                 Balance Hinges 
               
               
                   
                 Dancer Balance Beam Series 
               
               
                   
                 Walking - front and back 
               
               
                 Standing facing  
                 Arms: 
               
               
                 extension arm: 
                 Mid row 
               
               
                   
                 Rear deltoid 
               
               
                   
                 Biceps 
               
               
                   
                 Chest extension 
               
               
                   
                 Anterior Deltoid 
               
               
                   
                 Medial Deltoid 
               
               
                   
                 Single Arm 
               
               
                   
                 Double Arm 
               
               
                   
                 With Rotation of Arms 
               
               
                   
                 Standing Hundred 
               
               
                   
                 Lunge with rotation 
               
               
                   
                 Standing hip work: 
               
               
                   
                 Extension 
               
               
                   
                 Extension with external rotation 
               
               
                   
                 Attitude 
               
               
                   
                 Circles 
               
               
                   
                 Step up 
               
               
                   
                 Side Step 
               
               
                   
                 Mini squats - single leg 
               
               
                   
                 Full single leg squat 
               
               
                   
                 Hip extension neutral and extension rotation 
               
               
                   
                 Hip hike 
               
               
                   
                 Curtsey lunge 
               
               
                   
                 Rear walking 
               
               
                   
                 Circles 
               
               
                   
                 Full ½ circle with adductor 
               
               
                   
                 Donkey kicks 
               
               
                   
                 See Saw 
               
               
                   
                 Clock 
               
               
                   
                 Split lunge chest expansion 
               
               
                   
                 Squat 
               
               
                   
                 Biceps 
               
               
                   
                 Goal post 
               
               
                   
                 Back extension reach squat 
               
               
                   
                 Calf raises + extension rotation in arms 
               
               
                   
                 Bent elbow 
               
               
                   
                 Straight Elbow 
               
               
                   
                 Prances 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 3 lb only 
                 feet around roller inner thigh “on” 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Arm series 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Parallel feet 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Extension rotation feet 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 “Swami” 
               
               
                 Sitting facing  
                 Chest Exp. Wrists, rolling wrists 
               
               
                 extension arm:  
                 Biceps/biceps with one arm, then switch 
               
               
                 Both Arms/ 
                 Triceps 
               
             
          
           
               
                 One Arm 
                 Rowing Back 1 
                 Leg position 
               
               
                   
                 1, 2, 3, 4 etc. 
                   
               
               
                   
                 Stand and row 
                 Foot position 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 1, 2, 3, 4 etc. 
               
               
                   
                 Row with rotation Changing leg positions 
               
               
                   
                 Deltoids from strap tape 
               
               
                   
                 Cross pull 
               
               
                   
                 Cross pull bent elbows 
               
               
                   
                 Ab 
               
               
                   
                 Basic mini rollups 
               
               
                   
                 With arms reaching 
               
               
                   
                 With rotation 
               
               
                   
                 Pike Prep 
               
               
                   
                 Pike sitting 
               
               
                   
                 One arm/both arms 
               
               
                   
                 Pike one leg sitting 
               
               
                   
                 Teaser prep with arms in straps 
               
               
                 Stretches-Do in  
                 Spine stretch sitting 
               
               
                 both sitting  
                 Spine stretch with one arm and rotation 
               
               
                 directions  
                 Spinal rotation/hands clasped 
               
               
                 to assist 
                 Spine twist with arms in goalpost/straight arms 
               
               
                   
                 The saw 
               
               
                   
                 Thigh stretch kneeling with straps 
               
               
                   
                 External rotation with shoulder 
               
               
                   
                 With rotation of body 
               
               
                   
                 Straight arms to bent arms 
               
               
                   
                 Rear deltoid, tricep press kneeling 
               
               
                   
                 Triceps deltoids with back extension into wide V 
               
               
                   
                 Bend arms, straight arms 
               
               
                 Different  
                 Butterfly position, cross legged, one leg straight, 
               
               
                 positions  
                 one leg bent, etc. 
               
               
                 with legs  
                 Balance series: Cross legged, butterfly, etc. both 
               
               
                 and feet 
                 arms in straps raising arms high to low, side to side. 
               
               
                 on the roller: 
                   
               
               
                 Kneeling on  
                 Kickbacks 
               
               
                 roller: Prone  
                 Leg Extension 
               
               
                 facing VRM: 
                 Lateral leg extension 
               
               
                   
                 External rotation 
               
               
                   
                 Internal rotation with opposite strap on foot. 
               
               
                   
                 Straps on knees/legs for froggie back, fire hydrants 
               
               
                   
                 etc. 
               
               
                 Sitting facing  
                 Punching - Round back 
               
               
                 away from  
                 Upper cut 
               
               
                 extension arm: 
                 Prep 
               
               
                   
                 Jab 
               
               
                   
                 Speed bag 
               
               
                   
                 Fly 
               
               
                   
                 Shoulders 
               
               
                   
                 Triceps 
               
               
                   
                 Back extension - Straddle kneeling over roller 
               
               
                   
                 Child&#39;s pose 
               
               
                   
                 Shoulder push 
               
               
                   
                 Breast stroke prep 
               
               
                   
                 Abs sitting - 
               
               
                   
                 Full roll up - Feet Down 
               
               
                   
                 Crunches - Feet up progression 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 Round back abs series 
                 Straight arms and legs 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Variation arms 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Variation legs 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 Supine and sitting 
               
               
                   
                 Articulation abs series 
               
               
                   
                 Teaser prep 
               
               
                   
                 Teaser prep 1 leg 
               
               
                 Kneeling facing  
                 Single leg 
               
               
                 extension arm: 
                 Kick back 
               
               
                   
                 Straight leg lift 
               
               
                   
                 Bent knee extension 
               
               
                   
                 Lateral adduction 
               
               
                   
                 Kneeling (crunch) 
               
               
                 Double Kneel  
                 Chest Exp 
               
               
                 Feet on roller  
                 Delts 
               
               
                 toes/feet  
                 Lateral row 
               
               
                 off roller 
                 Cross arm delt pull 
               
               
                   
                 Rotation pull 
               
               
                   
                 Thigh stretch 
               
               
                   
                 Pelvic tuck 
               
               
                 Kneeling facing  
                 Hamstring lift 
               
               
                 away from  
                 Heel to glute 
               
               
                 extension arm 
                 Single leg straight lift 
               
               
                   
                 Reverse single leg curl 
               
               
                   
                 Pyramid with leg lift 
               
               
                   
                 Push up with leg lift 
               
               
                   
                 Cross body pull 
               
               
                   
                 Arm circles 
               
               
                   
                 Triceps 
               
               
                 Supine  
                 Shoulders on roller 
               
               
                 Perpendicular 
                 Chest Lift 
               
               
                   
                 Chest Lift with leg extension 
               
               
                   
                 Add oblique twist 
               
               
                   
                 Hips on side 
               
               
                   
                 2 (sides) corkscrew both feet 
               
               
                   
                 Reverse curl 
               
               
                   
                 Roll over 
               
               
                   
                 (adduction) single 
               
               
                   
                 Ab series 
               
               
                   
                 Bridge 
               
               
                 Supine Parallel  
                 Bicycle 
               
               
                 to Roller: 
                 Single leg hip series - Circles 
               
               
                   
                 Walking 
               
               
                   
                 Frog 
               
               
                   
                 Reverse Crunch 
               
               
                   
                 Adductor 
               
               
                   
                 Double leg circles 
               
               
                   
                 Short spine 
               
               
                   
                 Footwork 
               
               
                   
                 Toe prances 
               
               
                   
                 Toe Taps 
               
               
                   
                 Calves 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
     As can be seen from the exemplary exercises listed in Table 1, the numerous accessories, which can and do fit within the core of the roller to increase the portability of the exercise device, and the numerous configurations of exemplary embodiments of the portable exercise device provide an increased number of exercise options that can be performed using the exercise device, and thus add to the versatility of the basic device. 
     Other embodiments that have been envisioned by the inventors are also provided. One such embodiment is in  FIG. 11   a  which includes extension bars that are stored loosely inside the core roller, removed and placed in holes at the end of the rigid core roller. Tension bands may be secured to holes in the ends of the extension bars for resistance exercises. 
       FIG. 11   b  shows extension bars with Swivel Brackets and Variable Resistance Modules shown in various storage positions inside the core roller. 
     Another embodiment shown in  FIG. 12  is a stabilization board  32  with a hole cut out to receive one of the rigid end portions of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device, and can be used to assist in supplying additional stabilization of the roller during use. Tension bands may be placed in holes  33  or secured around the back of the stabilization and engage with notches  34  on said stabilization board for additional resistance exercises. 
     The shape of the stabilization board  32  in  FIG. 12  can vary to be rectangular or even circular with a flat edge that engages the floor during use. Retaining pin  35  placed in hole  21  on the end of the rigid core would keep the stabilization board from sliding off the end of the rigid core roller  11  during use. 
     Another accessory is shown in  FIG. 13  and  FIG. 14 . A floor stand  36  may be employed to hold the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device vertical for use with certain types of exercise or to simply store the exercise device while taking up less floor space. 
     In another exemplary embodiment,  FIG. 15   a  shows a perspective view of the Swivel Bracket  14  attached to the Variable Resistance Module  15 , including the resistance changing knob. 
       FIG. 15   b  shows a front, side &amp; bottom view of the Swivel Bracket  14  attached to the Variable Resistance Module  15 . 
     C. Alternate Embodiments 
     An alternate embodiment of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device is shown in  FIGS. 16-21   b . In this embodiment, which has substantially similar construction to previously described embodiments, a rigid core roller  50  having an interchangeable resilient covering  52  is provided. 
     As seen in  FIG. 16 , the rigid core roller  50  has extruded (open) ends that extend beyond the ends of the resilient covering  52  in the longitudinal direction thereof. One open end of the rigid roller  50  can be closed by a dummy cap  54  that is not intended to be easily removed. The dummy cap  54  can be integrally formed with the roller  50 , or may be separately formed, and may be generally permanently attached to the open end of the roller, for example, by adhesive bonding or by rivets. The other open end  56  of the rigid roller  50  can be selectively closed by a removable and lockable cap  58 . 
     The details of the removable and lockable cap  58  closing the open end of the roller  50  are shown in  FIGS. 17-18   b , and will be further discussed below. 
     A removable extension bar  64  is furnished for positioning at the open end  56  of the roller  50  so as to provide perpendicular extension arms that extend away from the body of the roller. A clevis  66  and Variable Resistance Module (VRM)  68  are provided at respective ends of the extension bar  64 . A hand or foot loop  74  is connected to a cable or cord  76  that is wound within the Variable Resistance Module (VRM)  68 , so as to provide resistance to a user&#39;s hand or foot that grasps or is inserted into the hand or foot loop  74 . In this manner, the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device can be used for any multitude of previously described exercises. 
     As best seen in  FIGS. 19 and 20 , the Variable Resistance Module (VRM)  68  can rotate within the clevis  66  through almost 360 degrees, and is only limited in the angle of rotation by a rotation stopper portion  70  provided on the casing of the Variable Resistance Module (VRM)  68 , which selectively engages the supporting arms of the clevis  66  to prevent complete, uninterrupted rotation of the Variable Resistance Module (VRM)  68 . The rotation stopper portion  70  can be configured in a generally raised V-shape such that one side of the V-shaped rotation stopper  70  selectively engages one side of the arm of the clevis  66  to prevent rotation in one direction, and the other side of the V-shaped rotation stopper  70  selectively engages the other side of the arm of the clevis  66  to prevent rotation in the opposite direction. Thus, the selective engagement of the V-shaped rotation stopper  70  with the arm of the clevis prevents rotation of the Variable Resistance Module (VRM)  68  in a complete circle. 
     As can be seen best in  FIG. 19 , the Variable Resistance Module (VRM)  68  also include two resistance selection buttons  72 . As previously mentioned, the Variable Resistance Module (VRM)  68  can provide three distinct incremented resistances. When neither of the two resistance selection buttons  72  are pressed in, a first, least amount of resistance is provided. When one of the two resistance selection buttons  72  is pressed in, a second, intermediate resistance is provided. A third, maximum resistance is provided when both of the resistance selection buttons  72  is pressed in. 
     The variable resistance is accomplished by way of multiple spring resistance members provided within the Variable Resistance Module (VRM)  68 , which selective ones of the multiple spring resistance members are engaged to resist rotation and unwinding of the cable or cord  76  when the different resistance selection buttons  72  are pressed in. The internal pulley that the cable or cord  76  is wound upon can be biased to automatically wind the cable or cord  76  when a pulling force applied by the user to the cable or cord  76  is released. 
     The inner components of the Variable Resistance Module (VRM)  68  are best shown in  FIGS. 21 ,  22   a ,  22   b ,  23   a ,  23   b ,  24   a ,  24   b , and  25 . The resistance selection mechanism is the same for both resistance selection buttons  72 , and thus, the description below of one resistance selection button  72  is applicable to both resistance selection buttons  72 . 
     In particular, in  FIGS. 21 ,  22   a , and  22   b , one resistance selection button  72  is shown in the pressed in configuration. The resistance selection button  72  includes a shaft  120  having a biasing member  122  received thereon, which shaft  120  passes through a shaft receiving cage  124  positioned within the Variable Resistance Module (VRM)  68 . 
     The end of the shaft  120  opposed to the resistance selection button  72  engages a pivot cam  126 . The pivot cam  126  engages a rocker bar  128 , which includes an engaging tooth  130  at one end thereof. 
     As best exemplary shown in  FIGS. 24   a  and  24   b , each of the pivot cam  126  and the rocker bar  128  are biased to provide the necessary contact therebetween (the pivot cam  126  is biased into contact with the end of the shaft  120  and the rocker bar  128  is biased into contact with the pivot cam  126 ). 
     When the resistance selection button  72  is pressed in to select a resistance, the pivot cam  126  is pivoted, and the rocker bar  128  rotates, such that the engaging tooth  130  engages one of the ratchet teeth on ratchet plate  132 . The ratchet plate  132  is coupled to a torsion spring (not shown), which engages a spring plate  134 , which spring plate  134  is coupled to a winding pulley  136 , which may also include a torsion spring (not shown) to provide a first resistance and/or to provide the mechanism to wind up the cable/cord  76 . 
     When the resistance selection button  72  is pressed in to select a resistance and the engaging tooth  130  of the rocker bar  128  engages a ratchet tooth on the ratchet plate  132 , the ratchet plate  132  no longer freely rotates within the Variable Resistance Module (VRM)  68 , such that the torsion spring is thus engaged between the ratchet plate  132  and the spring plate  134  to provide additional resistance against pulling of the cable/cord  76 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 23   a  and  23   b , when the resistance selection button  72  is not pressed, the engaging tooth  130  of the rocker bar  128  does not engage the teeth of the ratchet plate  132 , such that the ratchet plate  132  can freely rotate so that the torsion spring is thus not engaged between the ratchet plate  132  and the spring plate  134 , and therefore, the resistance is provided by the torsion spring and the winding pulley  136  only. 
     The resistance selection button  72  is shown in detail in  FIG. 25 . The resistance selection button  72  is configured such that pressing the button in once locks the button in the depressed configuration, and pressing the button a second time releases the button from the locked, depressed configuration. In this manner, the resistance of the Variable Resistance Module (VRM)  68  can be set and locked in one of three settings depending upon whether one, two, or none of the resistance selection buttons  72  are locked in the depressed configuration. 
     In order to provide a wider variety of strength training, interchangeable Variable Resistance Modules (VRM)  68  having different resistance increments can be provided for attachment to the extension bar  64 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 26   a  and  26   b , the clevis  66  also provides rotation, about an axis perpendicular to the rotation axis of the Variable Resistance Module (VRM)  68 . The clevis  66  can allow any amount of desired rotation or can be provided with a rotation limiting mechanism. 
     For example, as shown in  FIG. 27 , a clevis  66  rotation limiting mechanism is provided. The exemplary rotation limiting mechanism is in the form of a groove  94  formed in the clevis rotation shaft  96 , which is inserted into the end of the extension bar  64 . The circumferential size of the groove  94  determines the amount of angular rotation of the clevis  66 . A stud  98  (in this case a screw or machine screw) is inserted through the extension bar  64  and sits within the groove  94  in order to limit rotation of the clevis  66  with respect to the extension bar  64 . Any suitable and desired range of rotation, for example, 270 degrees, 180 degrees, 90 degrees, 45 degrees, or any other desired range within 360 degrees, can be provided by provided the groove  94  in the desired amount of rotation around the circumference of the clevis rotation shaft  96 . 
     Like previously discussed embodiments, the extension bar  64  is removable from the roller  50 , and can be stored within the hollow cavity of the roller  50  for ease with portability of the multi-purpose whole body exercise device. 
     In order to easily repeat and properly position the extension bar  64  on the roller  50 , as shown in  FIG. 19 , locating notches  60  are provided in the wall of the roller  50  at the open end  56  thereof. While four locating notches  60  are shown, fewer or more can be utilized. 
     The extension bar  64  includes locating flanges  78  that are complementary shaped and correspondingly positioned with respect to the locating notches  60 , so that the locating flanges  78  seat within the locating notches  60  to properly position the extension bar  64 . 
     Additionally, a positioning piece  80  can be provided to further ensure proper positioning and retention of the extension bar  64 . The positioning piece  80  also includes locating flanges  82  and can be inserted into the open end  56  of the roller  50  on top of and perpendicularly to the extension bar  64 , so that the locating flanges  82  engage with the locating notches  60  that are not engaged by the locating flanges  78  of the extension bar  64 . 
     Further, the removable and lockable end cap  58  is attached to the open end  56  of the roller  50  to lock the extension bar  64  and positioning piece  80  in place. 
     As seen in  FIG. 17 , lock stops  62  are positioned around the inner circumferential surface of the open end  56  of the roller  50  for selective engagement with lock stop receiving portions  86  on the removable and lockable end cap  58  ( FIGS. 18   a ,  18   b ). 
     The removable and lockable end cap  58  is provided with a handle  84  so that a user can grasp the handle  84  to insert the end cap  58  into the open end  56  of the roller  50  and rotate the end cap  58  from an unlocked orientation to a locked orientation. 
     The handle  84  includes a biased lock button  88 , which, as shown in  FIGS. 18   a  and  18   b , includes a ramped portion  90  having a locking edge  92  at one side thereof to selectively engage a lock stop  62  in order to prevent accidental rotation of the end cap  58  to an unlocked orientation. 
     In use, the end cap  58  is inserted into the open end  56  of the roller  50  with the lock stops  62  aligned for insertion into a respective lock stop receiving portion  86 . The end cap  58  can then be rotated without engaging the lock button  88 , such that the lock stop  62  comes into contact with the ramped portion  90  of the lock button  88  to cause the lock button  88  to move against the biasing force to allow the lock stop  62  to move past the lock button  88  into the lock stop receiving portion  86 . 
     Once the lock stop  62  has moved past the lock button  88  and into the lock stop receiving portion  86 , the lock button  88  is biased back into the unactuated position, such that the locking edge  92  engages and prevents the lock stop  62  from rotating out of the lock stop receiving portion  86 . In order to remove the end cap  58 , the lock button  88  is actuated against the biasing force so that the locking edge  92  no longer engages the lock stop  62 , such that the lock stop  62  can be rotated out of the lock stop receiving portion  86 . 
     In this manner, the removable end cap  58  is selectively lockable to prevent the accidental rotation thereof in order to securely retain the extension bar  64  connected to the open end  56  of the roller  50 . 
     It can be seen that this embodiment of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device therefore provides a quick and easy method of configuring the device from a portable configuration, where the extension bar is stored within the device, to an operative configuration, where the extension bar is positioned at the end of the device to provide resistance modules to aid with providing numerous different exercises for a user to perform. 
     D. Various Accessories 
     Various accessories for the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device can also be provided. 
     For example, as shown in  FIG. 28  for users who may have weaker pelvic and hip bones, such as elderly users or persons having osteoporosis, additional protective accessories may be provided. In particular, a cushioned pad  100 , which may be of any suitable shape or size, and which may be formed from a suitable viscoelastic foam or gel material, such as, for example, silicone, or may include an inflatable bladder, can be provided to lay flat across the roller under the pelvic region of the user during specific exercises that require the user to lie or sit on the roller. In this way, the cushioned pad  100  provides additional support to the pelvic region of the user. 
     An alternative accessory, as shown in  FIG. 29 , which can also be provided for users who may have weaker pelvic and hip bones, or for larger sized users, is a stability box  102 . The stability box  102  is in the form of an elongated box that is placed over the roller so that a user can lie or sit on the stability box  102 , instead of the roller  50 , in order to perform specific exercises. The stability box  102  can open at the longitudinally opposed ends thereof to accommodate the roller  50  within the stability box  102 , so that one or both of the ends of the roller  50  can extend beyond the ends of the stability box  102 . In this way, the stability box  102  can provide a more stable, as well as a larger surface area for the user to lie or sit upon while performing specific exercises, yet still allowing for some level of user interface with the roller itself in order to maintain the instability element of certain exercises. 
     A similar accessory to the stability box  102  may be provided, as shown in  FIG. 30 , to provide the roller with a configuration suitable for use as a step exercise device. In particular, stability steps  104  can be provided to sit over the extension bars  64  (like the stability box  102  covers the roller  50 ), and to provide support underneath the extension bars  64  to prevent rotation of the roller  50  on the supporting surface. With the stability steps  104  in place over and supporting the extension bars  64 , a user can perform step exercises, with or without manipulating the hand loops  74  to utilize the Variable Resistance Modules (VRM)  68 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 31 and 32 , an additional accessory may be a vertical extension bar  106  (the general details of which are described above with respect to extension bar  64 ), which can be removably connected to the removable end cap  58 , for example, by inserting one end of the vertical extension bar  106  into a hole provided in the removable end cap  58 . Any other suitable mechanism for removably connecting the vertical extension bar  106  to the removable end cap  58  may also be used. As shown, the vertical extension bar  106  can include two Variable Resistance Modules (VRM)  68  connected to the opposed end thereof. In the exemplary embodiment shown in  FIG. 32 , the vertical extension bar  106  is provided with a clearance curvature  108  near the removable end cap  58  in order to provide more clearance between the user and the vertical extension bar  106 . Like the extension bar  64 , the vertical extension bar  106  can be configured to be retained within the center of the hollow portion of the roller  50  for ease of transportation. 
     The use of a further accessory is shown in  FIGS. 33   a  and  33   b . In particular, an inner case  110  is provided to accommodate and protect the extension bar  64  when the extension bar is stored inside the roller  50 . The inner case  110  can be formed in a generally cylindrical configuration and having closed ends, with an opening  112  provided generally longitudinally along one side thereof. The extension bar  64  can be inserted through the opening  112  into the case  110 . The inner case  110  can be formed from any suitable material, and may be a semi-rigid or soft case. Exemplary materials include, for example, soft fabrics, neoprene rubber, any other open or closed cell foam or any gel material, or any suitable plastic material, such as, for example, low or high density polyethylene. If the case  110  is made from a fabric material, the opening may be closed by, for example, the use of a zipper closure, snap closures, and/or hook and loop closures. For a semi-rigid plastic case, the inherent resiliency of the material will tend to close the opening. 
     Once the extension bar  64  is inserted through the opening  112  and into the case  110 , the case  110  can be inserted into the open space of the roller  50 , as shown in  FIG. 33   b  for storage and to ease portability of the exercise device. 
     Additional accessories which may be provided include, but are not limited to, an exterior carrying bag (for example, as shown in  FIG. 9 ) provided to enclose the exercise device therein for ease of transporting the exercise device. Such a carrying bag can include one or more straps, for example, shoulder straps, so that the exercise device may be more easily carried in a hands free manner. Such a shoulder strap may be provided, for example, directly removably attached to the ends of the exercise device itself, for example by snap fasteners, or by clips at the ends of the strap, which removably connect to rings secured at the ends of the exercise device. 
     E. Conclusion 
     It will be recognized that the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device and components thereof can be made from any suitable materials. 
     It will also be recognized that, while specific size ranges for components of the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device have been disclosed, the portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device and components thereof may have any suitable size as may be appropriate for use by persons having different sizes. 
     Of course, it is to be understood that not necessarily all objects or advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment of the invention. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other objects or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein. 
     The skilled trainer or athlete will recognize the interchangeability of various disclosed features from the disclosed embodiments and variations. In addition to variations described herein, other known equivalents for each feature can be mixed and matched by one of ordinary skill in this art to construct a portable multi-purpose whole body exercise device in accordance with principles of the present invention. 
     Although this invention has been disclosed in the context of exemplary embodiments and examples, it therefore will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present invention herein disclosed should not be limited only to the particular disclosed embodiments described above.

Technology Category: 1