System and methods for providing improved exercise device with motivational programming

Abstract

The present invention is directed to systems and methods for providing exercise devices with motivational programming. The present invention is particularly well suited to exercise devices that utilize one or more motors and / or other electrically driven actuators to control one or more operating parameters of the exercise device. The present invention contemplates the use of programming that includes motivational content and one or more control signals, synchronized with the motivational content, for controlling operation of the exercise device. The motivational content preferably includes audio and / or video designed to simulate a group exercise setting. In addition, the motivational content can include instructional and educational content for the benefit of the user. The programming can be live or prerecorded and can be broadcast over available broadcast channels, cable, satellite, the internet or anything suitable for transmitting audio and / or video signals. Alternatively, the programming can be prerecorded and stored on a storage medium, such as audio cassette tapes, compact discs, mini-discs, videotapes, laser discs, digital video discs, computer diskettes or any other storage medium suitable for the storage and reproduction of audio and / or video signals. The present invention also includes reproducing the programming, including the motivational content along with the synchronized control signals. Finally, the present invention includes decoding the control signals and for controlling the operation of the exercise device in synchronization with the motivational content.

Description

Background of the invention [0001] The present invention relates to athletic equipment, and more particularly, to systems and methods for providing improved athletic equipment with actuation programs. [0002] Consumers are buying home exercise equipment in record numbers as they try to improve their health and fitness. A common problem with home exercise equipment is that consumers are incentivized to use the equipment on a consistent and current basis. Additionally, many exercise machines involve repetitive movements, which can quickly become tedious and tiresome to the exerciser when exercising alone. [0003] In recent years, health clubs have organized many group training sessions and exercise routines. When properly organized, group exercise methods form a synergy whereby individual members of the class receive encouragement and motivation from the other members. Initially, such fitness classes included typical aerobics, traditionally performed without any assisted ex...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

However, these methods do not facilitate the real-time interaction between the home treadmill user and the remote trainer allowing the trainer to control the user's treadmill operating parameters in real time

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