Foot training equipment, fitness bikes, walking training devices and stretch boards

Abstract

To enable effective training of muscles in toes and soles.SOLUTION: A foot training tool 1 includes: a placement part 2 on which a portion close to a heel from toes is placed; a gripping part 3 arranged forward from the placement part 2 and gripped by toes; and elastic deformation parts 4, 5 formed of an elastic material that are arranged between the placement part 2 and the gripping part 3, allow rearward and downward displacement of the gripping part 3, and provide the gripping part 3 with an energization force of energizing the gripping part 3 toward a position before displacement when the gripping part 3 is displaced.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5C

Description

Technical Field

[0005] ,

[0001] The present invention relates to a foot training device, a fitness bike, a walking training device, and a stretching board that can train the muscles of the toes and soles of the feet.

Background Art

[0002] Generally, it is known that when the muscles of the toes and soles of the feet are weak or have poor movement, various symptoms related to the feet appear. Examples of such symptoms include floating toes where the toes float and do not touch the ground when standing upright, flat feet where the soles of the feet are flat and hardly any arches are recognizable, hallux valgus where the base of the big toe protrudes and the tip curves towards the little toe side, claw toe where the little toe curves outward, and sleeping toes where the toes fall and the nails face outward.

[0003] In addition, when the muscles of the toes and soles of the feet are in poor condition, it not only causes the above-mentioned symptoms but may also cause swelling of the feet, fatigue, cold feet, knock knees, bow legs, kyphosis, shoulder stiffness, low back pain, and knee pain. The importance of training the muscles of the toes and soles of the feet is being recognized.

[0004] Also, on the sole of the foot, there are fibers called the plantar fascia that reach from the base of the toes to the heel bone. When this plantar fascia is subjected to a large load for a long time due to standing work or sports, etc., it may cause inflammation and become plantar fasciitis. In the case of plantar fasciitis, for example, symptoms may be improved by rehabilitation such as foot stretching and muscle strength training.

[0005] As an instrument used for foot training, for example, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, a foot pedal structure attached to a bicycle or the like and used is known. On one surface of this foot pedal structure, a convex portion for abutting against the concave portion at the base of the toes and a relief portion for allowing flexion in the vicinity of the toes and the midfoot bone are formed. When using the foot pedal structure, the base of the toes is positioned on the convex portion and the pedal is pedaled.

Prior Art Documents

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-196108 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] By the way, when using the foot pedal structure of Patent Document 1, all you have to do is position the base of your toes on the convex part of the foot pedal structure and pedal, so rather than consciously bending your toes, the downward force applied to the pedal will naturally cause your toes to bend.

[0008] On the other hand, when performing muscle training effectively, it is important not only to use equipment, but also to consciously move the target muscle group, and to apply an appropriate load that matches the training objective.

[0009] This invention has been made in view of the above, and its purpose is to enable effective training of the muscles of the toes and soles of the feet. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] To achieve the above objective, the first disclosure provides a foot training device for training the muscles of the toes and soles of the feet, characterized by comprising: a mounting portion on which the part of the foot closer to the heel than the toes is placed; a gripping portion positioned in front of the mounting portion and gripped by the toes; and an elastic deformation portion provided between the mounting portion and the gripping portion, which is made of an elastic material that allows the gripping portion to be displaced backward and downward, and applies a biasing force to the gripping portion that biases it toward its position before the displacement when the gripping portion is displaced.

[0011] This configuration allows the trainee to grip the handle with their toes while keeping the heel-side portion of their foot on the support. When gripping the handle, the muscles of the toes and soles of the feet are used, and the plantar fascia stretches and contracts. When the toes grip the handle tightly, a force acts on the handle in a direction that pulls it towards the support, i.e., backward, and also downward. Since an elastic deformation section is provided between the support and the handle, when backward and downward forces are applied to the handle, the handle is displaced backward and downward due to the deformation of the elastic deformation section. When the handle is displaced, the elastic deformation section applies a biasing force back to its previous position, so the trainee needs to consciously grip the handle in a way that resists the biasing force of the elastic deformation section. In addition, the biasing force of the elastic deformation section provides an appropriate load for training the muscles of the toes and soles of the feet and the plantar fascia.

[0012] The second disclosure is characterized in that the upper surface of the aforementioned mounting portion has a bulging surface that protrudes upward in the area corresponding to the arch of the foot.

[0013] With this configuration, the arch of the foot can be placed against the bulging surface to stabilize the foot.

[0014] The third disclosure is a fitness bike, which comprises a leg training device and a fitness bike body, characterized in that the aforementioned mounting part is provided with a crank mounting part that is attached to the crank of the fitness bike body.

[0015] This configuration allows the foot training device to be attached to the crank of the fitness bike. Specifically, by attaching the crank mounting part of the mounting unit to the crank and placing your feet on the mounting unit, the mounting unit functions like the pedals of the fitness bike. This allows you to rotate the crank using the force of your feet to perform a normal fitness bike workout while simultaneously performing a toe grip exercise. In other words, you can perform two types of training at once, which greatly increases the efficiency of your workout and helps you continue training without getting bored.

[0016] The timing of gripping the handle can be, for example, the timing of applying pressure with your foot. For instance, you could grip the handle when you press down on the upper mounting part, and then reduce your grip strength while the lower mounting part moves upward. This allows you to grip the handle once for each rotation of the crank, synchronizing the rotational motion of the crank with the gripping motion.

[0017] The fourth disclosure is a walking training device, the walking training device comprising a foot training device and a walking training device body, the aforementioned mounting part is provided with a movable shaft mounting part that is attached to a movable shaft of the walking training device body.

[0018] This configuration allows the foot training device to be attached to the movable axis of the walking training device. Specifically, by attaching the movable axis mounting part of the mounting part to the movable axis and placing the foot on the mounting part, the mounting part functions like the foot rest of the walking training device. This makes it possible to perform training using the normal walking training device by moving the movable axis with the force of the foot, while also performing training by gripping the handle with the toes. In other words, two types of training can be performed at once, which further increases the efficiency of training and makes it easier to continue training without getting bored.

[0019] The timing of gripping the grip portion can be, for example, the timing when applying a stepping force with the foot. For example, the grip portion may be gripped at the timing of stepping down the upper placement portion, and the gripping force may be weakened while the lower placement portion moves upward. Thereby, the walking motion and the motion of gripping the grip portion can be synchronized.

[0020] The fifth disclosure is a stretch board, which includes a foot training device and a stretch board main body, and is characterized by including a support portion that supports the placement portion in a state where the front side of the placement portion is located above the rear side.

[0021] According to this configuration, when the foot is placed on the placement portion, since the front side of the placement portion is located above the rear side, for example, the Achilles tendon and the back of the calf can be stretched. Therefore, it becomes possible to perform training to grip the grip portion with the toes of the foot while stretching.

Effect of the Invention

[0022] As described above, according to the present disclosure, by providing an elastic deformation portion between the foot placement portion and the grip portion gripped by the toes of the foot, the grip portion can be displaced backward and downward in a state of being gripped by the toes of the foot. Therefore, the person performing the training can effectively train by consciously using the muscles of the toes and the sole of the foot.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0023] [Figure 1] It is a perspective view of a fitness bike according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 2A] It is a side view of the above foot training device. [Figure 2B] It is a plan view of the above foot training device. [Figure 3] It is a perspective view of the grip portion seen from behind. [Figure 4] It is a perspective view of the placement portion seen from the front. [Figure 5A] It is a side view showing a state where the foot is placed on the placement portion and the toes of the foot are placed on the grip portion. [Figure 5B] This is a side view showing the gripping position. [Figure 5C] This is a side view showing the grip in the fully gripped position. [Figure 6] This is a rear view perspective of the grip portion according to Modification 1. [Figure 7] This is a diagram equivalent to Figure 2B relating to Modification 2. [Figure 8] This is an exploded view showing the structure of the detachable part related to Modification 3. [Figure 9] This is a perspective view of a walking training device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. [Figure 10A] This is a diagram corresponding to Figure 2A of Embodiment 2. [Figure 10B] This is a diagram corresponding to Figure 2B of Embodiment 2. [Figure 11A] This is a diagram corresponding to Figure 5A of Embodiment 2. [Figure 11B] This is a diagram corresponding to Figure 5B of Embodiment 2. [Figure 11C] This is a diagram corresponding to Figure 5C of Embodiment 2. [Figure 12] This is a diagram corresponding to Figure 10B, which relates to a modified example 1 of Embodiment 2. [Figure 13] This is a diagram corresponding to Figure 9, relating to a modified example 2 of Embodiment 2. [Figure 14] This is a side view of a stretch board according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. [Figure 15A] This is a diagram corresponding to Figure 2A of Embodiment 3. [Figure 15B] This is a diagram corresponding to Figure 2B of Embodiment 3. [Figure 16A] This is a diagram corresponding to Figure 5A of Embodiment 3. [Figure 16B] This is a diagram corresponding to Figure 5B of Embodiment 3. [Figure 16C] This is a diagram corresponding to Figure 5C of Embodiment 3. [Figure 17] This is a diagram corresponding to Figure 15B, which is a modified example of Embodiment 3. [Figure 18A] This is a diagram corresponding to Figure 5A in Embodiment 4. [Figure 18B]This is a diagram corresponding to Figure 5B of Embodiment 4. [Figure 18C] This is a diagram corresponding to Figure 5C of Embodiment 4. [Figure 19] This is a perspective view of the foot training device according to Embodiment 5, viewed from the front. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0024] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. The following description of preferred embodiments is essentially illustrative and is not intended to limit the present invention, its applications, or its uses.

[0025] (Embodiment 1) Figure 1 is a perspective view of a fitness bike 30 equipped with a leg training device 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The fitness bike 30 comprises a fitness bike body 31 and left and right leg training devices 1 (only the left one is shown in Figure 1). The fitness bike body 31 is a conventionally known type and is configured to allow the user to perform the exercise of pedaling on a bicycle indoors without moving, while remaining in place. Such exercise equipment is called bicycle-type exercise equipment, exercise bike (registered trademark), fitness bike, etc., but the basic structure is the same for all of them. In addition, the pedals of a conventionally used fitness bike can be removed and the leg training device 1 can be attached.

[0026] In this embodiment, "front" refers to the area in front of the person performing the training, "back" refers to the area behind the person performing the training, "left" refers to the left of the person performing the training, and "right" refers to the right of the person performing the training. This is specified solely for the sake of clarity and does not limit the present invention.

[0027] The fitness bike body 31 comprises a base 32, a cover 33, a handle 34, a crank 35, and a saddle 36. However, the cover 33 and other parts may be added as needed, and the structure is not limited to that shown in the illustration. The base 32 is located at the bottom of the fitness bike body 31 and is the part used to stabilize the fitness bike 30 when placed on the floor of a room where training is performed.

[0028] The handlebars 34 are located at the front of the fitness bike body 31 and are primarily used by the user to hold and stabilize their upper body during training. The saddle 36 is located at the rear of the fitness bike body 31 and is where the user sits during training. Both the handlebars 34 and the saddle 36 are height-adjustable.

[0029] The crank 35 has a rotating shaft 35a that extends in the left-right direction. This rotating shaft 35a is rotatably supported by a frame member (not shown) provided inside the cover portion 33. Although not shown, a load-applying structure is provided inside the cover portion 33. This load-applying structure is conventionally known and applies a load to the rotating shaft 35a that makes the rotation of the rotating shaft 35a heavier. The degree of the load is adjustable.

[0030] Although only the left side is shown in Figure 1, foot training devices 1 are provided at the tips of both the left and right cranks 35. The left foot training device 1 and the right foot training device 1 have a symmetrical structure and the basic structure is the same; therefore, the right foot training device 1 will be described in detail below using Figures 2A, 2B, 3, 4, etc.

[0031] The foot training device 1 is a device primarily for training the muscles of the toes and soles of the feet, and comprises a mounting section 2, a grip section 3, a front elastic deformation section 4, a rear elastic deformation section 5, and an intermediate section 6. The mounting section 2 is formed in the shape of a plate or block on which the part of the foot closer to the heel is placed, and is constructed with high rigidity using a material that does not easily deform, such as hard resin or metal. The mounting section 2 has a crank mounting section 7 that is attached to the tip of the crank 35 of the fitness bike body 31, and this crank mounting section 7 is provided at the front of the mounting section 2. The crank mounting section 7 has a support shaft 7a that extends in the left-right direction and a bearing section 7b that rotatably supports the support shaft 7a. The left end of the support shaft 7a is screwed into and fixed in a screw hole (not shown) formed in the tip of the crank 35. When using a conventional fitness bike, the pedal shaft can be removed from the tip of the crank 35, and then the support shaft 7a can be screwed in and fixed. The method of fixing the support shaft 7a is not limited to screws.

[0032] The lower part of the mounting section 2 is provided with a detachable section 8, which constitutes a detachable structure for attaching and detaching the rear elastic deformation section 5 to the mounting section 2. The detachable section 8 comprises a main body 8a fixed to the mounting section 2, a bolt 8b, and a detachable section 8d fixed to the rear elastic deformation section 5. As shown in Figure 2A, the main body 8a has a through hole 8c that penetrates in the front-to-back direction. The bolt 8b is inserted through this through hole 8c from the rear. The bolt 8c inserted through the through hole 8c is screwed into a threaded hole (not shown) formed in the detachable section 8d from the rear. By screwing the bolt 8c into the rear part of the detachable section 8d, the grip section 3, the front elastic deformation section 4, the rear elastic deformation section 5, and the intermediate section 6 can be fixed to the mounting section 2. On the other hand, by loosening the bolt 8c, the grip section 3, the front elastic deformation section 4, the rear elastic deformation section 5, and the intermediate section 6 can be removed from the mounting section 2.

[0033] Furthermore, the structure that allows the grip portion 3, the front elastic deformation portion 4, the rear elastic deformation portion 5, and the intermediate portion 6 to be attached to the mounting portion 2 is not mandatory and may be omitted. Also, the structure that allows the grip portion 3, the front elastic deformation portion 4, the rear elastic deformation portion 5, and the intermediate portion 6 to be attached to the mounting portion 2 is not limited to the structure described above, and may also be a structure that uses fastening members such as screws and bolts.

[0034] The above attachment / detachment structure may, for example, use a magnetic force. Specifically, a magnet-embedded adsorption device (not shown) equipped with an ON / OFF switch lever is fixed to the lower part of the mounting section 2, and the detachment section 8d is made of a magnetic material. By setting the lever of the adsorption device to the OFF position, the adsorption force is reduced or almost eliminated, allowing the detachment section 8d to be easily detached. On the other hand, by setting the lever to the ON position, the adsorption force is increased, allowing the detachment section 8d to be adsorbed and fixed to the adsorption device.

[0035] If a detachable structure is provided, the grip portion 3, the front elastic deformation portion 4, the rear elastic deformation portion 5, and the intermediate portion 6 can be removed from the mounting portion 2, then the grip portion 3 can be gripped with the foot, or the grip portion 3 can be fixed to the foot, and then the grip portion 3, the front elastic deformation portion 4, the rear elastic deformation portion 5, and the intermediate portion 6 can be attached to the mounting portion 2. When fixing the grip portion 3 to the foot, a high protrusion 3d can be provided on the grip portion 3 as shown in Figure 6, which will be described later, and the grip portion 3d can be fixed by pinching it with the fingers.

[0036] As shown in Figure 4, the upper surface of the mounting portion 2 has a front bulge surface 2a and a rear bulge surface 2b that bulge upward in the area corresponding to the arch of the foot. The front bulge surface 2a is formed in the area from the front end of the mounting portion 2 to the middle in the front-rear direction and is the surface that contacts the area corresponding to the front of the arch of the foot. The rear bulge surface 2b is formed in the area from the front end of the mounting portion 2 to the rear end of the front bulge surface 2a and is the surface that contacts the area corresponding to the rear of the arch of the foot.

[0037] The front bulge surface 2a is formed so that it is highest in the center in the front-to-back direction, and becomes lower as it approaches the front and rear ends. Similarly, the front bulge surface 2a is formed so that it is highest in the center in the left-to-right direction, and becomes lower as it approaches the left and right ends. The rear bulge surface 2b is similarly formed so that it is highest in the center in both the front-to-back and left-to-right directions.

[0038] By forming the front bulge surface 2a and the rear bulge surface 2b as described above, the shape of the upper surface of the mounting part 2 naturally conforms to the sole of the foot. This reduces discomfort for the person performing the training, and the front bulge surface 2a and the rear bulge surface 2b fit the sole of the foot, making it less likely for the foot to slip from its predetermined position on the mounting part 2.

[0039] The space between the front bulge 2a and the rear bulge 2b on the upper surface of the mounting section 2 is recessed because both bulge surfaces 2a and 2b bulge upward. The depth of this recess 2c can be set as needed. The recess 2c can also be omitted. If the recess 2c is omitted, there can be only one bulge surface, which can be a continuous bulge surface from the front end to the rear end of the mounting section 2. Alternatively, three or more bulge surfaces can be provided. The bulge surfaces may be arranged in the front-to-back direction or in the left-to-right direction. Although not shown in the figures, multiple protrusions may be provided on the upper surface of the mounting section 2. The upper surface of the mounting section 2 may be a flat surface or it may have a concave surface.

[0040] As shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the grip portion 3 is positioned in front of the mounting portion 2 and is the part that is gripped by the toes. This grip portion 3 may be made of an elastic material such as rubber or thermoplastic elastomer, or it may be made of a hard resin. Alternatively, a grip portion 3 with a hard resin core covered with an elastic material can also be used. This grip portion 3 and the front elastic deformation portion 4 may be integrally molded, or they may be molded separately and then integrated.

[0041] As shown in Figure 2A, a curved surface 3a that curves upward is formed on the upper part of the grip portion 3. The front-to-back dimension of the upper part of the grip portion 3 is set to be shorter than the length of the fingers of the person performing the training, so that the upper part of the grip portion 3 can be easily gripped. In addition, a front projection 3b that protrudes forward and extends in the left-to-right direction and a rear projection 3c that protrudes backward and extends in the left-to-right direction are formed on the upper part of the grip portion 3. The front projection 3b and the rear projection 3c may be formed as needed, and one or both may be omitted.

[0042] As shown in Figure 2B, the grip portion 3 is gently curved so that it is positioned further back as it approaches the right end in a plan view. This shape corresponds to the position of the tips of each toe. That is, since the tips of the big toe and index finger are positioned further forward than the other fingers, the left side of the grip portion 3 is positioned furthest forward. On the other hand, since the tip of the little finger is positioned furthest back, the right end of the grip portion 3 is positioned furthest back. The shape of the grip portion 3 is just one example and is not limited to the shape shown; it may also be a shape that extends in a straight line in the left-right direction.

[0043] The curved surface 3a of the grip portion 3 has multiple protrusions 3d that project upward, spaced apart in the left-right direction. Each protrusion 3d is elongated in the front-to-back direction and positioned between adjacent fingers. For example, a protrusion 3d can be provided between the thumb and index finger, between the index finger and middle finger, between the middle finger and ring finger, and between the ring finger and little finger. By providing the protrusions 3d, the number of protrusions 3d is not limited to four, but may be three or less. Furthermore, the protrusions 3d may be omitted.

[0044] As shown in Figure 5A, the anterior-posterior separation distance between the grip portion 3 and the resting portion 2 is set so that the curved surface 3a of the grip portion 3 is positioned directly below the middle phalanx of the toe. By positioning the middle phalanx of the toe directly above the curved surface 3a of the grip portion 3, when bending the toes downward and gripping, the curved surface 3a of the grip portion 3 can be naturally gripped with all the toes. At this time, the anterior ridge portion 3b and the posterior ridge portion 3c can also be gripped simultaneously. If the grip portion 3 is made of an elastic material, the grip portion 3 will elastically deform when gripped by the toes, making it easier to grip and less likely to slip off the toes.

[0045] As shown in Figure 2A, the front elastic deformation portion 4, the rear elastic deformation portion 5, and the intermediate portion 6 are provided between the grip portion 3 and the mounting portion 2. The intermediate portion 6 can be provided as needed and is not essential. The intermediate portion 6 is a plate-shaped or block-shaped member made of a hard resin material similar to that of the mounting portion 2. The intermediate portion 6 is positioned below the highest parts of the front bulging surface 2a and the rear bulging surface 2b of the mounting portion 2, and below the curved surface 3a of the grip portion 3.

[0046] The front surface 6a of the intermediate section 6 is formed so that it is positioned further back as it goes downwards. On the other hand, the rear surface 6b of the intermediate section 6 extends approximately vertically. Therefore, the front-to-back dimension of the intermediate section 6 becomes shorter as it goes downwards. The intermediate section 6 may also be made of the same elastic material as the front elastic deformation section 4.

[0047] The front elastic deformation portion 4 is formed in a plate-like or block-like shape, extending from the lower part of the grip portion 3 to the front surface 6a of the intermediate portion 6. The front end of the front elastic deformation portion 4 is fixed to the lower part of the grip portion 3, and the rear end of the front elastic deformation portion 4 is fixed to the vertically intermediate part of the front surface 6a of the intermediate portion 6. In this way, the grip portion 3 is connected to the intermediate portion 6 via the front elastic deformation portion 4. When fixing the front elastic deformation portion 4, adhesives may be used, integral molding with the grip portion 3 and intermediate portion 6 may be used, or various fastening members may be used.

[0048] The rear elastic deformation portion 5 is formed in a plate-like or block-like shape, extending from the rear surface 6b of the intermediate portion 6 to the front surface of the crank mounting portion 7 of the mounting portion 2. The front end of the rear elastic deformation portion 5 is fixed to the vertically intermediate portion of the rear surface 6b of the intermediate portion 6, and the rear end of the rear elastic deformation portion 5 is fixed to the front surface of the bearing portion 7b of the crank mounting portion 7. In this way, the intermediate portion 6 is connected to the mounting portion 2 via the rear elastic deformation portion 5. When fixing the rear elastic deformation portion 5, adhesives or the like may be used, an integral molding method with the intermediate portion 6 and the bearing portion 7b may be used, or various fastening members may be used. The rear end of the rear elastic deformation portion 5 may be fixed to the mounting portion 2.

[0049] The front elastic deformation section 4 and the rear elastic deformation section 5 are made of an elastic material that allows the upper part of the grip section 3 to be displaced backward and downward, and also applies a biasing force to the grip section 3 that biases it back to its position before the displacement when the upper part of the grip section 3 is displaced. In other words, when there is almost no force acting on the grip section 3 from the foot, as shown in Figure 5A, the height of the grip section 3 relative to the mounting section 2 is set, and the weight of the grip section 3 is supported by the front elastic deformation section 4 and the rear elastic deformation section 5.

[0050] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 5B, when the upper part of the grip 3 is gripped with the toes, the front elastic deformation part 4 and the rear elastic deformation part 5 elastically deform, causing the lower part of the grip 3 to displace backward and downward. When the grip 3 is displaced, the front elastic deformation part 4 and the rear elastic deformation part 5 are elastically deformed, and thus apply a biasing force to the grip 3 that pushes it back to its original position. If the grip 3 is gripped further against the biasing force of the front elastic deformation part 4 and the rear elastic deformation part 5, the grip 3 will be displaced even more, as shown in Figure 5C. When the force on the grip 3 is released, the shapes of the front elastic deformation part 4 and the rear elastic deformation part 5 are restored, and the grip 3 returns to its original position. Figures 5B and 5C show examples of the amount and direction of displacement of the grip 3, and the amount and direction of displacement of the grip 3 may differ depending on the foot habits of the person training, and it is also possible to displace the grip 3 significantly downward.

[0051] The elastic material constituting the front elastic deformation section 4 and the rear elastic deformation section 5 can be made of, for example, rubber, thermoplastic elastomer, etc. The elastic material may be made using both rubber and thermoplastic elastomer, or using only one of them. Alternatively, the intermediate section 6 may be omitted, and only one elastic deformation section may be provided. In this case, the single elastic deformation section will be continuous from the grip section 3 to the mounting section 2. A core material made of an elastically deformable resin material or the like may be embedded inside the front elastic deformation section 4 and the rear elastic deformation section 5.

[0052] The biasing force exerted by the front elastic deformation portion 4 and the rear elastic deformation portion 5 of the grip portion 3 corresponds to the load on the muscles of the toes and soles of the feet when gripping the grip portion 3. Since gripping the grip portion 3 with the toes is an action that cannot be performed without conscious effort, repeating the series of movements shown in Figures 5A to 5C, which constitute one cycle, allows for efficient training of the muscles of the toes and soles of the feet. Furthermore, since gripping the grip portion 3 with the toes is also a stretching and contracting movement of the plantar fascia, the plantar fascia can also be trained.

[0053] The load during training can be arbitrarily set by the structure of the front elastic deformation section 4 and the rear elastic deformation section 5, and the elastic modulus of the elastic material constituting the front elastic deformation section 4 and the rear elastic deformation section 5. For example, for a person with weak leg muscles, the front elastic deformation section 4 and the rear elastic deformation section 5 can be made softer to facilitate elastic deformation, while for a person with strong leg muscles, the front elastic deformation section 4 and the rear elastic deformation section 5 can be made harder to make elastic deformation more difficult. Furthermore, as training progresses, the front elastic deformation section 4 and the rear elastic deformation section 5 may be made harder.

[0054] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the foot training device 1 is attached to the crank 35 of the fitness bike body 31, so when the feet are placed on the resting part 2, the resting part 2 functions like the pedals of the fitness bike 30. The force applied by the feet placed on the resting part 2 rotates the crank 35, allowing for normal fitness bike 30 training. The rotational load of the crank 35 can be adjusted to suit the user.

[0055] While rotating the crank 35, it becomes possible to also perform exercises by gripping the handle 3 with your toes. In other words, you can perform two types of training at once, which further increases the efficiency of your training and makes it easier to continue training without getting bored.

[0056] The timing for gripping the handle 3 can be, for example, the timing of applying pressure with your foot. For instance, you could grip the handle 3 when you step down on the upper mounting part 2, and then reduce your grip while the lower mounting part 2 moves upward. This allows you to grip the handle 3 once each time the crank 35 rotates, synchronizing the rotational movement of the crank 35 with the gripping motion of the handle 3. Furthermore, when you apply force to rotate the crank 35, you simultaneously apply force to grip the handle 3, making it easy to perform both types of training.

[0057] (Effects of Embodiment 1) As described above, according to this embodiment 1, by providing elastic deformation parts 4 and 5 between the foot resting part 2 and the grip part 3 that is gripped by the toes, the grip part 3 can be displaced not only backward but also downward. This allows the user to apply load by displacing the grip part 3 backward and downward while gripping it with their toes, enabling them to consciously use the muscles of their toes and soles to train effectively.

[0058] Furthermore, since the grip portion 3 is supported in a suspended state by the elastically deformable portions 4 and 5, the grip portion 3 can be easily displaced not only in the front-to-back direction but also in the up-and-down direction. This allows for simultaneous movement of the grip portion 3 not only towards the mounting portion 2 but also downward displacement.

[0059] (Modified version of Embodiment 1) Figure 6 shows Modification 1 of Embodiment 1. In Modification 1, the protrusion height of the convex portion 3d is set to be higher. As a result, the convex portion 3d fits between the thumb and index finger, between the index finger and middle finger, between the middle finger and ring finger, and between the ring finger and little finger, so that when gripping the grip portion 3, the convex portion 3d can also be gripped. This makes it difficult for the grip portion 3 to slip off the fingers. The convex portion 3d may be made of, for example, a hard resin material or an elastic material.

[0060] Figure 7 shows a modified example 2 of Embodiment 1. In Modified Example 2, the rear elastic deformation portion is composed of coil springs 51. The coil springs 51 are spaced apart in the left-right direction. The rear surface 6a of the intermediate portion 6 is fixed to the front end of the coil spring 51, and the crank mounting portion 7 is fixed to the rear end of the coil spring 51. The number of coil springs 51 may be one or any number of two or more. The front elastic deformation portion 4 and the intermediate portion 6 can be omitted.

[0061] Figure 8 is an exploded view showing the structure of the detachable part 8 according to a modified example 3 of Embodiment 1. The detachable part 8 includes a fixing part 8e fixed to the lower surface of the mounting part 2. The fixing part 8e is located at the front end of the mounting part 2. The fixing part 8e has an insertion hole 8f that opens forward. The insertion hole 8f is elongated in the left-right direction and has a predetermined depth in the front-back direction. The shape of the insertion hole 8f is not particularly limited, but for example, it may have a rectangular cross-section or a circular cross-section. Also, there may be two or more insertion holes 8f. If multiple insertion holes 8f are provided, they may be arranged side by side in the left-right direction or in the up-down direction.

[0062] On the other hand, an insertion member 10 is fixed to the rear end of the rear elastic deformation portion 5, which is inserted into the insertion hole 8f of the fixing portion 8e. The left-right dimension of the insertion member 10 is set to be slightly shorter than the left-right dimension of the insertion hole 8f, and the up-down dimension of the insertion member 10 is set to be slightly shorter than the up-down dimension of the insertion hole 8f. This makes it possible to easily insert the insertion member 10 into the insertion hole 8f, while minimizing the rattle of the insertion member 10 when it is inserted into the insertion hole 8f. The rattle refers to rattle in the up-down and left-right directions.

[0063] The insertion depth of the insertion member 10 is set to a predetermined depth by the rear end surface of the insertion member 10 contacting the inner surface of the insertion hole 8f. The shape of the insertion hole 8f and the corresponding shape of the insertion member 10 can be arbitrarily set. After inserting the insertion member 10 into the insertion hole 8f, the insertion member 10 can be fixed to the fixing part 8e with a fastening member such as a bolt 8b. The above-mentioned magnet-embedded suction device can be used when fixing the insertion member 10. This attachment and detachment structure of this modified example 3 can also be applied to other embodiments.

[0064] (Embodiment 2) Figure 9 is a perspective view of a walking training device 60 according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. The walking training device 60 is similar to Embodiment 1 in that it includes a foot training device 1, but differs from Embodiment 1 in that it performs walking exercises. Hereinafter, the same reference numerals are used for parts that are the same as in Embodiment 1 and their descriptions are omitted, while the different parts will be described in detail.

[0065] The walking training device 60 is an exercise device for repeatedly performing stepping movements, and is also known as a stepper. The walking training device 60 comprises a main device body 61 and training devices 1 for the left and right feet. The main device body 61 comprises a base 62, a movable shaft 63, and a handle 64. The base 62 is located at the bottom of the main device body 61 and is the part that stabilizes the walking training device 60 when placed on the floor of the room where training is performed.

[0066] The handle portion 64 is located at the front of the main body 61 of the device and is a part that the user holds with their hands to primarily stabilize their upper body during training. The handle portion 64 can be omitted. Movable shafts 63 are provided on both the left and right sides. The left movable shaft 63 extends to the left, and the right movable shaft 63 extends to the right. The leg training device 1 is attached to the left and right movable shafts 63 respectively and is able to swing freely in the vertical direction. The main body 61 of the device is provided with a conventional load-applying structure (not shown), and a load is applied to the movable shafts 63. The degree of load is adjustable. The movable shafts 63 may be rotating shafts, or they may swing or move up and down shafts. Conventional structures can be used for this structure.

[0067] The leg training device 1 of Embodiment 2, shown in Figures 10A and 10B, is basically configured the same as that of Embodiment 1, but differs in that instead of the crank mounting portion 7 of Embodiment 1, a movable shaft mounting portion 9 is provided on the mounting portion 2, which is attached to the movable shaft 63. The movable shaft mounting portion 9 is fixed to the movable shaft 63 so as not to rotate relative to it, for example via a bracket (not shown). In addition, a detachable portion 8 is provided to allow the grip portion 3, the front elastic deformation portion 4, the rear elastic deformation portion 5, and the intermediate portion 6 to be attached to and detached from the mounting portion 2.

[0068] Furthermore, a front bulge surface 2a is formed on the front side of the upper surface of the mounting portion 2. The area behind the front bulge surface 2a on the upper surface of the mounting portion 2 is composed of a flat surface 2d. Although not shown in the figures, a bulge surface similar to that in Embodiment 1 may be formed instead of the flat surface 2d.

[0069] (Effects of Embodiment 2) According to Embodiment 2, the foot training device 1 can be attached to the movable axis 63 of the walking training device 60 and used. That is, by attaching the movable axis mounting part 9 of the mounting part 2 to the movable axis 63 and placing the foot on the mounting part 2, the mounting part 2 functions like the foot resting plate of the walking training device 60. This makes it possible to perform training using the normal walking training device 60 by moving the movable axis 63 with the force of the foot, while also performing training by gripping the grip part 3 with the toes. In other words, two types of training can be performed at the same time, which further increases the efficiency of training and makes it possible to continue training without getting bored.

[0070] The timing for gripping the grip portion 3 can be, for example, the timing for applying pressure with the foot. For instance, the grip portion 3 can be gripped at the moment the upper mounting portion 2 is stepped down, and the gripping force can be reduced while the lower mounting portion 2 moves upward. This allows the walking motion and the gripping motion of the grip portion 3 to be synchronized.

[0071] (Modified version of Embodiment 2) Figure 12 shows Modification 1 of Embodiment 2. In Modification 1, the rear elastic deformation portion is composed of coil springs 52. The coil springs 52 in Modification 1 are spaced apart in the left-right direction. The rear surface 6a of the intermediate portion 6 is fixed to the front end of the coil spring 52, and the detachable portion 8d is fixed to the rear end of the coil spring 52. The number of coil springs 52 may be one, or any number of two or more.

[0072] Figure 13 shows a modified example 2 of Embodiment 2. Modified example 2 is an example in which the present invention is applied to a walking training device 60 in which the movable axes 63 extend to the left and right. The base 62 and movable axes 63 are conventionally known. The left movable axis 63 is attached to the base 62 so as to be able to swing vertically with the vicinity of the right end as the pivot center. The right movable axis 63 is attached to the base 62 so as to be able to swing vertically with the vicinity of the left end as the pivot center. The left foot training device 1 is detachably attached to the left end of the left movable axis 63. The right foot training device 1 is detachably attached to the right end of the right movable axis 63. In this modified example 2, the movable axes 63 are positioned to the side of the foot training device 1, so that the front of the foot is free during training, making training easier.

[0073] (Embodiment 3) Figure 14 is a side view of a stretch board 70 according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. The stretch board 70 is an exercise device for stretching the Achilles tendon and the back of the calf, and is equipped with a foot training device 1 on each side.Hereinafter, the same reference numerals are used for parts that are the same as in Embodiment 1 and their descriptions are omitted, while the different parts will be described in detail.

[0074] The stretch board 70 comprises a stretch board body 71, training devices 1 for the left and right legs, and a support part 72. The stretch board body 71 is the part that is placed on the floor of the room where the training is performed to stabilize the stretch board 70.

[0075] A support shaft 70a extending in the left-right direction is provided on the rear side of the upper surface of the stretch board body 71. The rear end of the mounting part 2 of the foot training device 1 is rotatably supported by the support shaft 70a. As shown in Figures 15A and 15B, the foot training device 1 of Embodiment 3 is equipped with one elastic deformation part 40, and the grip part 3 is fixed to the front end of this elastic deformation part 40. Even when only one elastic deformation part 40 is provided, the upper part of the grip part 3 can be displaced rearward and downward, as shown in Figures 16A to 16C. In Embodiment 3, as in Embodiments 1 and 2, a front elastic deformation part 4, a rear elastic deformation part 5, and an intermediate part 6 may also be provided.

[0076] As shown in Figure 14, the support portion 72 is a member for supporting the mounting portion 2 in a state where the front side of the mounting portion 2 is positioned higher than the rear side. This support portion 72 can be made of, for example, a highly rigid rod. The upper end of the support portion 72 is supported on the front portion of the mounting portion 2 so as to be rotatable around a pivot axis 72a that extends in the left-right direction. Multiple locking portions 71a are provided on the front side of the upper surface of the stretch board body 71, spaced apart from each other in the front-rear direction. By locking the lower end of the support portion 72 to the locking portions 71a, the lower end of the support portion 72 is prevented from shifting forward, thereby allowing the mounting portion 2 to be supported in a state where the front side of the mounting portion 2 is positioned higher than the rear side. The inclination angle of the mounting portion 2 can be changed by changing the locking portion 71a to which the lower end of the support portion 72 is locked.

[0077] (Effects of Embodiment 3) According to Embodiment 3, when a person performing training places their feet on the resting part 2, the front side of the resting part 2 is positioned higher than the rear side, allowing for stretching of, for example, the Achilles tendon or the back of the calf. Therefore, it becomes possible to perform training by gripping the gripping part 3 with the toes while stretching.

[0078] (Modified form of Embodiment 3) Figure 17 shows a modified example of Embodiment 3. In this modified example, it is possible to apply load to each of the five toes of the foot separately and to move each of the five toes separately. That is, as shown in Figure 17, the grip is divided into five parts and consists of first to fifth grip parts 31 to 35 arranged in the left-right direction. The first grip part 31 is made up of a member that is gripped by the thumb, the second grip part 32 is made up of a member that is gripped by the index finger, the third grip part 33 is made up of a member that is gripped by the middle finger, the fourth grip part 34 is made up of a member that is gripped by the ring finger, and the fifth grip part 35 is made up of a member that is gripped by the little finger.

[0079] The front elastic deformation section is also divided into five parts, consisting of the first to fifth front elastic deformation sections 43 to 47. The first front elastic deformation section 43 is positioned behind the first grip section 31, the second front elastic deformation section 44 is positioned behind the second grip section 32, the third front elastic deformation section 45 is positioned behind the third grip section 33, the fourth front elastic deformation section 46 is positioned behind the fourth grip section 34, and the fifth front elastic deformation section 47 is positioned behind the fifth grip section 35.

[0080] The posterior elastic deformation section is also divided into five parts, consisting of the first to fifth posterior elastic deformation sections 53 to 57. The first posterior elastic deformation section 53 is positioned behind the first anterior elastic deformation section 43, the second posterior elastic deformation section 54 is positioned behind the second anterior elastic deformation section 44, the third posterior elastic deformation section 55 is positioned behind the third anterior elastic deformation section 45, the fourth posterior elastic deformation section 56 is positioned behind the fourth anterior elastic deformation section 46, and the fifth posterior elastic deformation section 57 is positioned behind the fifth anterior elastic deformation section 47. In this modified example, load can be applied to each of the five toes of the foot separately.

[0081] Furthermore, one of the first to fifth front elastic deformation parts 43 to 47 and the first to fifth rear elastic deformation parts 53 to 57 may be omitted. Also, the grip portion can be divided into any number of parts between 2 and 5. The front elastic deformation parts and rear elastic deformation parts can also be divided in the same way as the grip portion. In addition, embodiments 1 and 2 can be modified to apply a configuration that applies load to each finger separately, as in the modified example of embodiment 3.

[0082] (Embodiment 4) Figures 18A, 18B, and 18C show a foot training device 1 according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. Embodiment 4 differs from Embodiment 1 in that it is equipped with a leaf spring 45 as an elastically deformable part. In Embodiment 4, the same reference numerals are used for the same parts as in Embodiment 1, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0083] The leaf spring 45 of Embodiment 4 extends in both the left-right and front-rear directions and is made of a conventionally known spring material. The rear end of the leaf spring 45 is fixed to the release portion 8d, and the front end of the leaf spring 45 is fixed to the grip portion 3. The leaf spring 45 is shaped to curve or bend downwards such that its front-rear intermediate portion is located below the front and rear ends. The reaction force of the leaf spring 45 provides the training load. The shape of the leaf spring 45 is not limited to the illustrated shape, and may be, for example, be bent into a pleated shape. The training load can also be adjusted by changing the thickness and shape of the leaf spring 45. The leaf spring 45 may be combined with the elastic material of Embodiment 1. The leaf spring 45 can also be made of, for example, glass fiber reinforced plastic (FRP) or carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP). FRP or CFRP may also be combined with a metal leaf spring. FRP or CFRP may also be combined with rubber or elastomer.

[0084] (Embodiment 5) Figure 19 shows a foot training device 1 according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention. This Embodiment 5 differs from Embodiment 1 in that it is equipped with a coil spring 46 as an elastically deformable part. In Embodiment 5, the same reference numerals are used for the same parts as in Embodiment 1, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0085] The coil spring 46 of Embodiment 5 is made of a wire made of, for example, spring steel, and has a shape in which the wire is wound one to several times in the middle section. The rear end of the coil spring 46 is fixed to the release section 8d, and the front end of the coil spring 46 is fixed to the grip section 3. The coil spring 46 is shaped to curve or bend downwards so that its middle section in the front-rear direction is located below the front and rear ends. The reaction force of the coil spring 46 can provide training load. The training load can be adjusted by changing the number of turns of the coil spring 46, the thickness of the wire, etc. The coil spring 46 may be made of FRP or CFRP. The coil spring 46 may be provided on both the left and right sides, or in the center in the left-right direction.

[0086] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative in all respects and should not be interpreted restrictively. Furthermore, any modifications or changes that fall within the equivalent scope of the claims are all within the scope of the present invention. [Industrial applicability]

[0087] As described above, the present invention can be used, for example, when training the muscles of the toes or soles of the feet. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0088] 1. Foot training equipment 2 Mounting section 2a Anterior bulging surface 2b Posterior bulging surface 3. Grip 4. Front elastic deformation section 5. Rear elastic deformation section 7. Crank mounting section 9. Movable shaft mounting section 30 Fitness Bikes 31 Fitness bike main unit 35 Crank 60 Walking training device 63 Movable axis 70 Stretch Board 72 Support part

Claims

1. A foot training device for training the muscles of the toes and soles of the feet. a placement portion on which the part of the foot closer to the heel than the toes is placed; a grip portion disposed in front of the placing portion and gripped with the toes; a foot training device comprising an elastic deformation portion provided between the mounting portion and the grip portion, which allows the grip portion to be displaced rearward and downward, and which is made of an elastic material and which applies a biasing force to the grip portion when the grip portion is displaced, urging it toward its position before displacement.

2. 2. The foot training device according to claim 1, A foot training device characterized in that the upper surface of the placing portion has a bulging surface that bulges upward in a region corresponding to the arch of the foot.

3. The foot training device according to claim 1 or 2, It is equipped with a fitness bike body, The fitness bike is characterized in that the mounting portion is provided with a crank mounting portion that is attached to a crank of the fitness bike body.

4. The foot training device according to claim 1 or 2, It is equipped with a walking training device body, The walking training device is characterized in that the mounting portion is provided with a movable shaft attachment portion that is attached to a movable shaft of the walking training device body.

5. The foot training device according to claim 1 or 2, It is equipped with a stretch board body, A stretch board characterized by comprising a support part that supports the placement part when the front side of the placement part is positioned higher than the rear side.

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