Method and apparatus for performing stretching and strengthening exercises

Abstract

The invention provides a strap apparatus for stretching and strengthening muscles and connective tissue, and includes a segment of strap material having a first end, a medial portion, and a second end, having a loop formed in the first end, length adjustment means formed in the medial portion, and a connector element attached to the second end. The connector element is adapted for releasable connection to an anchor article, e.g., an extremity cuff member or a clothing article, bearing a receiver adapted for releasable attachment to the connector element.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is a continuation-in-part and claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. Section 120 of copending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 487,792, filed 23 Feb. 2004.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT [0002] Not applicable. REFERENCE TO A MICROFICHE APPENDIX [0003] Not applicable. TECHNICAL FIELD [0004] The present invention relates generally to exercise equipment and sports apparatus, and more specifically to an improved method and apparatus for performing stretching and strengthening exercises for the human body. BACKGROUND INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION OF RELATED ART [0005] It is widely recognized and generally accepted that proper stretching and strengthening of the muscles is an important aspect to overall fitness and health. However, most known stretching regimens simply provide independent exercises or movements that the individual must perform. Some forms of structural apparatus and exercise access...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0024] A further object or feature of the present invention is a new and improved apparatus that can be used to stretch and strengthen every major muscle group of th

Problems solved by technology

Some forms of structural apparatus and exercise accessories have been designed for use in stretching, e.g., to provide a stationary surface or bar against which a user may stretch, but these structures can be large and unwieldy, and therefore of limited utility.

Furthermore, no known apparatus enables the combined benefits of stretching and strengthening in a simple, versatile form.

First, they have to effect the stretch with hand and finger strength—which some people especially those who have been injured or arthritic do not have, or find uncomfortable.

Next, they are not adjustable.

On the other hand, resistance bands alone have too much give or too much elasticity and lack of control when they are of a length that allows one part of the body to stretch the other part of the body.

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