Balance platform method and apparatus

Abstract

One embodiment of the present invention comprises a balance platform apparatus, including, a balance platform having upper and lower surfaces, and a freely rotatable ball member. The lower surface of the balance platform includes a rim member which projects in a generally perpendicular direction away from the platform and which encircles an area of the lower surface of the platform. In use, the balance platform is placed upon the ball member, and the user tries to balance platform upon the ball member. During the balancing activity, the rim member tends to confine movement of the ball member to within the area encircled by the rim member. In another embodiment of the invention, the ball member is rotatably supported in a cradle member.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This nonprovisional U.S. patent application claims priority of U.S. Ser. No. 60 / 662,564, filed Mar. 16, 2005, entitled “Balance Platform Method and Apparatus”. The entire disclosure of this patent application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] The present invention relates in general to a balancing device, as well as a method of use for amusement, recreation and / or exercise. The particular invention relates to the balancing device itself, which enables a wide variety of manipulations and feats to be performed, in a free style manner, by a user while standing, sitting or otherwise positioned upon it and maintaining ones balance. [0004] 2. Description of the Prior Art [0005] Balancing platforms may be utilized for recreational purposes; teaching people balancing, proper edging and banking techniques; and / or body weight equilibrium techniques relating to m...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0015] An advantage of the present invention is that it provides a balancing platform which is enjoyable to utilize.

[0016] Another advantage of the present invention is that it provides a balancing platform which is inexpensive to manufacturer.

[0017] Another advantage of the present invention is that it provides a balancing platform which can be utilized indoors or outdoors.

[0018] Another advantage of the present invention is that it provides a balancing platform which can assist an athlete in improving the athlete's balancing, turning, banking, edging and other athletic skills.

[0019] These and other objects and advantages of the present invention will no doubt become obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art after having read the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments that are illustrated in the various drawing figures.

Problems solved by technology

However, substantially all such prior known roller board devices, typically employed for amusement and / or exercise, are limited in their use and movement.

They are primarily used for rolling or balancing, and their movement is limited to sideways rolling of the board relative to the roller, and / or a teeter-totter rocking motion.

Therefore, these devices are somewhat limited in their use by virtue of their design.

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