Apparatus and method for static resistance training

Abstract

A system and method for performing static strength training. The system provides tactile feedback as well as directing the user in the proper application of sufficient and balanced force.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims priority from provisional patent application Ser. No. 60 / 694,466 filed Jun. 27, 2005, incorporated herein in its entirety.STATEMENT OF FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT [0002] Not Applicable REFERENCE TO A MICROFICHE APPENDIX [0003] Not Applicable BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0004] 1. Field of the Invention [0005] This invention pertains generally to physical training devices and more particularly to a static resistance trainer apparatus. [0006] 2. Description of the Background Art [0007] It has been found that physical strength training can be sped up by the use of static resistance training. In this the user presses against a very high amount of weight to move it just the slightest amount and repeats the exercise. However, pressing against fully static devices and structures has a number of disadvantages. [0008] Therefore, a need exists for a static training device that provides feedback to the user w...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0009] The invention provides a safe training device for static resistance training with numerous advantages. It should be appreciated that in a traditional weight training system movement is achieved in response to overcoming the weight of the free weight or the weight setting of the weight stack. In the present invention the machine is set for a static force. The device can have a fixed input, wherein user pressure does not cause the input handle(s), feet plate, or whatever form of input device group is utilized, to move in response to the pressure application (for example movement less than 2″).

[0012] It should be noted that even though the body device group, or a portion thereof, is adapted to move over a distance (preferably a small distance, such as less than 6″ and more preferably less than 3″). One embodiment allows the body device group to move from a ready position to a use position whose extent strikes the end point (no further movement—or restricted as with biasing device) at which pressure input is registered in the selected range.

[0016] Controlled feedback pressure—system configured with adjustable biasing potential, wherein user can adjust the level of feedback received.

[0017] Vibratory Muscle Response Inducement (VMRI)—a small force displacement means at a frequency approximately equal to or greater than 1 Hz provides enhanced muscle training in response to automatic muscle force accommodation to train muscles faster.

[0019] Electronic selection of time and / or reps—system allows user to set the target time for holding the weight, a number of reps in which pressure is applied to the target weight, or both.

[0024] The invention can be incorporated within a separate machine of the Incorporated with these devices according to one embodiment a position is selected, such as by insertion of a weight select value, which provides the static setting. By way of example a static “weight” setting is beyond the other weights in the stack (i.e., after 250 pounds on a cable-lift-weight machine (i.e., Nautilus® Brand)). When positioned on this setting the user can apply high levels of static force which are registered by the system and annunciated to provide the static workout benefits.

Problems solved by technology

However, pressing against fully static devices and structures has a number of disadvantages.

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