Treadmill with uneven nonuniform surface

Abstract

The present invention discloses a dynamic massaging device coupled to an exercise apparatus. This unique system allows users to increase the amount of physical activity in their daily lives while simultaneously stimulating the natural ability of the body to heal itself through induced relaxation and decreased stress. The device provides for an adjustable walking surface. The walking surface contains a belt or mat which in turn support a variety of small protruding elements from the surface. Both the belt and protruding elements on the belt are adjustable to provide different walking environments. The purpose of the belt and various mechanisms located on the belt are ultimately to change the location of the protruding elements over time. The purpose of the protruding elements are to cause a depression in some part of the body, particularly the feet. These elements are adjustable in that they can be changed between sessions of use or during sessions of use to provide varied sensations.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims the benefit of 35 U.S.C. § 111(b) and the filing date of provisional application 60 / 1716, 263, entitled TREADMILL FOR WALKING WITH SIMULATED COBBLESTONE TREADMILL BELT, filed Sep. 12, 2005.FIELD OF INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates to the field of health care. More specifically, the invention relates to the technical field of reflexology and massaging induced by ambulatory movement. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Any discussion of the prior art throughout the specification should in no way be considered an admission that such prior art is widely known or forms part of common general knowledge in the field. [0004] The growing segment of the aging Baby Boomer generation will likely develop an increased number of health problems relating to declining physical function and stability. Many of these problems can be prevented or eased by participation in regular physical activity; however, impediments i...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0011] The present disclosure provides for a dynamic massaging device coupled to an exercise apparatus. This unique system allows users to increase the amount of physical activity in their daily lives while simultaneously stimulating the body's natural ability to heal itself through induced relaxation and decreased stress.

Problems solved by technology

The growing segment of the aging Baby Boomer generation will likely develop an increased number of health problems relating to declining physical function and stability.

Unfortunately, optimal exercise prescriptions and tools for aging adults are not yet well established.

Many conventional exercise programs such as aerobics or weight training also become overly physically challenging, costly and inconvenient.

As the benefits of cobblestone walking are becoming more clear, there is one problem that confronts older adults who wish to pursue this type of low-impact exercise program.

There are very few cobblestone walking paths available in western-cultured societies.

While widespread in Asia, these paths are rare in Europe and virtually nonexistent in the United States.

Cobblestone mats, such as those used in the O.R.I. study, provide limited access, but are also too short in length to provide any sustained, continuous exercise program.

The drawback is that the massaging device in '859 is composed of a static system of knobs that are attached to an immobile structural support.

However, '912 fails to provide a simple apparatus by necessitating the use of various drive shafts and drive mechanisms.

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