Apparatus and method to facilitate group exercise and movement

Abstract

An apparatus and method are disclosed for facilitating group movement activities. The apparatus includes a set of arms that extend radially outward from a central area. In use, a group of participants arranged in a circle around the central area each grasp at least one of the arms at a suitable point along its length, and the participants pull on the arms so as to cause the central area to move in a desired manner. The central area can be integral with the arms, or can be a distinct object, such as a disk or a polygon, with the arms attached symmetrically around its perimeter. Graphics can be applied to the surface of the central area. Bells and / or other objects that make sounds when moved can be attached to the arms. A handle and / or a cuff can be attached to the end of each arm to aid in holding it.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The invention generally relates to exercise and movement devices, and more specifically to devices that promote group exercise and movement.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Exercise and movement can provide a wide range of physical and psychological benefits for participants of all ages and abilities. Cardiovascular and overall physical health is improved, while at the same time mental acuity and self-esteem are enhanced.[0003]Additional benefits can be realized through group-oriented exercise and movement, which can promote a healthy balance of individual self-awareness and group identity. Applications of group-oriented exercise and movement include dance / movement therapy, creative and expressive arts therapy, recreation / activity therapy, occupational therapy, early childhood gymnastics classes, physical education, special education, early childhood education, team building, inter-generational programs, and parties and ice breakers.[0004]The benefits of ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007]A group exercise and movement apparatus is disclosed, together with methods of use thereof, that is suitable for use by participants with a wide range of abilities, including participants with physical and / or cognitive impairments. The apparatus of the invention provides a central point of focus for the members of a group using the apparatus. The apparatus is easy to grasp, and experiences minimal air resistance when moved by the group. The apparatus can be used by weak and / or infirm people, since it is relatively easy to grasp or manipulate, and does not require agility or mobility. Further, the invention can be flexibly adapted to different group sizes and movement spaces. The apparatus includes a set of narrow fabric strips, herein referred to as arms, radiating outward from a central area. One end of each arm is attached to, or integral with, the central area, while the remainder of the arm is available for a participant to grasp at any desired position along its length.

[0008]By pulling in a cooperative manner on the arms, the participants can cause the central area to rise and fall, and otherwise to move in a desired manner. The apparatus is readily adapted to different movement spaces in accordance with the position along each arm that each participant grasps. By changing the radial distance at which each participant grasps, the size of the movement space required by the device can be controlled. Further, the invention allows a variety of group sizes to be accommodated. For example, smaller group sizes are accommodated by participants grasping more than one arm and / or by using fewer than the total number of available arms.

[0009]The arms can be manufactured from any suitable lightweight and flexible material, such as fabric, plastic, or some combination thereof. The arms can also be made of rope, cord, string, or twine. In preferred embodiments, the arms are made from fabric that is lightweight and comfortable to hold, and the central area includes a round disk or polygon made from fabric, plastic, or another suitable material, and can be either flat or cupped (concave), allowing it to support a ball, a beanbag, or any other suitable object to be manipulated by the apparatus. In a further preferred embodiment, the arms are manufactured from an elastic material, providing additional movement and exercise possibilities. In still another preferred embodiment, the arms and / or central area include colors and / or patterns that encourage heightened activity levels, and further draw attention to the central area of focus. In yet another preferred embodiment, objects such as small bells that make sounds when moved are attached to the arms, thereby increasing each participant's awareness of his own individual movements. Also, a handle can be attached at the end of one or more of the arms of the apparatus to aid in grasping the end of the arm by a user of the apparatus. If some users are not strong enough to grasp a handle, or the end of an arm of the device, a wrist cuff attached to the end of the arm of the device can be used to grasp and hold the users wrist, thereby avoiding the need for any grasping strength of the user.

[0011]Accordingly, one general aspect of the invention is an apparatus for facilitating exercise and movement for a group of individuals. The apparatus includes a plurality of extended arms, the arms extending outward from a central area, each arm having an end which is graspable by an individual of the group. In preferred embodiments, the arms are integral with the central area. In preferred embodiments, the arms are distinct from the central area, and are attached thereto. In preferred embodiments, the arms and the central area are made from a strong and lightweight fabric. In preferred embodiments, the arms are attached to the central area using one of: sewing, stitching, riveting, gluing, a zipper mechanism, a Velcro™ mechanism, and a clip mechanism. In preferred embodiments, the arms are made from one of: rope, cord, string, and twine.

Problems solved by technology

Further, a large ring is difficult to grasp for individuals with physical or cognitive impairments.

Movement options are very limited unless all members of the group are physically able to stand and move about without fear of falling or injury.

Finally, a large ring requires a fixed minimum amount of space and cannot be easily adapted to different group sizes and movement spaces.

Other devices such as flexible bands and cords are more adaptable to different space and group sizes, but they still provide only limited movement options since each grasping point along a band or cord is directly connected to each neighboring grasping point.

Further, the air resistance inherent in the movement of a large disk or parachute requires that the participants possess a significant amount of hand and arm strength, making use of such a device unsuitable for participants with physical or cognitive impairment.

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