Athlete training system

Abstract

A system for training an athlete during a training period includes a digital system that is programmed to: receive a plurality of inputs regarding a current state of the athlete and a training goal for the athlete; employ an expert system to generate a training prescription for the athlete; and generate a plurality of control outputs that correspond to the listing of training activities. An exercise apparatus includes at least one activity device that is configured to: facilitate the athlete performing a predetermined exercise; receive the control output from the digital system and to adjust an exercise parameter so as to correspond to the training parameter indicated by the control output; and generate an electronic result output indicative of use by the athlete of the activity device wherein the result output is transmitted to the digital system.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]1. Field of the Invention[0002]The present invention relates to systems for training athletes and, more specifically, to a system that automates the functions of an athlete training professional.[0003]2. Description of the Prior Art[0004]The growth in popularity of professional and amateur sports has resulted in a substantial growth in the athletic training business. Professional athletes and premium amateur athletes (such as Olympic athletes) often hire athletic training professionals (such a strength coaches, exercise physiologists, physical therapists and the like) to prepare them for the sports in which they participate. The purpose of such preparation might be general (such as maximizing an athlete's physical condition) or it might be quite specific, for example a football receiver might come to a trainer to optimize his ability to receive a specific style of pass. It may also be directed to overcoming a specific injury or deficiency on the part...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0010]In another aspect, the invention is an exercise system for training an athlete that includes a controllable exercise apparatus that includes at least one exercise function and that is configured to set the exercise function to a selected value within a range of values in response to a control signal. A metabolic sensor is configured to sense a metabolic parameter of the athlete and to generate a metabolic signal representative thereof. A processor that is responsive to the metabolic signal is configured to compare the metabolic parameter to a preselected value. The processor is also configured to modify the control signal so that the selected value of the exercise function will cause the metabolic parameter of the athlete to tend to the preselected value. The preselected value may change during an exercise session based on input from the athlete or a coach.

Problems solved by technology

Such preparation and training can be quite expensive.

As a result, only higher tiers of athletes can afford such training.

There is a desire on the part of lower tier athletes for similar training, yet many such lower tier athletes simply cannot afford such training.

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