Multi-function isotonic exercise ball

Abstract

A portable isotonic compression-expansion exercise device is disclosed which can also function as a recreational object, therapy tool, and strength measurement apparatus. One embodiment comprises of an elastomeric, resilient ball with a detachable removable and interchangeable exterior resistance band with two opposing handles. Some embodiments include a pneumatic airflow control valve, which valve reaches into the hollow core of an internal foam center. Resistance from the device during these exercises comes from static pneumatic resistance from within the sealed elastic object, changing pneumatic resistance as air flows in and out of the foam-filled device through the airflow control valve. Internal springs, internal foam resistance, external band(s) on the device's surface, and/or internal apparatus can create multiple forms of resistance. The disclosed device, in some embodiments, further comprises a strength measurement gauge in the form of an air pressure gauge.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 461,064 entitled “Portable, Resistance-based Exercise Device,” filed Jan. 13, 2011 for Daniel Wilson, which is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]This invention relates to exercise equipment, and more particularly relates to a spherical, polymer ball for strengthening muscles with compressive and tensile forces.[0004]2. Description of the Related Art[0005]The need for people to engage in regular exercise and recreation is well established. Many and varied types of resilient hand held exercise devices are available to help them in their efforts to improve and measure their strength, their conditioning, and to mitigate specific health issues that need physical therapy. One such device is the common resilient exercise ball, and other tension based equipment that compliments them.[0006]Exercise balls, wh...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0067]FIG. 17 is a lower view of a multifunction exercise ball in accordance with the present invention;

Problems solved by technology

They are designed for limited use, and more often than not end up being no more than a simple support device for other exercises.

Certain muscles groups, such as the pectoral muscles, have very few simple portable devices designed for their exercise or strength measurement, due to the difficulties in designing a simple apparatus that can correctly resist the muscle motions leading to such development and measurement.

Many patented portable devices that target difficult areas of the body to exercise such as these are complicated and difficult to find on the market.

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