Disposable moisture proof absorbent/anti-microbial covers for exercise mats and exercise accessories

Abstract

Exercise mats and exercise accessories are used on daily basis by a multitude of individuals throughout the course of the day. These exercise mats and exercise accessories can, and do, become contaminated with bodily fluids containing germs, viruses, and bacteria excreted by the individuals using the exercise mats and exercise accessories. It would not be conceivable or cost effective for the operators of gyms or exercise studios to clean and disinfect the exercise mats and exercise accessories after each user.This invention is a simple, cost effective way of minimizing cross contamination and spread of germs, viruses, and bacteria amongst users of exercise mats and exercise accessories.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation in part of Ser. No. 61 / 520,137 filed Jun. 6, 2011STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT[0002]Research and development of the present invention and application have not been Federally sponsored, and no rights are given under any Federal program.REFERENCE TO A MICROFICHE APPENDIX[0003]Not applicableBACKGROUND—FIELD OF INVENTION[0004]This invention relates to a means of insulating a user of exercise mats and exercise accessories, for example yoga mats and exercise blocks, from coming into contact with bodily fluids that are excreted and secreted from the body and may contain germs, viruses, and bacteria from previous operators of the same exercise mats and exercise accessories and to prevent the current operator from contaminating the exercise mats and exercise accessories, thereby minimizing cross contamination.[0005]The present invention utilizes multi-layer, disposable, sanitary ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007]This present invention provides a cost effective means of minimizing cross contamination by individuals who use exercise mats and exercise accessories. The disposable mat and accessory covers are moisture proof, absorbent and anti-microbial. The covers contain multiple layers of material and incorporate an elasticized band or adhesive strips to secure the covers to the exercise mats or exercise accessories. The moisture barrier material of the cover prevents any bodily fluids secreted by the operator from coming into contact with the exercise mats or exercise accessories while exercising. The absorbent / anti-microbial layer performs three functions. One, it captures and contains the excreted body fluids from the body including the hands, feet, buttocks, back, groin and chest areas. Two, it helps inhibit the growth of germs, viruses and bacteria providing an extra layer of protection for the operator. Three, it provides a non-slip surface to allow for vigorous exercise by an individual. The anti-microbial barrier also helps protect the operator from contracting any germs, viruses, or bacteria that may be left on exercise mats or exercise accessories from the previous operator while securing the covers to the exercise mats or exercise accessories. Prior to using the exercise mats or exercise accessories the operator secures these covers to the exercise mat or exercise accessories. These covers are secured with either an elasticized band or adhesive strips, depending on the type exercise mats or exercise accessories. The elasticized band or adhesive strips are part of these covers. When the operator has finished using the exercise mat or exercise accessories, they remove these covers from the exercise mat or exercise accessories, and dispose of them in a proper receptacle. This reduces the likelihood of the exercise mat or exercise accessories becoming contaminated for the next operator, thus minimizing cross contamination.

Problems solved by technology

These fluids can contain all types of germs, viruses, and bacteria, which can contaminate the exercise mats and exercise accessories for the next operator.

Exercise mats and exercise accessories are not always washed or cleaned between different operators use.

This method does not provide complete protection for the new operators from exposing themselves to the contamination left by the previous operators on the exercise mats and exercise accessories, exposing them to germs, viruses, and bacteria, thus posing a health risk.

Images