Knee support

Abstract

A knee support comprising a supportive pad enclosed in a fabric cover, configured to the user through the use of fasteners. The knee support is compressible and flexible so that it conforms to the shape of the anatomical area just below the knee and to the shin, can be easily worn over or under clothing, and does not interfere with the poses and exercise routines of floor or hard surface exercises. The knee support can be pulled up over the kneecap, or partially over the kneecap, when needed without having to release the fastener. A behind-the-knee pad, which can be used by itself or in combination with the knee support, is also disclosed. A method for supporting the knee when the user is engaging in floor, mat or other hard surface exercises, and a method for preventing hyperextension of the knee, is also disclosed.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION(S)[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 898,939, filed on Nov. 1, 2013 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 944,224, filed on Feb. 25, 2014. The entire teachings of the above application(s) are incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]This invention relates to exercise equipment—specifically to equipment for use in yoga and other mat, hard surface or floor exercises where the practitioner places weight or pressure on the knees.[0003]Yoga is a popular form of exercise in the United States. Yoga practitioners (yogis) have increased in number to over 16 million Americans. Many yogis state that they practice yoga to improve flexibility, strength, cardiovascular capacity, and mental health. Others use yoga as a source of stress relief.[0004]To practice yoga, the yogi must engage in various poses (asanas) which can, at times, place a significant amount of strain or pressure on the knees. For many, e...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present patent describes a knee support that helps alleviate stress and pressure on the user's knees. It is designed to be placed on the leg below the knee and can be worn underneath clothing. The supportive pad can vary in shape, such as a concave, flat, or convex top, to ensure a snug fit. Users can also wear a behind-the-knee pad to prevent hyperextension of the knees during forward folds on the floor. The patent also describes methods of providing support to the knee during floor or hard surface exercises, as well as a fabric cover with a pocket for interchangeable thermal and supportive pads. Overall, the knee support can help improve performance and comfort while engaging in various exercise activities.

Problems solved by technology

For many, especially those with previous knee injuries, this pain can detract from their enjoyment of yoga, or even deter them from practicing altogether.

Traditional yoga mats do not provide sufficient cushioning for the knees, and as a result, the yogi is forced to look elsewhere for relief.

Furthermore, in the increasingly popular practice of paddle board yoga, knee support is not available because the use of a traditional yoga mat and / or blanket is not feasible.

Within the flow of class, it is oftentimes difficult to place the blanket or cushioning material in the right position to provide optimal support for the knee.

These solutions inhibit the yogi's range of motion or force him / her to constantly take the prop or brace on and off.

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