Stretching apparatus and method of stretching

Abstract

A hands-free human exercise apparatus and method, including a method of use. The stretching apparatus and method promote beneficial stretching of ambulatory muscles for a broad spectrum of users, to maintain and increase flexibility and dexterity, improved joint health, mobility, or pain management, and facilitating greater balance and proprioception and stimulating rehabilitation. The apparatus includes a multi-directional, multi-configurable, and adjustable harness comprising a one or dual strap configuration having a unique multi joint activating foot anchor. The apparatus and method facilitate stretching of a single leg, or both legs, through the ambulatory chain of muscles and joints, and with the foot anchor exploiting the flexion of the spine, full extension of the leg and pelvis, and the full flexion of the user's foot.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of the filing of U.S. Provisional Patent App. Ser. No. 62 / 781,967 entitled “Stretching Apparatus and Method for Stretching” filed on 19 Dec. 2018, and the entire specification thereof is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONField of the Invention (Technical Field)[0002]The present invention relates to the field of exercise apparatuses and posture corrective devices, particularly to an apparatus and method for developing greater flexibility, stability (balance and proprioception), strength and neurological reprograming in a user.Background of the Invention[0003]Stretching is defined as providing a form of physical exercise in which a muscle, ligament, tendon, or joint is deliberately flexed or extended in order to improve muscle elasticity, increase blood flow, or stimulate cartilage health. Currently, persons exercising the foot / leg sometimes use stretching devices including a han...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0006]The present invention comprises a hands-free device accessing full dorsal flexion of the complete ambulatory chain. Provided here is a revolutionary stretching apparatus that is beneficial for a broad spectrum of users: from high level athletes to maintain flexibility and dexterity for competition; to the general population who seek better joint health, mobility, or pain management; and finally for the aging and injured population facilitating greater balance and proprioception and stimulating rehabilitation.

[0007]The present invention improves upon and overcomes the deficiencies of stretching devices currently used or known in the art. The present invention comprises particular and beneficial elements, specifically comprising a unique system of straps and fasteners for hands-free stretching of the ambulatory chain of muscles, and joints and a uniquely designed anchor to exploit the full flexion of the foot. Extension exercises and stretching are also facilitated. The present invention includes a uniquely designed harness and foot anchor that allows for adjustability for users ranging in size from extra-small to double extra-large. The versatility of the present invention expands the marketability to the general public.

Problems solved by technology

Known strap devices for exercising a leg are limited to a single-leg use.

Therefore, the effectiveness of stretching the ambulatory chain with current stretching devices is limited.

With the currently available devices, users can only minimally achieve full range of flexibility through activation of the lower extremities.

Particularly, known devices are ineffective in activating the first and second metatarsal, the achillies tendon, and the plantar fascia.

Such drawbacks are due to the limited function of the foot loop, in known devices, to provide the significant resistance needed for full extension of the foot joints and tendons listed above.

In addition, the resistance provided for an effective stretch is limited by the user's upper body strength, thus varying the degree of efficacy.

Currently known devices thus generally limit the user's ability to obtain a sufficient stretch, as the user must still perform the chosen movement to achieve any functionality of the device.

This in turn limits the marketability of these devices to people who can perform the movement; but flexibility is encouraged over all age groups including users who may have injuries that prevent them from operating such a device.

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