Elastic fitness resistance device

Abstract

A lemniscate-like shaped elastic fitness band may have two loops of material interconnected to one another by a hub, each of the two loops having a pair of lengths extending outwardly from the hub, a pair of twist portions coupled to each length in the pair of lengths, wherein the pair of twist portions are each distal of the hub, and an apex coupling each twist portion in the pair of twist portions to form the loop of material.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] This invention relates to systems for physical fitness enhancement using elastic resistance.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Those skilled in the fitness arts have long sought to add resistance to the push up routine. In certain arrangements, weights would be added to the back of the user or chains were worn about the user's neck. In each case, the instability of the weight and / or chain would interfere and leave prone to injury the user's other body parts, namely the head, neck, hands, and arms.

[0003] It has been known to use elastic bands to increase push-up resistance, but prior elastic resistance bands would be oversized and would displace up and down the back of the user and were uncomfortable.

[0004] As a result of the prior art's defects, prior art push-up resistance equipment failed to place the resistance in the proper location on the user's back for maximum benefit and minimized discomfort.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] An exemplary fitness band may have a lemniscate-like shape and be formed from two loops of material interconnected to one another by a hub, each of the two loops having a pair of lengths extending outwardly from the hub, a pair of twist portions coupled to each length in the pair of lengths, wherein the pair of twist portions are each distal of the hub, and an apex coupling each twist portion in the pair of twist portions to form the loop of material.

[0006] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, an exemplary fitness band may be configured such that the two loops of material have a rectangular cross-section.

[0007] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, an exemplary fitness band may be configured such that the material is solely a fabric.

[0008] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, an exemplary fitness band may be configured such that the pair of twist portions dispose the apex in a plane that is substantially perpendicular to a plane in which the hub is located.

[0009] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, an exemplary fitness band may be configured such that the pair of twist portions is integral with the pair of lengths.

[0010] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, an exemplary fitness band may be configured such that the hub comprises at least one adhesive.

[0011] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, an exemplary fitness band may be configured such that the apex comprises at least one of an ergonomic foam and soft compressible cushion.

[0012] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, an exemplary fitness band may be configured such that at least a portion of the two loops of material has a rectangular cross-section.

[0013] An exemplary method of using a lemniscate-like shaped elastic fitness band may comprise the steps of: expanding two loops of material interconnected to one another by a hub, stretching a pair of lengths extending outwardly from the hub, elongating a pair of twist portions coupled to each length in the pair of lengths, wherein the pair of twist portions are each distal of the hub, and pressing an apex coupling each twist portion in the pair of twist portions away from the hub.

[0014] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, the step of expanding two loops of material interconnected to one another by a hub further comprises substantially maintaining the hub in a position during the expansion step.

[0015] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, the step of stretching a pair of lengths extending outwardly from the hub further comprises substantially maintaining the hub in a position during the stretching step.

[0016] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, the step of elongating a pair of twist portions coupled to each length in the pair of lengths further comprises substantially maintaining the hub in a position during the elongating step.

[0017] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, the step of pressing an apex coupling each twist portion in the pair of twist portions away from the hub further comprises substantially maintaining the hub in a position during the pressing step.

[0018] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, the step of stretching a pair of lengths extending outwardly from the hub further comprises substantially maintaining the hub in a position during the stretching step.

[0019] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, the step of elongating a pair of twist portions coupled to each length in the pair of lengths further comprises substantially maintaining the hub in a position during the elongating step.

[0020] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, the step of pressing an apex coupling each twist portion in the pair of twist portions away from the hub further comprises substantially maintaining the hub in a position during the pressing step.

[0021] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, the method is used during a fitness routine of a user, which may be either a push-up or another type of arm exercise or another type of chest exercise.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] FIG. 1 is an exemplary embodiment of an exemplary fitness band.

[0023] FIG. 1A is cross-section along line A-A of the exemplary embodiment of an exemplary fitness band illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0024] FIG. 2A is a profile view of an exemplary user in an exemplary first fitness position.

[0025] FIG. 2B is a profile view of an exemplary user in an exemplary first fitness position while wearing an exemplary fitness band.

[0026] FIG. 3A is a profile view of an exemplary user in an exemplary second fitness position.

[0027] FIG. 3B is a profile view of an exemplary user in an exemplary second fitness position while wearing an exemplary fitness band.

[0028] FIG. 4A is a topographical view of an exemplary user in an exemplary first fitness position while wearing an exemplary fitness band.

[0029] FIG. 4B is an underside view of an exemplary user in an exemplary first fitness position while wearing an exemplary fitness band.

[0030] FIG. 5A is a topographical view of an exemplary user in an exemplary second fitness position while wearing an exemplary fitness band.

[0031] FIG. 5B is an underside view of an exemplary user in an exemplary second fitness position while wearing an exemplary fitness band.

[0032] In the drawings like characters of reference indicate corresponding parts in the different figures. The drawing figures, elements and other depictions should be understood as being interchangeable and may be combined, modified, and / or optimized in any like manner in accordance with the disclosures and objectives recited herein as would be understood to those skilled in the art.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention as may be illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 1A, an exemplary fitness band 10 may be in the form of either a figure-8 or lemniscate-like structure comprising a central hub portion 6 from which two upper lengths 2a / c extend and from which two lower lengths 2b / d descend. Each of the lengths 2a / b / c / d may extend from hub 6 in a first plane but then transition into twist portion4a / b / c / d, respectively, wherein each twist portion 4a / b / c / d may be disposed in a second plane that is substantially orthogonal to and / or greater than 45° from the plane in which the lengths 2a / b / c / d may be disposed. The twist portions 4a / b may be interconnected by an apex portion 5a that lay in the most angularly deflected part of the twist portion 4a / b. The twist portions 4c / d may be interconnected by an apex portion 5b that lay in the most angularly deflected part of the apex portion 5c / d. In an exemplary embodiment, a cross-section of the thickness of apex portion 5a / b may lay in the second plane. In another exemplary embodiment, a cross-section of apex portion 5a or 5b may lay in the second plane and / or be at an angle with respect to the first plane and / or a plan passing through the largest thickness of hub 6.

[0034] Referring to FIG. 1A, which may illustrate the profile section of the fitness band 10 illustratively presented in FIG. 1, an exemplary fitness band 10 may have a hub portion 6 from which lengths 2b and 2d may extend. In an exemplary embodiment, the thickness T2 of lengths 2b / d (and 2a / c though not shown), may be such as to be the same as or substantially the same as that of hub portion 6. Further illustrated may be the twisted portion 4b / d of the profile of fitness band 10, which may show the turning of lengths 2b / d into the interconnected lengths of apex portion 5a / b. As may be further illustrated, the apex portion 5a may have a thickness T1 and the apex portion 5b may have a thickness T3. In an exemplary embodiment, T1 may be equal to T2, which may be equal to T3. In an alternative embodiment, T1 and T3 may be equal and may be different than T2. In yet another alternative embodiment, T1 may be equal to T3, and both may be greater than T2. In a further alternative embodiment, T1 may be equal to T3, and both may be less than T2.

[0035] An exemplary fitness band 10 may be made of woven fabrics, non-woven fabrics, a combination of woven and non-woven fabrics, plastics, metals, and other combinations of materials depending on needs. In an exemplary embodiment, hub 6 may be made of a fabric, a plastic, a metal, or combination of the same. In an exemplary embodiment, lengths 2a / b / c / d may be made of fabrics, preferably fabrics with elasticity, or metals with spring-like capabilities. In an exemplary embodiment, twist portions 4a / b / c / d may be made of fabrics, preferably fabrics with elasticity, or metals with spring-like capabilities, or alternatively, may be molded portions reflecting the out-of-plane twisting to achieve the disposition of apex portions 5a / b. In other words, twist portions 4a / b / c / d may be fabric or plastic components that are integrated, mechanically or chemically adhered or attached to, or otherwise coupled to the lengths 2a / b / c / d and portions 5a / b of an exemplary fitness band 10. In a preferred embodiment, the twist portion 4a / b / c / d may have features of the comfort of fabric on those portions to be in contact with the user's body and otherwise be more rigid and less soft on those portions that do not contact the user's body. In an exemplary embodiment, twist portions 4 / a / b / c / d may contain measuring apparatus and / or circuitry to measure stretch of the lengths 2a / b / c / d, timers for work outs, or contain portions to input downloaded media (e.g. songs, audio books) for enjoyment by the user through audio input ports on either the twist portions 4a / b / c / d or via the hub 6 (which hub may be similarly capable of containing such circuitry and entertainment / training mechanisms and programs). In another exemplary embodiment, apex portions 5a / b may be made of the same materials as any other portion but may also contain comfort-inducing surfaces on those parts of the apex portion 5a / b thickness T1 / T3 that are configured to contact the palm of a user. Thus, an exemplary apex portion 5a / b may be mostly fabric but contain within itself ergonomic foams and other soft compressible cushions or objects to add comfort to the contact between the user and the elastic pressure that may result when apex portions 5a / b may be stretched away from hub 6 via lengths 2a / b / c / d of an exemplary fitness band 10.

[0036] Referring to the illustrative user positions in FIGS. 2A and 3A, an exemplary user 100 may be shown in an extended push-up position in FIG. 2A and a depressed push-up position in FIG. 3A. In each of the illustrative embodiments of FIGS. 2A and 3A, user 100 may have various body parts depicted in diagrammatic view for simplicity of discussion, such as, for example, hands 25, forearm 26, elbow 27, bicep / tricep 28, chest 30, back 31, neck 40, head 50, torso 60, leg 70, and foot 80. As illustrated in FIGS. 2A, the user 100 may have his / her hands 25 and feet 80 in contact with surface 200.

[0037] Referring to the illustrative user positions in FIGS. 2B and 3B, an exemplary user 100 may be shown engaging in a push up with an exemplary band 10 disposed thereon. As illustrated in FIG. 2B, an exemplary user 100 may have the band 10 disposed on the user 100 such that the hub 6 may be substantially maintained on the back 31 while each length 2a length 2b is located either around the bicep / tricep 28 to be more proximal to chest 30 than the bicep / tricep 28. As illustrated in FIG. 2B, an exemplary band 10 is in a elastic stretched state, which is a configuration that is not the band 10's normal, at-rest configuration. Further, twist portion 4b may be illustrated going about the outside of hand 25 either proximal to the wrist or distal from the wrist and the thumb to flow into the apex 5a (not visible in FIG. 2B, but visible in FIGS. 4B and 5B) that allows user 100 to apply pressure to the band 10 on the left-hand side. The resistance created by an exemplary band 10 may increase the intensity and / or difficulty of the push-up while focusing the work effort needed to stretch the material of band 10 on the chest 30 and arm (26, 27, 28), without having the user 100 move themselves to maintain proper band 10 orientation on the back 31 or avoid displacement of band 10 onto neck 40. According to an exemplary embodiment, band 10 may be configured so that during an exemplary push-up position (as shown in FIG. 2B), the hub 6 substantially remains in its position on back 31 and does not displace to the neck 40 or rearward of the arm (26, 27, and 28).

[0038] Referring to the depressed position of user 100 in an exemplary push-up posture as illustrated in FIG. 3B, an exemplary band 10 may be shown in an un-stretched state. As discussed with respect to the embodiment of FIG. 2B, an exemplary band 10 may be shown with lengths 2a and 2b disposed about the bicep / tricep 28 but twist portion 4b about the hand 25 of the user 100. In an exemplary embodiment, band 10 may maintain its hub 6 position in this more relaxed, though still elastically stretched configuration, due to the anchoring of band 10 about the pair of bicep / tricep 28 / 28′ of the user 100 and its disposition on the back 31 of chest 30 of the user. Accordingly, the disposition of a separate but joined length 2a / b on separate sides of the bicep / tricep 28 increases the anchoring of hub 6 to back 31 and resists the movement of hub 6 towards torso 60, neck 40, or head 50 during use of the band 10.

[0039] The exemplary illustrative embodiments of FIGS. 2B and 3B may be shown from a topographic perspective in FIGS. 4A-B and 5A-B, respectively. As illustrated in FIGS. 4A-B, from above torso 60, an exemplary user 100 may be depicted with band 10 having lengths 2a and 2b disposed about left bicep / tricep 28, left forearm 26, and left hand 25 about which twist portions 4a and 4b go about and lengths 2c and 2d disposed about right bicep / tricep 28′, right forearm 26′, and right hand 25′ about which twist portions 4c and 4d go about, all of which is configured while user 100 is in an extended position with respect to a support surface 200 (not shown in FIGS. 4A-B). The apex 5a of the lengths 2a / b of band 10 about the left hand and the apex 5b of the lengths 2c / d about the right hand may be shown as laying across the fingers and above the thumb of the hands 25 and 25′ of the user 100. In a preferred embodiment apex 5a / b may remain at the upper portion of the palm of each hand 25 / 25′.

[0040] In an exemplary embodiment, a locus of displacement may be illustrated in dashed line in FIGS. 4A and 5A to provide an exemplary zone of permissible displacement of the hub 6 that is roughly equivalent to the span of the small of the back 31 of the user 100. In a preferred embodiment, hub 6 remains substantially in the same position during the push-up routine. In another preferred embodiment, hub 6 remains in a position that is within the small of the back 31 of the user. In yet another preferred embodiment, hub 6 may be limited in its displacement from its position by approximately 1 inch in either direction with respect to its starting position. In a still further preferred embodiment, hub 6 may never be less than 2 inches from the neck 40 of the user 100. In yet another preferred embodiment, hub 6 may be positioned substantially equidistant between the shoulders of the user 100.

[0041] This present invention disclosure and exemplary embodiments are meant for the purpose of illustration and description. The invention is not intended to be limited to the details shown. Rather, various modifications in the illustrative and descriptive details, and embodiments may be made by someone skilled in the art. These modifications may be made in the details within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims without departing from the scope and spirit of the several interrelated embodiments of the present invention.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0033]In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention as may be illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 1A, an exemplary fitness band 10 may be in the form of either a figure-8 or lemniscate-like structure comprising a central hub portion 6 from which two upper lengths 2a / c extend and from which two lower lengths 2b / d descend. Each of the lengths 2a / b / c / d may extend from hub 6 in a first plane but then transition into twist portion4a / b / c / d, respectively, wherein each twist portion 4a / b / c / d may be disposed in a second plane that is substantially orthogonal to and / or greater than 45° from the plane in which the lengths 2a / b / c / d may be disposed. The twist portions 4a / b may be interconnected by an apex portion 5a that lay in the most angularly deflected part of the twist portion 4a / b. The twist portions 4c / d may be interconnected by an apex portion 5b that lay in the most angularly deflected part of the apex portion 5c / d. In an exemplary embodiment, a cross-section of the thickness of apex porti...

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] This invention relates to systems for physical fitness enhancement using elastic resistance.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Those skilled in the fitness arts have long sought to add resistance to the push up routine. In certain arrangements, weights would be added to the back of the user or chains were worn about the user's neck. In each case, the instability of the weight and / or chain would interfere and leave prone to injury the user's other body parts, namely the head, neck, hands, and arms.

[0003] It has been known to use elastic bands to increase push-up resistance, but prior elastic resistance bands would be oversized and would displace up and down the back of the user and were uncomfortable.

[0004] As a result of the prior art's defects, prior art push-up resistance equipment failed to place the resistance in the proper location on the user's back for maximum benefit and minimized discomfort.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] An exemplary fitness band may have a lemniscate-like shape and be formed from two loops of material interconnected to one another by a hub, each of the two loops having a pair of lengths extending outwardly from the hub, a pair of twist portions coupled to each length in the pair of lengths, wherein the pair of twist portions are each distal of the hub, and an apex coupling each twist portion in the pair of twist portions to form the loop of material.

[0006] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, an exemplary fitness band may be configured such that the two loops of material have a rectangular cross-section.

[0007] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, an exemplary fitness band may be configured such that the material is solely a fabric.

[0008] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, an exemplary fitness band may be configured such that the pair of twist portions dispose the apex in a plane that is substantially perpendicular to a plane in which the hub is located.

[0009] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, an exemplary fitness band may be configured such that the pair of twist portions is integral with the pair of lengths.

[0010] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, an exemplary fitness band may be configured such that the hub comprises at least one adhesive.

[0011] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, an exemplary fitness band may be configured such that the apex comprises at least one of an ergonomic foam and soft compressible cushion.

[0012] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, an exemplary fitness band may be configured such that at least a portion of the two loops of material has a rectangular cross-section.

[0013] An exemplary method of using a lemniscate-like shaped elastic fitness band may comprise the steps of: expanding two loops of material interconnected to one another by a hub, stretching a pair of lengths extending outwardly from the hub, elongating a pair of twist portions coupled to each length in the pair of lengths, wherein the pair of twist portions are each distal of the hub, and pressing an apex coupling each twist portion in the pair of twist portions away from the hub.

[0014] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, the step of expanding two loops of material interconnected to one another by a hub further comprises substantially maintaining the hub in a position during the expansion step.

[0015] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, the step of stretching a pair of lengths extending outwardly from the hub further comprises substantially maintaining the hub in a position during the stretching step.

[0016] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, the step of elongating a pair of twist portions coupled to each length in the pair of lengths further comprises substantially maintaining the hub in a position during the elongating step.

[0017] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, the step of pressing an apex coupling each twist portion in the pair of twist portions away from the hub further comprises substantially maintaining the hub in a position during the pressing step.

[0018] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, the step of stretching a pair of lengths extending outwardly from the hub further comprises substantially maintaining the hub in a position during the stretching step.

[0019] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, the step of elongating a pair of twist portions coupled to each length in the pair of lengths further comprises substantially maintaining the hub in a position during the elongating step.

[0020] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, the step of pressing an apex coupling each twist portion in the pair of twist portions away from the hub further comprises substantially maintaining the hub in a position during the pressing step.

[0021] In addition to the previously described embodiment and / or as an alternative to any other described exemplary embodiment, the method is used during a fitness routine of a user, which may be either a push-up or another type of arm exercise or another type of chest exercise.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] FIG. 1 is an exemplary embodiment of an exemplary fitness band.

[0023] FIG. 1A is cross-section along line A-A of the exemplary embodiment of an exemplary fitness band illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0024] FIG. 2A is a profile view of an exemplary user in an exemplary first fitness position.

[0025] FIG. 2B is a profile view of an exemplary user in an exemplary first fitness position while wearing an exemplary fitness band.

[0026] FIG. 3A is a profile view of an exemplary user in an exemplary second fitness position.

[0027] FIG. 3B is a profile view of an exemplary user in an exemplary second fitness position while wearing an exemplary fitness band.

[0028] FIG. 4A is a topographical view of an exemplary user in an exemplary first fitness position while wearing an exemplary fitness band.

[0029] FIG. 4B is an underside view of an exemplary user in an exemplary first fitness position while wearing an exemplary fitness band.

[0030] FIG. 5A is a topographical view of an exemplary user in an exemplary second fitness position while wearing an exemplary fitness band.

[0031] FIG. 5B is an underside view of an exemplary user in an exemplary second fitness position while wearing an exemplary fitness band.

[0032] In the drawings like characters of reference indicate corresponding parts in the different figures. The drawing figures, elements and other depictions should be understood as being interchangeable and may be combined, modified, and / or optimized in any like manner in accordance with the disclosures and objectives recited herein as would be understood to those skilled in the art.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention as may be illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 1A, an exemplary fitness band 10 may be in the form of either a figure-8 or lemniscate-like structure comprising a central hub portion 6 from which two upper lengths 2a / c extend and from which two lower lengths 2b / d descend. Each of the lengths 2a / b / c / d may extend from hub 6 in a first plane but then transition into twist portion4a / b / c / d, respectively, wherein each twist portion 4a / b / c / d may be disposed in a second plane that is substantially orthogonal to and / or greater than 45° from the plane in which the lengths 2a / b / c / d may be disposed. The twist portions 4a / b may be interconnected by an apex portion 5a that lay in the most angularly deflected part of the twist portion 4a / b. The twist portions 4c / d may be interconnected by an apex portion 5b that lay in the most angularly deflected part of the apex portion 5c / d. In an exemplary embodiment, a cross-section of the thickness of apex portion 5a / b may lay in the second plane. In another exemplary embodiment, a cross-section of apex portion 5a or 5b may lay in the second plane and / or be at an angle with respect to the first plane and / or a plan passing through the largest thickness of hub 6.

[0034] Referring to FIG. 1A, which may illustrate the profile section of the fitness band 10 illustratively presented in FIG. 1, an exemplary fitness band 10 may have a hub portion 6 from which lengths 2b and 2d may extend. In an exemplary embodiment, the thickness T2 of lengths 2b / d (and 2a / c though not shown), may be such as to be the same as or substantially the same as that of hub portion 6. Further illustrated may be the twisted portion 4b / d of the profile of fitness band 10, which may show the turning of lengths 2b / d into the interconnected lengths of apex portion 5a / b. As may be further illustrated, the apex portion 5a may have a thickness T1 and the apex portion 5b may have a thickness T3. In an exemplary embodiment, T1 may be equal to T2, which may be equal to T3. In an alternative embodiment, T1 and T3 may be equal and may be different than T2. In yet another alternative embodiment, T1 may be equal to T3, and both may be greater than T2. In a further alternative embodiment, T1 may be equal to T3, and both may be less than T2.

[0035] An exemplary fitness band 10 may be made of woven fabrics, non-woven fabrics, a combination of woven and non-woven fabrics, plastics, metals, and other combinations of materials depending on needs. In an exemplary embodiment, hub 6 may be made of a fabric, a plastic, a metal, or combination of the same. In an exemplary embodiment, lengths 2a / b / c / d may be made of fabrics, preferably fabrics with elasticity, or metals with spring-like capabilities. In an exemplary embodiment, twist portions 4a / b / c / d may be made of fabrics, preferably fabrics with elasticity, or metals with spring-like capabilities, or alternatively, may be molded portions reflecting the out-of-plane twisting to achieve the disposition of apex portions 5a / b. In other words, twist portions 4a / b / c / d may be fabric or plastic components that are integrated, mechanically or chemically adhered or attached to, or otherwise coupled to the lengths 2a / b / c / d and portions 5a / b of an exemplary fitness band 10. In a preferred embodiment, the twist portion 4a / b / c / d may have features of the comfort of fabric on those portions to be in contact with the user's body and otherwise be more rigid and less soft on those portions that do not contact the user's body. In an exemplary embodiment, twist portions 4 / a / b / c / d may contain measuring apparatus and / or circuitry to measure stretch of the lengths 2a / b / c / d, timers for work outs, or contain portions to input downloaded media (e.g. songs, audio books) for enjoyment by the user through audio input ports on either the twist portions 4a / b / c / d or via the hub 6 (which hub may be similarly capable of containing such circuitry and entertainment / training mechanisms and programs). In another exemplary embodiment, apex portions 5a / b may be made of the same materials as any other portion but may also contain comfort-inducing surfaces on those parts of the apex portion 5a / b thickness T1 / T3 that are configured to contact the palm of a user. Thus, an exemplary apex portion 5a / b may be mostly fabric but contain within itself ergonomic foams and other soft compressible cushions or objects to add comfort to the contact between the user and the elastic pressure that may result when apex portions 5a / b may be stretched away from hub 6 via lengths 2a / b / c / d of an exemplary fitness band 10.

[0036] Referring to the illustrative user positions in FIGS. 2A and 3A, an exemplary user 100 may be shown in an extended push-up position in FIG. 2A and a depressed push-up position in FIG. 3A. In each of the illustrative embodiments of FIGS. 2A and 3A, user 100 may have various body parts depicted in diagrammatic view for simplicity of discussion, such as, for example, hands 25, forearm 26, elbow 27, bicep / tricep 28, chest 30, back 31, neck 40, head 50, torso 60, leg 70, and foot 80. As illustrated in FIGS. 2A, the user 100 may have his / her hands 25 and feet 80 in contact with surface 200.

[0037] Referring to the illustrative user positions in FIGS. 2B and 3B, an exemplary user 100 may be shown engaging in a push up with an exemplary band 10 disposed thereon. As illustrated in FIG. 2B, an exemplary user 100 may have the band 10 disposed on the user 100 such that the hub 6 may be substantially maintained on the back 31 while each length 2a length 2b is located either around the bicep / tricep 28 to be more proximal to chest 30 than the bicep / tricep 28. As illustrated in FIG. 2B, an exemplary band 10 is in a elastic stretched state, which is a configuration that is not the band 10's normal, at-rest configuration. Further, twist portion 4b may be illustrated going about the outside of hand 25 either proximal to the wrist or distal from the wrist and the thumb to flow into the apex 5a (not visible in FIG. 2B, but visible in FIGS. 4B and 5B) that allows user 100 to apply pressure to the band 10 on the left-hand side. The resistance created by an exemplary band 10 may increase the intensity and / or difficulty of the push-up while focusing the work effort needed to stretch the material of band 10 on the chest 30 and arm (26, 27, 28), without having the user 100 move themselves to maintain proper band 10 orientation on the back 31 or avoid displacement of band 10 onto neck 40. According to an exemplary embodiment, band 10 may be configured so that during an exemplary push-up position (as shown in FIG. 2B), the hub 6 substantially remains in its position on back 31 and does not displace to the neck 40 or rearward of the arm (26, 27, and 28).

[0038] Referring to the depressed position of user 100 in an exemplary push-up posture as illustrated in FIG. 3B, an exemplary band 10 may be shown in an un-stretched state. As discussed with respect to the embodiment of FIG. 2B, an exemplary band 10 may be shown with lengths 2a and 2b disposed about the bicep / tricep 28 but twist portion 4b about the hand 25 of the user 100. In an exemplary embodiment, band 10 may maintain its hub 6 position in this more relaxed, though still elastically stretched configuration, due to the anchoring of band 10 about the pair of bicep / tricep 28 / 28′ of the user 100 and its disposition on the back 31 of chest 30 of the user. Accordingly, the disposition of a separate but joined length 2a / b on separate sides of the bicep / tricep 28 increases the anchoring of hub 6 to back 31 and resists the movement of hub 6 towards torso 60, neck 40, or head 50 during use of the band 10.

[0039] The exemplary illustrative embodiments of FIGS. 2B and 3B may be shown from a topographic perspective in FIGS. 4A-B and 5A-B, respectively. As illustrated in FIGS. 4A-B, from above torso 60, an exemplary user 100 may be depicted with band 10 having lengths 2a and 2b disposed about left bicep / tricep 28, left forearm 26, and left hand 25 about which twist portions 4a and 4b go about and lengths 2c and 2d disposed about right bicep / tricep 28′, right forearm 26′, and right hand 25′ about which twist portions 4c and 4d go about, all of which is configured while user 100 is in an extended position with respect to a support surface 200 (not shown in FIGS. 4A-B). The apex 5a of the lengths 2a / b of band 10 about the left hand and the apex 5b of the lengths 2c / d about the right hand may be shown as laying across the fingers and above the thumb of the hands 25 and 25′ of the user 100. In a preferred embodiment apex 5a / b may remain at the upper portion of the palm of each hand 25 / 25′.

[0040] In an exemplary embodiment, a locus of displacement may be illustrated in dashed line in FIGS. 4A and 5A to provide an exemplary zone of permissible displacement of the hub 6 that is roughly equivalent to the span of the small of the back 31 of the user 100. In a preferred embodiment, hub 6 remains substantially in the same position during the push-up routine. In another preferred embodiment, hub 6 remains in a position that is within the small of the back 31 of the user. In yet another preferred embodiment, hub 6 may be limited in its displacement from its position by approximately 1 inch in either direction with respect to its starting position. In a still further preferred embodiment, hub 6 may never be less than 2 inches from the neck 40 of the user 100. In yet another preferred embodiment, hub 6 may be positioned substantially equidistant between the shoulders of the user 100.

[0041] This present invention disclosure and exemplary embodiments are meant for the purpose of illustration and description. The invention is not intended to be limited to the details shown. Rather, various modifications in the illustrative and descriptive details, and embodiments may be made by someone skilled in the art. These modifications may be made in the details within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims without departing from the scope and spirit of the several interrelated embodiments of the present invention.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0033]In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention as may be illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 1A, an exemplary fitness band 10 may be in the form of either a figure-8 or lemniscate-like structure comprising a central hub portion 6 from which two upper lengths 2a / c extend and from which two lower lengths 2b / d descend. Each of the lengths 2a / b / c / d may extend from hub 6 in a first plane but then transition into twist portion4a / b / c / d, respectively, wherein each twist portion 4a / b / c / d may be disposed in a second plane that is substantially orthogonal to and / or greater than 45° from the plane in which the lengths 2a / b / c / d may be disposed. The twist portions 4a / b may be interconnected by an apex portion 5a that lay in the most angularly deflected part of the twist portion 4a / b. The twist portions 4c / d may be interconnected by an apex portion 5b that lay in the most angularly deflected part of the apex portion 5c / d. In an exemplary embodiment, a cross-section of the thickness of apex porti...

Claims

1. An lemniscate-like shaped elastic fitness band, comprising:two loops of material interconnected to one another by a hub, each of the two loops having:a pair of lengths extending outwardly from the hub;a pair of twist portions coupled to each length in the pair of lengths, wherein the pair of twist portions are each distal of the hub; andan apex coupling each twist portion in the pair of twist portions to form the loop of material.

2. The elastic fitness band of claim 1, wherein the two loops of material have a rectangular cross-section.

3. The elastic fitness band of claim 1, wherein the material is solely a fabric.

4. The elastic fitness band of claim 1, wherein the pair of twist portions dispose the apex in a plane that is substantially perpendicular to a plane in which the hub is located.

5. The elastic fitness band of claim 1, wherein the pair of twist portions is integral with the pair of lengths.

6. The elastic fitness band of claim 1, wherein the hub comprises at least one adhesive.

7. The elastic fitness band of claim 1, wherein the hub comprises at least one adhesive.

8. The elastic fitness band of claim 1, wherein the apex comprises at least one of an ergonomic foam and soft compressible cushion.

9. The elastic fitness band of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the two loops of material has a rectangular cross-section.

10. A method of using a lemniscate-like shaped elastic fitness band, comprising the steps of:expanding two loops of material interconnected to one another by a hub;stretching a pair of lengths extending outwardly from the hub;elongating a pair of twist portions coupled to each length in the pair of lengths, wherein the pair of twist portions are each distal of the hub; andpressing an apex coupling each twist portion in the pair of twist portions away from the hub.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the step of expanding two loops of material interconnected to one another by a hub further comprises substantially maintaining the hub in a position during the expansion step.

12. The method of claim 10, wherein the step of stretching a pair of lengths extending outwardly from the hub further comprises substantially maintaining the hub in a position during the stretching step.

13. The method of claim 10, wherein the step of elongating a pair of twist portions coupled to each length in the pair of lengths further comprises substantially maintaining the hub in a position during the elongating step.

14. The method of claim 10, wherein the step of pressing an apex coupling each twist portion in the pair of twist portions away from the hub further comprises substantially maintaining the hub in a position during the pressing step.

15. The method of claim 11, wherein the step of stretching a pair of lengths extending outwardly from the hub further comprises substantially maintaining the hub in a position during the stretching step.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the step of elongating a pair of twist portions coupled to each length in the pair of lengths further comprises substantially maintaining the hub in a position during the elongating step.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the step of pressing an apex coupling each twist portion in the pair of twist portions away from the hub further comprises substantially maintaining the hub in a position during the pressing step.

18. The method of claim 10, wherein the method is used during a fitness routine of a user.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the fitness routine includes a push-up.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the fitness routine includes an arm or chest exercise.

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