Fitness device used by user and method for using fitness device by user

Abstract

The present technology provides a fitness device for use by a user and a method of using a fitness device by a user. The fitness device may include a resistance assembly including a reel, a motor, a gearbox, a pulley system, and a rope. The spool may include a first end and a second end. The motor may be selectively engaged with the spool and disposed adjacent the first end of the spool. The motor may be configured to generate resistance. The gearbox may be disposed between the motor and the spool. A pulley system may be disposed adjacent the second end of the spool. The rope may be disposed on the reel and pulley system and may be configured to wind and unwind on the reel in a single layer when pulled by a user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present technology relates to electronic fitness devices, and more particularly, to resistance exercise devices. Background Art

[0002] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

[0003] Resistance exercise devices (also known as strength training equipment) are essential tools for increasing muscle strength, endurance, and overall fitness. These devices work by providing resistance to muscle contraction, thereby challenging the muscles to adapt and grow stronger over time. Resistance exercise is a key component of a comprehensive fitness routine and provides many benefits, including increased bone density, improved metabolism, and enhanced physical performance.

[0004] Resistance exercise devices come in different forms, including resistance bands, kettlebells, fitness balls, suspension trainers, and more. Each device offers unique benefits and can be used for specific exercises or as part of a comprehensive exercise routine. Incorporating these devices into a fitness regimen, whether in a gym or home setting, can lead to significant improvements in strength, muscle tone, and overall physical fitness. As with any exercise program, it is critical to use resistance exercise devices with proper form and technique to maximize benefits and minimize the risk of injury.

[0005] One of the most common types of resistance exercise devices is a strength trainer, such as dumbbells and barbells. The versatility of strength trainers allows for a wide range of exercises targeting different muscle groups. Dumbbells are hand-held weights available in different sizes, making them suitable for people of all fitness levels. On the other hand, a barbell consists of a long bar with weight plates at both ends, and is often used for compound exercises like squats and deadlifts.

[0006] Resistance exercise machines are another popular class of devices commonly found in home gyms and fitness centers. These machines use a system of cables, pulleys, and weight plates to provide resistance during exercise. Motors and gearboxes can also be used to provide resistance, replacing weight plates. The advantages of resistance machines are that they provide controlled motion and can be safer for beginners or individuals recovering from injuries. They can also allow for individual targeting of specific muscles.

[0007] In recent years, resistance exercise devices have seen innovations that incorporate technology and data tracking features. Smart resistance machines often have built-in screens or connect to fitness apps, providing users with real-time feedback, exercise guidance, and performance metrics. The integration of this technology makes resistance training more attractive and personalized, catering to the needs of individuals with different fitness goals. However, current resistance exercise devices may lack sufficient resistance to produce effective resistance for training. In addition, the reel mechanism of current devices may allow the resistance line to become tangled during use.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for a resistance exercise device having a high level of resistance and an organized cable mechanism. Summary of the invention

[0009] Consistent with the present disclosure, an exercise device has surprisingly been discovered that includes a resistance exercise device having a high resistance level and an organized cable mechanism.

[0010] The present technology provides a fitness device used by a user. The fitness device may include a resistance assembly, which includes a reel, a motor, a gearbox, a pulley system and a rope. The reel may include a first end and a second end. The motor may be selectively engaged with the reel and may be arranged adjacent to the first end of the reel. The motor may be configured to generate resistance. The gearbox may be arranged between the motor and the reel. The pulley system may be arranged adjacent to the second end of the reel. The rope may be arranged on the reel and the pulley system and may be configured to be wound and unwound on the reel in a single layer when pulled by the user.

[0011] The present disclosure further provides a method for using a fitness device by a user. A fitness device of the present disclosure may be provided. The fitness device may be positioned in a desired position and orientation for a user to exercise. The fitness device may be fixed in a selected position. An exercise setting may be adjusted on the fitness device. A user may selectively engage a rope and begin exercising.

[0012] Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein.The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 1 is a top perspective view of the fitness device;

[0015] Figure 2 is a bottom perspective view of the fitness device;

[0016] Figure 3 is a front view of the fitness device;

[0017] Figure 4 It is a top plan view of the fitness device;

[0018] Figure 5 is a bottom plan view of the fitness device;

[0019] Figure 6 is a right side view of the fitness device;

[0020] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 a top perspective view of a portion of a fitness device with a cover removed;

[0021] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A top perspective view of a portion of a fitness device with a cover and a battery removed;

[0022] Fig. 9 yes Figure 1 a rotated top perspective view of a portion of a fitness device with a cover and battery removed;

[0023] Fig.10 is an environmental view of the fitness device in use;

[0024] Fig.11A is depicted without a cover Figure 1 A top perspective view of a portion of an exercise device showing a rope being unwound from a reel;

[0025] Fig. 11B is depicted without a cover Figure 1 A top perspective view of a portion of an exercise device showing a rope being wound onto a reel;

[0026] Figure 12A-12C It is a graphic representation of the gradual progress of the rope being wound around the reel;

[0027] Fig.13 is a top perspective view of a fitness device including a jog dial according to one embodiment;

[0028] Fig.14 is a top perspective view of the fitness device in a storage mode;

[0029] Fig.15 is a schematic diagram of a fitness device including a jog dial according to one embodiment;

[0030] Fig.16 is a schematic diagram of a fitness device including a voice capture module according to another embodiment;

[0031] Fig.17 is a schematic diagram of a fitness device including a programmable device according to one embodiment; and

[0032] Fig.18 is a flow chart of a method for a user to use a fitness device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] The following description of the technology is only exemplary in nature of the subject matter, manufacture and use of one or more inventions, and is not intended to limit the scope, application or use of any specific invention claimed in this application or in such other applications as can be submitted to claim priority of this application, or from the patents published therefrom. With respect to the disclosed method, the order of the steps presented is exemplary in nature, and therefore, the order of the steps can be different in various embodiments, including where certain steps can be performed simultaneously, unless otherwise explicitly stated. As used herein, "one (A)" and "an" represent that there is "at least one" item; when possible, there can be multiple such items. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, all numerical quantities in this specification should be understood to be modified by the word "about", and all geometric and spatial descriptors should be understood to be modified by the word "substantially", to describe the widest range of the present technology. When applied to numerical values, "about" represents some slight inaccuracies (some approximate exact values; approximately or reasonably close to the value; almost) of the calculation or measurement allowed value. If for some reason the imprecision provided by "about" and / or "substantially" is not understood in the art with this ordinary meaning, then "about" and / or "substantially" as used herein at least represents the variation that may result from ordinary methods of measuring or using that parameter.

[0034] Although the open-ended term "comprising" is used herein as a synonym for non-limiting terms such as including, containing, or having to describe and claim embodiments of the present technology, embodiments may alternatively be described using more restrictive terms such as "consisting of" or "consisting essentially of." Thus, for any given embodiment that enumerates materials, components, or process steps, the present technology also specifically includes embodiments consisting of, or consisting essentially of, such materials, components, or process steps to the exclusion of additional materials, components, or processes (for consisting of) and to the exclusion of additional materials, components, or processes that affect the significant characteristics of the embodiment (consisting essentially of), even if such additional materials, components, or processes are not explicitly enumerated in this application. For example, a recitation of a composition or process that enumerates elements A, B, and C specifically contemplates embodiments consisting of, or consisting essentially of: A, B, and C, to the exclusion of element D, which may be enumerated in the art, even if element D is not explicitly described herein as being excluded.

[0035] Unless otherwise stated, the disclosure of a range includes endpoints and includes all different values ​​and further divided ranges within the entire range. Therefore, for example, the range of "from A to B" or "from about A to about B" includes A and B. The disclosure of the value and value range of a specific parameter (such as amount, weight percentage, etc.) does not exclude other values ​​and value ranges useful herein. It is conceivable that two or more specific example values ​​for a given parameter can define the endpoints of the value range that can be required for the parameter. For example, if parameter X is illustrated herein as having a value A and is also illustrated as having a value Z, it is envisioned that parameter X may have a range of values ​​from about A to about Z. Similarly, it is envisioned that two or more ranges (whether the ranges are nested, overlapping or different) disclosed for the value of a parameter include all possible combinations of ranges for values ​​that may be claimed using the endpoints of the disclosed ranges. For example, if parameter X is illustrated herein as having values ​​in the range of 1-10 or 2-9 or 3-8, it is also contemplated that parameter X may have other ranges of values ​​including 1-9, 1-8, 1-3, 1-2, 2-10, 2-8, 2-3, 3-10, 3-9, etc.

[0036] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "engaged to," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected, or coupled to another element or layer, or there may be intervening elements or layers. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly engaged to," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0037] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. can be used to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts in this article, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms can only be used to distinguish an element, component, region, layer or part from another element, component, region, layer or part. Terms such as "first", "second" and other numerical terms do not imply order or sequence when used in this article unless the context clearly indicates. Therefore, without departing from the teaching of the exemplary embodiment, the first element, the first component, the first area, the first layer or the first part discussed below can be referred to as the second element, the second component, the second area, the second layer or the second part.

[0038] For ease of description, spatially relative terms such as "inside", "outside", "under", "below", "lower", "above", "upper", etc. may be used herein to describe the relationship of an element or feature as shown in the figure to other elements or features. Spatially relative terms may be intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation other than the orientation depicted in the figure. For example, if the device in the figure is flipped, the elements described as "below" or "below" other elements or features will be oriented to be "above" other elements or features. Therefore, the example term "below" may include both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein are interpreted accordingly.

[0039] The present disclosure provides a fitness device 100 for use by a user, including a resistance assembly 102. Figure 1-Figure 171. The resistance assembly 102 may include a reel 104, a motor 106, a gearbox 108, a pulley system 110, and a rope 112. Advantageously, the shape of the reel 104 included in the resistance assembly 102 may prevent the rope 112 from becoming tangled on the reel 104 during unwinding and winding, and thus provide a more effective exercise for the user. In addition, the fitness device 100 may provide a high level of resistance to the user in a compact and lightweight fitness device.

[0040] like Figure 11A-11B As shown, the shape of the reel 104 can be frustoconical, so that the reel 104 has a first end 114 and a second end 116. The rope 112 can be coupled to the reel 104 at the first end 114. The diameter (D1) of the first end 114 can be smaller than the diameter (D2) of the second end 116. This feature can allow the rope 112 to be wound around the reel in an orderly, neat and efficient manner, thereby allowing the user to exercise more efficiently. Advantageously, the frustoconical nature of the reel 104 facilitates the self-alignment of the rope 112 on the reel 104 during rewinding without tangling. Desirably, the reel 104 allows the user to experience a smooth pull of the rope 112 compared to the unevenly wound rope 112 that will cause an unsteady feeling during exercise. In addition, the frustoconical shape prevents the rope 112 from becoming tangled and buckled when the rope 112 is pulled by the user. In certain embodiments, the cord 112 may be wrapped in a single layer around the reel 104 to prevent the cord from collapsing on the reel 104, which could result in an unstable, uneven pull of the cord 112 during operation.

[0041] See also Figure 12A-12C , the reel 104 may include a ridge 115. The ridge 115 may prevent the rope 112 from being wound onto the reel 104 in a direction opposite to the first end 114. In the operation of winding the rope 112 onto the reel 104, and as Fig. 12A As shown, the rope 112 may be initially wound around the reel 104 in a single layer, from the second end 116 to the first end 114 to form the bundle 113. Fig. 12B As the rope 112 continues to be wound around the reel 104, the bundle 113 is pushed from the second end 116 to the first end 114 until the bundle 113 occupies the entire length of the reel 104, as shown in FIG. Fig. 12C shown.

[0042] The reel 104 can be formed of a solid material. The solid material can allow the reel 104 to be stable and durable when rotating to unwind and rewind the rope 112. As a non-limiting example, the reel 104 can be formed of various polyolefins and mixtures thereof, polypropylene, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and / or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Alternatively, as an example, the reel 104 can be formed of metal, wood or ceramic. Those of ordinary skill in the art can select other suitable materials to form the reel 104 within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0043] refer to Figure 8 , the motor 106 can be selectively engaged with the reel 104 and configured to generate resistance. The motor 106 can be arranged adjacent to the first end 114 of the reel 104, and can be configured to rotate the reel 104 in a forward or reverse direction depending on whether the rope 112 is wound or unwound on the reel 104. In some embodiments, the gearbox 108 can be an intermediate piece between the motor 106 and the reel 104. The motor 106 can provide a variable torque to the reel 104, and in this way provide the resistance required by the user to use the fitness device 100. When the user adjusts the resistance, the motor 106 can provide an instantaneous adjustment of the torque. The motor 106 can also wind the rope 112 around the reel 104 when the user stops pulling the rope 112. As a non-limiting example, the motor 106 can include a brushless DC (BLDC) motor. It should be further understood that those skilled in the art can use different motors 106 as needed.

[0044] The gearbox 108 may be disposed between the motor 106 and the reel 104. The gearbox 108 may be configured to increase the torque output by the motor 106. The reel 104 may be connected to an input end 118 of the gearbox 108. As a non-limiting example, a one-way bearing configured to transfer torque from the reel 104 to the gearbox 108 in a first direction when a user pulls the cord 112 can be used to connect the reel 104 to the gearbox 108. When the cord 112 is rewound, the one-way bearing may prevent the gearbox 108 from rotating in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0045] The gearbox 108 can be any suitable gearbox 108, as determined by those skilled in the art. In certain embodiments, a multi-stage planetary gearbox 108 with helical gears can be used to optimally transmit force. In certain more specific embodiments, the gearbox 108 can be configured to achieve a gear ratio. It should be understood that within the scope of the present disclosure, the gearbox ratio can be scaled higher or lower by a skilled person. It should be further understood that those skilled in the art can use different technologies for the gearbox 108 as needed.

[0046] like Figure 8As shown, the pulley system 110 can be arranged adjacent to the second end 116 of the reel 104. The pulley system 110 guides the rope 112 from the reel 104 out of the resistance assembly 102. The pulley system 110 may include a first pulley 120 and a second pulley 122, each of which is configured to receive the rope 112. In addition, one or more pulley mounting elements 128 can be used to fix the first pulley 120 and the second pulley 122 within the resistance assembly 102 and prevent the rope 112 from becoming misaligned or deflected when winding and unwinding on the reel 104. The first pulley 120 can be arranged adjacent to the reel 104 so that when the rope 112 moves from the first pulley 120 to the reel 104 or vice versa, the rope 112 remains in a plane perpendicular to the length of the reel 104. In this way, the rope 112 remains straight as it moves between the first pulley 120 and the reel 104, and is not positioned at a certain angle. Advantageously, this can allow the rope 112 to have a smooth transition between the first pulley 120 and the reel 104 and facilitate winding and unwinding the rope 112 on the reel 104 in a single layer. The cover 130 can be integral with or permanently or removably connected to one or more pulley mounting elements 128. The top 132 of the cover 130 can guide the rope 112 out through the exit port 134 of the pulley system 110 and the resistance assembly 102 for use by the user. It should be noted that the cover 130 and the exit port 134 can allow 360° rotation of the rope as the rope exits and enters the exit port 134. Advantageously, this reduces the overall friction experienced by the rope during exercise.

[0047] It should be understood that any number and orientation of pulleys may be used, as determined by one skilled in the art. As a non-limiting example, straight and inclined pulleys may be arranged in resistance assembly 102 and used consistently to properly align rope 112 relative to reel 104 and outlet port 134 during various exercise programs.

[0048] The rope 112 can be arranged on the reel 104 and pass through the pulley system 110. The rope 112 can be unwound when pulled by the user (e.g. Fig.11A as shown) and winding (as Fig. 11BThe rope 112 may be made of any flexible, durable material or combination of materials. Ideally, the rope 112 may be made of a strong, lightweight material. One skilled in the art may determine any suitable length, diameter, and material for the rope. The rope 112 may further include an attachment device 136. The attachment device 136 may be disposed at the end of the rope 112. As a non-limiting example, the attachment device 136 may be a ring 138, as shown in the figure. The ring 138 may be adapted to receive a hook and loop clip, a snap hook, or any other suitable connection element disposed on a handle or any other desired accessory.

[0049] refer to Fig.10 , a pair of handles 140 can be coupled to the attachment device 136 of the rope 112 to allow the user to use the fitness device 100. Each handle of the pair of handles 140 can be ergonomically designed to fit the shape of the user's hand. In operation, the user can hold the pair of handles 140 to use the fitness device 100 by pulling the pair of handles 140 upward against resistance and releasing the tension on the rope 112 and the pair of handles 140 to rewind the rope 112 onto the reel 104.

[0050] like Figure 7 As shown, resistance assembly 102 may include a battery 142 disposed adjacent motor 106. In addition, battery 142 may be rechargeable and may be recharged by a user through use of fitness device 100. Battery 142 may be used to provide power to the electronic components of fitness device 100. It should be understood that other power sources may also be utilized within the scope of the present disclosure. Resistance assembly 102 may further include a fan 144, such as Figure 8 As shown, it is used to cool the motor 106 when in use. The fitness device 100 may also include a built-in speaker 145, such as Figure 4 As shown, it can play music selected by the user. For example, the user can connect the fitness device 100 using Bluetooth to receive media such as music or podcasts.

[0051] like Figure 1 As shown, the fitness device 100 may include another resistance assembly 102A'. As described above, the other resistance assembly 102' may include a reel 104', a motor 106', a gearbox 108', a pulley system 110' and a rope 112', such as Fig. 9 Another resistance assembly 102' may operate similarly to resistance assembly 102. Advantageously, in certain embodiments of fitness device 100 having resistance assembly 102 and another resistance assembly 102', fitness device 100 may further include performance unit 146 that is in communication with both resistance assembly 102 and another resistance assembly 102' and is operable at Figure 1-Figure 5Performance unit 146 may communicate the exercise settings to the user using any resistance scale that may be displayed to the user on display 148 and monitor the exercise settings.

[0052] Performance unit 146 may be disposed between resistance assembly 102 and another resistance assembly 102', such that a user may place one foot between resistance assembly 102 and performance unit 146 and the other foot between performance unit 146 and another resistance assembly 102' in operation. Performance unit 146 is centrally positioned between resistance assembly 102 and another resistance assembly 102', such that resistance assembly 102 and another resistance assembly 102' extend out in opposite directions from each other. To this end, each of resistance assembly 102 and another resistance assembly 102' may be positioned under each arm of a user's arms, on either side of their body, in use.

[0053] Each of resistance assembly 102 and further resistance assembly 102' may be integrated with performance unit 146 or may be permanently or removably connected to performance unit 146. In some embodiments, each of resistance assembly 102 and further resistance assembly 102' may be configured to rotate relative to performance unit 146 between a use position and a storage position. Figure 1 and Fig.10 As shown in FIG. 1 , in the use position, the resistance assembly 102 and the further resistance assembly 102 ′ extend outwardly from the performance unit 146 in opposite directions. Fig.13 As shown, in the storage position, resistance assembly 102 and another resistance assembly 102' are positioned adjacent to each other and extend side by side with each other away from performance unit 146. As a non-limiting example, any suitable connection mechanism (such as a torque hinge or a friction hinge) may be used to rotatably connect each of resistance assembly 102 and another resistance assembly 102' to performance unit 146.

[0054] In some more specific embodiments, each of resistance assembly 102 and another resistance assembly 102' may be coupled to performance unit 146 via foot pedal 150, such as Figure 1 As shown. Footrest 150 can be permanently or removably connected to performance unit 146, resistance assembly 102 and / or another resistance assembly 102'. As determined by those skilled in the art, footrest 150 can be made of any suitable material or combination of materials. As non-limiting examples, footrest 150 can be made using plastic, metal, or polycarbonate. Footrest 150 may include materials and / or surface textures that provide friction to stabilize the user when fitness device 100 is in use.

[0055] In certain more specific embodiments, a mounting device (not shown) may be integrally or permanently or removably connected to one or more of the performance unit 146, the resistance assembly 102, and the other resistance assembly 102'. As non-limiting examples, the mounting device may include a clamp, a strap, and a mounting screw. The mounting device may be configured to removably or permanently secure the fitness device 100 to any surface or object in any desired orientation. Those skilled in the art may use any suitable mounting device as desired. In this way, the mounting device may allow the fitness device 100 to be mounted to various horizontal, vertical, and inclined surfaces to change the angle and / or direction of movement of the rope 112 relative to the user's position.

[0056] Performance unit 146, resistance assembly 102 and / or another resistance assembly 102' can be made of wood, metal, plastic and / or composite materials. However, it should be understood that technicians can use different materials to construct performance unit 146, resistance assembly 102 and / or another resistance assembly 102' as needed.

[0057] Continue to refer to Fig.13 and Fig.15 , performance unit 146 may include a jog dial 152 configured to run or modify a user-specified exercise setting of resistance assembly 102. It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, jog dial 152 may be used to adjust an exercise setting of resistance assembly 102, such as to increase or decrease resistance.

[0058] Alternatively, and with reference to Fig.16 , the performance unit 146 may include a voice capture module 154 that is configured to execute or modify the exercise settings of the resistance assembly 102 specified by the user. The fitness device 100 may also include a microphone (not shown) configured to enable the voice capture module 154. It should be understood that in some embodiments, the voice capture module 154 can be used to adjust the exercise settings of the resistance assembly 102, such as increasing or decreasing the resistance.

[0059] In certain embodiments, and with reference to Fig.17 , fitness device 100 may include programmable device 156 configured to communicate wirelessly (e.g., short-range wireless Bluetooth, Internet or cloud-based communication, cellular network, etc.) with resistance assembly 102 and / or performance unit 146. Programmable device 156 may include a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium. The non-transitory computer-readable medium may include instructions configured to allow a user to remotely run or modify an exercise setting of resistance assembly 102 specified by the user. It should be understood that in some embodiments, programmable device 156 may be configured to operate directly with resistance assembly 102 to modify the exercise setting without transmitting the modification to performance unit 146.

[0060] The programmable device 156 may be further configured to provide a graphical user interface 158 feature configured to automatically adjust the position of the jog dial 152 disposed on the actuator 146 based on manual manipulation of the graphical user interface 158 feature provided by the user. For example, the user may move a slider on the graphical user interface 158 of the software application, and the jog dial 152 rotates to increase or decrease the resistance of the fitness device 100. Other types of graphical user interface 158 features for adjusting the position of the jog dial 152 may also be used as desired.

[0061] In operation, the user places the fitness device 100 on the floor and stands with one foot between the resistance assembly 102 and the performance unit 146, and the other foot between the performance unit 146 and the other resistance assembly 102'. The user's weight can keep the fitness device 100 stable. A pair of handles 140 can be attached to the attachment device 136, one handle is located on the attachment device 136 of the resistance assembly 102, and the other handle is located on the second attachment device 136' of the other resistance assembly 102'. The user pulls the rope 112 with the help of the pair of handles 140. The rope 112 can provide resistance supplied by the motor 106 when the user pulls it. As described above, the amount of resistance can be controlled by the performance unit selected by the user.

[0062] Internally, the reel 104 is connected to the motor 106 via a gearbox 108. The motor 106 provides a variable torque to the reel 104. The separate motor 106, gearbox 108 and reel 104 allow the user to seamlessly switch from one handle exercise to two handle exercises as needed. As described above, the torque can be adjusted to any value instantaneously. For example, there may be a force when pulling, but there may be very little force when the rope 112 is wound back, there may be very little force when the user pulls, but there is a large force on the way down, or there is a reduction in weight when the rope 112 is pulled up. When the user pulls on the rope 112, the reel 104 rotates against the resistance provided by the motor 106 and unwinds the rope 112. When the user stops pulling on the rope 112, the motor 106 winds the rope 112 back onto the reel 104.

[0063] The present disclosure further provides a method 200 for a user to use a fitness device, such as Fig.18As shown. In step 202, a fitness device 100 of the present disclosure as described above may be provided. In step 204, the fitness device 100 may be positioned in a desired position and orientation for a user to exercise. In step 206, the fitness device 100 may be fixed in the selected position. In step 208, the exercise settings may be adjusted on the fitness device. As described above, the fitness device 100 may further include a jog dial 152 configured to run or modify the exercise settings of the resistance assembly 102 specified by the user. Optionally, the fitness device 100 may include a voice capture module 154 configured to run or modify the exercise settings of the resistance assembly 102 specified by the user. In yet another embodiment, the fitness device 100 may include a programmable device 156 configured to wirelessly communicate with the resistance assembly 102. The programmable device 156 may include a processor and a non-transient computer-readable medium. The non-transient computer-readable medium may include instructions configured to allow a user to remotely run or modify the exercise settings of the resistance assembly specified by the user. In step 210, the user may selectively engage the rope 112 and start exercising. In step 212, the user may move the cord so that the cord is one of wound and unwound on the reel.

[0064] Advantageously, the user can adjust the position and orientation of the fitness device 100, as well as any settings related to resistance, audio, visual, tracking, or any other customizable features, in order to achieve a full body workout. The fitness device 100 is lightweight and compact in both the use position and the storage position, making it easy to use, set up, transport, and store. According to certain embodiments, the fitness device 100 may weigh less than ten (10) pounds. It should be understood that the fitness device 100 can be secured in place using only the user's body weight, thereby allowing the user to operate the fitness device without any setup or additional equipment, and in any position that is large enough to accommodate the user. It should be further understood that the fitness device 100 can also be secured to any surface as desired using a mounting device or the weight from an object. Advantageously, as a non-limiting example, the mounting device can be used to attach the fitness device 100 to a wall, door, and base. Ideally, this can allow the user to perform a workout program while the fitness device 100 is in an elevated or other unconventional position or location.

[0065] The fitness device 100 can be portable and adaptable and can be used indoors, outdoors, at home, at work, on the go, and when needed. Using the fitness device 100 in a variety of positions and orientations allows the user to exercise various muscle groups in a variety of different ways. Likewise, using the fitness device 100 in conjunction with a variety of accessories and a variety of training applications allows the user to create a customized, creative, and fun exercise program.

[0066] Advantageously, the fitness device 100 is useful for any fitness level from beginner to expert. A novice user can select zero resistance or a low level of resistance while using the fitness device 100. An expert user can increase resistance over time as needed. The user avoids purchasing additional equipment (such as strength training equipment) and adding and removing additional equipment during use of the fitness device 100. In certain more specific embodiments, the fitness device 100 can provide up to or more than 35 kilograms of resistance.

[0067] Example embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough and the scope will be fully conveyed to those skilled in the art. Many specific details, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that the example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms, and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known techniques are not described in detail. Equivalent variations, modifications, and variations of some embodiments, materials, compositions, and methods may be made within the scope of the present technology with substantially similar results.

Claims

1. A fitness device used by a user, the fitness device comprising: A resistance component, the resistance component comprising: a reel having a first end and a second end, the first end having a smaller diameter than the second end; a motor selectively engageable with the reel, the motor configured to generate resistance when engaged with the reel; and A cord is configured to be wound and unwound in a single layer on the reel in response to the movement of the user.

2. The fitness device according to claim 1, wherein: The resistance assembly also includes a gearbox coupling the spool to the motor, the gearbox transmitting the resistance from the motor to the spool when engaged with the spool, and the gearbox varying a rotational ratio between the motor and the spool.

3. The fitness device according to claim 1, wherein: The resistance assembly also includes a pulley system through which the rope is routed from the reel.

4. The fitness device according to claim 3, wherein: The pulley system includes an attachment means.

5. The fitness device of claim 1, further comprising a pair of handles configured to be coupled to an attachment feature for use by the user.

6. The fitness device of claim 1, further comprising another resistance assembly.

7. The fitness device of claim 6, further comprising a performance unit for monitoring an exercise setting of the resistance assembly, the performance unit being disposed between the resistance assembly and the another resistance assembly.

8. The fitness device according to claim 7, wherein: The performance unit includes a jog dial configured to run or modify the exercise setting of the resistance assembly specified by the user.

9. The fitness device according to claim 7, wherein: The performance unit includes a voice capture module configured to run or modify the exercise settings of the resistance component specified by the user.

10. The fitness device of claim 1, further comprising a programmable device configured to wirelessly communicate with the resistance assembly.

11. The fitness device according to claim 10, wherein: The programmable device includes a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium including instructions configured to allow the user to remotely run or modify exercise settings of the resistance assembly specified by the user.

12. The fitness device according to claim 1, wherein: The reel is frusto-conical.

13. The fitness device according to claim 1, wherein: The resistance assembly also includes a battery.

14. The fitness device according to claim 13, wherein: The battery is recharged by the user using the fitness device.

15. The fitness device according to claim 1, wherein: The resistance assembly further includes a fan, whereby the fan cools the motor during operation.

16. The fitness device of claim 1, further comprising a jog dial configured to run or modify an exercise setting of the resistance assembly specified by the user.

17. The fitness device of claim 1, further comprising a voice capture module configured to run or modify exercise settings of the resistance assembly specified by the user.

18. A method of using a fitness device by a user, the method comprising: A fitness device is provided that includes a resistance assembly, the resistance assembly comprising: a reel having a first end and a second end, the first end having a smaller diameter than the second end; a motor selectively engageable with the reel, the motor configured to generate resistance when engaged with the reel; and a cord configured to be wound and unwound in a single layer on the reel in response to the user's movements; and The cord is moved by the user such that the cord is one of wound and unwound on the reel.

19. The method of using a fitness device according to claim 18, further comprising a member selected from the group consisting of: positioning the exercise device in a desired location and orientation; securing the fitness device at a selected location; adjusting exercise settings on the fitness device; selectively engaging the rope; and Its combination.

20. The method of using a fitness device according to claim 18, wherein the fitness device further comprises one of the following: a programmable device configured to wirelessly communicate with the resistance assembly and configured to allow the user to remotely run or modify exercise settings of the resistance assembly specified by the user; a jog dial configured to run or modify an exercise setting of the resistance assembly specified by the user; as well as A voice capture module is configured to run or modify an exercise setting for the resistance component specified by the user.

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